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Next-generation laser distance sensor ‘raises the bar’
The German sensor-maker Sick has announced a next-generation laser-based distance sensor which, it claims, raises the bar for mid- to long-range distance sensing. Using a time-of-flight measuring technology, the DT80 1D sensor is said to achieve an accuracy of ±2mm and a resolution of 0.1mm over ranges of up to 80m.
The sensor uses a class 2 eye-safe laser to detect, measure and position targets without needing a reflector. It is easy to integrate and commission, fitting in the tightest of spaces in stationary or mobile machines. The metal-cased sensor can handle challenging conditions, such as vibrations, shocks, strong ambient light and extreme temperatures.
Potential applications include production line measurement and monitoring, bin and stillage level sensing, position monitoring of moulds, coil monitoring and length measurement. It can also be used to position cranes and hoists.
The 65 x 33 x 57mm sensor offers IP65 and IP67 protection and will accurately detect an object with up to 90% remission at a distance of 80m. For items with extremely dark surfaces and just 6% remission, it still achieves a range of 14m.
The sensor is set up using an icon-supported colour display. Four on-sensor LEDs show its status and settings. Alternatively, the DT80 can be configured using Sick’s HTML-based Sopas engineering tool or via IO-Link.
The IO-Link capability allows data to be transferred and exchanged between sensors, actuators and control systems. Using an IO-Link-Master with OPC UA, data from the sensor can be exported into analytics and remote diagnostics software, either locally or in the cloud, for condition monitoring and other purposes.
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