When it comes to image processing for industrial automation, three aspects of sensor technology are particularly important: performance, flexibility and ease of use. Simple Vision sensors fulfill these requirements. They are as easy to use as optical sensors, yet as powerful as camera systems. Based on this concept, Sensor People from Leuze offers a quick and easy introduction to vision technology.
Vision sensors are the “eyes of industrial automation”. Because these little miracles enable machines to perceive and interpret their surrounding environment. They are easier to integrate and operate than camera systems. The devices are suitable for a wide variety of tasks. They are used not only for measuring and counting tasks, but also for presence/absence control, part recognition, inspection and code reading. When selecting the most suitable sensor technology, it is worth paying attention to the performance of the corresponding detection, identification and inspection tasks. Moreover, in order to save time and money, the configuration and parameterization of the sensors should be as simple as possible. With its Simple Vision concept, Sensor People from Leuze offers a product portfolio that meets these requirements.
Easy setup, efficient detection
Leuze’s image processing tools are powerful. It combines image capture, processing and communication capabilities in one device. A typical sensor application is to detect the presence or absence of an object. For example, in a bottling plant, the lid, label or printing on a bottle or flacon must be reliably recognized. The orientation of an object can also be checked using a sensor, regardless of its format, material, color or dimensions.
The user must ensure that the device works properly. For example, Leuze’s Simple Vision Sensor IVS 108 offers a consistent response time of just 50 milliseconds, even when the object, environment or application conditions change. This makes it very easy for system operators to determine whether the sensor meets the requirements of the production process. It is also important to set up the sensor quickly. The IVS 108 does not require any programming or time-consuming configuration. It is enough to place GOOD and NOT GOOD objects in front of the sensor and confirm them using the teach button.
Code reading made easy
Vision sensors can also be used to read 1D or 2D codes. Sensors such as Leuze’s DCR 1048i read single or multiple codes simultaneously. This is a practical advantage, for example, in the case of packaging with several outer packages. It allows multi-code decoding. If you want to recognize DPM codes printed on packaging, we recommend a sensor such as the DCR 1048i DPM. It is equipped with an optimized reading algorithm for reliable decoding.
All-rounder applications
Depending on the application and system design, an all-round vision sensor can be valuable. This allows system operators to react quickly to market requirements and product changes. All-round vision sensors such as Leuze’s IVS 1048i are recommended for detection, inspection and identification tasks. For example, checking whether labels and adhesives are correctly applied on packaging lines. Another possible field of application is checking whether bottles are properly sealed in beverage bottling plants. Some manufacturers offer devices with different resolutions. The IVS 1048i is available with low resolution (736 x 480 pixels) or high resolution (1,440 x 1,080 pixels). This allows for a very flexible use of the sensor. There are also four interchangeable S-mount lenses with varifocal settings. This means that reading distance, field of view and depth of field can also be adapted to the respective system requirements.
FLEXIBLE CONFIGURATION
No vision sensor without software: When choosing a sensor technology, the ease of use of the associated image processing program must be a decisive factor. Software with powerful tools and that also provides statistics for image processing and inspection that can be used offline saves time and effort in operating the system. Common interface protocols such as TCP/IP, PROFINET, FTP and SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) are integrated into the device. This allows easy communication and data collection. With Leuze Vision Studio, Leuze offers a PC-based configuration software that meets all these requirements. Suitable for Simple Vision sensors IVS 1048i and DCR 1048i. Leuze Vision Studio gives you the option to virtually configure different sensors using emulators and test applications with real images without the device being physically present.
It is advantageous for system operators to focus on vision sensors that can be set up and operated without specialized knowledge. This makes integration and ongoing operation easier, even when the requirements of the production process change. System sensors can therefore be designed cost-effectively with minimal effort. It is also important to choose a device with good performance. The sensors from Leuze Vision’s Simple Vision concept combine all this to enable efficient use of image processing technology in industrial automation.