Cognex takes sensors to the next level
The vision company has created what it calls a new category of inspection sensors that fits between traditional sensors and vision systems.
By Gary Forger, Editorial Director -- Modern Materials Handling, 5/15/2007
Solve hard problems simply.
That’s how John Keating, product marketing manager for Cognex describes his company’s push into the next generation of sensors. Did he say sensors? Hasn’t Cognex long been known for its line of vision systems not sensors?
Absolutely. But a couple of years ago, the company pushed into inspection sensors with its first generation of the Checker series. And today, the company is coming out with the next generation known as Checker 200.
A completely different sensor
“We’ve built a new sensor from the ground up,” says Keating. “We didn’t just take a vision system and remove some features. We have a fundamentally different product.” He explains by saying vision systems have a broad range of capabilities but sensors are more focused in their abilities.
The Checker 200 series is said to be “small, smart, simple and powerful enough to solve even more challenging sensing applications” than its predecessor. Unlike traditional sensors, the new series detects parts three ways:
1) Find and check an actual feature such as a code on a label
2) Inspect multiple part features
3) Compensate for varying part positions on the line without special part handling.
Furthermore, all units have encoder-based part tracking, and high-speed USB connectivity. One model offers ladder logic and can combine input from other sensors with a programmable logic controller. That puts Checker 200, Keating says, right between existing vision systems and traditional sensors.
It’s also easy to use. No training is offered. The manual is a tri-fold with some drawings.
“We expect to sell thousands a month,” says Keating. Automotive and packaging will be dominant applications. Keating expects that as people use Checker, they will become comfortable with using vision. “The fear will be gone.”
Cognex, he says, is still very much a vision company. “But we’re extending our market.” Making that happen is all about simplicity, Keating adds.
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