With its 3DV/600 vision sensor, Coventry-based Fanuc UK Ltd has expanded its range of integrated image processing solutions.

When compared with other models in the range, the new sensor benefits from an extended field of vision; it is also designed for use in multiple applications, including bin picking, feeding an assembly line or stacking pallets. The 3DV/600 comes complete with the 2-D camera package, 3-D laser sensor and 3-D area sensor.

Andy Armstrong, sales and marketing manager at Fanuc UK, said: “The 3DV/600 is a practical and user-friendly addition to the range, capable of being fitted permanently into a system, or temporarily on the last axis of a robot.

“Its high level of integration and very short image processing time allows the 3DV/600 to be combined with Fanuc’s iRPickTool for use on a conveyor belt and to pick up items even if they are irregular-shaped or have no clearly defined pick-up point.”

To make installation as straightforward as possible, the 3DV/600 is pre-calibrated; and after the sensor is installed, the robot simply has to identify the position of its ‘eyes’ while a set up ‘wizard’ supports and guides the user through the necessary settings.

Furthermore, no interface development is needed, as the Fanuc 3-D sensor support is integrated within the robot software.

Mr Armstrong added: “By fully integrating the 3DV/600 vision sensor, a huge amount of time is saved at both the installation and image-capturing stage.

“The 3-D ‘Snap-in-Motion’ function allows the robot to trigger the capturing of an image while in motion, which saves a lot of time and is something a non-integrated vision system would be unable to do; and as with other sensors in the range, the 3DV/600 is equipped with blue LED lighting as standard and connected with a single cable — reducing clutter and making maintenance much easier.”