With a high-speed image bus, quad-core processing, high performance inspection algorithms and fast EtherCAT communications, the new FH compact vision system from Omron sets a new standard for speed, performance and versatility.
Tests carried out by Omron have confirmed that the FH vision system is the fastest of its type currently available, which means that users can achieve shorter machine cycle times combined with precise and dependable operation, even in difficult operating conditions. The resulting increase in machine efficiency translates directly into lower costs and enhanced competitive advantage.
Designed for fast efficient operation at every stage from image capture to data output, Omron’s new FH vision systems are specifically intended for seamless integration with PLCs, motion controllers and robotic control systems, and are ideally suited for applications in high-speed manufacturing machines.
A further benefit is that FH vision systems are fully compatible with Omron Sysmac Studio Automation software. This means that only one software package is needed to set up all of the major components used in an automation system, which greatly reduces the amount of work involved in machine design. Sysmac Studio can be used to set up, debug and simulate all slave devices connected via EtherCAT, including not only vision and other sensing elements, but also motion controllers, logic devices and drives.
The FH offers the ideal solution for time critical positioning applications that involve the integration of machine vision with a motion control solution, and especially for machines that require micron precision where one alignment move is generally not sufficient to obtain the desired precision. When multiple alignment movements are required, the process often extends the cycle time of the machine and that is why Omron provides control methods that eliminate work piece dwell time. The Sysmac automation platform achieves high speed, high precision control that continuously detects piece positions and compensates in real-time, vastly reducing machine cycle time and improving machine performance.
To ensure straightforward and dependable integration with all types of automation and control systems, Omron FH compact vision controllers incorporate support for the EtherCAT machine control network. This allows communications cycle times as short as 500µS to be achieved as well as allowing the implementation of motion control that is synchronised with the communication cycle.
At the heart of the new FH vision controllers is Omron’s innovative Shape Search III vision algorithm. Up to nine times faster when carrying out searches than conventional algorithms, Shape Search III allows fast, precise measurements to be made even if images are out of focus, or if the targets are randomly positioned, randomly rotated or overlapping. This exceptional performance is achieved without the need for user-dependent calibration, which means that FH vision systems are particularly easy to set up and operate.
The FH controllers also support custom .NET controls, which means that images and measurement results can be easily integrated into machine user interfaces, providing a seamless view for operators.
Because of their exceptionally efficient image handling characteristics, the new vision systems can support 8 high-resolution cameras with no degradation of performance or image capture speed. The FH’s quad-core processor architecture also provides the ability to have up to 4 completely independent trigger instances, which is unique for compact vision systems. This allows them to handle even the most complex of inspection tasks and, in some applications, it also means that a single vision controller can be used where previously several would have been needed, which leads to substantial cost savings.
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