Vision, the innovation necessary to sort 180,000 parts per day

Innovative German machine builder, Schuster-Präzision found themselves faced with the challenge of providing a customer with a machine that could accurately sort 180,000 drill parts every day. They chose Cognex vision systems as the robust and innovative component that would make the difference on their sorting machines.

Many metal processing companies use their specialised machines for the production of what accounts for approximately 97% of all drill components produced globally. These range from large masonry and metal drills right down to fine drills for medical use. As a manufacturer of special machines, Schuster-Präzision, Germany, ensures that their customers can assure the smooth running of various processes such as sorting, turning, milling and cutting parts to the correct length. Quality assurance and automation technology are of the highest priority. When it comes to the sorting of large numbers of parts, it is essential that the systems performing the task are completely reliable and capable of enduring the rigours of continuous operation.

Key component – In-Sight vision systems

One of the most important components of these special machines are In-Sight vision systems from Cognex. For example, one of Schuster’s largest customers, who manufactures 180,000 drill pieces per day, can count on 100% accurate sorting thanks to these precise sensors. In the first step of the sorting process, the container of the machine, which is equipped with an In-Sight 5100 from Cognex, is filled with several thousand drill components. A sliding mechanism then moves the individual pieces down a ramp and on to a conveyor line.

In-Sight guarantees correct part positioning and orientation

The In-Sight and a special gripper ensure that the heads of the drill bits point in the correct direction. With its precise sensors, the system detects the positions of the parts and transfers this information to the microprocessor of the container. If a drill component is positioned correctly, it is simply transported further on towards the output area. If a drill piece is not positioned correctly however , the In-Sight informs the gripper who grabs it and positions it correctly so it can continue to the output area with the other pieces. This is a simple process but it requires reliable machine components because of the large numbers of parts being processed.

In-Sight - robust vision for a tough industrial environment

As in many other areas of the metal processing industry, machines must be robust in order to achieve required precision, reliability and to operate round-the-clock. The vibrations caused by mechanical conveyors, jolts from pneumatic systems and the dust in the production areas present quite a challenge to precision machinery. Vision systems from Cognex are built to be particularly robust so that quality standards are always maintained, even under the most difficult conditions. Equipped with die cast housings, lens protectors and M12 connectors with seals, they can withstand even the roughest industrial environments.

The indispensable tool

Today, the In-Sight 5000 family is indispensable for Schuster-Präzision because it guarantees high-quality production systems. General manager and company founder Helmut Schuster can no longer imagine his special machines without Cognex systems, "With Cognex, complete reliability, innovative technologies and excellent service allow us to meet our quality standards 100% of the time and allow us to plan our business effectively. Another benefit is that In-Sight can be operated simply and reliably."

About Schuster Präzision

Schuster Präzision Werkzeug-Maschinenbau GmbH was founded in 1979 and in almost 30 years has developed from a two-man operation into an essential partner of many industrial companies. As a medium-sized business with 160 employees at three sites, the company is aware of the importance of continuously developing innovative technologies. The company works closely with the European research community to stay at the top of the industry. The company's pursuit of innovation has proven worthwhile. As general manager and future head of the company, Markus Schuster, is particularly proud to be able to lead Schuster Präzision successfully into the 21st century with innovative technology. Cognex vision systems will be at their side ensuring high standards of quality and reliability.

About Cognex
Cognex designs, develops, produces and markets machine image processing systems and computers, which allow machines to "see intelligently". Cognex is the world leader in machine-based image processing systems with over 400,000 machine IP systems already sold, representing a cumulative turnover of over USD $2 billion since founding of the company in 1981. The Modular Vision Systems division of Cognex, based in Natick, Massachusetts, is a specialist in machine-based image processing systems used for automated manufacturing and quality assurance of single components. The Surface Inspection Systems Division with its HQ in Alamenda, California, concentrates on high-speed surface control of web materials made of metal, paper and plastic. Besides the HQ in Natick, Massachusetts, the company has other branches in North America, Japan, Europe and Southeast Asia. The headquarters of Cognex Europe is based at Rueil-Malmaison near Paris. Further information can be found on our website at http://www.cognex.com.