Detection based on “Light”
Features of Colour sensor

Since the light source is not just red, but includes the red, green, and blue wavelengths, and the ratio between each of these lights can be calculated, it is possible to differentiate the appearance and colour of target pieces.

By using a red wavelength photoelectric sensor, there are some colour combinations, such as red and white, that are difficult to differentiate. A colour sensor allows for stable detection, even for these kinds of difficult combinations.

Note: Ratio of reflection for each colour in red light

* The graph shows differences in the intensity of light received from different coloured targets when a KEYENCE fiber optic sensor (red light) is used. It shows that combinations such as white and red, or orange and yellow are difficult to differentiate by simply looking at received light intensity only.

With a conventional photoelectric sensor, when the distance to the target object changes, the received light intensity also changes. On the other hand, with a colour sensor, there is no change in colour identification even when the distance to the target changes. As a result, the target's colour can be stably differentiated even if the distance changes or the target is tilted.

When the distance to a target changes, the following occurs for conventional photoelectric sensors (received light intensity) and colour sensors (ratio of light received).

Received light intensity

When the distance to the target changes, the received light intensity also changes.
Example: Vibration of a conveyor. Variations in target's passing position.

Changes in received light intensity
Left: Received light intensity 30
Right: Received light intensity 100

Ratio of received light

Even when the distance to the target changes, the colour ratio does not change.

No change in ratio of light received
Left: Received light ratio 4:4:1
Right: Received light ratio 4:4:1