For beverage companies, overhead detection of multipacks on a packaging line can be challenging. Multipack sizes vary; containers may be bottles or cans; and shrink wrap may be transparent, metallic, or printed with bright graphics. A new product from Leuze Electronic, the DRT25C.R unit pack sensor, uses automation to address this pain point.
The sensor has an operating range of 450 mm. Mounted over a conveyor belt, it reliably detects film-wrapped multipacks of all types and sizes, regardless of film type, for further handling downline. It identifies a “unit” by seeing the gaps between them.
The DRT25C.R uses the conveyor surface as a dynamic reference for detecting objects. By pressing a teach button, the operator can inform the sensor about the conveyor’s surface characteristics. The sensor can then detect all objects that are not the conveyor surface.
Because the sensor functions independently of objects, it’s more stable than diffuse reflection sensors. The product’s Contrast Adaptive Teach technology can even compensate for contamination on the conveyor belt.
No setup is required for the sensor when changing between products or packaging materials, resulting in higher production volumes.
Leuze will be exhibiting this new product at Pack Expo Las Vegas 2021 (Las Vegas Convention Center, September 27-29), Booth SU-7859.
