Remission scanner reduces wastage ... and improves quality

Citation

(1998), "Remission scanner reduces wastage ... and improves quality", Sensor Review, Vol. 18 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/sr.1998.08718aad.008

Remission scanner reduces wastage ... and improves quality

Remission scanner reduces wastage ... and improves quality

KNP, a high-quality colour printing company, has solved the problem of inaccurate counting of print copy by installing a Visolux non-contact IR overlapping paper counter. The company previously used a contact, finger actuated, electro-mechanical device. However, as KNP uses many types and sizes of paper ­ ranging from 80 to 200 grams ­ this proved both inadequate to the task and time-consuming to set-up. To meet target quantities and compensate for discrepancies of count, KNP had no choice but to over-produce. With typical running speeds of 25,000 copies per hour over a 14-hour shift, this resulted in unwanted and expensive waste of materials.

The Visolux Remission Scanner comprises two IR transmitter arrays which are mounted obliquely. Each transmitter group alternately illuminates from left to right, from diagonally opposite sides of the paper. If an edge comes into view, this causes the light at the paper edge to be darkened. The shadow created by the edge weakens the light generated by the right transmitter and this change in the amplitude is detected by the scanner.

When the scanner output receives a shadow signal it locks into switched mode. The device output signal pulses at a rate which directly corresponds to the number of overlapping sheets of paper passing under the scanner. A pnp/npn output enables the Remission Scanner to be connected directly into the machine controller or via an LED/LCD counter display to provide running total/batch counts. The Remission Scanner is highly accurate and is capable of detecting paper with a step resolution from 0.05-100mm.

The output of the new Remission Scanner is fed directly into a P100 compensating stacking machine and is compared with a value pre-set into the machine's plc by the operator. When the values are equal, the plc counter resets and the machine cycle starts again. Paul Martin of KNP confirms, "Accurate copy count also ensures better distribution of copy. This results in uniform copy stack height allowing better packaging of the finished product on a pallet, safer transportation and less damage".

Technical queries contact: Tony Malin at Visolux on 01223 242020.