EMX Announces a UV Luminescence Sensor That Offers Longest Range and Fastest Speed in the Industry

New Sensor Offers A Range of Technology “Firsts” at 1/10^th the Cost of Traditional Vision Systems

EMX Industries Inc., a manufacturer of sensors for automation and gate/door control, introduced the UVX 300, a UV luminescence sensor that detects targets more reliably than vision systems that typically cost ten times more.  In addition, new patented technology and an innovative design qualify the UVX 300 luminescence sensor for several industry “firsts,” including long-range sensing capability, smallest UV sensor size, fastest response time/sensitivity specs, and a solution for the longstanding difficulty of tuning the sensor to a light that is invisible to the operator. 

Not as widely known as other sensors, UV (ultraviolet light) sensors detect the application of seals, grease, adhesives, paper labels, and other materials, for quality assurance and manufacturing process feedback.  Because UV sensors can easily discriminate targets in any orientation from similarly colored backgrounds, they are often more reliable than vision systems costing $6000 and more.

Longest Range, Fastest Speed
The UVX 300 extends the useful operating distance of UV sensors to 350 mm – three to six times the distance of competing sensors – so the sensor will not get bumped or dirtied by passing targets.  In addition, for optimal machine control, its feedback response time (6 kHz) is at least three times faster than any other UV luminescence sensor.  The faster speed enables engineers to apply UV sensing to more applications, such as high-speed sampling, which was not possible before.

Most Sensitive
The UVX 300 uses adjustable light projection and high resolution to deliver pin-head sensitivity.  An optional 50 mm lens will concentrate the spot of projected UV light into a tiny 5 mm spot that is much smaller than those of some competing systems. The sensor is capable of detecting targets as small as a single stitch in fabric, and it can precisely measure the amount of applied glue and other materials as part of a control system. 

Unique Numerical Display
With this introduction, EMX has solved a longstanding problem associated with UV sensors. Because UV luminescent materials and pigments are invisible under a normal light spectrum, UV sensors are difficult to tune without some indication of what they are reading.  Up to now, the approach has been to use simple LEDs that indicate luminescence or that the set point has been reached.  The UVX 300 is the first UV sensor to numerically display the intensity of each reading (relative reflection and threshold.)  This feature makes it easy for the operator to tune the sensor and saves valuable engineering time compared to competing sensors, because it eliminates the need to blindly adjust sensor intensity and check the results over multiple test runs.

In addition, the UVX 300 allows for user control of hysteresis for even further precision tuning, a feature not available on all sensors.

Fast and convenient integration
Unlike any competing sensor, the UVX 300 includes both auto-teach and manual calibration.  This makes the sensor easy for low-skill operators to calibrate, yet it provides the ability to be finely tuned. In addition, in one sensor users get both analog and discrete output, plus auto-detect for PNP/NPN, a unique feature that simplifies integration compared to competing units. The advantages of analog output include the ability to "measure" the intensity of returned signal, the ability to track process variations for SPC and SQC applications, and easier sensor setup.  Finally, integration is made easier by low power consumption; the UVX 300 requires less than 60 mA – lower operating current some other sensors in its class.

LED indicators for power, programming, and detection functions aid in setup and troubleshooting.  The UVX 300 sensor features an IP67-rated housing suitable for a wide range of manufacturing environments, plus short-circuit and overload/reverse polarity protection.  Connections are made via a standard M12 5-pin connector.

Superior Operation
For operational security, a supervisor may lock the unit’s settings, either remotely or directly on the unit.   This unique feature prevents operators from changing the sensor settings in order to avoid reporting manufacturing quality issues.  No competing sensor offers this level of assurance.

For uninterrupted service, the source of the UV light is a long-life LED, providing 100,000 hours of service.

Smallest Size
Measuring only 3 x 2.3 x .75–inches, the UVX 300 is also the smallest UV sensor in its class, which eases retrofit and minimizes machine size.

Applications
Many engineers fail to consider UV light sensing technology when designing manufacturing equipment, production lines, and test cells.  In fact, UV light sensing is often superior to vision testing in some applications, and sometimes it is the only practical solution.  Materials that are not naturally luminescent can be made UV light responsive by marking them with special materials or additives, without affecting the manufactured product’s appearance.

Price and Availability
The EMX UVX 300 UV luminescence sensor is available 4 weeks ARO, at a cost of less than $700. Optional accessories include a 50mm focal lens, a mounting bracket, and a 5-meter cable with a M12 5-pin connector.

To request a datasheet on the UVX 300, or to talk to an applications engineer about how UV sensors can reduce manufacturing costs and improve processes, call EMX at 800-426-9912, send email to salessupport@emxinc.com, or visit the EMX web site at www.emxinc.com.