The True Cost of Low-Cost

As previously discussed, the world of linear position sensors is pretty diverse. There are many types of linear sensors available in many different form factors, employing many different technologies, and coming in at many different price points.  For the sake of discussion, let’s imagine you’re shopping for a linear position sensor, and you’ve decidedon a form factor.  You’ve settled on a position sensor that will be externally mounted on your machine.  And you don’t really care much about the “under the hood” technology; you just care that the sensor does what it’s supposed to do when it’s installed.  Now, let’s further assume that you find a couple of different sensors that you think will do the job, and the only difference is the cost.  It makes sense to choose the lowest cost option, right?  Well, maybe not.

The Intern Perspective

I went walking into a job fair, hosted by my university, expecting only to gather information about companies and their expectations of employment. This mere investigation of the credibility of my competencies led me to meeting Tom and Jenny.  Their enthusiasm for Balluff was infiltrating my front of being a cool, calm, collected young adult ready to take on responsibilities within the world of engineering.  The conversation came to close but I was so enthused by my new acquaintances that I couldn’t stop smiling the remainder of the day.

It wasn’t long until I got a phone call, an interview, and a job as a marketing intern. I’m not sure if it’s because it’s my first ‘big girl’ job or otherwise, but it was semi-difficult keeping my “cool” when I saw my name on a cubicle and business cards. I still tend to get giddy over it all.

Sensor Based Error Proofing – As easy as 1, 2, 3

Error proofing your manufacturing processes can be as easy as 1, 2, 3. You should be able to freely deploy error proofing in all appropriate locations in your plants without concerns regarding costs and long-term support or stability. It all starts by first identifying your trouble spots, then implementing a detection method, and finally establishing a process to handle the discrepancy. Let’s discuss the detection methods using sensors, as well as the process, for handling discrepancies. 

By utilizing sensors as opposed to vision systems or other passive approaches, the cost of implementation and maintenance is reduced. With the new generation of low-cost lasers, sensors are now more affordable and easier to implement.  Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) brings new opportunities for handling non-conforming products. By tagging the individual part, assembly, or lot, products can be directed to the appropriate rework or scrap area.

 These methods will allow you to implement more error proofing in your manufacturing lines to save thousand of dollars in scrap or rework and avoid the potential for costly containment.

 Top 5 questions regarding error proofing…