Telecentric measurement system.

Keyence has introduced a new range of inline telecentric measurement system which employ highly advanced silhouette-based analysis for guaranteed accuracy.

Richard De Courcy, Product Specialist, Keyence UK Vision and Measurement, commented: “Accurate measurement of parts is vital to guaranteeing quality and consistency, and for identifying any possible production issues at the earliest possible opportunity. Our new portfolio harnesses the power of state-of-the-art silhouette-based technology to deliver exceptional accuracy alongside ease of set-up and use, ensuring consistent, reliable measurement of a wide range of parts. This will bring peace of mind to manufacturers seeking to reassure their customer of the quality and consistency of their offering.”

Designed specifically to measure parts rapidly and consistently as they pass through the system, the TM-X5000 line-up boasts an exposure time of just 25 μs – 40 times faster than conventional models, allowing accurate measurement of high-speed targets by eliminating blur from the image.

It provides a versatile solution for a broad spectrum of industrial measurement applications, offering geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T); outer diameter and profile measurement; abnormality detection; and runout and positioning.

The specially designed telecentric optics greatly improve measurement repeatability by increasing uniformity throughout the field of view. Compared with conventional telecentric optical systems, the TM-X5000 Series offers around 100 times greater telecentricity – just 0.0001°, ensuring confidence in results even for misaligned targets.

The dual telecentric silhouette-based system provides exceptional stability while the large ±15 mm depth of field, based on telecentric lenses in both the transmitter and receiver, provides clear, sharp edges and stable measurement results, even where the target position may vary.

Users can select from two installation methods – with or without the included base. A handy optical alignment function enables rapid, simple installation, while the user interface features a wide variety of measurement tools, enabling intuitive configuration of settings.

The range consists of three models to cater for a wide variety of requirements: the compact, ultra-high accuracy TM-X5006; the standard TM-X5040 model; and the TM-X5065 fore wide field applications.

@Keyence_Int @mepaxIntPR #telecentricity #PAuto

Speed, consistency and ease of dimension measurement.

Keyence has further enhanced its market-leading dimension measurement system range delivering all the benefits of thir IM-7000 series but with even greater speed, accuracy and ease of use.

Boasting a rotary unit allowing 360-degree multi-surface measurement capability for both turned and machined parts, the IM-8000 is fitted with a 20-megapixel CMOS – more than three times that of conventional systems – as well as a new algorithm for stable edge detection. In addition to the new CMOS, the screen is now larger and features enhanced resolution.

As well as standard metrics, the IM-8000 can perform a whole range of new measurements including symmetry, plane measurements, flatness, cylindricity, coaxiality and run-out, delivering new data visualisations including roundness graphs. This makes it suitable for parts with even the most complex geometries.

Able to measure more than 300 dimensions per part, the system starts to measure automatically as soon as the object is placed on the stage, which now moves at up to 80mm/s – twice as fast as the IM-7000 series, which is itself significantly faster than most alternative systems allowing even more rapid results. Highly precise dimensional measurements can be achieved in as little as 1 second.

The wide field camera now boasts single field of view accuracy of +/-3.9µm, compared with +/- 5µm previously, with this camera and the high precision camera able to be used together in a single program.

No positioning or datum set-up is needed, meaning even inexperienced operators can get the most out of the system. Measurements can be rapidly set up with just a few clicks, and it is equally simple to set up virtual lines and points. All of the specified dimensions can then be measured at the touch of a button, with focus automatically adjusted.

Measurement points are automatically identified, meaning the same measurement results are obtained each time, while automated focus adjustment prevents inconsistent values. Up to 100 parts can be measured simultaneously, drastically reducing measurement time when compared with alternative systems.

A highly intuitive programming procedure enables quick and easy selection of the required measurement. An automated diagnostic function assesses the stability of each measurement point during programming, displaying any variations in measured items clearly and simply, making it easier and faster to create program settings.

Meanwhile, the automated measurement function can automatically detect measurement points on parts up to 300 × 200 mm 11.81" × 7.87", even if these parts have not previously been measured. An integrated light probe can also measure features at specific heights.

Program files can be rapidly located on the system by placing the QR code from the inspection report on the stage. This ensures correct file selection even in the presence of multiple file types.

Ailsa Morrison, Applications Engineer for the Metrology Division at Keyence explains: “Speed, accuracy and ease of use are the key attributes being sought from measurement systems by users irrespective of the sector they work in. We have harnessed our measurement expertise to create a system which delivers unrivalled precision but does not require extensive training to obtain the best results. We therefore anticipate strong demand for the IM-8000 from customers in multiple sectors and applications.”

Available options include an IM-specific calibrated graticule to allow users to perform their own verifications. Keyence customers also benefit from regular software updates and extensive after-sales support wherever they are located.

@Keyence_Int @KeyenceUSA @KeyenceD  @mepaxIntPR #Pauto

Instant measuring system. for print sector.

Inspecting parts in all phases of a manufacturing process is crucial for the many customers of Keyence. The company offers a wide range of measurement and inspection products, deployed across both production, assembly line and laboratory environments, to ensure its customers achieve their quality goals. The company’s industry-leading IM Series Image Dimension Measurement systems allow customers to accurately and instantaneously perform dimensional inspections at a level of precision that that was not previously possible.

For high precision measurement applications, they offer a variety of measurement systems that quickly communicate whether manufactured parts are good… or no good. When so much is at stake, Keyence measurement systems consistently deliver benefits to customers – including first-time customers.

Enter Rudd Macnamara, formerly an engraving company established by Ernest Rudd in 1890. The Rudd Macnamara of today is a diverse manufacturing organisation centred on print. The company is based in Handsworth near Birmingham, in the very heart Britain's industrial area.

“We have a very wide range of in-house processes and we offer our customers innovative print solutions, which they may not be able to find elsewhere” explains Graham Caunce, Managing Director at Rudd Macnamara. “Two of the most important markets we serve are the brewery & drinks sector where we manufacture bespoke font branding, beer pump clips, and bar signs; and the aerospace sector where we manufacture nameplates and labels used on equipment that is incorporated into aircraft, and also branding decals for aircraft exteriors.”

Rudd Macnamara management identified a need for more precise measuring equipment as a direct result of end users’ complex requirements. “Dimensional integrity of our nameplates is critical to our business” continues Caunce. “Most of the nameplates we make are in anodised aluminium or stainless steel manufactured using a variety of processing techniques resulting in some level of variability that needs to be controlled and eliminated”

The Midlands specialist had been manufacturing these parts for many years. However, it became of the utmost importance to improve assurance processes according to Graham Caunce. “We started looking not only at digital optical measuring solutions but also at our internal manufacturing processes to reduce those variabilities which includes hard tooling.”

Being able to guarantee parts were consistently within tolerance was crucial to Rudd Macnamara’s future success. With that in mind, company management took a closer look at tooling. “We felt that to achieve the tolerances required on a consistent basis some of the processes employed needed to be replaced by blanking and piercing tools as well as CNC processing where possible.”

Staff also needed a quick way of checking that what they were manufacturing was in line with drawing. This is where the investment in a Keyence IM-7000 system proved especially helpful: it allows faster, easier and more consistent measurements of width, radius and height... all with a single device. The amount of time and effort required for inspection is reduced drastically. In addition, measurement data from the IM-7000 system is automatically saved as soon as a part is measured. Inspection reports can be created with the push of a button, increasing post-measurement work efficiency.

According to Rudd Macnamara’s managing director, the best word to describe how this acquisition helped the company is ‘assurance’. It is now possible to quickly check a large number of parts and identify any rejects. Rudd Macnamara’s personnel know that what is supplied is correct, in line with drawing and within tolerance. Moreover, where the Keyence machine identifies a high number of rejects, staff are able to review the route to manufacture and quickly identify any improvements that are required.

“We looked at other machines but we found the Keyence IM-7000 system was quick to program and even quicker to use” analyses Caunce, who says Rudd Macnamara found its own ‘sweet spot’: “We find it is best to load the bed with some 10 parts. That makes it is easy to keep track of the good parts and identify any rejects. We can also identify and measure print whereas competitive machines could not.”

Since Rudd Macnamara introduced this new measurement machine, internal reject rates have improved. “That can only help the bottom line” concludes the company’s managing director.

@Keyence_Int #Print

Vision sensor.

The Vision Sensor IV Series has been upgraded by Keyence with an optical character recognition (OCR) capability that can offer a simple, three-step (1 minute) set-up routine and more stable detection through high-intensity illumination and high-performance lens technology. In addition, the ultra-compact size makes the vision sensors easy to retrofit for companies updating their equipment. Automotive, food, cosmetics, pharmaceutical and electronics manufacturing plants are among those set to benefit from the streamlined and simplified detection of various product features. This continues the company’s trend of bringing inspection tools to market that deliver genuine advantages for customers.

Amid the major technology advances of the Vision Sensor IV Series is the new OCR tool that detects whether the text/date on the target being inspected matches the text/date information on the registered master image. Importantly, there is no need to perform extraction (adjusting character width and height), register a dictionary, or any other setting configurations required with conventional vision sensors. Users simply outline the text to identify it. Furthermore, stable reading is possible regardless of changes to the text’s shading, contrast, thickness or size – production engineers do not have to reteach the system. A wide variety of marking formats are supported, including, inkjet printers, laser markers and thermal printers.

Process stability is vital to successful OCR. A common issue with conventional vision sensors is that they often fail to capture clear images, while erroneous detections can frequently occur due to sensor misalignment. In contrast, the stability of the Vision Sensor IV Series facilitates accurate detection without variation, supported by the capture of high-quality, clear images that are unaffected by changes to ambient light conditions. Also, entire surfaces are checked, providing high protection against misaligned targets.

High-intensity Hi-R illumination is key to the advanced performance of the new vision sensors. Here, the company has researched different reflector shapes that help to minimise the loss of light intensity from the LEDs. The result is uniform and overwhelmingly bright lighting across the entire field of view.

An additionally important feature of the sensors is the newly developed high-performance HP-Quad lens, which contains four layers of glass. This design serves to minimise the effect of lens distortion, making it possible to capture bright, clear images with low distortion.

To support stable detection it is necessary to capture a large image of the target. Here, 10 different types of available sensor head in the Vision Sensor IV Series means that a wide variety of target sizes and detecting distances can be supported. What’s more, the digital zoom function can be used to capture a large image of the target when it is not possible to bring the sensor close due to the presence of obstacles or the product design.

With conventional vision sensors, specialised knowledge is often required in order to choose and install them. In short, a certain amount of time is needed for users to become familiar with the technology. The Keyence Vision Sensor IV Series overcomes these difficulties with its inherent ease-of-use that makes it possible for anyone to operate the sensor and, if required, easily perform 100% inspection routines.

Simple installation is another major benefit. With a product envelope of just 44.3 x 31 x 24 mm (smallest in class), the sensors can be installed anywhere, even in systems where there is minimal space availability. Furthermore, the cable connector can be rotated by up to 330° to suit any space restrictions, ensuring a high degree of freedom when it comes to installations.

Further capabilities of the Vision Sensor IV Series include automatic brightness adjustment at the push of a button and best-in-class, high-speed, high-accuracy automatic focus.

The IV Series can be set up with an intelligent monitor (IV-M30) or a PC. As PCs can have a larger display, set-up procedures are even easier to understand and can be quickly configured by first-time users. Additionally, a simulation function allows users to check and modify the program configurations, and perform operation simulations based on image history without connecting the sensor. This functionality enables easy computation of the optimal thresholds while looking at the detection result statistics and histogram, even when away from the workplace.

@Keyence_Int #PAuto 

Turning a neat thread.

Automatic dimension measurement boosts quality at volume turned-parts manufacturer.

BMI Engineering, one of Britain's leading high volume turned-parts manufacturers, has upgraded its quality department with the addition of an IM Series image dimension measuring system from Keyence. The system has not only saved time spent using laborious shadowgraph technology, but has also negated any potential for customer disputes regarding dimension measurement.

Based at Halesowen in the West Midlands (GB), BMI Engineering is today a rare breed of British manufacturer. In an era when most volume machining takes place in low cost economies in the Far East, BMI is bucking the trend. With 26 multi-spindle automatic lathes on site and five CNC turning centres, the company is a leader in the supply of repeat turned parts in the country, predominantly to the automotive sector, but also to industries such as gas fitting, heating, plumbing, railway and agriculture.

“Acquiring the Keyence IM was part of moving our quality effort forward,” states Chris Peare, Quality Manager at BMI Engineering. “We manufacture turned parts for numerous automotive tier one supply chain companies and one or two were nudging us in the direction of more automatic measurement capability.”

BMI, a 30-employee company first established in 1975, was previously using time-consuming shadowgraph technology to measure its parts, a process not befitting the fast-paced markets that the company served.

“If we measure a turned part on the IM, and it’s correct, the customer has no come-back whatsoever,” says Mr Peare. “Each measurement is recorded and documented, and can be repeated time after time. Furthermore, it’s no problem if the customer wants full PPAP (production part approval process), CpK or SPC. We simply print off the required graphs and information ready to send with the other paperwork metrics. All of this is invaluable to a company such as ours as we export around 65% of our output.”

When mulling over the idea of an image measurement system, Mr Peare received, by chance, a mailshot regarding the Keyence IM Series. After expressing his interest, Keyence visited BMI and performed a demonstration. Suitably impressed, the IM was installed in September 2013.

BMI works to typical tolerances of ±0.025 mm and performs random sample inspections. Turned automotive parts produced on the company’s multi-spindle automatics, along with other components such as plugs (headed and recessed), pipe fittings and special fasteners, measure up to 57 mm diameter, while parts produced on the turning centres can be larger, up to 80 mm. Maximum length is around 120 mm. According to Mr Peare, long parts are no problem for the IM Series thanks to Keyence’s image stitching technology.

Typical features on parts such as plug-type adaptors and fluid fittings include undercuts and threads. The measurement of threads is particularly tricky for many technologies and, as a result, most machine shops prefer to use gauges. However, this is not the case where a Keyence IM Series is installed.

“We can checks thread flanks and pitches – metric and imperial – with no problem whatsoever,” says Mr Peare. “In fact, we even use the IM to check our thread gauges.”

The ability to load multiple parts on the IM Series is also seen as a huge advantage to this ISO9001 accredited business, where many of the turned components are relatively small. It’s not unusual for the quality department to load up to six parts simultaneously on the IM. Needless to say, this presents considerable time savings.

The IM Series image dimension measurement system reliably measures features almost instantaneously. Simply place a target on the stage and press the button. Up to 99 geometries are measured in a matter of seconds with a repeatability of ±1 micron. Targets are found and measured regardless of their position or orientation, and there is no risk of measurements being affected by variations in operator skill levels. Thanks to the Keyence iPASS shape detection method, the system determines the position and angle of targets, making measurements fully automatic.

Beyond the quality department, the benefits of the Keyence IM extend to the shop floor. For instance, if a machine setter is struggling with a particular thread, the IM will reveal in an instant what is wrong so that the variation can be quickly identified on the multi-spindle automatic. Compare this to performing laborious point-to-point measurement on a shadowgraph, and the savings in downtime are clear to see.

“Since it was installed the IM Series has been kept extremely busy, there’s always someone on the machine,” concludes Mr Peare. “Thankfully, it’s been extremely reliable and helped take our measurement capability to the next level.”

@Keyence_Int  #Manufacturing @BMIEngLtd

Fully automated and centralised detection!

GlaxoSmithKline wants to continue inspecting its products itself. Now, using equipment from Keyence, it can fully automate its production lines and in the process, reduce the risk of human error to a minimum.

GlaxoSmithKline Banks on the
Flexibility of Keyence's Vision Systems.

Their site in Evreux (F) covers 18 hectares and has 100,000 m2 of buildings. It employs 2,000 people and produces 130 million boxes of inhaled forms (aerosols, inhaled products) each year. Eighty-five percent of its production is exported to 130 countries with AFSSAPS, MCA and FDA approval. Every minute, 15,000 patients around the world take a dose of medication produced at GSK Evreux. This high production volume entails a highly complex traceability system.

One of the inhaled forms produced by GSK is the Diskus, a multidose powder inhaler that delivers a metered dose of medication. The marking of each Diskus is checked using a three-camera XG vision system. The first camera uses OCR to check an in-house code that is engraved with a YAG laser. The second checks the placement and diameter of the label; this inspects it for tears and makes sure that the legal notices printed on it are legible. The label is printed on a white background at a rate of 110 to 150 strokes per minute. The last camera is used to check a special label with a black background used for the Japanese market.

"We were looking for a vision system that did not require any direct operator intervention and thus would eliminate the risk of incorrect adjustments," explains Christophe Fourcin of GlaxoSmithKline. "Operators simply enter the code of the product to be inspected into the PLC controlling the vision system. That way they don't have to deal with the complex matter of programming the thirty or so sizes used.

"The very nature of the detection performed means that we have to routinely make changes to the vision system. That's one of the reasons why we chose Keyence's XG vision system. We wanted to have a tool that was ours and that we could modify as needed. With competing brands, reprogramming takes time and money. We have to wait for the estimate and then wait again for the new programming to be done. It makes us feel somewhat hog-tied. With the XG, we're in control and can even contact Keyence for assistance."

"It was easy to set up. Keyence's engineer provided us with the programming template so that we could go on from there. I make the necessary changes myself, which I learned how to do during a one-day training session provided by Keyence. The language is intuitive and the programming tools aren't that complicated. As a result, we were self-sufficient in no time. Lastly, it has a decent GUI,

"The vision system integrated very easily with the PLC. We also noticed that detection is stable over time and does not cause any false rejects. Determining the right inspection settings is very easy with the XG Series."

The XG VisionEditor software toolset is intuitive, fast, flexible and allows fully customisable programming. Its flowchart functionality allows users to create programs simply by dragging and dropping processing ́blocks ́. It also features a range of algorithms and filters. The system's flexibility also stems from the fact that users can add C-language source to create custom algorithms and filters. "The flowcharts enable us to quickly see which functions should be used," explains Mr Fourcin.

Debugging tools and a trace log (a log that traces the program's I/Os and sequencing and the commands and I/Os in the PLC) allow the vision program and the interface with the PLC to be tested to reduce integration time.

The XG vision system is part of GlaxoSmithKline's full process control system. "Our aim is to reduce human intervention to a minimum in order to increase the reliability of our processes. The next step is to control the PLC remotely with a takt time solution. Once that is done, detection with the Keyence system will be fully automated and centralised," concludes Mr Fourcin.

In-line vial measurement at Capitol Europe

To provide high-speed, high-accuracy inspection facilities for production of a new range of vials, Capitol Europe has opted for Keyence optical micrometers in the TM-3000 series.
Capitol Europe specialises in the manufacturing of packages and packaging products for the pharmaceutical industry and medical testing applications. Its strength lies in the specific technological characteristics of its polypropylene tubes and vials that set them apart in several ways. For instance, they are made in one piece directly with their caps.

Example of a plastic vial made by Capitol Europe

Furthermore, Capitol Europe has been involved in innovative and patented technologies that guarantees their sterility and efficient sealing. Their active coating also ensures absorption of gases and humidity.

This type of manufacturing entails implementation of a high-precision production process, such as the new production line designed by the Sandmann Company to make plastic vials using an injection process. These parts are 26 mm in diameter, with a bevel that is used to pierce the membrane seal. The in-line inspection system required for the application had to show the necessary levels of accuracy while being able to keep up with high production rates. Four sides of each of the 32 parts made have to be measured every 10 seconds (2 for height measurements and 2 more to check the bevels).

"We knew that it would be difficult to find a solution that could rise to the challenge; being fast enough while complying with our requirements in terms of precision", says Eric Daniel, Maintenance Manager at Capitol Europe's plant in Niederbronn-Les-Bains.

Capitol Europe opted for an innovative solution enabling high-speed, two-dimensional in-line measurement with an accuracy level of the order of a micron: the Keyence TM-3000 sensor. This system does away with expensive off-line inspections that rely too heavily on the operator's skills. The 2D optical micrometer features a high-speed central processing unit and two DSP circuits dedicated to image processing. It can operate at up to 1,800 images per minute, thanks to its four processors that operate in parallel.

Its double telecentric optical system transmits a uniform beam of collimated light. This avoids variation in the image projected on the CMOS sensor depending on the target's position. The two-dimensional CMOS sensor detects transition between dark and light areas and measures the target's dimensions. The process, which is also impervious to reflecting surfaces, ensures accuracy levels of 0.5 µm to 3 µm depending on the models, with repeatability levels of +/- 0.06 µm to +/- 0.2 µm. The measurement range reaches 65 mm at a maximum distance of 270 mm between the emitter and the receiver.

The micrometers in the TM-3000 series are able to measure up to 16 points on parts to be inspected, and they provide more than 15 measurement modes: diameter, centre distance, intersection point coordinates, angle, height, step, distance to a perpendicular, radius, circularity, etc.

Moreover, the position correction system automatically makes up for any target alignment or tilt faults. This ensures high precision even when positioning is difficult or when the objects are moving randomly. The adjustment system is simplified and it does away with the necessity of a mechanical repositioning device for the parts to be inspected. Furthermore, the LED source technology used shows exceptional stability and has a very long service life. Eric Daniel confirms the fact: "We have made 11,000,000 parts since the TM-3000 was installed. We have not had any measurement problems at all, and the level of accuracy remains stable at 0.03 mm.

We have obtained the result with several repeat measurements of a given production batch. The result shows a remarkable degree of precision, because our parts are irregularly shaped."

In spite of the unique performance levels shown by the TM-3000 series micrometers, they are easy to install and operate. "My colleague in charge of the system mastered it in 10 minutes and the installation took hardly any time at all", concludes Eric Daniel; the performance levels of the TM-3000 series have given him ideas for other inspection uses.

Advanced vision system control

There is something new in the world of vision! The CV-X100 series from Keyence allows an inexperienced end-user to setup and use complex inspection functions like a Pro. Auto measurements, auto teaching and distortion correction are just a few of the innovative new features built into the CV-X Series controllers.

The new CV-X Series was conceived with the single aim of simplifying the sometimes complex implementation and operation process of a vision system. Now all of the tools have been categorised by application and every screen has an intuitive menu with an on screen guide, designed not only to help with setup but enhance the users understanding of the processes behind the tools. 
While simplicity has been highly prized, the full range of Keyence tools are still readily available ensuring that the CV-X isn’t just a vision sensor but a full blown vision system.

Automatic Measurement
The CV-X series now comes with automatic measurement setup. Simply choose the type of measurement you want to perform and click the points you want to measure between. This will automatically position and size the inspection areas, optimise the settings to pick up on the correct features and create the calculation.
Targets are identified by Keyence’s new shape detection algorithm “ShapeTrax2” allowing for multiple stable inspections to be taken whatever the product position. Even with inspection accuracy down to sub pixel levels the processing speeds are far superior to the industry standard (even using 5 million pixels per image). 

Automatic Teaching

Previously only available on the highest spec PC based systems the CV-X Series is the first standalone system on the market with auto tech capabilities. 
Once the camera is in position on the line, simply run 30-50 good products and it will “learn” by itself the acceptable manufacturing tolerances checking for shape, colour and pattern. This is done by recognising the similarities between non-defective parts rather than differences in defective parts which greatly increases the stability of the inspection.
Extremely complex inspection programs which previously required a vision expert to create can now be written, in-house, in minutes, using this tool.

Auto Correction
The CV-X100 vision system is equipped with a suite of tools designed to make image capture more reliable. Among them, is tool to ensure that the image capturing conditions (camera position, lighting, focus) remain constant. In the event of variation (following an altercation with the camera for example), an assistant will guide you in a few clicks to recreate your original capturing conditions.

Moreover, the CV-X Series is capable of using digital correction to remove the effects of curved or slanted surfaces due to camera installation and/or lens distortion. The result of this digital correction is an image identical to one taken from the perspective of a camera positioned right above the target. This function is very popular for robotic applications.

In addition to these tools, the system offers a complete range of filters and effects which can be applied independently to each tool. You will find traditional filters like binarisation or averaging as well as other much more advanced filters, such as HDR and shading correction to enhance images from even the most complex targets.

There are many other new functions all designed to save you time and money. For example, automatically generate user manuals which include product screen shots by clicking a single button, generate user interfaces by simply selecting and modifying one of the many templates, and reading 1D & 2D bar codes within seconds using the auto tune button.

Light curtains

The GL-R Series is the most robust of the market thanks to a metal housing 3 times thicker than the traditional safety curtains (32x38 mm). This new series has been designed to address the problems users are having with safety light curtains. Unique and strong design, quick and easy installation, and yet the highest level of security is provided.

Another unique feature: its thick and robust metal built-in guard protects the lenses (5 mm recess). Thus, the probability of direct impacts on this sensitive part is extremely reduced. Finally, the GL-R Series housing meets IP65/IP67 enclosure ratings. The system offers significant advantages for the user: downtime risks are reduced, no need of expensive additional guarding and finally twisting and misalignment issues are eradicated thanks to the robust design.

These curtains are much easier to install. With the one-line system, no need to connect the transmitter and the receiver to the control panel, because the transmitter receives power from the receiver. Moreover, with the optical synchronisation, the transmitter and receiver can be wired separately. The number of wires is reduced by 72% from 18 to 5 wires, thus reducing installation time and risks of faulty wiring.

Assembly is also simplified: the GL-R Series brackets come pre-assembled, so installation is as simple as sliding them into the mounting track and securing them to the machine.
These mounting brackets have been designed to attach directly to standard extruded aluminum allowing a straight or L-shaped or adjustable angle mounting. The range of detection has been increased up to 15m. On top of these features the GL-R series curtains do not require any additional protection making this system the simplest to install in the industry.

The GL-R series meets the machine safety design standard ISO 13849-1, PLe level of performance. It is the most demanding: Mean time to dangerous failure per hour: 10-8 to < 10-7.
These curtains are also Type 4 and SIL3.

This Series, in keeping with the other Keyence safety light curtains, offers a no dead zone detection, with the first beam emitted 10 mm from each end. There is no need for additional guarding to prevent intrusion on the dead zone detection level.
Many curtains still do not offer this key safety feature. Compared to the models allowing edge detection, the GL-R Series solves the common problem of end brittleness.

Finally, with the 7 segments display errors are more easily and safely identified.
Last innovation, the operation of the GL-R Series can be monitored with a PC. The status of I/O signals including OSSD outputs, override inputs, and error conditions can be checked as well as light intensity. During operation, the monitoring will help to easily identify the causes of an abnormal operation. All error codes and order of occurrence are saved as error history records during operation. This allows for easiertroubleshooting and analysis.

World’s first in-line 2D optical micrometer

New 2D multi measurement system takes IN LINE, measurements with micron precision

The new Keyence TM-3000 2D Optical Micrometer introduces significant technological advancements to 100% automated high-speed, in-line or off-line measurement and inspection applications. The TM-3000 is designed to combine the functionality of a laser scan micrometer, machine vision system and optical comparator into a single device. It is available in three sensor head sizes along with the ability to utilise 2 transmitter-receiver pairs simultaneously to provide unparalleled flexibility. This newly developed high speed 2D optical micrometer includes a high-speed computing CPU and two dedicated image processing DSPs. Using a total of four processors for parallel processing, TM-3000 Series allows for fast processing of 1800 (images)/minute.

New Technology - 2D micron measurement precision
The 2D Optical Micrometer employs a dual telecentric lens to create uniform collimated light with a green LED. A two dimensional CMOS array then detects the light to dark transitions on the 2D array to measure the dimensions. Certificates of traceability along with calibration certificates are available upon request. High speed and high precision are a result of sub-pixel processing only in the areas or points designated for measurement. TM-3000 Series offer a ±0.15 μm repeatability.

Multi-Point measurement with no target positioning required
Because the system works in two dimensions it can measure up to 16 points within the measurement area. A combination of 15 measurement modes and 8 auxiliary modes can support measurements including, but not limited to, hole diameter, center pitch, intersection point, radius, width, angle, perpendicular distance and area. The position correction function automatically orients the test part prior to measurement, thus increasing accuracy. No longer are expensive positioning mechanisms needed to ensure the best precision. All programming and monitoring can be performed with or without a PC.

New dimension for dimensional measurement!

The IM-6500 Series from Keyence is a new type of measurement device. It is a completely new concept to rival established measuring equipment such as profile projectors, measuring microscopes or automatic CNC measuring machines.

The dimensional measurement concept of the IM-6500 series utilises state of the art imaging technology, thus enabling any user to perform reliable measurements in a minimum of time and with an increased accuracy. You simply place a part on a measurement stage, push the button and up to 99 dimensions are measured in a few seconds with accuracies down to 0.7 micron. No tiresome positioning, nor risks of measurement variance or deviation between individual operators. The simplicity of use results in the IM-6500 series emerging as a massive cost saving alternative to traditional time consuming measurement processes.

The IM-6500 measurement concept combines the flexibility of a vision system with the accurate execution of a double telecentric lens.

The all new double telecentric lens, with a large diameter of 100mm, captures the complete image of the target element, thus allowing the measurement of all the control points at once. With this technology it becomes possible to capture pixels without image distortion of the component that is placed around the lens circumference. Hence measurement is neither affected by distortion, nor by the distance. The lens size dictates that parts up to 100mm in diameter can be measured.

Measurement data can be stored digitally as Inspection Reports, Data Lists or Trend Graphs along with screen shot images. These files can be exported to other sources as the IM series utilies a convenient PC based data management system.

With the IM-6500 dimensional measurement concept, you simply place the part to be measured in the measurement area. The iPASS method (Intelligent Pattern Analysis Search System) performs a shape scanning (from the already recorded targets) to determine its position and its shape.

Many features can be measured, from internal diameters, circular threads and angles. Previous difficult to measure features with traditional methods can now be performed automatically with reduced risk of operator error.

The IM-6500 series utilies the latest technology to eliminate individual differences. The original sub-pixel concept by Keyence makes it possible to automatically detect the position of the component edges more accurately than with traditional vision systems thanks to the sub-pixel processing with a margin of 0.01 pixels. The IM series has overcome the age old issue of measurement variations from one user to the other. The same applies for errors due to differences in operator competence. In addition, with the IM series absence of an XY stage, measuring time is saved without needing stage movements, and errors due to stage vibrations are not a concern. This has all been made possible by integrating the high speed image processing technology developed for the automation industry with the optical design technology used in microscopes. Increasing the customers’ results and the quantity of controls should thus contribute to improving quality.

The built in temperature sensor allows the IM-6500 series to be installed almost anywhere in a production facility. Temperature compensation ensures accurate measurement once the system is in use. The IM-6500 series is of a compact space saving design with a footprint the size of an A3 sheet of paper. It can be easily mounted near the production lines or in a laboratory.

Visible vision sensors!

With this new sensor, Keyence makes vision sensors accessible to everyone. Affordable, quick start-up and easy to use: no need to be an expert. This new solution is highly reliable and covers 80% of vision systems requirements, making it a beneficial alternative to one or more sensors when detection needs to follow a moving target.

The IV Series stands out as the easiest-to-start vision sensor on the market. The set-up is done via a 4 step graphic interface procedure. Typically, it takes less than a minute. Exposure time and illumination are adjusted automatically (IBA feature - Intelligent Brightness Adjust). Focusing, with the automatic focus mechanism, can now be done automatically. It is done by a unique automatic focus motor developed exclusively for the IV Series.

In addition, the IV Series is the very first vision sensor in its price range offering colour detection and the autofocus function at the same time. A flexible solution allowing many different applications: part or label presence/absence, detection of part orientation, misalignment, cable recognition according to their colour, proper assembly… Therefore one IV sensor is able to perform multiple detections on a single target, where competitors would often require multiple sensors

The technology of shape recognition makes it possible to perform reliable detections on moving targets. Compensation of the position is automatically done. The IV Series is thus more stable than laser or optical sensor, while remaining in the price range.

The Series IV vision system offers a resolution of 752x480 pixels and IP67 protection, making it perfectly suitable to industrial requirements. It is connected via Ethernet or an M12 connector. Eight sensor heads are available to match the various specifications of the application: detection range (up to 2000 mm), distance view and finally exposure time (down to 1/25000 for fast cadence).

This vision sensor offers excellent detection stability thanks to a set of new features: 4 lenses HP-Quad focus with low aberration with high light gathering power. HS-HDR feature widens the light-receiving sensitivity range when dispersion occurs in the reflection. As production runs brightness is automatically adjusted and glare from glossy surfaces is reduced by a polarising filter.

The main applications are in packaging, metal working, automotive, electronics or food and pharmaceutical industries.

Ultra high speed, flexible image processing system

The latest Keyence machine vision system is without doubt the most complete vision system on the market. Already at top performance levels for speed, resolution, stability and the range of software tools, the XG-7000 Series can now also be programmed in a PC environment. The Controller houses a powerful image processing platform dedicated to avoiding problems of overloading and maintainability commonly found with conventional PC System. This vision system combines flexibility, stability, and performance with simplicity. Thus, it can be used by all, for all applications.

The PC software can be used to develop the vision program and the user interface. The XG Vision Editor software is intuitive, fast, and flexible, and it can be fully personalised.

The program takes the form of a flowchart, in which the users simply drag and drop processing 'blocks' to create the flow. A wide range of algorithms and filters are available. Among them, the ShapeTrax2 positioning tools, the Stain defect detection tools, and the Edge measurement tools that are already well known in our current Machine Vision systems. As an extra feature, the XG-7000 provides the possibility of executing operations on the images before processing them; this enables use of image calibration and distortion correction systems that are in strong demand in the field of robotics and dimensional measurement. Bar codes, OCR and 2D codes can also be read.

The system's flexibility also lies in the possibility of integrating the source code written in C language by the user. It is then possible to execute algorithms and specific filters, and import from your existing applications.

New Debugging, simulation and Trace log tools can be used to test the vision program and the interface in order to reduce integration time.

The XG-7000 Series is secure; it manages user rights and keeps a log of changes.
It can handle up to 100 users with 5 access levels.

The controllers can be networked, and accessed remotely using software to view and test the changes made from a remote terminal or via the Internet, without stopping production.

An FTP server can be used to send the information (data and images) to a central monitoring system.
An ActiveX component enables control of the vision system; it is integrated in a machine. The ActiveX control can also be used to create measurement data, obtain information concerning results or historical data, and manage files.

Performance and stability
The XG-7000 is the most powerful vision system on the market. For example, it provides the possibility of processing 1 million pixels in 20.5 ms. This calculating power also enables implementation of multiple controls and further enhancement of production control: unrivalled repeatability (7 times higher than the current standards) and numerous image processing features are available to optimise the precision of the controls.
The models in the XG-7000 series are controlled by a high-speed colour image processing engine and a fast RISC (reduced instruction set computing) processor linked to two DSPs (digital signal processors) that are specific to the image processing system. Overall, the models in the series use four processors to provide parallel processing and the highest possible processing speeds.

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