Budget UV sensor outperforms big vision systems

The UVX 300 is a novel UV luminescence sensor claimed to detect targets more reliably than vision systems that typically cost ten times more.

The UVX 300 is a novel UV luminescence sensor claimed to detect targets more reliably than vision systems that typically cost ten times more.

In addition, new patented technology and an innovative design qualify the UVX 300 luminescence sensor for several industry "firsts", including long-range sensing capability, smallest UV sensor size, fastest response time/sensitivity specs, and a solution for the long-standing difficulty of tuning the sensor to a light that is invisible to the operator.

Not as widely known as other sensors, UV (ultraviolet light) sensors can detect the application of seals, grease, adhesives, paper labels and other materials, for quality assurance and manufacturing process feedback.

Because UV sensors can easily discriminate targets in any orientation from similarly coloured backgrounds, they are often more reliable than vision systems costing $6000 and more.

The UVX 300 extends the useful operating distance of UV sensors to 350mm - three to six times the distance of competing sensors - so the sensor will not get bumped or dirtied by passing targets.

In addition, for optimal machine control, its feedback response time (6 kHz) is at least three times faster than any other UV luminescence sensor.

The faster speed enables engineers to apply UV sensing to more applications, such as high-speed sampling, which was not possible before.

The UVX 300 uses adjustable light projection and high resolution to deliver pin-head sensitivity.

An optional 50mm lens will concentrate the spot of projected UV light into a tiny 5mm spot that is much smaller than those of some competing systems.

The sensor is capable of detecting targets as small as a single stitch in fabric, and it can precisely measure the amount of applied glue and other materials as part of a control system.

With this introduction, EMX has solved a longstanding problem associated with UV sensors.

Because UV luminescent materials and pigments are invisible under a normal light spectrum, UV sensors are difficult to tune without some indication of what they are reading.

Up to now, the approach has been to use simple LEDs that indicate luminescence or that the set point has been reached.

The UVX 300 is the first UV sensor to numerically display the intensity of each reading (relative reflection and threshold.) This feature makes it easy for the operator to tune the sensor and saves valuable engineering time compared to competing sensors, because it eliminates the need to blindly adjust sensor intensity and check the results over multiple test runs.

In addition, the UVX 300 allows for user control of hysteresis for even further precision tuning, a feature not available on all sensors.

Unlike any competing sensor, the UVX 300 includes both auto-teach and manual calibration.

This makes the sensor easy for low-skill operators to calibrate, yet it provides the ability to be finely tuned.

In addition, in one sensor users get both analogue and discrete output, plus auto-detect for PNP/NPN, a unique feature that simplifies integration compared to competing units.

The advantages of analogue output include the ability to "measure" the intensity of returned signal, the ability to track process variations for SPC and SQC applications, and easier sensor setup.

Finally, integration is made easier by low power consumption; the UVX 300 requires less than 60mA - lower operating current some other sensors in its class.

LED indicators for power, programming, and detection functions aid in setup and troubleshooting.

The UVX 300 sensor features an IP67-rated housing suitable for a wide range of manufacturing environments, plus short-circuit and overload/reverse polarity protection.

Connections are made via a standard M12 5-pin connector.

For operational security, a supervisor may lock the unit's settings, either remotely or directly on the unit.

This unique feature prevents operators from changing the sensor settings in order to avoid reporting manufacturing quality issues.

No competing sensor offers this level of assurance.

For uninterrupted service, the source of the UV light is a long-life LED, providing 100kh of service.

Measuring only 3 x 2.3 x 0.75in, the UVX 300 is also the smallest UV sensor in its class, which eases retrofit and minimises machine size.

Many engineers fail to consider UV light sensing technology when designing manufacturing equipment, production lines, and test cells.

In fact, UV light sensing is often superior to vision testing in some applications, and sometimes it is the only practical solution.

Materials that are not naturally luminescent can be made UV light responsive by marking them with special materials or additives, without affecting the manufactured product's appearance.

Sample applications of the UVX 300 sensor include: furniture making - detecting the presence of excess glue in a joint of wood furniture; automotive - inspecting an exhaust pipe for the presence of a copper fitting; adhesive tape - measuring the amount of adhesive sprayed on a roll of tape; fungicide - inspecting lumber for the proper coating of clear fungicide; and food packaging - on ring-tab cans, detecting a transparent seal that prevents the seam from rusting.

The EMX UVX 300 UV luminescence sensor is available 4 weeks ARO, at a cost of less than $700.

Optional accessories include a 50mm focal lens, a mounting bracket, and a 5m cable with a M12 5-pin connector.

Back to top