Sick has introduced the Inspector I40 2D vision sensor, which it claims can inspect products faster, with better definition, higher reliability detection, and wider fields of view than its predecessors. The I40 offers improved data and image logging for applications including packaging, small parts assembly, and electronics production.
The Inspector series is as easy-to-use as a standard photoelectric sensor. The sensor features a choice of integral lighting, in-situ interchange filters and lenses, fast high-capacity processing, Ethernet communications, and a rugged industrial IP67-protected metal housing. The user is able to exchange lenses to meet requirements for a wider field of view or for inspecting smaller objects at up to 1,000mm, with corresponding variations in field of view between 550mm and 150mm.
High resolution is retained at high speed for accuracy and rapid image processing. In addition, the Inspector I40 offers extended I/O functionality, enabling the selection of up to 32 reference objects for comparison with the object being inspected, and delivering up to 30 inspection results at once. It also facilitates rapid reconfiguring between different products and part types in a large manufacturing unit.
Individual items do not require identical positioning for inspection, as the software evaluates edges, contours, contrasts, greyscale values or pixels relative to a defined location feature in the reference image. The I40 can be used with or without a part presence trigger. Image capture and evaluation of multiple references occur as soon as an object enters the field of vision, without a trigger signal and thus reducing non-capture errors.
