Software controled optical sensor for conveyors

A method for optically sensing the presence of an object on a conveyor, said method comprising the steps of:

• arranging a plurality of optical components to provide control over a sensing distance;
• configuring said plurality of optical components to comprise at least one optical emitter, at least one optical receiver, and at least one associated optical lens;
• detecting light reflected from an object transported on a conveyor utilizing said plurality of optical components when said object enters a sensing zone;
• and
• conditioning said reflected light to provide an output signal, which is utilized to provide controlling information necessary to route said object to a proper location and prevent damage to said object from other objects as said object is being transported upon said conveyor.

A system for optically sensing the presence of an object on a conveyor, said system comprising:

• a plurality of optical components arranged to provide control over a sensing distance;
• said plurality of optical components configured to comprise at least one optical emitter, at least one optical receiver, and at least one associated optical lens;
• detecting module for detecting light reflected from an object transported on a conveyor utilizing said plurality of optical components when said object enters a sensing zone;
• and
• conditioning module for conditioning said reflected light to provide an output signal, which is utilized to provide controlling information necessary to route said object to a proper location and prevent damage to said object from other objects as said object is being transported upon said conveyor.