Optical Sorters utilize modular electro-optical system.
Press Release Summary:
Designed for Tegra® and Optyx® optical sorters, G6 System features modular vision engine and array of monochromatic, color, and Vis/IR cameras. It includes Camera Link, FireWire, and Ethernet connectivity as well as Linux OS, which offers inherent security. Utilizing Pentium-based DSP CPU, G6 System features Image Processing Module, which includes FPGA chipset technology, and Ejector Controller Module, which effectively removes defective product from product stream.Original Press Release:
Key Technology Presents G6, a New Modular Electro-Optical Platform for Key's Family of Sorters
G6 assures forward compatibility to keep systems up to date and performing at peak
January 11, 2005 - Key Technology presents G6, a new modular electro-optical foundation for Tegra(R) and Optyx(R) optical sorting systems, at Interpack Hall 4 / Stand D46. The G6 features an advanced, modular vision engine and an array of new, high-performance monochromatic, color, and VIS/IR cameras. Offering the most advanced image processing in the industry, the new G6 architecture provides the industry's best migration path to ensure Key's customers, past and present, generate maximum long-term return on their sorting investment.
The new G6 platform features proven, high-performance connectivity standards such as Camera Link, FireWire and Ethernet that maximize the underlying technology's flexibility. The open-source Linux Operating System offers inherent security and ensures long-term development and support. With greater operational versatility and reduced risk of obsolescence, Key's G6 sorters optimize sorting performance today and provide a foundation that prepares users for future improvements to enhance defect removal and recovery rates.
The modular design of Key's G6 platform allows customers using both current and legacy sorting systems to take advantage of technological advancements by upgrading the applicable module rather than forcing a redesign or replacement of the entire sorter. With Camera Link-compliance, G6 users can select from Key's existing array of high-performance color, IR, (infrared) and monochromatic G6 linear cameras today and later consider future camera and sensor technologies as they become available.
"Key is introducing the industry's most advanced sorting technology and the first comprehensive migration path for sorter technology," noted Richard Hebel, Director of Marketing and Business Development. "Not only does G6 offer a path to the future for new buyers of Key sorters, but we'll provide a path to the future for our existing customers. Key guarantees customers will not be left behind as technology moves forward."
The new G6 Image Processing Module features Key's proprietary FPGA (field-programmable gate arrays) chipset technology, which puts the power of an entire electronic rack in a single chip. With twice the number of filter stages, G6 enables more subtle feature identification and more robust detection of defects. This programmable technology allows for simple future upgrades without module replacement, offering greater opportunity for future performance enhancements and customization.
Unlike traditional sorters that use dedicated signal processing chips, Key's G6 platform uses a Digital Signal Processing CPU. Customers will gain flexibility in algorithmic implementation to correctly classify defects and benefit from future enhancements to sorting performance and application scope. This powerful Pentium-based CPU promises scalable performance gains for years and the Linux Operating System reduces reliance on fickle commercial operating systems.
G6 features a powerful new programmable Ejector Controller Module that makes the adoption of new ejector operating characteristics or adding upgrades simple. Added power in the EC Module supports more complex ejection operations to generate more effective removal of defective product from the product stream.
Key designed the G6 platform with several features that improve reliability and reduce mean time to repair (MTTR). The intuitive graphical user interface (GUI) reduces operator training requirements, simplifies optimum operation of the sorter and provides a unique window into the highly "self-aware G6" architecture, ensuring rapid problem identification and resolution. The GUI can reside locally on the sorter and can be accessed remotely via network or Internet, enhancing the flexibility in the operating environment and easing access for remote factory troubleshooting and application assistance. The highly modular design of the G6 platform allows rapid module swapping and problem isolation. Simplified wiring eases maintenance and troubleshooting. Sophisticated real-time and on-demand diagnostics help avoid costly downtime and detect conditions that could compromise inspection.
About Key Technology, Inc.
Key Technology, an ISO-9001 certified company, is a leading designer and manufacturer of process automation systems, integrated electro-optical inspection and sorting systems, and processing systems. Key. systems help processors to improve quality, increase yield, and reduce cost. With worldwide sales representation, the company maintains demonstration and testing facilities at its headquarters and manufacturing divisions in Walla Walla, Washington, USA, and at Key Technology BV in Beusichem, the Netherlands. The company's common stock trades on the Nasdaq National Market tier of The NASDAQ Stock MarketSM under the symbol: KTEC.
Reader Inquiries To:
Anita Funk, Corporate Communications Manager
Key Technology, Inc.
150 Avery Street
Walla Walla, WA 99362 USA
Tel: 509 529 2161
Fax: 509 527 1331
Email: afunk@key.net
URL: www.key.net
