Special

Laser Marker
Functions
Case Study
Using the Built-in Camera
 Marking Capture

Unique
Feature

Multi-function
camera

New applications enabled using

the built-in, multi-function camera inside
the laser marker
As laser markers have become more prevalent in manufacturing environments over the
last several years, the applications for which they are used have become more
sophisticated and demanding.

KEYENCE’s MD-X Series hybrid laser marker incorporates a multi-function camera to

provide a marking image, 2D barcode reader, and marking comparison in a single unit.
This document describes the capabilities of the multi-function camera along with a
series of case studies.

2
 High demand for camera functionality

with no added peripheral devices

Unique
Function
1 Measuring the distance to the marking target
Auto-focus ensures clear marking on products of
various heights. Page 4

Unique
Function
2 Displaying the marking target
Marking adjustment is easy by checking
the image on the monitor. Page 5

Unique
Function
3 Inspecting marked characters
The Marking Confirmation function prevents
defective marking from being sent to the next Page 6
process.

Unique
Function
4 Reading marked codes
Marking + 2D code reading allows creation of
a simplified traceability system. Page 7

3
 Unique

1
Function

Measuring the distance to the marking target

Conventional problem

Marking on targets that vary in size due to product tolerance or flexible production
When the distance between the marker head to the marking target is not
constant, the marking may be ■ Comparison of marking results using proper/
incomplete or faded as shown to the improper focal distance
right. To prevent poor marking quality In focus

related to being out of focus, the

customer would have had to install a
Reference
separate sensor to measure the distance to
the target
distance, and then send the
Sensor for
measuring distance measured value to the marker to
Out of focus
correct the focal distance.

Unique function of the MD-X

Auto-focus
Checking targets before marking
without the need for an external device
You can set the upper and lower threshold for the
measured value to make the marker output an error signal
when the measured value is out of the threshold range.
■ When the threshold is set to ±5 mm:

+ 5 mm - 5 mm

Error Error
output OK output

The MD-X has a built-in ■ The distance to the target is measured.

camera to adjust the Auto-focus marking
focus automatically
without the need for an
external device. It The laser can output an error signal when the target is
monitors the position of Length measuring
laser pointer
missing or not positioned properly. This function can be
the length measuring Measurement results +21 mm ±0 -21 mm used to check the target before marking. This prevents
laser pointer with the marking problems related to missing or improperly
camera and calculates secured products.
the focal distance. Based ■ The target is in focus.
on the distance, the focus
OK OK NG OK NG OK
can automatically be
adjusted upward or
downward within the
range of ±21 mm. Product is missing. Product is not positioned properly.

4
 Unique

2
Function

Displaying the marking target

Conventional problem

Laser marking inside a complicated structure

Previously, you had to check the target directly in
order to confirm the marking result or adjust the
position. If you were marking inside an enclosure, you
had to open the safety cover repeatedly, resulting in
wasted time and effort.

Unique function of the MD-X

Viewfinder function Images captured using the same axis as

for checking marking on a monitor the laser for high accuracy positioning
The figure below shows a comparison of the conditions for
positioning a target set inside a laser enclosure. When you
use positioning based on human vision, you see the target
from an angle and move it directly with your hand, which
makes accurate position adjustment difficult. However,
when you use the viewfinder function, you can check and
adjust the target on the monitor while looking along the
same axis as the laser, which allows accurate positioning.

■ Line of sight comparison inside an enclosure.

Conventional
marker

Line of
human vision

You can position the target or confirm the marking result Viewfinder

while checking the image captured with the built-in

camera. Since you do not have to open the cover of the Same as
system, you can save the time spent releasing the the laser axis

interlock or other safety mechanism each time.

5
 Unique

3
Function

Inspecting marked characters

Conventional problem

Marking on a vibrating target

Targets sometimes vibrate when they are sent intermittently or set manually on a
Camera for
marking inspection/ transfer system. As the figure below shows, when a vibrating target is marked, the
Monitor
marked position shifts by the amount of the vibration. In conventional methods,
installing a separate camera for marking inspection was required to prevent defective
marking from being OK product
sent to the next While moving Vibration at stop

process. Marking

Stopper NG product

Unique function of the MD-X

Marking Confirmation function detects

Density-based marking check
incomplete/displaced characters
The following shows a case where a logo is marked on a
product. Excessive oil left on the product makes the logo
patchy. Marking failures caused by foreign matter can
also be judged between OK and NG using inspection
based on marking density.

Normal Completely filled

When excessive oil is

left on the product Some pale patches

Images before and after marking are captured with the

built-in camera. The laser marker by itself can compare
the shape of characters specified on the software with
those actually marked and then detect incomplete or
displaced marking.

6
 Unique

4
Function

Reading marked codes

Conventional problem

Marking and reading as separate processes

In conventional methods, marking was done by a laser marker and then read
by a 2D code reader. Adjustment of marking and reading required the
operation of separate devices, resulting in a lot of time and effort.

If the devices were from different manufacturers, it was difficult to determine

who to contact for troubleshooting, which caused delays in resolving the issue.

2D
code reader

Unique function of the MD-X

2D code reader built

Marking quality judgement
into the marking head
■ 2D code verification function

Verification and grading of the marked 2D Code can be

performed via the laser marker’s built-in camera. The data
from this result can be
Reading result
output via I/O or data
RE-N000521: A
communication to
signify a Good or No Comprehensive
grade judgement
Good mark.
Supported standards
■ ISO/IEC TR 29158
(AIM DPM-1-2006)

■ Matching level judgement function

* Optional 2D code reader add-in is required.

After reading a code,

Matching level 75 Matching level 43
the MD-X can judge
the readability level
and show the reading
The MD-X has a 2D code reader incorporated inside the margin as a numeric
marker head. It is easy to introduce a traceability system value. This allows for
using just the laser marker. Marking and reading processes easy quality
can be managed with a single device, resulting in a comparison.
reduction in facility space and cost.
Can be used for:
● Best marking condition determination at
introduction
● Predictive maintenance after introduction

7
 Free-of-charge Test Marking/Processing Available
Send in parts to be tested by our
specialised staff.
For additional information, feel free to
contact us via our company home page or
your nearest KEYENCE office.

Before After
processing processing

Marking application Processing application

www.keyence.com

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