Nuremberg, 23.02.2006

Compact photoelectric proximity switch for color recognition

The Simatic PXO560 photoelectric proximity switch for color recognition is equipped with the new white-light LED technology. This enables the construction of extremely small and long-life sensors with constant switching performance. At a size of only 50 x 50 x 17 millimeters in width, height and depth, the new sensor from Siemens Automation and Drives (A&D) is especially suitable for applications in packaging machinery as well as in the food and beverages industry and the pharmaceuticals sector. The new Simatic PXO560 proximity switch detects objects of different colors. It can thus be used in applications where simple color sensors are no longer sufficient, such as in the case of packages with different printing. Three reference colors from the whole color spectrum can be learned using the Teach-in function and assigned to three switch outputs. For each of the reference colors there are five tolerance levels to enable the correct switching operations to be triggered even under different conditions of use. One special feature implemented for the first time is the "Color scan" function that detects color gradations such as are found on packaging with uneven coloration. A trigger input and a pulse expansion function are additionally integrated into the switch.

The white-light LED technology enables objects to be fed in from any direction. The powerful optical system detects objects across the entire working range from 12 to 32 millimeters. This large working range and the easily visible white fleck of light allow simple assembly and alignment. The new proximity switch is especially impervious to interference from extraneous light and other influences: For example, even vigorously vibrating objects are detected with certainty thanks to the large depth of field of +/- 6 millimeters.

You can find more information on the Internet at:
www.siemens.de/simatic-sensors/px

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