Vision Sensors

The Datalogic vision sensors are easy-to-use cameras for image-processing tasksthat can inspect objects of every type. Vision sensors are usually adjusted by parameterizations and vision tools using special user interface software. Innovative vision sensors such as the unique Smart-VS do not need to employ special parameterization or tools. Using the basis of machine learning they discern the image to be GOOD or NOT GOOD. Their function is like a photoelectric sensor delivering a very simple working capability to the customer.

The interface within the Datalogic vison sensor can be configured in different ways through the PC system via the Ethernet communication (DATAVS2 and Smart-VS or through dedicated monitoring tools like VSM which can be used with DATAVS2).

Vision sensors capture images and inspect them to determine presence, orientation, dimensions, and accuracy of parts. The difference between vision sensors and vision system is that the vision sensors have a camera, light, and controller integrated together in them. There are differences between these sensors and other general-purpose sensors. For example, multi-point inspections can be done with a vision single sensor. In addition, thanks to the wide Field of View (FOV), detection is possible even when the position of the target is not consistent.

Once the captured image passes through the vision sensor’s lens, it is converted to an electrical signal by the image receive element, generally a CMOS receiver containing a matrix of sensitive elements. Each pixel within these elements detect the brightness and shape of the target based on the intensity generated within the image.

The element is sensitive to the intensity range within either color or monochromatic images. Once the color light information is received, the element separates it into three colors (RGB), and identifies the intensity range each color in order to identify between target color intensities. The monochromatic sensor elements identify the range of intensity between extremes of black and white.

Complex vision systems implementations can be overwhelming due to the complex integration processes needed. The vision sensor offers a less complex alternative to complex vision systems or multiple photoelectric sensors. Additionally, the vision sensor is a cost-effective solution for automated quality control and inspections.

Vision sensors are the perfect choice for users in need for a user-friendly inspection system that is intuitive and easy to implement with minimal downtime.

Vision sensors common applications

Vision sensors are best for simple quality control applications including such actions as presence/absence of a product label, complete assembly verification ensuring kits are properly assembled, etc. Pattern-match inspection is a common application done by vision sensors. Once a mismatch is detected the sensor sets the fail output to reject the product.

When choosing a vision sensor, it is important to make sure and evaluate some important points:

• The speed of your application
  It is important to verify that the vision solution is suited to the speed of your application. The more conditions that need to be inspected, the longer the inspections will take. The Smart-VS has the capability to be deterministic in any application conditions with a response time of 50 ms even if the ambient light is getting changed in the application scenario. 
  
  

• The detection distances
  The detection application for vision sensors is usually no further than 300 mm down to 50 mm. The definition of this range is very important since it can influence the resolution of the image to capture, the inspection accuracy, object lighting making the image clearer by focus adjustment and the FOV to ensure all necessary details for inspection are visible. If more distance to cover the inspection field is needed, it may be advisable to scale up to a smart camera with interchangeable optics.
  
  

• The object size to detect
  It is very important to check that the object fits within the FOV window of the vision sensor. Due to optic stage dimensions, vision sensors have a more limited field of view compared to the more expensive smart camera or vision systems. Therefore, vision sensors work best for small parts, or assemblies with small quantities of parts.
  
  

• The purpose of your detection application
  It is important to choose the correct device to be successful in accurate identification applications. If the distance and object positioning are not too complex, a vision sensor is a good entry point into sensor identification offering an ease of implementation. Datalogic’s Smart-VS technology excels in simple presence/absence classification and offers a positive Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) by avoiding the need to employ additional vision technologists for installation. Implementation can easily be handled by any field machine operator.
  
  
  

Vision sensors common benefits

In general, the easiest and more visible benefit of vision sensors is they are self-contained devices that include a variation of vision lighting, a wide variety lens and camera in a single compact unit meeting a range of applications, which simplifies installations and system implementations.

• Save time and costs
  Vision sensors are typically smaller, cheaper, and less complicated than smart cameras, making them one of the easiest vision solutions to get running quickly. Training time on a vision sensor is relatively short even for people without previous vision experience.
  
  
• Enjoy easy PC set-up 
  The simple and comprehensive user interface makes setup a snap.
  
  
• Fewer devices are needed to inspect multiple conditions
  Vision sensors can be used for many simple verification and inspection applications. A vision sensor captures a whole picture rather than a single point replacing multiple photoelectric sensors and verifying several conditions at once.
  
  
• One model can meet a variety of application requirements 
  Vision sensors allow you to cover different FOV in your application by offering different optics and focus systems that increase your application flexibility.