The SmartRunner Matcher is based on SmartRunner technology, which combines the proven light section method with a 2-D vision sensor and LED lighting for the first time. The sensor is specially designed for comparing height profiles and provides application-specific profile detection with integrated evaluation in one compact housing. The vision sensor's integrated control interface is optimized to detect errors from a previously taught-in height profile. The sensor uses profile comparison to verify the detected profile of an object and its correct position. The height profile can be taught in via an easy-to-use operating wizard and the permitted position and component errors can be specified separately. During operation, the SmartRunner Matcher triggers a comparison between the currently detected contour and the reference contour. If they are identical, a "good" signal is output. If the two profiles are different or if the object is outside the specified position tolerances, a "bad" signal is output. The SmartRunner Matcher easily and reliably solves applications involving presence, completeness, and position detection. Versions with additional functions such as using and storing up to 32 profiles on one sensor, outputting object position errors and sensing ranges of up to 700 mm and 300 mm in the X direction enable the following additional fields of application:
The following specific application examples show the many possible uses of the SmartRunner Matcher:
In the automotive industry, car bodies are welded using prefabricated sheets. If a sheet is incomplete or faulty, the fault must be detected and the incorrect sheet removed from production. The SmartRunner Matcher uses light section technology to detect objects using profile comparison and to confirm that components are complete …
In vehicle frame assembly, components are connected to each other using fasteners such as bolts, screws, and clips. The SmartRunner Matcher detects whether these parts are present and in the right location, and sends a signal to the control system if a fastener is missing …
Silicone vibration dampers or "stickies" are glued to different parts of a vehicle frame to reduce noise during vehicle operation. To ensure that the dampers are in the right position, the SmartRunner Matcher is taught the height profile of each "sticky" and the current height profile is compared to a reference profile …
In automobile production, the car body being processed is transported to various processing stations on skids. Skid bolts anchor the body to the skid and are pushed into the holes provided in the body. To ensure that this process is safe, the SmartRunner verifies the positions of the skid bolts beforehand.
Robotic systems and handling systems are often used to feed workpieces or raw materials into production and processing systems. Before a robot picks up the feed elements, the presence of the workpiece carrier (presence monitoring) and the position of the material (position monitoring) must be checked. The SmartRunner Matcher performs both detection tasks in a single step.
Plastic trays divided into several small compartments are often used when producing ready-made meals in the food industry. To ensure that the meal components are added to the right compartments, the alignment of the monochromatic, white trays must be checked. The SmartRunner Matcher delivers clear detection results even under these difficult ambient conditions.