Vision Sensors – Sensing in Three Dimensions
From traditional to advanced sensing
Vision Sensors – Sensing in three dimensions from traditional to advanced sensing
Vision sensors are used in situations where the capabilites of conventional sensor systems are exceeded. Vision sensors are characteristically compact sensors, in which the camera, control unit and software are fully integrated.
Proximity switches enable the approach of metal objects to be detected, whereas vision sensors are used for the detection and evaluation of more complex scenarios. Future sensors must not only securely detect objects, such as automobile components, they must also correctly interpret their size, position and alignment in three-dimensional space. Pepperl+Fuchs pursues this objective through the combination of two innovative technological concepts: ‘Vision-Sensors' and the Time-of-Flight-method of measurement (TOF).
To take the step from one-dimensional to multi-dimensional sensing a new type of measuring core has been developed, which masters the task of making 250,000 measurements per second – and more – using affordable components. The method even accomplishes the simultaneous measurement of a number of distance values. These fundamental attributes are enabling future three-dimensional distance-measurement sensors to be developed at reasonable cost.
An example of a one-dimensional TOF sensor is to be found in the VDM100 family of sensors. The distance-measuring device has the task of precisely positioning the stock feeder in high rack stores facilities with the aid of reflectors. This device carries out 20,000 measurements per second and boasts an accuracy of 0.5 millimeters.
The combination of the base technologies of vision sensing and TOF provide a breakthrough in three-dimensional technical sight and enable the perfection of future solutions of tasks such as targeted extraction of objects from transportation boxes, sorting of objects on assembly lines and faultless equipping of machines.