FDBusiness.com

Detecting clear-shiny, dark-glossy or multi-reflective surfaces has always been a challenge in automated packaging and logistics operations, especially where there are complex curved shapes or transparent outlines. The new MultiPac optical sensor launched by Sick UK offers a promising new solution to the problem.
The Sick W27-3 MultiPac eliminates the possibility of false or misleading signals and therefore achieves highly-consistent detection in multi-product handling applications even when detecting shiny, clear or curved surfaces.
“It has always been difficult to achieve reliable sensing for automatic handling of parts and packaging with shiny surfaces or complex curves and indentations,” explains Phil Dyas, Sick UK’s industrial sensor product specialist. “Sick has developed the W27-3 MultiPac as a single unit sensor that can cope consistently in applications where other sensors would provide fluctuating or unreliable signals.”
“The Multipac therefore promises to improve handling efficiency and productivity in packaging, bottling or logistics operations where highly efficient checking and control is required, for example, detecting PET-foil six packs, shrink-wrapped transparent bottles or shrink-wrapped pallets.

The W27-3 MultiPac is a photoelectric sensor that operates from one fixed position without the need for reflectors. It can be mounted up to a height of 500mm above the conveyor, enabling detection of a wide variety of shapes and heights. On multiple-product lines, time-wasting adjustments for differing pack heights are therefore eliminated and product flow can be continuous. New product lines can be introduced without interruption.
The MultiPac’s improved detection performance is achieved by incorporating two completely separate receiver systems in a single unit with a high-power LED emitter for high light intensity. The sensor’s custom-developed software provides a powerful evaluation system to integrate the signals. The MultiPac therefore achieves improved detection and sensitivity over any comparable sensor system, no matter what the foreground or background.