Sensor monitors changes in colour to assess industrial processes
Equipment, plant and industrial processes can be monitored by the B5WC colour sensor which detects small colour changes. The sensor by Omron Electronic Components Europe uses a white LED to emit light and receive reflected light according to the colour of detected objects. The colour sensor separates received reflected light into red, green, and blue, then outputs RGB data as voltage values using the I2C interface.
Potential applications range from monitoring the deterioration of lubricant in robot arms and elevators, in drinks dispensers or to detect objects on production lines.
The B5WC colour sensor monitors oil deterioration in real time, using colours to monitor the condition of the oil so that maintenance can be carried out at optimal times to minimise production losses within manufacturing sites which contributes to carbon neutrality. Remotely monitoring deterioration in real time also reduces the time required for inspection and maintenance, added Omron.
The compact size of 40 x 8.4 x 15.9mm can be easily integrated into equipment, says Omron, to introduce sensing technology to the production line. Integrating I2C communications into the sensor streamlines the process of embedding the sensor into the equipment, commented Omron.
Equally, oil contamination is frequently a cause of failure of industrial machinery and hydraulic equipment. Maintenance personnel are relied upon to conduct a visual check, often by performing periodic inspection and part replacement based on intuition and experience.
Omron also argued that there is an increasing need for higher efficiency in maintenance and remote monitoring due to a severe shortage of labour and limited accessibility due to the Covid pandemic.
The B5WC sensor can be embedded in the equipment that quantitatively monitors oil deterioration based on colour changes.
Omron Electronic Components Europe is the European subsidiary of the Device and Module Solutions division of Omron. It supports its customers in Western and Eastern Europe through eight regional offices, a network of local offices and partnerships with specialist, local, regional and global distributors.
Omron specialises in the field of automation based on its core technology of Sensing & Control + Think. It serves industrial automation and electronic components sectors to social infrastructure systems, healthcare, and environmental solutions.
Established in 1933, Omron has employees in around 120 countries and regions.
