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Sensors Detect Metal Targets In Extreme Heat & Cold

February 2, 2010 by admin  
Filed under Featured, Position, Proximity, Safety

Sensors work in extreme heat and coldFor sensing applications exposed to temperatures from -25 degrees C to +180 degrees C, Baumer has introduced the new IFRH Series of Inductive High Temperature Sensors, a family of two-part proximity switches available in M8, M12 and M18 designs with chromium nickel steel housings.

Intended for flush-face installation, the IP67-rated IFRH sensors are designed to detect the presence of metal targets. With an overall length of just 30 mm, the M8 sensor is specifically designed for use in limited-space applications. Depending upon the housing size, nominal switching distance ranges from 1.5 mm to 5 mm.

An FEP jacketed cable connects the sensor’s temperature-sensitive processing electronics to the sensor head, protecting the electronics from damage. The sensors offer an operating voltage range between 10…30 VDC. These sensors are appropriate for use in aerospace, automotive, marine, PCB fabrication, food and beverage processing, oil processing, laboratory automation, rubber and plastics fabrication, chemical processing, packaging, print/graphics, textile production, and water treatment applications.

www.baumer.com

Mini-Photoelectric Sensor Has Many Installation Options

December 12, 2009 by admin  
Filed under Proximity

w15The new W15 from SICK is a special kind of miniature photoelectric sensor. The latest sensor and evaluation technologies from SICK meet a highly installation-friendly housing design that is common in the US market. Small wonder that the “transatlantic sensor concept” goes down well in Europe, too.

Due to its “USA design,” the series is interesting both for machine constructors active on the American market and for end customers that operate facilities “made in the USA” and are, if required, able to switch quickly to the W15, which is compatible with respect to mounting and connecting. However, for “European-oriented” clients, too, the W15 is very interesting, considering the elegant mounting options that offer benefits specifically in warehousing and handling systems.

The BGS photoelectric proximity sensor is the star of the series
The W15 is a complete production series. All of the devices share an IP67 enclosure rating. The remarkable thing is that besides the usual complementary output configuration, a bipolar output configuration, i.e. PNP and NPN function in one device, is possible as well. The WSE15 through-beam photoelectric sensor and the WL15 photoelectric reflex sensor alike offer ranges of up to 5 m. Both devices generate a sharp light spot that facilitates alignment of the sensor considerably. The energetic photoelectric proximity sensor convinces with a scanning distance of 350 mm.

The highlight of the series, however, is the WTB15 BGS photoelectric proximity sensor. The sensor combines PinPoint technology with innovative chip technology that involves more than a dozen receiving elements, allowing not only precise and stable background suppression and suppression of extraneous light but also electronic and drift-free adjustment of the scanning range. Object detection occurs independent of color and surface properties, which means that no sensor readjustments are necessary.

Maximum possibilities for installation
Featuring three different installation options, the W15 series leaves hardly anything to be desired. On the one hand, the sensors can be mounted by means of side mounting using the lateral through holes in the housing. In addition, the sensors’ M18 threads offer the possibility of front mounting by means of plastic nut or – particularly elegant – by means of snap-ring. The latter option permits the sensor to be installed flush and blind zone-free, for example, on the lateral guide rail of a roller conveyor, thus allowing object detection at close range without the sensor impeding the material flow on the conveyor system.

Unobstructed view of the sensor status
Independent of the respective installation situation, the W15 sensors provide an unobstructed view of the power and status display: on the one hand, from above directly on to the indicator LEDs; on the other hand, from behind through the transparent back cover of the device.

www.sick.com

iWallet Requires Fingerprint & Has Bluetooth Proximity Sensor

December 2, 2009 by admin  
Filed under Featured, Proximity

iWalletPutting aside the rather hokey promotional video created for the iWallet, the product looks like it will find its place in the pockets of the paranoid and those living in urban environments where pick pockets are never too far.

The iWallet comes in two version: carbon fiber or carbon fiber with Kevlar.  This should make it not only durable and virtually indestructible, but incredibly uncomfortable to sit on.  But that’s a moot point, seeing as you shouldn’t be sitting on your wallet any way.  But what truly makes the iWallet unique is the biometric fingerprint reader.  Once your finger print has been associated with the iWallet, only you can open the device by swiping your finger trip across the sensor.  But wait there’s more!  The iWallet can also pair with your cell phone over Bluetooth.  In the event that your iWallet is stolen or travels 10-15 feet beyond its proximity, your cell phone will emit an alarm.

The iWallet will begin shipping December 11th and will start at $299.

Proximity Sensors Differentiate Metal Types

November 20, 2009 by admin  
Filed under Proximity

TURCK announces their analog+ proximity sensors have been enhanced to differentiate between varying types of metal during detection—independent of their distance from the sensor. Available in ring and flat housings, these material detection sensors provide sensing ranges up to 11 mm and are well suited for stamping, die cutting and metal sorting applications, where different metal types must be readily and accurately detected.

The analog+ material detection sensors use inductive coils whose RF fields are influenced differently for each metal type. The signal difference is then converted into a 0 to 10 VDC analog signal to signify which type of metal is being detected. Additionally, a wide operating temperature rating of -10 to 70°C makes these sensors particularly useful in cold pilger rolling mills used for drawing seamless pipes.

Motion Detector Sends Alerts to Your Phone

November 16, 2009 by admin  
Filed under Image, Proximity, Safety, Uncategorized

motion detectorThe S-PIR is a self-contained motion detector with a built in GSM modem for sending a SMS text message to you when a zone is breached.

Instillation is simple as SeNd Technoolgy states that you just register the pay-as-you-go SIM card with some credit and insert into the S-PIR, plug in the mains transformer and you are ready to configure. Then by SMS change the security passcode and add your mobile number – and it’s ready.

To “arm” just “ring” the S-PIR for a few seconds and it will give you a 15 second window to leave the secure area.

When the PIR sensor next detects motion you will receive a SMS informing you.  The S-PIR will then call you so you can hear (via the units built-in microphone) and activity at the remote location.

S-PIR Alert by SMS

www.sendtech.co.uk

Optical Sensor IC has Touchless Function

November 6, 2009 by admin  
Filed under Proximity

ROHM Co., has recently announced the development of the industry’s first monolithic optical proximity/illumination sensor that supports touchless motion detection. Intended for devices utilizing a touch panel, such as smart phones and digital cameras, where an optical proximity sensor is normally integrated in order to turn ON/OFF the touch sensor and LCD when the phone is moved away from/to the ear as well as to adjust the brightness of the screen based on ambient conditions for longer battery life.

touchless
The BH1771GLC integrates a photodiode for detecting visible light along with a photodiode for infrared light detection on a single chip, enabling proximity sensing from 1 to 10cm and brightness from 0 to 65,000 lux. In addition, the industry’s first touchless motion detection function is included, whereby multiple infrared LEDs (3 max.) are driven and the phase difference of the reflected light from each LED is detected to determine the direction of movement of the reflecting object (i.e. human hand). This makes it possible to operate a display panel without directly touching it (e.g. by simply moving an object approx. 5cm above the panel), enabling motion operation in display devices not equipped with a touch panel.

ROHM also offers high power infrared LEDs optimized for use with the BH1771GLC, such as the SIM-030 featuring a height of only 0.9mm and output power of approx. 30mW, enabling configuration of high performance touchless motion sensing solutions.

www.rohm.com


Dual-sensor, Split-connector Cuts Cylinder Costs

October 21, 2009 by admin  
Filed under Proximity

by Jack Moermond
Product Specialist, Magnetic Field Sensors
Balluff, Inc.

Three areas where you can look to cut costs on pneumatic cylinder applications include installation time, cables, and the sensors used for detecting the piston’s position. For example, first consider the sensor in a standard cylinder. Most standard cylinders use proximity switches, either internal or external to the aluminum housing that detect special targets or magnets mounted on the piston. Unfortunately, these proximity switches can be relatively expensive, take up valuable space, and are difficult and time-consuming to install. 

DualSensor-MIB.jpg
A dual-sensor, split-connector system coupled to a multiple-interface block (MIB) in a high-density application reduces the number of wires and potentially doubles the number of cylinder switches that can be used in the same installation.

A better solution is designed around a new dual sensor with a split connector. The configuration has two low-profile, magnetic-field sensors molded together into a single, four-pole connector. Compared to the standard application (where the end of the piston’s stroke is detected in both directions), the dual sensor system does the same job with one less connecting cable, fewer terminations, and less connective hardware, which require less time to install. This dual sensor arrangement can cut an application’s cost by 50%.

Dual-Sensor-2.jpg
Even in a smaller application, a dual-sensor, split-connector system installed on a cylinder to detect the end of a piston’s stroke can reduce installation time and material costs compared to a standard two-proximity switch arrangement.

Dual-Sensor-on-cylinder.jpg
A dual-sensor, split-connector system combines two magnetic-field sensors with a single connector. This approach uses only one four-conductor cable and less installation hardware with fewer terminations than the standard method.

In another installation where numerous cylinder switches are densely packed, multiple interface blocks (MIBs) are typically used to reduce the number of wires needed to return to the control panel. However, you get a bonus when you use a dual sensor system in the same installation: It doubles the number of cylinder switches that can be connected to the same MIB, or it cuts the MIB size in half for the same number of switches. Either way, your cost-cutting goal is realized. 

Balluff
www.balluff.com/vtwin
jack.moermond@balluff.com

::Design World::

TURCK Q08 Proximity Sensors

July 29, 2009 by admin  
Filed under Proximity

Minneapolis, MN — TURCK announces that the company’s rugged Q08 uprox®+ factor 1 sensor—designed to detect steel, stainless steel, copper, brass and aluminum at the same rated sensing distance—now offers an extended range of 8 mm. With no reduction factor, uprox+ factor 1 sensors save significant time and labor costs over standard ferrite core proximity sensors, which must be adjusted and reinstalled to detect different metal types. Along with its extended range, the Q08 sensor features a compact rectangular housing that makes it well suited for applications where mounting space is limited.

Q08-uprox+-factor-1-sensor.jpg

The Q08 sensor family comes equipped with internal shielding that effectively eliminates pre-damping, allowing users to employ the sensor’s full switching distance without hindrance—even when the device is mounted on metal surfaces. An IP 68 protection rating affords greater application flexibility, as the Q08 sensor can resist dust, debris and moisture ingress in challenging manufacturing environments. Two LEDs additionally provide clear visual indication of the sensor’s switching status.

TURCK
www.turck.us

Extended Range Inductive Proximity Sensors

June 16, 2009 by admin  
Filed under Proximity

TWINSBURG, OH – Pepperl+Fuchs introduces X-Series Pile Driver™ Extended Range Inductive Sensors. These robust sensors are available in 12mm, 18mm and 30mm diameters to deliver sensing ranges of 5mm, 10mm or 15mm – up to 2.5 times longer range than traditional inductive sensors. 100% stainless steel housings deliver durability more than 20 times that of the competition’s brass and plastic housings. Black Armor™ coated weld-immune models are also available.

pepperl-x-series.jpg
X-Series Pile Driver’s extended sensing field is a big benefit in automotive manufacturing applications, as it enables reliable detection of irregularly shaped contours, and increased sensor-to-target distances help eliminate contact-related scuffing of “Class A” hood, door and trunk surfaces. Weld-immune models are uniquely capable of providing long range part detection with full immunity to both AC and DC weld fields, and repelling weld splatter.

X-Series Pile Driver’s can detect all metals. Advanced circuitry enables restriction-free mounting while delivering the highest available immunity to the effects of industrial noise and temperature extremes. Unlike traditional inductive sensors that are limited to IP67/68 protection, X-Series Pile Driver sensors are IP69k-rated to withstand high pressure washdown cleaning.

Pepperl+Fuchs
www.pepperl-fuchs.com

Magnetostrictive Sensors Meet Off-Highway Requirements

April 14, 2009 by R. Nelson Parrish  
Filed under Proximity

For off-highway equipment, the influx of electro-hydraulics, electronic controls, and computer controls has increased automation opportunities. But you can’t simply shoehorn industrial sensors into these applications, noted Brian Cox, product manager, MTS Sensors. “It’s not that industrial sensors are inferior, they simply offer different functions than off-highway needs. Fine resolution, for example, is unnecessary. We stripped down our sensors to the base level and built them back up with respect to the requirements of the off-highway marketplace.” 

apr-dfi-3b.jpg

The needed features include non-contact operation, absolute measurement, repeatability, reliability and durability. A couple of these features are crucial. Repeatability serves several purposes. “What is important in off-highway,” said Cox, “is that the equipment can return to a specific location quickly.” For example, when digging a trench, the operator must position the digging tool where it left off. Operators can do this, but it is much easier on them, and faster, if the equipment can find its last position automatically. Also, enabling equipment to handle this task takes stress off of operators and reduces job fatigue. 

apr-dfi-3a.jpg

“Taking out the complexity of sensors used in this market reduces cost and size,” noted Cox. “It allows us to package sensors into the smaller environment of the electro-hydraulic cylinder.” The mobile sensors are designed to be fully embedded into welded cylinders. Access is generally not an issue in these applications. 

Each off-highway application is different and requires sensors with specific features.  

It is crucial to understand the application. Steering, positioning, and location through GPS tracking are just some of the applications off-highway sensors suit. 

MTS Sensors
www.mtssensors.com

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