Inline gloss measurement of painted wooden panels

Sensor Instruments: The human eye reacts principally to differences in contrast (differences in gloss) and color. For example, if we look at freshly-installed floor boards, we immediately notice even the smallest differences in color and gloss between the individual panels. It comes therefore as no surprise that manufacturers do their very best to minimize difference in color and gloss between the individual panels. The checking process conducted to this end was previously performed using hand-held offline measuring units; Sensor Instruments GmbH has developed an inline alternative

Our GLOSS series gloss detection sensors can measure the gloss grade of painted wooden panels in the angles 20°, 60° and 85° at a distance of 20mm, 15mm and 5mm to the surface (depending on the sensor type: GLOSS-20-20°, GLOSS-15-60°, GLOSS-5-85°). The gloss grade is outputted using a digital series interface (RS232, USB, Ethernet and in the future, ProfiNet) and an analog output (4mA … 20mA and 0V…+10V) is available over which a signal proportional to the gloss grade can be outputted. Three digital outputs are available with which to perform control tasks (0V/+24V). They provide information as to whether the current gloss grade is located within the prescribed tolerance limits. Up to eight different classes (graduations) can be defined.

The SELF TRIGGER MODE switched by Windows® Software performs good services in ascertaining the gloss grade of individual panels. The gloss grade determined between the start and end of triggering is made available on the output of the sensor. The peak-to-peak value (PP) informs about the maximum fluctuation of the gloss grade within a panel.