Non-contact linear positioning sensor offers enhanced capabilities
15 December 2010
SICK has extended the capabilities of its optical linear measurement sensor portfolio with the new OLM200, for high performance materials handling applications. The positioning sensor, which delivers increased accuracy, speed and repeatability, uses a barcode tape to provide non-contact linear positioning on both curved and straight tracks. The sensor continually reads up to three barcodes to build an absolute position value, even if a barcode is missing or damaged.
he new sensor has high operating speeds of up to 10m/s and linear positioning to within 0.15mm. The higher operating speed can be exploited to achieve increased volume throughput, making the sensor suitable for use in applications such as rail-mounted shuttles, overhead conveyors and rotary tables. A Profibus DP interface provides connectivity to process control system, and diagnostic information (position and speed) can be communicated for enhanced system control.
The OLM200 illuminates the barcode using a red LED, and a CMOS array reads the illuminated barcode. Without moving parts, such as the mirrors used in conventional barcode scanners, the read head is highly reliable even when mounted on a machine subject to high levels of vibration and shock. And as no laser is required for the unit, there are no classification issues. In addition, the LED illumination has a life expectancy of almost twice that of a good quality laser diode.
The barcode tape is impervious to most oils, greases, fuels, solvents and weak acids, and the system also accommodates temperature fluctuations between -30°C and + 60°C, making it ideal for use in extreme temperatures such as cold stores and steel works.
To simplify installation, it is only necessary to install the barcode tape where positional information is required. In the event of damage, replacement barcode tape can be quickly created by downloading and printing the code from the SICK website.
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