ColorMax Super Long Range Color Sensor
Product Announcement from EMX Industries, Inc.
EMX Industries Inc., a manufacturer of sensors for automation, offers the ColorMax-1000, a long range color sensor with a 150-mm operating range and a 25-mm illuminated spot. The long range sensing capability allows the sensor to be mounted away from moving machinery parts, protecting it from potential mechanical damage. The large illuminated spot generates a large data sample that provides more information about the color the sensor is analyzing. More information provides higher accuracy and speed.
The long-range feature is available in the full RGB analog and the HEX 15 color and 7 channel models. Primary applications for the ColorMax-1000 Super Range sensor include carpet, paper and plastic sheet manufacturing processes and converting.
The ColorMax-1000 Super Range color sensor is the newest member of the ColorMax-1000 series of sensors. These sensors can be used in applications that now require sophisticated color-sensing equipment. Color variations detected by the sensor are used as input by an automated system to take corrective action. With this approach, the controller can make minor in-process adjustments without reprogramming or operator intervention. In addition, instead of the sensor making the match decision, a controller now can perform this function. For the first time, process engineers have the option of developing their own algorithms for color control. Using color-intensity data from the sensor, a controller can store and make matching decisions on a virtually unlimited number of colors.
Like other sensors in the ColorMax product family, the ColorMax-1000 Super Range sensor incorporates patented technology and innovative design features, including sample speed two to five times faster than that of competing sensors, an M30 threaded enclosure that simplifies adjustment and installation, and the industry's highest resolution and repeatability.
The ColorMax-1000 Super Range color sensor has a high-intensity white LED that projects modulated light on a target. The sensor analyzes the reflected light for its constituent RGB values and intensities. High accuracy, stability, and sophisticated software algorithms enable the ColorMax-1000 Super Range sensor to meet the resolution and speed requirements of advanced manufacturing processes.
M30 Enclosure Simplifies Installation and Adjustment
ColorMax-1000 sensors are the only color sensors available in an M30 threaded enclosure. Installation is fast and easy, and distance can be adjusted up to three inches simply by turning the sensor. In contrast, all other color sensors require users to install a special mounting bracket.
High Resolution and Repeatability, Fast Sampling
By employing low-noise technology in the ColorMax-1000 sensor family, EMX reduced color variation to 0.5% - the best specification in the industry. High resolution is especially important for detecting color variations at high speeds. In addition, the 5-kHz sample speed of ColorMax-1000 sensors is two to five times faster than that of other color sensors - fast enough to keep up with demanding high-speed manufacturing processes.
For operational security, windows-based software provides sensor programming and adjustments. There are no operator controls on the sensor. This feature prevents operators from changing sensor settings to avoid having to report manufacturing quality issues. Most color sensors do not offer this level of assurance.
Fast and Convenient Integration
ColorMax-1000 sensors are the only color sensors that can be programmed via a PC, simplifying sensor installation. These sensors also allow software selection of NPN or PNP operation. This feature simplifies ordering and reduces stocking requirements by 75%, because users and distributors no longer need to stock different versions of the sensor.
Unlike some competing sensors, the ColorMax-1000 sensor line includes auto-teach. This makes the sensors easy for low-skill operators to calibrate; yet it provides the ability to be finely tuned.
LED indicators for power, programming, and detection functions aid in setup and troubleshooting. ColorMax-1000 sensors feature an IP67-rated 316SS housing suitable for a wide range of manufacturing environments, plus short-circuit, over-current, and reverse polarity protection. Connections are made via a circular 12-pin connector.
To request a data sheet on the ColorMax-1000 Super Range sensor, or to talk to an applications engineer about how color sensors can reduce manufacturing costs and improve processes, call EMX at 800-426-9912, send email to firstname.lastname@example.org, or visit the EMX web site at www.emxinc.com.
About EMX Industries
EMX Industries Inc. manufacturing and engineering is located in Cleveland, Ohio, where the company relies on the local infrastructure and talent to design and manufacture unique sensors that solve problems in difficult applications. The EMX principle, Engineered to Manage Your X factor™, guides all our actions and is part of every product we make.