Omron has introduced an innovative image processing system in a sensor format. Its main benefit is its ease of use; the 'teach & go' concept allows an inspection routine to be configured in just a few steps using the sensor's integrated, high-resolution colour LCD screen and simple menu system. The screen provides live image display during set-up and operation, and instant feedback during the inspection process. A choice of controllers provides the tools to perform simple pattern recognition in complex inspection processes.

Use of the new ZFV colour sensor instead of the conventional monochrome sensor widens the choice of applications and increases the stability of measurement. Through its automatic colour filter function, image contrast is increased, making measurements more reliable. There are seven colour filters in total; the one that obtains the most suitable contrast is automatically selected, so users do not need to worry about colour setting parameters.

The ZFV is scalable; controllers can be added as required by connecting them to a common communication bus to expand the functionality of the system. Up to five controllers can be connected together to perform multiple inspections on a work-piece.

The ZFV contains up to eight different tools, each of which can be selected at a time. These sophisticated tools offer an affordable system with a very intuitive user interface. The tools are Counting (number), Pattern (shape), Area (size), Position; Brightness, Width, Character (text) and Hue.

Four adjustable sensing heads are available with the ZFV. A Focus Adjustment function eliminates the need to change the head for different sizes of work-pieces. The range of detection heads is now larger than ever before, extending the field of view to 150 mm. This enables the inspection of large work-pieces that could not be previously handled.

The sensor keeps all settings for up to 8 configurations in an internal memory. The ZFV colour version also features USB and RS-232C interfaces for connection to a personal computer, enabling the easy downloading of data and results. Software for remotely configuring the sensor will be available later this year.