Precision sensor supplier Micro-Epsilon has introduced a non-contact laser distance sensor that measures distances up to 150 m with an accuracy of < ± 1 mm. The sensor measures accurately even on difficult surfaces such as dark, structured or weakly reflecting objects. Without any special adaptations to the target, the sensor has an impressive range up to 100 m. Adding a reflector to the target extends the range to 150 m.
Developed in-house by Micro-Epsilon, the new optoNCDT ILR2250-100 laser distance sensor is both smaller and more accurate than its predecessor, the optoNCDT ILR1181. The factory default AUTO measurement mode allows precise and reliable measurements to be made on targets over great distances. Additional modes are also available to tune the sensor to specific application requirements.
Protected by an IP65 die cast aluminium housing, the optoNCDT ILR2250-100 is suitable for a wide range of applications, from transport, logistics and conveyor systems, to automation, metal processing, production monitoring and unmanned drones or vehicles. It has already found uses in monitoring large coil diameters, silo filling levels and gantry cranes. The combined long range and high accuracy of the sensor has also found particular benefits in the measurement and control of diameters for hot ring rolling.
In terms of its technical performance, the sensor is unsurpassed in its field, providing excellent repeatability (<300 µm), resolution (0.1 mm) and linearity (< ± 1 mm), resulting in extremely stable measurements and excellent signal stability. The sensor’s small footprint (102 x 53 x 50 mm) and weight (254 g) represent a 65% reduction in size and weight compared to its predecessor, allowing it to be easily installed in narrow or restricted spaces in production lines and machines.
Modes of operation
The optoNCDT ILR2250-100 provides four basic modes of operation:
- AUTO mode is the factory default setting where the speed (measuring rate) can be varied between 3 to 20 Hz, depending on the target.
- FAST mode has a reduced accuracy of ± 1 mm and requires a ‘good’ surface.
- ACCURATE mode is suitable for targets moving up to 1.5 m/s.
- PRECISE mode has an accuracy of 0.3 mm.
Glenn Wedgbrow, Business Development Manager at Micro-Epsilon comments: “Rather than use the time-of-flight measuring principle like our previous sensor models, the optoNCDT ILR2250-100 operates on the phase comparison measuring principle. This method confirms the distance measurement more accurately and works well in smoke, steam and fog. In addition, due to its compact footprint and configurable software, the sensor can also be adapted to meet individual OEM requirements.”
The optoNCDT ILR2250-100 can provide continuous measurement output via a 16-bit, scalable, 4-20 mA analogue output or via RS422 serial communication. Three digital switch outputs are available for simple process monitoring and a trigger input provides opportunities to control when the sensor takes a reading.
For more information on the optoNCDT ILR2250-100, please visit: https://www.micro-epsilon.co.uk/sensors/optoNCDT-ILR2250-100/ or call the Micro-Epsilon sales department on +44 (0)151 355 6070 or email [email protected]