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Plug-and-play device ‘will open up 3D vision sensing’

22 January, 2016

Sick’s first 3D vision sensor, the TriSpector 1000, unveiled at the recent SPS IPC Drives show in Germany, is now available. The self-contained, plug-and-play device performs real-time 3D quality inspection and is said to be easy to install and use.

Sick expects the sensor to open up 3D vision sensing for processing and packaging operations, without the complexity or cost of conventional 3D systems.

“Engineers can now access reliable, entry-level 3D inspection without having to be a vision or software expert,” explains Sick’s machine vision specialist for the UK, Neil Sandhu. “There’s no additional programming: teach-in the requirements via the display on the compact, standalone unit and the TriSpector will start inspecting and communicate with your factory control communications network!”

The sensor can be set up without needing to write bespoke programs. It is said to achieve 3D vision, even when the colour, position or height of objects vary. It can also tolerate changes in the angle or position of items on a conveying line and needs no special lighting.

Sick's TriSpector 1000 3D vision sensor is said to be easy to install and use

The IP67-protected sensor is based on 3D laser triangulation, with a camera angled to capture a series of profiles as an object moves through a projected laser line beam. This builds up a shape profile of the object. A Micro SD card can store the profiles and allows settings to be cloned for easy replacement or use on other lines.

There are three models with scanning widths of 200–650mm, 100–330mm and 45–75mm, and varying fields of view and resolutions. Their height ranges vary by model from 60–800mm.

Typical applications include checking for presence, position, dimensions, orientation and labelling. The sensor can examine the contents and fill of containers, including products such as chocolates in compartmentalised boxes. It can detect missing items, as well as damaged or wrong items. It can also check product levels in glass or plastic tubs, even with light colours, as well as label orientation on bottles and jars.




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