To meet cycle times typical for supply-side automotive manufacturing, this 3D inspection station integrates a microcontroller, multiple cameras, and image management software. As a result, it checks every surface of a molded-rubber, shock-absorber oil seal in less than 4 sec.

Three Omron F150-3 cameras constitute the inspection system's first station. A conveyor delivers the seals on rotating platens. Each camera photographs the seal 12 times as it rotates in 30 degrees steps. Then, a pneumatic transfer mechanism inverts the seal onto another 12-step rotating platen. A fourth F150-3 inspects the underside.

Pattern matching and surface defect analysis algorithms, part of OMRON's "Vision Composer" image management software, give the seals a go/no go pass as they are carried away by a second conveyor.

Phasor Ltd., Tel: +44 191 516 0599; Fax: +44 191 549 7797.

Mark Sippel, Omron Electronics LLC; One Commerce Dr., Schaumburg, IL 60173; Tel: (847) 843-7900 ext. 182; Fax: (847) 843-8087; E-mail: [email protected]

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