OMRON ZFX-C15 Compact Vision Sensor

The OMRON ZFX-C15 is an intelligent vision sensor from the ZFX series, designed to perform automated visual inspection, part identification, positioning, and measurement directly on the production line. It integrates a high-resolution camera, processor, and lighting control in a rugged industrial housing.

Optical and Imaging Specifications

The ZFX-C15 features a 1/3-inch monochrome CCD sensor with 640 x 480 pixel resolution (VGA). It captures images at up to 60 frames per second, enabling high-speed inspection of moving parts. The built-in lens is a fixed-focus 4.5 mm type providing a field of view approximately 77 x 58 mm at 100 mm working distance (adjustable via spacers). Variants support C-mount for interchangeable lenses (depending on model variant). The sensor includes integral white LED illumination (high-brightness, strobe or continuous) ensuring consistent lighting without external light sources for many applications.

Detection functions include grayscale pattern matching (edge, pixel counting), area measurement, blob analysis, edge position, width, pitch, and flaw detection. The system can store up to 32 inspection scenarios and switch between them via PLC commands. Image processing resolution is 256 grey levels, with sub-pixel edge detection accuracy reaching 0.1 pixel.

Controller and I/O

The ZFX-C15 is the controller-less type where processing unit is inside the camera head, eliminating a separate controller box. It provides discrete I/O: 4 inputs (trigger, mode select, reset) and 4 outputs (pass/fail, busy, error) – all opto-isolated, 24V DC compatible. Additionally, it has an Ethernet port (TCP/IP) for image upload, remote configuration, and result transmission. A built-in memory stores up to 1000 inspection images for traceability. An encoder input supports synchronization with conveyor systems.

Communication protocols include EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, and FTP client for image saving. The onboard web server allows monitoring via standard browser. Programming is done using the Windows-based TouchFinder software, providing drag-and-drop tool setup, histogram views, and user-defined data outputs. No programming language is required, though advanced macro scripting is available.

Mechanical and Environmental

The ZFX-C15 is housed in a aluminum die-cast body measuring 45 x 45 x 106 mm, weighing 260 g. It is rated IP65 (with appropriate lens cover), resisting dust and water jets, suitable for food processing or wet environments. Operating temperature from 0 to 45°C, storage -20 to 70°C. Power supply 24V DC (±10%), consumption 3W typical, 5W with strobe LED.

Mounting options include M4 screw holes on side and bottom. The unit provides status LEDs for power, ready, pass/fail, and communication. It meets CE and FCC standards and is RoHS compliant.

Applications

Common uses for the OMRON ZFX-C15 include part presence verification, orientation check, label placement inspection, dimension measurement in automated assembly, and robot guidance. It is applied in automotive components, electronics, pharmaceutical packaging, and food processing. The standalone nature reduces integration time, and its robust performance ensures reliable operation in harsh production environments.

The ability to store inspection results and images enables quality traceability. With flexible I/O and Ethernet connectivity, the ZFX-C15 easily interfaces with PLCs (especially Omron CJ/NJ series) as a smart camera solution for real-time quality control.