SPECTRO color sensors from Sensor Instruments measure the color of the surface of an object and compare these with a taught reference value. A color is recognized within a certain configurable tolerance and a digital output is activated. The SPECTRO color sensors are available with a variety of optics and integrated light sources. A selection is made based on the application and material that the sensor has to measure and detect. Read more about the types of optics and what these are used for.
Color sensor with confocal optics - COF
Color detection of small objects
Color sensor with clear and focussed light - FCL
High-speed color detection from a great(er) distance
SPECTRO’s with COF optics project a white light spot with a diameter from 1 up to 8 mm or a measurement of 4 x 0,7 mm on the object that has to be detected. The optic of the transmitter is placed in the middle of the optic of the receiver. In addition to saving space, it also provides extremely accurate and fast detection of small objects such as color markers or wires. Even from a great distance. Think of the inspection of marks on a package in the graphic industry before it is further manufactured.
The FCL SPECTRO’s make it possible to detect colors from greater distances. Depending on the version of the SPECTRO and the type of object distances of up to 500 mm can be realised. The sensor is preferably used when a glossy and non-glossy objects of the same color have to be distinguished, in order to determine whether an object, such as a package of bottles with mineral water, is equipped with a transparent foil for example.
Color sensor with diffuse light - DIL
Reduction of gloss effect by the use of diffuse light
Color sensor with diffuse light - DIF
Reduction of gloss effect by the use of diffuse light
A surface with structure provides problems for conventional color sensors, because the structure causes fluctuations in the gloss factor. The color can be detected as more of less intense than reality by a fluctuating gloss factor. SPECTRO’s with DIL optics provide a significant gloss reduction by diffuse lighting. By the large operating distance of these sensors it is even possible to provide reliable measurements, even in structural distance fluctuations in which even the color differences are recognized. Think of determining the maturity of flowers in the gardening industry. These flowers have different color gradients as wel as a surface with structural changes
SPECTRO’s with DIF optics are designed especially for applications in which it is necessary to suppress direct reflections. Only diffuse reflected light of an object is recognized by the receiver, in which gloss or glitters on the object have no influence on the measurement.
Color sensor with fibre optics - FIO
Color sensors with a fiber connection
Color sensor with polarized light - POL
Color detection of high gloss objects
In applications with limited space or where very small surfaces have to be controlled the sensors with FIO optics provide a solution. An wide range of fibers and fiber optics are available for use in combination with the SPECTRO FIO sensors. In addtion, these color sensors are suited for use when inspecting the color of light-emitting objects. For example, the light color inspection of LED lights or the detection of chemical color markings .
SPECTRO’s with POL optics are especially designed for applications where the color of of high gloss objects have to be controlled. A polarization filter is used for the light source as well as receiver in these color sensors.
