New! OPTIPACT L: Compact Non-Contact Sensors for Smooth and Glossy Surfaces

Application

The OPTIPACT L is a low-cost laser based sensor for non-contact and velocity measurement on smooth and glossy surfaces.  It is ideal for rubber and metal extrusion as well as metal processing applications.

Measurement Features

Like all OPTIPACT sensors, the OPT-L detects apparent motion in two axes along with surface standstill and direction of movement. The sensor can measure maximum speeds of 4 m/s (13 ft/s) with a precise resolution of up to 10 µm (0.0004 in). To adapt the sensor to different applications the resolution can be changed by the customer. The measurement uncertainty is better than 1%. The OPT-L sensors enable users to develop new applications: they are especially suited for smooth and glossy surfaces such as metals, plastics or foils which are problematic for other contact based sensor systems, due to errors caused by slippage. Furthermore the surface of these materials is in general very sensitive against contact based measurement systems, because of visible marks.

Mechanical Features

OPTIPACT-L sensors are equipped with a Class 1 laser illumination and do not require any additional safety precautions. Enclosed in an IP65 housing, OPTIPACT-L sensors are installed at a 30 mm standoff distance from the object being measured and can tolerate distance deviations of up to ±6 mm. Furthermore, working distances between 15 and 60 mm are possible on request. Measuring merely 98 x 42 x 35 mm, the compact sensors need less installation space and can be easily integrated in virtually any application. Furthermore its incremental output is comparable to other contact based shaft encoders and is a perfect replacement which can perform better.

Installation

A graphical user interface enables an easy set-up and adaptation for different measurement conditions. Additionally, programmable digital outputs allow users to precisely control e.g. the measurement of piece goods or cutting processes: the outputs can generate a signal when the speed drops below or exceeds a pre-set value, when a direction change occurs or when a selected length is reached.
Minimizing installation and maintenance costs, the sensors also ensure a reliable and efficient quality control with the utmost performance and least damage to the measurand. With costs per piece comparable to conventional encoder/measuring wheel solutions, the sensors are considerably more cost-efficient than all similar contact-free systems.