Manfred Norbert Stein

Title: Manfred Norbert Stein: Innovator in Time-of-Flight Technology

Introduction

Manfred Norbert Stein is a notable inventor based in Graubuenden, Switzerland. With a strong focus on enhancing industrial automation, Stein has made significant contributions through his innovative patents, showcasing his expertise in sensor technology.

Latest Patents

Stein holds two noteworthy patents that reflect his inventive prowess. The first patent involves **Time of Flight (ToF) sensors as a replacement for standard photoelectric sensors**. This innovation utilizes a multi-pixel camera associated with a time-of-flight sensor to detect objects within a defined target area. The method compares pixels with adjacent pixels from an image captured by the camera, allowing for the identification of colored, textured, or highly reflective objects. This identification is crucial for controlling industrial machinery based on the movement of these objects.

The second patent is for a **color sensor insensitive to distance variations**. This system calibrates a color sensing pixel based on the distance from the object by measuring the phase shift of electromagnetic radiation reflected from the object's surface. The distance is tracked in coordination with a ToF pixel, enabling accurate color sensing regardless of distance variations. This technology is applicable across the electromagnetic spectrum, particularly in infrared and visible light ranges.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Manfred Norbert Stein has worked with prominent companies such as Rockwell Automation Technologies and Cedes Safety & Automation AG. His experience in these organizations has been invaluable in developing his innovative ideas and applying them in real-world industrial settings.

Collaborations

Stein has collaborated with notable colleagues in the field, including Martin Hardegger and Reto Berner. These partnerships have facilitated the exchange of ideas and enhanced the development of innovative solutions in industrial automation.

Conclusion

Manfred Norbert Stein's contributions to sensor technology through his patents on time-of-flight and color sensing systems underline his significant role as an inventor. His work not only improves industrial automation processes but also opens avenues for further innovations in the field. With a solid foundation in engineering and collaboration, Stein continues to influence the future of technology.