2D codes read at speed with assurance

Tom Shelley reports on a device that ensures the accurate reading of 2D codes A new device has been developed specifically to ensure the correct reading of 2D codes on manufactured components and products. 2D codes are finding increasing favour as a means of ensuring traceability because of their higher density relative to linear bar codes, making them especially suitable for small parts and because they can be read in any direction. They may be laser etched, ink jet printed, dot peened or printed on paper. Dot peened codes are favoured by Rolls Royce among others. Since good quality control requires being able to trace all components and their manufacturing history, it is desirable to be able to read such codes consistently and at some speed. Sick UK has brought out two 2D code readers, the ICR840, which is a CMOS device with a 1280 x 1024 pixel matrix for stationary reads, and the ICR850 2048 pixel wide line scanner for moving reads. Both send back images of what the sensors are seeing to aid in setting up and diagnostics include the amount of unused error correction that gives an indication of code quality. Image and diagnostic information can be sent on every 'no' read so operators can see what the problems are, whether they are badly printed codes, codes in the wrong places, or problems with illumination and reflection. Resolution of the ICR 840 is 0.15mm in an image field of 45 x 35mm. Price is £1568. The ICR 850 has a scanning rate of 15kHz. Sick (UK) Sick 2D code reading technologies