Sensors and vision systems

Image-based code readers: the advantages of camera-based identification

SICK image-based code readers are truly multi-talent. Whether it’s barcodes, Data Matrix codes, QR codes, Maxi-Codes or miniature codes: thanks to the intelligent image preprocessing and the flexible use of different types of code there are practically no limits.

• Flexible reading of different types of 1D and 2D codes, even miniature codes
• Detects even heavily damaged or incomplete codes
• Provides live images and can store them for documentation and subsequent analysis
• Detects codes regardless of rotation position (360 º reading)
• Long service life because no mobile component can wear out

 

As the transparent traceability of components in factory automation becomes increasingly important, the plurality of objects, materials, code types and environmental conditions that code readers need to handle also increases. All the more practical is the fact that room code readers are real jack of all trades.

• For hard to recognize direct markings
• Reflective and specular materials
• For codes and color backgrounds
• For high process speeds
• For synchronous detection of different codes
• To work in an undisturbed way

Flexible even in the smallest corners

The combination of fiber-optic sensor and fibers is an excellent solution for a wide range of applications. Challenging detection tasks can be solved in combination with the matching fibers thanks to the comprehensive adjustment options of the fiber-optic sensor.

The comprehensive fiber portfolio from SICK satisfies all requirements regardless of whether the size, mounting options, material resistance or suitability for a special application is the deciding factor.

Bussystem 

When using the fiber-optic sensors in bus operation, up to 16 devices can be connected to a bus system. This creates several benefits:

• Prevention of mutual interference

By synchronizing the transmission pulse pattern, each fiber optic sensor detects only the light that itself emitted.

• Reduced setting and wiring effort

Parameter settings can be copied from the base sensor to all other connected fiber optic sensors with the push of a button.  With a single input signal on the base sensor, all other sensors can be taught in at the same time. In addition, the base sensor supplies voltage to all other sensors, resulting in reduced wiring effort.

• Connection to fieldbus gateways

Fiber optic sensors can be connected as a bus variant to a field bus gateway.The fieldbus allows you to make format or product changes from the control at the touch of a button. Expansions or changes can then be easily made. Cyclic data transmission enables quick access to all process data of the connected sensors. Thanks to acyclical data communication, diagnostic functions can be accessed at any time. For example, this makes it possible to identify the need for maintenance work early on, which can then be done in times of planned machine downtime.

Capacitive sensors can detect solid, liquid or granular objects. With these sensors highly structured and non-dimensionally stable objects e.g. the fill levels of liquids or bulk materials can also be detected in direct contact with the medium or through a non-metallic container wall. They are also suitable for completeness inspections. Capacitive sensors also function reliably in an extremely dusty or dirty environment. An array of different designs and large operating ranges enable the use in practically all areas of application in industrial automation.

Basic sensors

• Operating range 1-30mm, switching frequency up to 100Hz
• Certifications: CE
• Housing material: plastic/brass, nickel plated
• Connector and cable variants

Advanced sensors

• Operating range 1-30mm, switching frequency up to 100Hz, available with IO-Link
• Certifications: UL/CE
• Housing material: Plastic/stainless steel/teflon (PTFE)
• Connector and cable variants