The Line Monitor is designed to check products moving along a production line, and can be used to confirm orientation, print image, presence of a label, cap, feature or fitting, or other visible product characteristics. It compares the optical "signature" of a strip of each passing product with a reference signature, and indicates a match or mismatch accordingly.
When powered up, the Line Monitor first learns a reference signature from the passing products. When it has learned the reference signature for that product, it switches automatically to comparing subsequent products. No programming is necessary as the learning process is automatic.
The Line Monitor's MATCH and MISMATCH outputs can be connected directly to a variety of different devices. In a simple installation they can be connected to indicator lights and the MISMATCH output connected to an audible alarm, warning the operator if there is a problem with the product. The MATCH or the MISMATCH output can be connected to a solenoid operated valve controlling an ejector mechanism, so faulty or incorrectly oriented products are automatically diverted from the line. Alternatively the outputs can be connected to a PLC, and the signals used in the overall control strategy.
Line Monitors can perform tasks that can not be performed by traditional sensor types, for example for checking that the correct pages of a magazine are being assembled in a collating machine. Line Monitors can often be used to advantage in place of mechanical sensing devices, because their non-contact, non-mechanical operation increases reliability and reduces maintenance. Line Monitors can be used at product speeds (up to 50/second) which are beyond the capabilities of many other smart optical systems. Setups for product changeover are often faster if Line Monitors are used; setup often involves merely depowering and repowering the Line Monitor so it learns the new product. Their capability to automatically learn the features of a "correct" product can eliminate the need for product-specific checking hardware.
Line Monitors are available from REALTIME CONTROL. As with all but the simplest fuzzy logic systems, suitability for a particular application can not be guaranteed, so undamaged Line Monitors can be returned within 60 days for a full refund.
Smart sensor manufacturers are invited to test a Line Monitor with a view to licensing and /or purchase of the design.
The User's Manual for the Line Monitor is available in MS Word 6.0 format. Please email REALTIME CONTROL.