Figuring out Translucent Targets during Blister Packaging via Fiber-Optic Sensing with Blue Light Source

A packaging enterprise supplies toothbrushes in single blister packs. Production quality checks consist of last verification that the product is found in every blister pack before shipment to the shop shelf. 

Another challenge is that the space available for a sensing system is limited.

Fiber-optic solutions are suitable for this application. Acting as the extended “eye” of the photo sensor, these small, flexible conductors act as the photo sensor's extended “eye” and resolve the challenge of sensing in inaccessible places. The amplifier’s particularly small housing (30x60x10 mm) allows for optimum DIN-rail stacking of several sensors. Use of space is in addition optimized with the aid of cutting the fibers on site to the specific length required and exploiting the unique lateral sensing function of the optical fiber used. Fibers are simply linked by quick-locking, and the tool operation is simple.

A red light supply was originally chosen, however proved inefficient since there has been no sensitivity setting that afforded the margin of movement needed for the target.