Collins & Aikman Corp. (C & A), a Troy, Mich.-based interior system supplier to the
automotive industry, has selected the BFS 26K color sensor by Florence, Ky.-based Balluff Inc. to
automate its color-matching process.
According to Balluff, the challenge in color-matching carpets is to accurately read and match
color from two different materials. In the final solution, two sensors read the carpet, while up to
four sensors read the vinyl wear pads that are attached to the carpet to increase durability. The
sensors also are programmed to recognize the carpet color regardless of nap/pile orientation. Three
programmable outputs provide flexibility for all color variations.
June 2004
