Baumer Expands Industrial Vision with OX Sensor and RF Cameras

An industrial vision inspection system is often used because a sensor cannot solve the problem. Baumer's latest release of the OX 2D vision sensor uses laser light to scan a part's profile, while parameters can determine the pass/fail criteria for up to seven different inspections. Commercial camera lenses use larger apertures and have features such as internal aperture and focus control. Baumer is adapting Canon's RF mount technology for the LX series cameras to enable the use of larger-aperture lenses in industrial vision systems, solving even more problems that traditional sensors can’t.

The OX 2D profile sensor used for inspections. Image used courtesy of Baumer

The OX 2D Profile Sensor

In automated assembly machines, quality inspection is an important process that cannot be overlooked. Advanced and expensive vision systems are often used for end-of-line inspections because of the variability and complexity. The OX 2D profile sensor uses advanced laser technology to scan the profile of the inspection piece. Technicians can then build inspection programs to determine good and bad profiles. The parameters are stored internally in the OX sensor, and the results are transmitted to the control system via fieldbus communication. The OX series has a measurement resolution of 5 microns and a measuring range of up to 500 mm. Up to seven different measurement values can be detected and reported to a control system via one of the many supported fieldbus technologies, such as EtherNet/IP, ProfiNet, and Modbus TCP.

The OX 2D profile sensor that uses laser light to draw a profile of the inspected surface. Image used courtesy of Baumer

The OX comes in four different versions depending on the application:

• Multi-tool profile sensor: The standard profile sensor with support for up to 7 different measurement tools
• Blue laser for surface detection: A 405 nm wavelength laser emits blue light, which works well on plastic and transparent surfaces.
• Edge detection: For measuring multiple edges and step height, such as measuring gear profiles.
• Profile raw data: When a calibrated 2D scatter plot is required for further analysis of an inspection.

Programming and configuring the OX is just as simple as most Baumer devices. A web interface is provided, as well as an IO-Link option for parameterization, monitoring of values, diagnostics, and the development of pass/fail criteria.

The OX 2D profile sensor provides a compact, cost-effective alternative to a vision system when inspecting for presence, part completeness, quality, and surface measurements are required.

Canon RF Mount

Until recently, Canon, a popular manufacturer of cameras and camera accessories, has had a proprietary mounting system for mounting lenses onto their camera bodies. Baumer has now adapted this technology to provide the industrial industry with the same mounting technology for their LX series of cameras, essentially providing industrial automation the ability to use Canon lenses for industrial applications.

The LX series camera with an RF mount that supports Canon camera lenses. Image used courtesy of Baumer

The new mounting technology features a mirrorless design, support for new, larger-aperture lenses, and focus-by-wire technology. The RF mount will be available on cameras that support up to 65 megapixels at 18 frames per second, in color and monochrome. With electronic aperture and focus, all controlled within the camera, the LX series with RF-mounted lenses will better support fast, dynamic inspections than the old C-mount lenses.

These advancements in vision technology will hopefully enable better, more stable inspections in applications where typical sensors or cameras fail.