Cognex Introduces DataMan 200 ID Reader
April 29, 2009 by R. Nelson Parrish
Filed under Image
Cognex Corporation (NASDAQ: CGNX) announces the newest addition to its DataMan® family of ID readers. The new DataMan 200 adds Ethernet connectivity and liquid lens technology to the world’s smallest high performance fixed-mount reader. These new features enable faster communication speed, easier integration with factory controls, and software-driven autofocus for easy, hands-free setup.
Ethernet connectivity gives DataMan 200 users the advantage of real-time data and image transfer, and easier integration with plant controllers and information networks.
Liquid lens technology, an optional feature of the DataMan 200, provides greater focal range, ease of setup, and faster response time. This unique technology adjusts the camera’s focus by applying an electrical charge to fluid within the lens.
With liquid lens technology, autofocus is achieved with a single software command. The lens also provides exceptional depth of field and field of view range, and, because it has no moving parts to malfunction or break down with use, the system is extremely rugged and resistant to shock, vibration and wear.
Setup is simplified with the use of two laser aimers. The laser targets are easily seen through the entire depth of field, enabling operators to quickly position the code to the reader.
Like the DataMan 100, the new system features an easy-to-use interface for setting up the application, and supports a wide range of 1D and 2D codes including UPC/EAN/JAN, Code 39, Code 128, Code 93, Interleaved 2 of 5, Data Matrix, QR Code, and micro QR Code.
Cognex
www.cognex.com/dm200
Magnetostrictive Sensors Meet Off-Highway Requirements
April 14, 2009 by R. Nelson Parrish
Filed under Proximity
For off-highway equipment, the influx of electro-hydraulics, electronic controls, and computer controls has increased automation opportunities. But you can’t simply shoehorn industrial sensors into these applications, noted Brian Cox, product manager, MTS Sensors. “It’s not that industrial sensors are inferior, they simply offer different functions than off-highway needs. Fine resolution, for example, is unnecessary. We stripped down our sensors to the base level and built them back up with respect to the requirements of the off-highway marketplace.”
The needed features include non-contact operation, absolute measurement, repeatability, reliability and durability. A couple of these features are crucial. Repeatability serves several purposes. “What is important in off-highway,” said Cox, “is that the equipment can return to a specific location quickly.” For example, when digging a trench, the operator must position the digging tool where it left off. Operators can do this, but it is much easier on them, and faster, if the equipment can find its last position automatically. Also, enabling equipment to handle this task takes stress off of operators and reduces job fatigue.
“Taking out the complexity of sensors used in this market reduces cost and size,” noted Cox. “It allows us to package sensors into the smaller environment of the electro-hydraulic cylinder.” The mobile sensors are designed to be fully embedded into welded cylinders. Access is generally not an issue in these applications.
Each off-highway application is different and requires sensors with specific features.
It is crucial to understand the application. Steering, positioning, and location through GPS tracking are just some of the applications off-highway sensors suit.
MTS Sensors
www.mtssensors.com
SICK’s New Series of AT20 Line Array Sensors
April 14, 2009 by R. Nelson Parrish
Filed under Vision
Minneapolis, MN – SICK launches its new series of AT20 Line Array Sensors. The AT20 is the only line array sensor available that has diffuse mode, making it ideal for harsh environments where dirt and dust can interfere with retro-reflective sensors. The AT20’s industry-leading resolution and simple setup are ideal for glue-bead diameter applications and web guide applications in the printing and packaging markets.
The AT20 comes in two variants that are specifically designed for edge detection/ positioning in web guide applications and for diameter measurement of targets on flat surfaces. The AT20’s diffuse mode is unaffected by harsh environmental factors, which reduces downtime and labor costs and improves quality control. The AT20’s high resolution and repeatability make it a cost-effective solution for applications requiring precise measurements. Plus, these compact sensors feature a high visibility white LED light source that helps identify black/white and minimal grayscale contrasts between the target and background.
Kavlico Pressure Sensors for Hydraulic Applications
April 14, 2009 by R. Nelson Parrish
Filed under Pressure
Moorpark, CA – Kavlico has a suite of sensors that have been designed to perform in a wide variety of hydraulic applications. Capable of operating for millions of pressure cycles, these low power consumption pressure sensors provide an accurate, reliable, and stable signal over many years of operation in the harshest environments. The high overpressure capability of our sensors for fluid power applications are designed to withstand the pressure fluctuations associated with these applications.
These rugged devices have stainless steel housings and can be configured with a broad selection of process and electrical connectors to fit the specification criteria for each application. Operating on 5 Vdc, the sensors provide a 0.5 to 4.5 linear amplified output proportional to pressure. Pressure ranges are available up to 6,000 PSI.
Typical pressure sensor applications include:
•On & off-highway and vocational vehicle hydraulic systems
•Trenching machines
•Pressurized tools
•Adaptive suspension systems
•Material testing
•Lifts
•Cargo loading systems
•Transmissions
•Hydraulic applications for heavy equipment
Kavlico sensors for Hydraulic applications include:
•P4000 – Sealed High Pressure Sensor
•P250/P251 – Sealed Industrial Pressure Sensor
Battery Free Operation of Sensor Nodes
April 14, 2009 by R. Nelson Parrish
Filed under Uncategorized
One factor that is holding back the widespread use of wireless sensor networks is the hundreds of thousands of batteries potential users must maintain. Micropelt GmbH, specialists in thin film thermoelectrics, may have solved this problem. The TE-Power NODE, a thermo-powered wireless sensor system has a built-in chip thermogenerator that takes a few degrees of temperature differential and harvests that thermal energy to operate the wireless sensor node, enabling unlimited battery-free operation.
The TE-Power NODE consists of a 60 by 27 mm footprint aluminum base plate that carries up to two MPG-D751 thermogenerators, allowing the energy supply to be scaled for the amount needed by the application. An aluminum heat spreader is mounted on top of the thermogenerators and is stabilized and insulated by a PCB that also holds the receptacles for various plug-on modules. The heat spreader has threaded holes for access to various heat sinks, allowing for detailed exploration of the device’s thermal path and easy repair. To convert the variable incoming thermo-voltage into a battery-like constant voltage, the original TE-Power PLUS DC/DC converter was modified to supply a constant 2.4 V and to charge a 100 µF capacitor to feed the duty cycle of the accompanying pluggable wireless system.
The TE-Power NODE evaluation kit transmits multiple channels of digital sensor data helping users and integrators of thermoharvesters better understand many aspects of their implementation in terms of application scenarios and energy budgets.
The kit uses accepted ultra-low-power technology from Texas Instruments (TI), supporting both IEEE 802.15.4 compliant and custom systems.
To operate the wireless sensor node, it must be attached to a suitable heat source. After a few seconds the node begins transmitting information to a PC through TI’s standard eZ430-RF2500 USB receiver module. In about 2 msec, a stack protocol transmits the temperature of the thermogenerator’s hot and cold sides once every second along with the respective operating voltage. An additional I2C standard based digital sensor interface supplies a channel for optional transmission of data such as vibration or pressure values.
Micropelt’s battery-free thermal energy harvesting technology can power ultra-low-power microcontrollers and RF transceivers, enabling many possibilities in the wireless sensor market.
Said Dr. Nurnus, “Our measurements prove that an effective 3.5° C across the thermogenerator can drive applications. This can even be achieved through harvesting body heat.”
Burkhard Habbe, VP business development added, “Thermoharvesters right now represent a viable energy supply for many applications including most IEEE 802.15.4 based systems. Even a few hundred microwatts supplied continuously can easily outperform a good set of batteries. Mass production of devices is scheduled to start in 2010.
Micropelt GmbH
www.micropelt.com
Secondary Process Seal Assembly with Rupture Indication Sensor
April 7, 2009 by R. Nelson Parrish
Filed under Pressure
SYRACUSE, N.Y. – Cooper Crouse-Hinds has developed a smart, more user-friendly version of its Secondary Process Seal Assembly. Designed to prevent the passage of pressurized gases through conduit, cables and conductors, the new and improved Secondary Process Seal provides increased protection over the original, plus a new Rupture Indication Sensor that provides an immediate notification of a potentially explosive seal rupture.
The Rupture Indication Sensor saves time and labor costs, as it is able to quickly sense the buildup of pressure inside the fitting. The sensor provides immediate notification of a primary seal rupture, allowing maintenance personnel to quickly address the problem and isolate safety concerns. The sensor opens at 60 psi, and its stainless steel construction provides superior corrosion resistance and reliability.
The enhanced, user-friendly design of the new Secondary Process Seal has a number of convenient features. Most notably, the simplified design reduces the time associated with installation, decreases maintenance costs and reduces facility downtime. Plus, the integrated packaging contains all the necessary components for a seamless installation, without the hassle of pouring seals.
“As a leader in explosionproof technology, Cooper Crouse-Hinds is committed to developing innovative products and solutions to the global marketplace,” said Dave Holloway, General Manager, Productivity Solutions at Cooper Crouse-Hinds. “The Secondary Process Seal works to increase workplace safety while decreasing labor and potential downtime. With its simplified, user-friendly design, it truly is a one-of-a-kind solution.”
The Secondary Process Seal contains an explosionproof drain that allows for the safe release of gas, vapor or liquid from the electrical system, and meets or exceeds all ANSI/ISA/CEC/NEC requirements for a secondary process seal. With protection from pressurized fluids, gases and vapors to 1500 psi, it protects people and property in even the most volatile conditions.
Applications for the Secondary Process Seal include any facility with high pressure vessels containing explosive or combustible fluids, vapors and gases. These include oil and gas distribution and storage, petroleum refining, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, air separation and handling, and various military facilities.
The Secondary Process Seal with Rupture Sensor by Cooper Crouse-Hinds is the next step in their commitment to ESP (Enhancing Safety & Productivity). The goal behind ESP is to develop smarter, more powerful solutions that enhance safety and productivity. This promise is what drives Cooper Crouse-Hinds to continually develop products that anticipate customer needs and that work to achieve the goal of eventually making danger in the workplace obsolete.
Micro-machined Silicon Pressure Transducers
March 25, 2009 by R. Nelson Parrish
Filed under Pressure
Omegadyne announces the most durable version of its high accuracy MM Series micro-machined silicon pressure transducers. The new hermetically sealed version of the MM Series features all welded Stainless Steel construction, 316 wetted parts and glass to metal seals (GMS) at the electrical outlets. This ensures that the unit is hermetically sealed from external environments and the media. Designed for use on automotive and aircraft test platforms and anywhere environmental concerns demand the most durable characteristics.
The sealed MMA500V Series has a micro machined silicon core that provides high accuracy, low drift and excellent long term stability in the harshest environments. Ranges from 100 psi to 5000 psi, accuracies from 0.08% to 0.03% and a variety of pressure and electrical connections make this MMA500V Series Transducer extremely versatile. The temperature compensation range can be as broad as -40 to 200*F (-40 to 104*C) and thermal errors as low as +/- 0.3% over the compensated range. Operating temperature range is -49 to 250*C (-45 to 121*C). The MMA500V Series design is further ruggedized with a secondary containment system in the event of diaphragm rupture. A 5-Point NIST traceable calibration certificate included.
The MM Series pressure transducers offer “Custom Designed” features with fast delivery. Our modular design allows you to construct a pressure sensor to meet your application requirements, with guaranteed fast delivery… typically from stock to 2 weeks. Our product configurator found online at omegadyne.com allows quick and easy configuration of a transducer that meets the exact needs of your project.
ifm efector Introduces New 3D Image Sensor
March 25, 2009 by R. Nelson Parrish
Filed under Image
EXTON, PA – ifm efector inc. introduces a new 3D Image Sensor for object evaluation. The compact sensor uses time-of-flight distance measurement to identify the height of any object in the field of view. An integrated 64 x 48 pixel array – in which each pixel represents a time of flight measurement – defines the field of view for the sensor.
This technology provides critical information in applications such as palletzing and de-palletizing, material handling, bulk level of materials and intelligent routing/sorting. With a list price of $1450 (U.S.), ifm states that the 3D Image Sensor is a new benchmark for price / performance in reliable 3D object detection.
3D Image Sensor Uses Photonic Mixing Device (PMD) Principle Based on Time of Flight Measurement
The Photonic Mixing Device (PMD) principle is based on Time of Flight (TOF) distance measurement. In its most simple version, a light pulse is radiated from the sensor. This pulse is reflected by an object and detected by the sensor’s smart pixel receiver element. A comparison between the optical and electrical reference signals yields an output signal that carries the desired distance information.
Time of Flight (TOF) distance measurement is not new to the market. The challenge is that traditional TOF components use a photodiode for a receiver element and require additional external electronics for signal acquisition and processing. These type of components are used to detect only one measurement and are costly due to the response time required for Time of Flight measurement. Using these existing TOF components to achieve 3D imaging can be expensive for industrial markets.
In comparison, ifm’s 3D image sensor’s receiver element is a System-on-Chip design. The complete sensor element and electronics are built on a 0.25 mm square silicon chip. This miniature chip enables 3D imaging using Time of Flight, reduces the size of the sensor and its cost.
For image capture, the 3D sensor’s 64 x 48 pixel array projects 3072 points of reference, capturing the entire image in three dimensions. Each pixel within the array has two gates that are controlled by an oscillator that oscillates at a frequency of 20MHz. Light is emitted from the sensor and reflected by the target and received back into the PMD chip (also connected to the oscillator). The electrons are converted into photons and are separated into the optically sensitive area of the semiconductor called the “moble charge carrier”. This built-in functionality means that the sensor can pre-process the signal, removing the need for expensive high-speed electronics. Relating the phase difference measured by each pixel to the speed of light gives the distance travelled by light falling onto the detector. The phase shift of the light is then compared to the reference signal and sent from the chip as the representative distance for that pixel. Information from all the pixels is then brought together to create a 3D image.
The sensor also includes patented Suppression of Background Illumination (SBI). This technology allows the sensor to eliminate the effects of external lighting such as sunlight and internal high-powered lighting. This allows the sensor to be used in almost any indoor or outdoor application.
Multidimensional Measurement for Industrial Automation Applications
Palletizing and de-palletzing
The 3D image sensor solves a variety of application challenges for the material handling industry. The challenge in this process is detecting when a layer of product is complete or incomplete. If a stray box is left on the top layer of a pallet, and the box goes undetected, there’s a risk that the robotic arm will crush the product or the missing product will create an unbalanced load on top of the pallet. The 3D image sensor can be mounted to the top of a palletizer. The sensor‘s 64 x 48 pixel array projects 3072 data points of reference onto a pallet. The 3D image sensor evaluates the entire layer of a pallet and sends the information back to the main control indicating the highest or lowest point regardless of where it is in its point of view.
Material handling in airport logistics
In airports across the country, airport logistics moves thousands of pieces of luggage every day. Determining the gross dimension and volume of a piece of luggage before it reaches the inspection scanner is crucial to proper luggage flow. If a bag is determined to be too large, it can be removed before it reaches the scanner. To pre-determine baggage size, many airports are required to use multiple high-cost sensors to measure all sides of the luggage to determine height, width and depth which adds cost and complexity.
The ifm 3D image sensor uses a standard algorithm to determine the gross volume of a piece of luggage in its field of view. The PMD sensor’s pixel array sends 3072 data points to detect the luggage size and volume. The sensor sends a signal to the main control indicating when a luggage piece is too large to fit through the scanner. The luggage can then be removed before it reaches the scanner and maintain proper luggage flow.
Bulk material level applications
Detecting the level of materials in a bin or hopper is necessary to run a machine at maximum efficiency. An empty or “run dry” condition can cause machine downtime, place stress on equipment, and risk damage to components. In traditional level applications, multiple single-point position sensors are placed above a hopper or bin to detect the level of the material inside. Fine materials such as grain and sand, and bulk products such as plastic bottles and pellets, can shift within the hopper creating hills and valleys. Single-point sensors detect one spot in the material. Any hills or valleys in the material will provide multiple level readings that can lead to an incorrect level detection. The efector 3D image sensor is mounted above a hopper or bin. The sensor’s pixel array of 3072 data points spreads across the grain to detect the entire area. The high and low points are identified, providing accurate level monitoring and total volume.
Robust, compact design for industrial application
The solid-state, robust metal housing measures only 42 x 62 x 42 mm and is designed to withstand harsh environments and to perform in fast-moving applications. Application parameters are quickly established with the sensor’s Setup Wizard software that can be used with a PC. The Setup Wizard guides the user in a few steps to configure the application. The sensor can provide either digital or analog outputs.
Eaton Introduces View Series™ Photoelectric Sensors
March 25, 2009 by R. Nelson Parrish
Filed under Photoelectric
PITTSBURGH, PA - Eaton Corporation announces it is introducing the View Series™ of photoelectric sensors, comprised of the new IntelliViewTM and NanoViewTM product families. The View Series sensors expands Eaton’s photoelectric sensor capabilities with new models designed for a variety of challenging industrial applications. The IntelliView sensors are a family of compact, high-performance specialty photoelectric sensors aimed at the needs of packaging, material handling, and other machinery original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). The NanoView sensors are a family of sub-miniature rectangular photoelectric sensors designed for applications and industries where optical performance is important but smaller, less expensive sensors are required.
Models in the IntelliView product family detect grayscale, color and ultraviolet (UV) luminescent registration marks on product and packaging labels. Background and foreground suppression models allow for precision sensing over extended ranges to meet the needs of a wide variety of machinery OEM applications. Other models are capable of reliably measuring a target’s distance and providing an analog output to a control system.
The IntelliView family features:
The View Series of sensors also includes the NanoView family. These sub-miniature sensors are well suited for applications in packaging, material handling, food and beverage, and pharmaceutical industries where space is limited. Despite their small size, NanoView sensors are robust, powerful, highly reliable, and fit advanced optical performance into a tiny package.
The Nanoview family includes:
fixed-focus diffuse; a 20 foot thru-beam; and a 2.6 foot clear object detector.
The NanoView family also includes specialty sensors capable of solving difficult application challenges. These include a fixed-focus diffuse sensor, able to accurately sense targets with precision at its rated focal point of 3.9 inches; a clear object detector model capable of sensing clear objects such as plastic or glass bottles, films, sheets, and packing materials; and thru-beam mode sensors with a narrow beam option, able to detect small targets with high accuracy.
Web-Enabled Ultrasonic Sensors
March 18, 2009 by R. Nelson Parrish
Filed under Level
LOGAN, UT – Automation Products Group, Inc. (APG) introduces LOE Web-Enabled Ultrasonic Level Sensors. These self-contained ultrasonic sensors provide a low-cost, tailored sensing solution for monitoring liquids or solids in remote tanks, and can also be used for local tank monitoring applications.
LOE ultrasonic sensors feature Power Over Ethernet (POE) for easy wiring, AutoSense software for hassle-free operation, and can be easily programmed and configured remotely – without requiring any configuration software – via APG’s levelandflow.com website, and locally via the sensor’s embedded web page. Sensor level data is transmitted to a dedicated website that utilizes an open-source MySQL database format to ensure user data is available in any format that might be required of the application.
Three models are available. The LOE-2126 provides a detection range of 1 to 25 ft., the LOE-3136 provides a detection range of 1.5 to 40 ft., and the LOE-6126 provides a detection range of 4 in. to 180 in. The LOE-6126 delivers a best-in-class blanking distance of just 1 in., compared to 4 in. for most other competitive sensors, which uniquely enables a single sensor to monitor the entire tank or vessel range.
Sensor readings are uploaded to a database via a standard Ethernet (TCP/IP) connection, where the level or volume information can be viewed from any computer with internet access, via a password-protected web page. The sensor and/or the web-server can be user-programmed to trigger the website to send an email, text message or both when a predetermined level or volume is reached. These sensors also feature two internal relays that can be programmed to control pumps or activate local alarms.
Sensor parameters and settings can be changed at any time via the sensor’s internal web page, which is readily accessible by simply entering the sensor’s IP address into any internet browser on any computer connected to the same network. The internal web page also displays the level or volume information, effectively turning any computer on the network into a potential remote tank display/monitor.
