Electricity and Control May 2022

SENSORS + SWITCHES : PRODUCTS + SERVICES

Universal code reader for diverse applications

Sensors cover a wide range of sensing measures to provide the information plant operators need for optimal process control and automation. Camera-based code readers are used to detect and identify parts and workpieces and can be adapted flexibly to suit dif ferent tasks. The new VOS-I series code readers from Pepperl+Fuchs show what the top range of this technology can do.

mechanical needles and laser light burning techniques. Reading a thinly needle-punched code can be difficult, so developers have created a special decoder for this application. It is supplemented by an electronic filter bank that prepares raw images to suit the needs of the user and enable reliable reading in future. This type of filter ensures that the thinly needle-punched modules are enlarged before the evaluation. With additional external lighting, the VOS-I can reliably read difficult DPM codes up to two metres away. Reading small codes In the production of printed circuit boards in the electronics industry, very small codes need to be detected, sometimes from several printed circuit boards simultaneously. As space is usually limited on printed circuit boards, very small lasered Data Matrix codes are often used in these applications. The VOS-I can decode Data Matrix codes with module sizes of only 0.1 mm and can perform multi-code readings. This allows up to 64 codes to be read at the same time in a single reading window, or more codes if several reading windows are used. The vision sensor can also read different code types simultaneously, so mixing different code symbols in the same application does not present a problem. Reading multiple codes Multi-code readings are often required in the logistics sector too, such as in detecting Odette IDs where data is distributed over a number of different codes in the labels used for standardised information exchange when delivering goods. Another advantageous feature of VOS-I code readers used in logistics applications is that where boxes and packages are typically strung out in random order on conveyor belts – and the codes may be on any side – multiple VOS-I code readers can be logically interconnected to capture all the packaging codes at one time. One of the devices acts as the main device, collects the read results of the network, and works with the other devices to transmit this data to the higher-level plant control system. The new code readers from Pepperl+Fuchs include

The VOS-I universal code reader can be used in diverse applications.

The requirements for reading barcodes, Data Matrix codes, QR codes, and suchlike in automated production lines are much higher than those for the scanning of packaging at the supermarket checkout. Reading codes under industrial conditions is a real-time task, integrated into automated, fast, production, processing and transportation processes. Speed and reliability are priorities. Numerous functions, diverse applications The VOS-I series universal code readers are designed to read all common 1-D and 2-D codes, including DPM codes, securely. The fixed-installation vision sensors support large distance and sensing ranges, read codes on objects that move at speeds up to 4 m/s, and read very small codes. The readers also offer a wide range of intelligent functions that allow users to carry out diverse reading tasks. These functions include match code, multi-window and multi-code readings, output string formatting via scripts, and the scope to group together several VOS-I devices. All device versions have a LAN connection for PROFINET IO, EtherNet/IP, Ethernet TCP/IP, a serial RS232 interface, and three freely configurable digital inputs/outputs to integrate the code readers into existing control and networking systems. The new code readers are typically used in applications in the automotive industry, in the production of electronic assemblies, and in the logistics sector. In the automotive industry, for example, DPM (Direct Part Marking) codes are often used. They are applied to metal surfaces of parts such as engine blocks, using

a number of other features which provide for: evaluating code quality, ‘match code’ reading, and offline optimisation for specific applications. For more information contact Pepperl+Fuchs. Tel: +27 (0)87 985 0797 Email: info@za.pepperl-fuchs.com Visit: www.pepperl-fuchs.co.za

Combining different resolutions, lenses and lighting levels provides for flexibility.

20 Electricity + Control MAY 2022