Datalogic Introduces 2D Imagers for Large-Area Conveyor Scanning

Datalogic has expanded its 2D imaging catalog with two new product lines: the Matrix 830 and Matrix 930 series 2D imagers. The new devices are designed to scan large areas at ultra-high resolutions, such as scanning codes on wide conveyor belts with high throughput.

The Matrix 830/930 series 2D imagers are designed to scan large areas, particularly in conveyor applications. Image used courtesy of Datalogic

Matrix 830/930 2D Area Imagers

The key features of the Matrix 830/930 series are its ultra-high resolution, reduced complexity, and high throughput.

The primary difference between the 830 and 930 series is the resolution. The Matrix 830 has a resolution of 16 MP and can read across an entire 70 cm-wide conveyor belt. In comparison, the 930 Series has a resolution of 28 MP and can cover a 1 m-wide conveyor belt. Plant engineers can weigh resolution against cost to determine what is right for their specific application.

The Matrix 830/930 series can detect linear conveyor belt speeds up to 3.5 m/s. All Matrix imagers can detect 1D and 2D barcodes (traditional barcodes and QR codes, respectively).

The Matrix 830/930 series offer wide-belt conveyor coverage up to 1 m. Video used courtesy of Datalogic

Simplified Data Capture

Typical barcode readers boost performance through added complexity. For example, some rely on foldable or movable mirrors to mimic large scanning areas. This design adds moving parts, complexity, maintenance, and calibration concerns.

Other scanners are designed to be used in conjunction with multiple cameras to achieve large scan areas. Also, for all that headache, these systems are often fooled by packages next to each other, or packages that block one another from being scanned.

The Matrix 830/930 series, however, does not rely on additional cameras or devices — just a high-resolution scanner with minimal maintenance, installation, and calibration headaches. As long as components are not stacked on the conveyor, they can be detected.

The Matrix 830/930 series enables high-speed package handling up to 3.5 m/s. Image used courtesy of Datalogic

Accurate, High-Throughput Operation

Designed for machine vision on conveyor belts, Datalogic’s Matrix 830/930 2D imagers can be used at any stage of production: from intermediate-step verification to quality control before shipping. Their ultra-high resolution and wide scan area make them ideal for scanning entire belts.

Besides quality control, one potential application is for large shipping centers. The series can detect packages moving along the conveyor and relay information to robots for sorting purposes. In this application, they can retrieve information from each package, look for handling damage, and use other such methods for sorting.

Additionally, the imagers can scan for Global Harmonized System (GHS) symbols to sort packages and separate hazardous materials for proper storage and shipping. For example, flammables and oxidizers can both be shipped but should not be stored together.