Baumer Introduces Complete Line of Capacitive Sensors
April 29, 2009 by Editor
Filed under Liquid Level
Southington, Conn. — Baumer has introduced a complete line of Capacitive Sensors capable of penetrating through packaging materials such as plastics, glass, cardboard, foam, and other substrates. These sensors are available in a range of housing sizes and designs, and offer extended sensing distances to facilitate installation.

Installed outside of container walls, Baumer Capacitive Sensors do not require direct contact with the target substrate, a feature that protects the sensor from damage and ensures process safety and sensor life expectancy. This non-invasive method of detection also ensures that the sensor’s housing cannot contaminate the target material.
Baumer Capacitive Sensors are available in cylindrical, rectangular and special designs. Models are available for use in limited space applications, and for performance in ambient and elevated temperatures. Possible target substrates include plastics, glass, ceramics, porcelain, clay, stone, wood, paper, cardboard, pellets, powders, and foods. These sensors are used in packaging, PCB fabrication, printing, rubber/plastics fabrication, robotics and handling, transportation, warehousing, food and drug processing, medical device manufacturing, cosmetic production, wood processing, metalworking, oil and gas processing, water treatment, and textile production.
Baumer
www.baumerelectric.com/usa
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
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.

