TechArchive

Original article date: July 2000

The last few months have been an exciting time at Pepperl+Fuchs. With the acquisition of Visolux the Pepperl+Fuchs group goes from strength to strength and can now offer an even larger product portfolio. Reinforcing their reputation for meeting today’s industry needs and offering the back up that comes from many years’ experience.

As market leaders in the networking of sensors and actuators through the AS Interface the Factory Automation division of Pepperl+Fuchs supplies a comprehensive range of high quality sensors and sensor systems utilising inductive, capacitive, ultrasonic and opto-electronic technologies. The integration of the two companies means that the Visolux brand name will be retained for opto-electronic and safety products within the division, providing customers with a total solution for all their sensor requirements.

Here is an outline of just some of the exciting, popular products available from Pepperl+Fuchs and Visolux.

DF20“True” colour detection in a standard sensor package.

If you use contrast scanners to detect colour, you will be aware of their problems. However using RGB triple colour sensing technology the new DF20 colour mark detector is able to recognise an enormous range of colours and differentiate between minute shades of colour against multi-coloured backgrounds.

The device is focussed on the colour to be detected and the “teach” button pressed, an output is given on detection. The colour reference is stored in the non-volatile memory, so that if power’s lost, the value isn’t.

An ABS case as standard, with IP67 protected optics.

A stainless steel housed version with plastic optics is also available for special duties.

DAD10-8P

The reliability and the costs of a modern logistics system depend upon consistent and reliable connections for data transfer. Data transmission light-beam systems provide a practical solution to transmit data from a fixed station to a mobile.

Infrared data transmission offers a multitude of advantages against conventional systems without the disadvantages of interference or costly mechanical installation;

SIMPLE- An integrated optical alignment aid and function indicator speeds up installation.

ROBUST- Rugged construction, stable plastic or metal housings with high function reserve to withstand severe conditions.

ECONOMICAL- Data transmission light beam systems provide a superb “Price versus Performance” comparison to alternative systems, plus downtime advantages by reducing mechanical components.

SECURE- Data transmission of information by light is unaffected by sources of electrical energy or radio frequency.

FAST- Transmission rates of up to 500 kbaud at ranges in excess of 100metres are available with versions that can be used in the Interbus-S and PROFIBUS field bus systems.

FLEXIBLE- Modern interface technology allowing integration into most current computer systems.

F22

With today’s high-speed production techniques, engineers are faced with a vast array of different sensors to detect products in the latest complex packaging designs.

Pepperl+Fuchs offer a series of “Software Enhanced Capability” photoelectric sensors allowing the user to tailor the sensor to the application with simple set-up. By entering the “teach-in” mode, bringing the object into range and pressing either of the buttons the sensor is then set up.

At the heart of this sensor series is a powerful micro-controller capable of sophisticated tasks. Each unit has an integrated infra red interface which, when connected to any PC or laptop running the OPUS software package, can open up the factory pre-set parameters for easy adjustment to suit the application.

Switching outputs can be changed, timers can be added, switching hysteresis can be adjusted and logic functions introduced, saving inputs into the plc. These changes can be stored on floppy disk or hard drive and transferred to another sensor saving time in re-programming.

Two programmable areas causing a stir are the pulse frequency selection to avoid the possibility of interaction when mounted close together, the other is the “keypad lock” to stop the “fiddle factor” by unauthorised personnel.

F66

A fibre optic amplifier – fibre optics or light guides can be used to detect small targets with either glass or plastic fibres.

Glass fibres:

• With a large selection of heads for different applications
• Optional coverings of high grade steel, silicone or PVC
• High grade steel they can be used up to 3001/4C
• Custom built glass fibre light guides

Plastic fibres:

• More flexible, smaller bend radius
• Cut to length by the user
• Excellent value for money

To find out more about the perfect marriage between Pepperl+Fuchs and Visolux contact us today on 0161 633 6431.

July 2000