SICK VML Pro Track and trace system Operating instructions

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

EN

VML Pro

Track and trace system

Operating instructions

VML Pro

2 Operating instructions | SICK 8017046/2014-10-10

Subject to change without notice

This work is protected by copyright. Any rights derived from the copyright shall be reserved for SICK AG.

Reproduction of this document or parts of this document is only permissible within the limits of the legal

determination of Copyright Law. Alteration or abridgment of the document is not permitted without the explicit

written approval of SICK AG.

Operating instructions

VML Pro

8017046/2014-10-10 Operating Instructions | SICK 3

Subject to change without notice

Contents

1 About these operating instructions ................................................................................. 6

1.1 Purpose of this document .................................................................................... 6

1.2 Target group .......................................................................................................... 6

1.3 Information depth ................................................................................................. 6

1.4 Abbreviations used ............................................................................................... 7

1.5 Symbols used ........................................................................................................ 7

2 On safety ............................................................................................................................. 8

2.1 Qualified safety personnel .................................................................................... 8

2.1.1 Mounting and maintenance ............................................................... 8

2.1.2 Electrical installation and replacement of system components ...... 8

2.1.3 Commissioning, operation, and configuration .................................. 8

2.2 Applications of the device..................................................................................... 8

2.3 Correct use ............................................................................................................ 9

2.4 General safety notes and protective measures ....................................................10

2.5 Protection of the environment............................................................................11

2.5.1 Power consumption ..........................................................................11

2.5.2 Disposal after final decommissioning ..............................................11

3 Product description .........................................................................................................12

3.1 Scope of delivery .................................................................................................12

3.2 Specific features .................................................................................................13

3.2.1 Structure of the measurement system ............................................13

3.2.2 Overview of the system solution devices .........................................15

3.2.3 VML Pro operating principle .............................................................17

3.3 Project planning ..................................................................................................19

3.3.1 Conveying system requirements ......................................................19

3.3.2 Mounting requirements ....................................................................20

3.3.3 Data output .......................................................................................21

3.4 Status indicators .................................................................................................22

3.4.1 MLG-2 light grids ...............................................................................22

3.4.2 LEDs on the controller ......................................................................24

3.5 Interfaces .............................................................................................................25

3.6 Parameter memory .............................................................................................25

3.6.1 Parameter set on the MSC800 microSD memory card ..................25

3.6.2 Parameter set on VMC800 USB stick ..............................................25

4 Mounting ..........................................................................................................................26

4.1 Preparation for mounting ...................................................................................26

4.1.1 Getting the frame components ready ..............................................26

4.1.2 Getting the devices ready .................................................................26

4.1.3 Getting the accessories ready ..........................................................26

4.1.4 Getting the tools ready......................................................................26

4.2 Assembling the frame (optional) ........................................................................28

4.2.1 Frame components ...........................................................................28

4.2.2 Screwing on the bracket ...................................................................29

4.2.3 Aligning the frame .............................................................................30

4.2.4 Leveling the frame ............................................................................30

4.2.5 Anchoring the frame to the floor ......................................................31

4.2.6 Attaching the cable holders ..............................................................31

4.3 Mounting the light grid ........................................................................................32

4.3.1 Overview ............................................................................................32

Operating instructions

VML Pro

4 Operating instructions | SICK 8017046/2014-10-10

Subject to change without notice

Contents

4.3.2 Assembling QuickFix brackets ......................................................... 33

4.3.3 Pre-mounting sender and receiver on the QuickFix bracket .......... 34

4.3.4 Attaching sender and receiver to the mounting frame .................. 34

4.3.5 Mounting the cleaning unit with sender .......................................... 36

4.3.6 Aligning components ........................................................................ 38

4.3.7 Mounting and connecting the ventilator ......................................... 43

4.4 Mounting the measuring wheel encoder........................................................... 44

4.5 Mounting the control cabinet ............................................................................. 45

4.6 Dismantling the measurement system ............................................................. 46

5 Electrical installation ..................................................................................................... 47

5.1 Wiring diagram .................................................................................................... 47

5.2 Components in the control cabinet ................................................................... 48

5.3 Connecting the power supply to the controller ................................................. 49

5.4 Connecting the light grids .................................................................................. 50

5.4.1 Connecting the sender and receiver ............................................... 50

5.4.2 Connecting the light grids with the MSC800 using tee

connectors ........................................................................................ 51

5.5 Connecting the MSC800 controller ................................................................... 54

5.6 Connecting the VMC800 volume measurement controller .............................. 54

5.6.1 Connecting the VMC800 to the Ethernet switch ............................ 54

5.6.2 Connecting the VMC800 to the CAN bus ........................................ 55

5.7 Connecting the measuring wheel encoder........................................................ 56

5.8 Switching on the signal ground .......................................................................... 57

5.9 Connecting the ventilator ................................................................................... 58

6 Commissioning ................................................................................................................ 59

6.1 Switching on the system .................................................................................... 59

6.2 Checking the operational readiness of the devices ......................................... 59

6.2.1 Checking the operational readiness of the light grids .................... 59

6.2.2 Checking the operational readiness of the MSC800 ..................... 60

6.2.3 Checking the operational readiness of the VMC800 ..................... 61

6.2.4 Checking the operational readiness of the Ethernet switch .......... 61

6.2.5 Checking the operational readiness of the measuring

wheel encoder .................................................................................. 61

6.3 Configuration (parameterization) using SOPAS ET ........................................... 62

6.3.1 Launching SOPAS ............................................................................. 63

6.3.2 Transferring devices to a SOPAS project ......................................... 64

6.3.3 Updating firmware ............................................................................ 68

6.3.4 Loading the master parameter set .................................................. 72

6.3.5 Changing device names ................................................................... 74

6.3.6 Transferring the modified IP address of the MSC800 .................... 74

6.3.7 Notes on saving the configuration ................................................... 76

6.3.8 Adjusting the master parameters to on-site requirements ............ 78

6.3.9 Performing teach-in .......................................................................... 82

6.3.10 Teaching-in the reference object ..................................................... 84

6.4 Optimizing the measurement results ................................................................ 86

6.4.1 Optimizing the height measurement ............................................... 86

6.4.2 Optimizing the length measurement ............................................... 87

6.4.3 Optimizing the width measurement ................................................ 87

6.4.4 Shifting the coordinate system in the y-direction ........................... 88

6.5 Optimizing the measurement for real objects .................................................. 94

6.6 Displaying invalid measured values .................................................................. 96

Operating instructions

VML Pro

8017046/2014-10-10 Operating Instructions | SICK 5

Subject to change without notice

Contents

7 Maintenance ....................................................................................................................97

7.1 Maintenance during operation ...........................................................................97

7.1.1 Cleaning the front screen of the MLG-2...........................................97

7.1.2 Cleaning the control unit ..................................................................98

7.1.3 Visual inspection of measuring wheel encoder ...............................99

7.1.4 Visual inspection of the cables.........................................................99

7.2 Replacing components .................................................................................... 100

7.2.1 Replacing light grids ....................................................................... 100

7.2.2 Replacing the MSC800 .................................................................. 103

7.2.3 Replacing the battery in the MSC800 ........................................... 104

7.2.4 Replacing the power supply........................................................... 105

7.2.5 Replacing the VMC800 .................................................................. 106

7.2.6 Replacing the measuring wheel encoder ..................................... 108

7.2.7 Replacing the ventilator ................................................................. 109

7.2.8 Checking the measurement accuracy .......................................... 109

7.3 Disposal ............................................................................................................ 110

8 Fault diagnosis ............................................................................................................. 111

8.1 Response to faults ........................................................................................... 111

8.2 SICK support..................................................................................................... 111

8.3 Component fault indicators ............................................................................. 111

8.3.1 Fault indication on the light grids .................................................. 111

8.3.2 Fault indication on the Ethernet switch ........................................ 112

8.4 Troubleshooting with the MSC800 ................................................................. 112

8.5 Detailed fault analysis ..................................................................................... 116

8.5.1 Status log/system status of the MSC800 .................................... 116

8.5.2 Checking the status log with SOPAS ............................................. 117

9 Technical data .............................................................................................................. 119

9.1 VML Pro data sheet .......................................................................................... 119

9.1.1 MSC800/VMC800 data sheet ...................................................... 119

9.1.2 MLG-2 light grid data sheet ........................................................... 121

9.1.3 Data sheet for measuring wheel encoder .................................... 123

9.2 VML Pro dimensional drawings ....................................................................... 124

9.2.1 Dimensional drawings for the MLG-2 ........................................... 124

9.2.2 Dimensional drawing for ventilator unit ........................................ 126

9.2.3 Dimensional drawing for MSC800/VMC800 control unit ............ 127

9.2.4 Dimensional drawing for measuring wheel encoder .................... 128

9.3 Circuit diagrams ............................................................................................... 129

9.3.1 Overview ......................................................................................... 129

9.3.2 Control cabinet ............................................................................... 130

9.3.3 MLG-2 light grids ............................................................................ 136

10 Appendix ........................................................................................................................ 137

10.1 List of tables ..................................................................................................... 137

10.2 List of figures .................................................................................................... 138

10.3 Keywords index ................................................................................................ 141

Chapter 1 Operating instructions

VML Pro

6 Operating instructions | SICK 8017046/2014-10-10

Subject to change without notice

About these operating instructions

1 About these operating instructions

Please read through this chapter carefully before you use the documentation and work

with the VML Pro measurement system.

1.1 Purpose of this document

These operating instructions are designed to give technical personnel instructions on

the safe mounting, configuration, electrical installation, commissioning, operation, and

maintenance of the VML Pro measurement system.

1.2 Target group

These operating instructions are intended for people who install, connect, commission,

operate and service the VML Pro measurement system.

1.3 Information depth

These operating instructions contain information about the VML Pro measurement system

on the following topics:

• Product description

• Mounting

• Electrical installation

• Commissioning and configuration

• Maintenance

• Fault diagnosis and troubleshooting

• Technical data and dimensioned drawings

When planning and using measurement systems such as the VML Pro, technical skills are

required that are not covered by this document.

The official and legal regulations for operating the VML Pro measurement system must

always be complied with.

The SOPAS configuration software is used to configure (parameterize) the measurement

system for the respective application on site.

Note

Operating instructions Chapter 1

VML Pro

8017046/2014-10-10 Operating Instructions | SICK 7

Subject to change without notice

About these operating instructions

1.4 Abbreviations used

Modular light grid

SICK Engineering Tool = software for configuring and diagnosing SICK sensors and VML Pro

1.5 Symbols used

Recommendations are designed to assist you in the decision-making process with respect

to the use of a certain function or technical measure.

Notes provide information about the features of a device or application.

Instructions that must be carried out in the described order are referred to as step-by-step

instructions and are indicated by numbered lists. Carefully read and follow the instructions

for action.

Instructions for taking action are indicated by an arrow. Carefully read and follow the

instructions for action.

Warning

A warning indicates a specific or potential hazard. This is to protect you against accidents

and protect devices from damage.

Carefully read and follow the warnings.

Software notes indicate where to make the appropriate settings in the SOPAS configuration

software.

LED symbols describe the status of a diagnostics LED.

 The LED is illuminated continuously.

 The LED is flashing.

 The LED is off.

Sender and receiver

In figures and connection diagrams, the symbol

 indicates the sender and  indicates

the receiver.

In figures and connection diagrams, the symbol

indicates a component of the vertical

(standing) light grid, and the symbol indicates

a component of the horizontal (lying)

light grid.

MLG

SOPAS

Recommendation

Note

1. / 2. Step-by-step



Take action

WARNING









 

Chapter 2 Operating instructions

VML Pro

8 Operating instructions | SICK 8017046/2014-10-10

Subject to change without notice

On safety

2 On safety

This chapter concerns your own safety and the safety of the system operator.

 Please read this chapter carefully before you begin working with VML Pro.

2.1 Qualified safety personnel

The VML Pro measurement system must only be mounted, commissioned, and maintained

by adequately qualified personnel.

The following qualifications are necessary for the various tasks:

2.1.1 Mounting and maintenance

• Practical technical training

• Knowledge of the current safety regulations in the workplace

2.1.2 Electrical installation and replacement of system components

• Practical electrical training

• Knowledge of current electrical safety regulations

• Knowledge of device control and operation in the particular application concerned

(e.g., conveying line)

2.1.3 Commissioning, operation, and configuration

• Knowledge of the mechanical and electrical parameters of the conveying line and

properties of the conveying system that relate to control and operation

• Basic knowledge of the Windows operating system used

• Basic knowledge of data transmission

• Basic knowledge of the design and setup (addressing) of Ethernet connections when

connecting the MSC800 to the network

• Basic knowledge of how to use an HTML browser (e.g., Internet Explorer) to access the

online help

2.2 Applications of the device

The VML Pro measurement system is used to automatically calculate the box volume of

objects on flat belt conveying systems. The box volume is determined by two pairs of light

grids, which vertically and horizontally span the belt. The light beams are directed through

the transition point between two belts. The use of light grids means it is even possible to

recognize reflective, transparent or very dark objects, such as PET containers wrapped in

film.

Light grids are non-contact optical measurement systems, whereby beams of light are sent

from a sender to the diodes of the receiver unit. When a measuring object passes through

the vertically- and horizontally-positioned light grid pairs, and depending on the size of the

object, a certain number of light beams are interrupted. The change in current at the

receiver diodes resulting from this shadowing is transmitted to the central control and

evaluation unit in the form of an analog signal. An encoder signal provides the transport

speed of the belt and, in turn, the position of the object on the belt.

Operating instructions Chapter 2

VML Pro

8017046/2014-10-10 Operating Instructions | SICK 9

Subject to change without notice

On safety

On the basis of the individual measuring points and the encoder signal, the evaluation unit

simulates a three-dimensional object, and derives from this the minimum box volume. At a

defined output time, the calculated dimensions are output to downstream systems for

further processing.

Customized extensions such as SICK automatic identification and weighing systems can

be easily integrated.

2.3 Correct use

The VML Pro measurement system may only be used as described in section

2.2 Applications of the device. It may only be used by qualified personnel in the

environment in which it was mounted and initially commissioned by qualified safety

personnel in accordance with these operating instructions.

The equipment may be operated in an industrial environment. The system can be used for the

dimensioning of objects of any kind, before they are forwarded to downstream systems.

For example, by way of the classification of objects into automated high bays, smooth

operation of the entire system, and of the conveying and sorter systems and storage and

retrieval systems in particular, can be ensured. Downtimes are reduced.

The VML Pro measurement system must not be used outdoors or in an explosion-protected

environment.

• The VML Pro system is not a safety device for human protection and it therefore does

not comply with any safety standards.

• MLG-2 light grids may not be used for personal protection applications.

• MLG-2 light grids may not be used as a safety device to prevent access for persons,

their hands or other body parts to hazardous areas for safety purposes.

• For safety applications, please contact SICK.

• The VML Pro volume measurement system is not legal-for-trade certified.

If used in any other way or if alterations are made to the system or the devices are opened –

including in the context of mounting and installation – this will void any warranty claims

directed to SICK AG.

Important

Note

Chapter 2 Operating instructions

VML Pro

10 Operating instructions | SICK 8017046/2014-10-10

Subject to change without notice

On safety

2.4 General safety notes and protective measures

Safety notes

Observe the following to ensure the safe and correct use of the VML Pro measurement

system as intended.

• The notes in these operating instructions (e.g., regarding use, mounting, installation,

or integration into the machine controller) must be observed.

• The national and international legal specifications apply to the installation and use of

the system, to its commissioning, and to recurring technical inspections, in particular:

– The accident prevention regulations and work safety regulations

– Any other relevant safety regulations

• The manufacturer and user of the system are responsible for coordinating and

complying with all applicable safety specifications and regulations in cooperation with

the relevant authorities.

• The checks must be carried out by qualified safety personnel or specially qualified and

authorized personnel and must be recorded and documented to ensure that the tests

can be reconstructed and retraced at any time.

• These operating instructions must be made available to the operator of the system.

The system operator must be instructed by qualified safety personnel and must read the

operating instructions.

Risk of injury due to components tipping over

If profile parts have been upended, it is possible they could tip over during mounting.

 Do not perform dismantling work alone unless it is absolutely safe to do so.

 Where applicable, ask a second person to assist you with the dismantling process.

 Wear safety shoes.

Risk of injury due to falling components

Heavy devices such as controller cabinets may fall over during mounting.

 Do not perform any mounting work alone.

 Ask a second person to hold the components during mounting.

 Wear safety shoes.

WARNING

Operating instructions Chapter 2

VML Pro

8017046/2014-10-10 Operating Instructions | SICK 11

Subject to change without notice

On safety

Risk of injury due to electric current

The central control unit of the measurement system is connected to the power supply

(AC 100 ...264 V/50 ... 60 Hz).

 Only authorized personnel are allowed to perform electrical installation work.

 The power supply must be disconnected when attaching and detaching electrical

connections.

 Select and implement wire cross-sections and their correct fuse protection in

accordance with the applicable standards.

 Observe the current safety regulations when working on electrical systems.

Location of use

 The light grids must not be used outdoors or in explosive environments.

Risk of injury during mounting and installation

 VML Pro may only be mounted and installed when the conveying system is not in

operation.

2.5 Protection of the environment

The VML Pro measurement system has been designed to minimize its impact on the

environment. It consumes very little energy.

Always act in an environmentally responsible manner at work. For this reason, please note

the following information regarding disposal.

2.5.1 Power consumption

Including its components, the VML Pro measurement system consumes no more than

100 W.

2.5.2 Disposal after final decommissioning

 Always dispose of unusable or irreparable devices in an environmentally safe manner in

accordance with the relevant national waste disposal regulations.

 Dispose of all electronic assemblies as hazardous waste. The electronic assemblies are

easy to dismantle.

See also section 7.3 Disposal

SICK AG does not take back devices that are unusable or irreparable.

WARNING

Note

Chapter 3 Operating instructions

VML Pro

12 Operating instructions | SICK 8017046/2014-10-10

Subject to change without notice

Product description

3 Product description

This chapter provides information on the special features of the VML Pro measurement

system. It describes the design and operating principle of the system solution.

3.1 Scope of delivery

• Frame (optional)

– Aluminum profiles for setting up the frame (as per the order)

– Universal connection sets, L-brackets and angled feet for mounting profiles

– Mounting kits for the controller and the light grids

• System components

– Control cabinet containing VMC800, MSC800, power supply module, and Ethernet switch

– 2 MLG-2 light grid pairs for horizontal and vertical mounting

– DFV60 measuring wheel encoder

• Cables for connecting the devices

– Connection cable to connect sender and receiver (5-pin)

– Tee connector (8-pin, 8-pin, 5-pin)

– Connecting cable to connect the tee connector to the MSC800 (8-pin screened,

open-ended)

– Connecting cable for measuring wheel encoder – screened (black with green

male connector)

• System teach-in accessories (optional)

– SICK reference box (order no. SICK PN 4040035)

• A CD-ROM that includes the following:

– SOPAS configuration software

– Firmware and standard parameter sets for MSC800 and VMC800

– VML Pro operating instructions in German and English in PDF format

– Free software Adobe Acrobat Reader for reading PDF files

 It is recommended that you carefully check for and report transport damage of any kind

as soon as possible after receiving the system.

 Also verify that the delivery includes all components listed on the delivery note.

Important note

Operating instructions Chapter 3

VML Pro

8017046/2014-10-10 Operating Instructions | SICK 13

Subject to change without notice

Product description

3.2 Specific features

3.2.1 Structure of the measurement system

The VML Pro measurement system consists of one horizontal (1) and one vertical (2) pair

of light grids, the MSC800 control unit with built in VMC800 volume measurement

controller (3) and a measuring wheel encoder (4).

To facilitate mounting of the system components on the customer conveying system,

aluminum profiles (5) can be provided for constructing the frame.

For the purpose of determining volume, the light grids are mounted in a rectangular

formation between two belts.

Fig. 1: VML Pro structure

Each of the two pairs of light grids consists of a sender unit with emitting diodes (1) and a

receiver unit with receiving diodes (2). Each sender component (emitting diode) and the

corresponding receiver component (receiving diode) form a channel (3).

Fig. 2: MLG-2 sender and receiver unit

The resulting field of measurement is determined by the beam separation (4) and the

number of beams. The sensing range (5) of the light grid is the distance between sender

and receiver.

Chapter 3 Operating instructions

VML Pro

14 Operating instructions | SICK 8017046/2014-10-10

Subject to change without notice

Product description

Layout of the light grids

The sender of the horizontal light grid is mounted underneath the conveyor system (1), and

the receiver on top (2). This minimizes ambient light interference.

The sender of the vertical light grid is mounted on the left-hand side of the belt (3) when

viewed in the conveying direction, and the receiver on the right-hand side (4).

Fig. 3: Layout of the VML Pro light grids

The light beams are directed through the transition point between two belts. The band

gap must be 10 mm wide.

Fig. 4: Joint between the belts

The light grids must be mounted in such a way so as that the path of the beam of the

vertical light grid and that of the horizontal light grid are aligned.

Important

Operating instructions Chapter 3

VML Pro

8017046/2014-10-10 Operating Instructions | SICK 15

Subject to change without notice

Product description

3.2.2 Overview of the system solution devices

Fig. 5: VML Pro device components

1 – The light grids

The MLG-2 light grids create a horizontal and a vertical field of detection, and detect the

object contour using the principle of shadowing. The light grids also provide information

about when exactly an object enters the field of detection (trigger). The controller requires

this information, together with the signals from the measuring wheel encoder, to identify

the exact position of the object on the belt.

1a – Cleaning system (recommended)

The VML Pro measurement system should be equipped with a cleaning kit for the light grid

sender unit mounted underneath the belt. This prevents an increased risk of

contamination of the emitting diodes due to the horizontal mounting position of the sender

below the belt.

Fig. 6: Cleaning unit components

Chapter 3 Operating instructions

VML Pro

16 Operating instructions | SICK 8017046/2014-10-10

Subject to change without notice

Product description

The cleaning unit consists of a ventilation tube with a pre-mounted sender module (1),

a fan (2) and a hose (3). The horizontal sender unit is pre-mounted in the ventilation tube.

The air is blown into the ventilation tube, and exits again via the openings (see arrow)

through which the beam of light is also directed.

Fig. 7: Openings in the tube (cleaning kit)

2 – Measuring wheel encoder

The DFV60 measuring wheel encoder provides the path traveled by the object on the belt

once it has passed through the vertical pair of light grids.

As part of this process, the encoder sends two incremental signals to the controller – there

is a 90-degree phase shift between the signals. These signals can be used to determine

the belt speed of the conveying system.

Measurement is performed directly on the running surface of the belt using a precise

measuring wheel, which is mounted on a spring-loaded arm.

3 – Control cabinet containing MSC800 and VMC800

The control cabinet contains the VMC800 volume measurement controller (1) and the

MSC800 control unit (2).

Fig. 8: Control cabinet containing MSC800, VMC800 and Ethernet switch

The MSC800 is the central control unit of the VML Pro measurement system. It provides

the VMC800 with all the data required for determining length, width and height, and

receives in return the measurement results to be forwarded to downstream systems. This

is forwarded via the host data interface. The MSC800 and the VMC800 are connected via

the Ethernet switch (3). The system is configured via the Ethernet interface.

All the components are pre-mounted and pre-wired inside the control cabinet. The central

power supply is also housed in the control cabinet.

Operating instructions Chapter 3

VML Pro

8017046/2014-10-10 Operating Instructions | SICK 17

Subject to change without notice

Product description

Supplementary system components (optional)

In principle, the VML Pro measurement system can also incorporate SICK Auto Ident

solutions or scales.

Component Explanation

Auto Ident solutions Laser scanners and camera-based systems allow objects to be

identified using their bar code in the automation process.

The LTR data for focusing the camera systems are provided by

VML Pro.

Scales The in-motion scales determine the weight of the passing object.

The weight, together with the bar code and the calculated volume,

are transmitted for the purpose of controlling the goods and

material flow.

Tab. 1: VML Pro optional device components

3.2.3 VML Pro operating principle

The light grids span one horizontal and one vertical field of detection. Providing no object

is located within this field, the light beams from the sender lines will hit the diodes of the

receiver lines.

If the detection field is interrupted by an object, the shadowing and the number of light

beams prevented from reaching the receiver lines can be used to detect the dimensions of

the object. The motion of the object thereby generates two-dimensional sections.

Fig. 9: VML Pro operating principle

Processing measuring points

The current changes at the receiver lines resulting from this shadowing are transmitted via

the light grid interfaces to the MSC800/VMC800 evaluation unit in the form of digital

signals.

This combines the individual 2D sections of the object. When the transport speed and the

position of the object on the belt are also taken into account, a three-dimensional image

can be rendered. The VMC800 can then determine the smallest enveloping cuboid and

volume of this image.

Chapter 3 Operating instructions

VML Pro

18 Operating instructions | SICK 8017046/2014-10-10

Subject to change without notice

Product description

To calculate the length, the system needs to know the position of the object on the belt

after it has passed in front of the trigger. This is provided by the measuring wheel encoder

in the form of incremental signals.

Transferring the dimensions to the control unit

All the information converges in the MSC800 central control unit. The MSC800 processes

the trigger signal from the light grid and forwards the object's position to the VMC800 so

that the length can be calculated.

The dimensions calculated by the VMC800 are transferred to the MSC800 central control

unit and made available via the interfaces of the control unit so that they can undergo

further processing by downstream systems.

Alongside the minimum box volume and the torsion angle of the object on the conveying

system, the LTR data for camera focusing can also be transmitted if desired.

Taking the minimum distance between objects into account

The VML Pro measurement system dimensions individual objects on flat conveying

systems.

The objects must not be placed side by side and there must be a minimum distance of

200 mm between them as they are being transported.

Fig. 10: Correct minimum distance between objects

Objects that are touching or lying side-by-side cannot be measured using the VML Pro.

Fig. 11: Non-permissible object positions (touching and side-by-side)

Operating instructions Chapter 3

VML Pro

8017046/2014-10-10 Operating Instructions | SICK 19

Subject to change without notice

Product description

Operation

After installation and configuration, the VML Pro measurement system continues running

without any further handling and provides the required data.

3.3 Project planning

3.3.1 Conveying system requirements

The following requirements apply to the conveying system and the objects that are being

transported:

• The two adjacent belts must run at the same speed, and must be horizontally aligned.

Fig. 12: Conveying system requirements

• The width of the band gap may not exceed 10 mm.

• It must be insured that the objects travel along the belt one by one.

• If the objects rotate, vibrate, roll, or slip on the belt and on uneven conveying surfaces,

the accuracy may be reduced, and this may influence the measuring behavior of the

VML Pro measurement system.

The measuring range of the horizontal light grid must cover the full width of the conveying

system. Here, the points of reference are:

• the edges of the conveying system (in the case of conveying systems without guiding

plates); or

• the inner edge of the guiding plates.

Fig. 13: Point of reference for conveyor system width

Chapter 3 Operating instructions

VML Pro

20 Operating instructions | SICK 8017046/2014-10-10

Subject to change without notice

Product description

An overview of the requirements

Component Explanation

Min. object size

(L x W x H)

The minimum object size depends on the beam

separation: > 5 mm

100 mm x 100 mm x 10 mm

Max. object size

(L x W x H)

2600 mm x 1200 mm x 1200 mm

Conveying system • Flat conveying surface

• Both belts synchronized at the same speed

• On one level, not misaligned

• Individual objects (see minimum distance)

Dimensioning accuracy

(L x W x H)

± 5 mm x 5 mm x 5 mm up to 1.0 m/s

± 10 mm x 5 mm x 5 mm up to 2.0 m/s

Higher speeds on request

Minimum distance between

objects

200 mm

Minimum distance between the

vertical light grid and the first data

output point

Data output occurs 350 mm after the measuring

range at the earliest (meas

ured from the back edge of

the object* and depending on the maximum object

size and conveyor speed).

* Assumed max. object dimensions

650 mm x 650 mm x 450 mm (L x W x H)

Tab. 2: Conveying system and object requirements

3.3.2 Mounting requirements

Frame

The VML Pro measurement system requires both a stable, secure frame to prevent

rotation and a sufficient load bearing capacity to support the light grids and the control

cabinet, where applicable.

 To achieve a high level of measurement accuracy, use the optionally-available aluminum

profiles and the corresponding mounting brackets when mounting the kit.

 The frame must be assembled in such a way that it is free of vibrations and oscillations.

 The frame must be rectangular, and must be positioned at right angles to the conveying

direction.

Mounting the light grids

The light grids are mounted on the frame in such a way that both light grid pairs form a

rectangular detection field in the middle of the point of transition between the two belts.

The light beams of the vertical and horizontal light grids must be aligned. The beams are

offset by 2 mm, meaning that the senders and receivers must be re-aligned with each

other exactly.

Page is loading ...

SICK VML Pro Track and trace system Operating instructions

SICK VML Pro Track and trace system Operating instructions

Related papers

Other documents