SICK LAUNCHES 3D SMART CAMERA FOR HARSH ENVIRONMENTS
SICK has extended the 3D imaging capabilities of its IVC-3D smart camera to harsh environments, such as the food and beverage industry, with the launch of the IVC-3D Stainless Steel.
IVC3D unit
The robust IVC-3D Stainless Steel uses 3D imaging to ensure that high-speed production processes run smoothly, through precise shape and volume measurements, with instant evaluation and response.
This innovative solution combines imaging, lighting and analysis in a single stainless steel housing, which has been rated to IP 67, making it ideal for use in hygienic processes. The IVC-3D Stainless Steel has also been ECOLAB certified, ensuring resistance to aggressive cleaning agents and disinfectants.
David Hannaby, Vision Systems Product Manager, SICK, commented: “The IVC-3D was the first ever 3D smart camera and it continues to be a market leader. The third dimension is created by triangulation and a 3D image is produced as the object moves under a laser bream.
“Following high demand for the IVC-3D in wider industrial applications, such as the automotive industry, we developed the Stainless Steel model to extend the benefits to harsh environments, like the food and beverage industry.
“Food and beverage production requires measurement of volumes, portions and fill levels. This unique camera can measure each of these variables independently of colour and contrast variations. Having this flexibility ensures that manufacturers can reduce waste, keep production moving and maintain consistent quality, enabling significant savings in terms of both time and cost.”
The camera is easily configured via a PC, using the IVC Studio user interface. An emulator allows users to work off-line and test applications on batches of stored images. Once the application is set up, the IVC smart cameras can operate as a stand-alone, or as part of a factory network, without the need for a PC.
In addition, powerful toolsets for image analysis and communication make the IVC easy to interface with PLCs, robots and control systems.
For more information on SICK’s IVC-3D Stainless Steel, please contact: Ann Attridge or Andrea Hornby on 01727 831121 or email ann.attridge@sick.co.uk or Andrea.hornby@sick.co.uk
