MoldWatcher Adaptable to any type of molding machine, this vision system from Avalon alerts operators and stops the press before any hazardous force can be put on a mold. In the case of a horizontal press, MoldWatcher automatically inspects for inserts and checks the quality of the part while it's in the mold and empty cavity; it also checks for cores and slides after the part is ejected. While on a vertical press, it ensures that all inserts are properly placed prior to permitting the table to index and the mold to close. After ejection, MoldWatcher checks to ensure all parts have left the upper mold; it also can detect whether miscellaneous items still are in the mold half. Multiple camera options are available.
What's new? The addition of a feature called AutoWindows, which allows operators to zero in on particularly critical areas of the mold to monitor. With it, users can specify the precision of monitoring that they require. Users of versions of MoldWatcher purchased within about the past 2.5 years may add the feature to their existing systems.
Benefits Minimization of possible mold damage caused by items improperly left in the mold, and quicker mold changeovers. The new feature reduces MoldWatcher set-up times from about 20 minutes to less than 5 minutes for a new mold.
Avalon Vision Solutions LLC, Lithia Springs, Ga., 770-944-8445, www.avalonvisionsolutions.com