New generation of laser sensor 'increases quality

Meta Vision Systems, a British manufacturer of laser sensors for precision engineering trades such as mechanised and robotic welding, has announced the launch of a new range of tools.

The Smart Laser Sensor (SLS) product was revealed at the Schweissen & Schneiden exhibition between September 14th and 19th in Essen, Germany, and is the first sensor to incorporate high-performance image processing in the sensor head itself.

Usually, such products require a separate computer for them to work Meta Vision Systems hopes the groundbreaking offering will have applications throughout manufacturing industry.

Installation of the new SLS will halve the cost of automating arc welding equipment and robot welders, the organisation believes, when compared to regular laser sensors.

Other functions of the SLS, on top of seam tracking during welding, include the inspection of bevels on pipe ends before welding as well as the weld bead after it is laid.

Meta Vision Systems continues to explore change and growth within the organisation, acquiring Modular Vision Systems in Montreal, Canada in the summer of 1999 to create the new brand, which was originally known as Meta Technology Limited.