Delta CS64A - Manual (Page 16)

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10. Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How many different colors can the CS64A detect?
A. Unlike many color sensors, the CS64A does not limit the number of sorting outputs.
The CS64A, when used with a host PLC or computer with math capabilities, can sort into
virtually unlimited categories.
Q. What if my materials are textured?
A. The CS64A has been very successful in handling a variety of textured, grainy, and
other difficult surfaces where other color sensors give inconsistent readings.
Q. Can the CS64A work with patterned materials?
A. The CS64A-00 reads the average color within its sensing area of approximately 9mm
(0.35”) square. If the pattern is smaller than this area, the CS64A-00 will provide
consistent readings from the sample. For larger patterns, contact Delta for special CS64A
versions with larger sensing areas.
Q. Can the CS64A distinguish between hues of the same color (e.g. light red and dark
red)?
A. Yes, in most cases. If the colors are exactly the same hue, then all of the ratios
(Red/NIR, Blue/NIR, and Green/NIR) will be the same, however the amplitude of the
signals will vary. Generally it is best to use the NIR amplitude to differentiate between
lighter and darker versions of the same colors sine the NIR is the strongest light and less
susceptible to electrical and optical noise. The use of small differences in amplitudes
requires consistent sensor-to-target distance and a reasonably clean environment.
Q. Is it true that the CS64A can distinguish between different materials of the same
color?
A. It depends on the materials. For example, with carpet, vinyl and leather, the CS64A
was able to separate all three colors in each material type, and also all of the material
types from each other for a total of nine unique categories.
Q. What if I can’t position the sensor close to the sample?
A. The CS64A-02 handles a sensor-to-object range of 110-125mm (4.25-5”) standoff
distance as compared to the 35-60mm (1.25-2.5”) of the CS64A-00. If a wide variation
in sensor-to-object distance is needed, the CS64A-04-BNR operates from 75-145mm (3-
5.75”).
Q. How can I verify that the CS64A will work with my samples?
A. Delta will test your samples for you and send a report showing the performance of the
CS64A on your samples and recommendations for your application. There is no charge
for this testing on new applications. Demonstration units are also available to qualified
customers.
Q. What outputs are available from the CS64A?
A. The CS64A outputs four 0-10V analog voltages proportional to the diffuse reflected
light in four color ranges: Red, Blue, Green, and Near-infrared (NIR). Special versions
may have less than four outputs, and/or different color combinations. A 12-bit A-D
converter has adequate resolution to handle these signals. In additional to allowing
almost unlimited sorting, the analog outputs also allow color variation trends to be seen.
Q. How is sorting typically done?