Photoelectric Sensors

Color Sensors

Color sensors are small, compact and powerful for color detection of either opaque or transparent targets. Consequently, they can be used for the automation of all industrial processes where color is a factor, such as sorting colored products. The SICK family of color sensors includes: CS 1 series, CS 3 series and the CSL series.

How color sensors work:

CS color sensors function using a special three-color method. They cast light (red, blue, green) on the objects to be tested, calculate the chromaticity coordinates from the reflected radiation and compare them with previously stored reference tristimulus values. If the tristimulus values are within the set tolerance range, a switching output is activated. SICK color sensors can detect both the colors of opaque objects through their reflections (incident light) and those of transparent materials in transmitted light, whereby a reflector is mounted opposite the sensor.

The sensor may perceive the colors of high-gloss objects as being achromatic in incident light. This problem can be solved by tilting the sensor.

Applications include:

• Packaging inspection
• Presence detection
• Final inspection
• Detecting colored print marks
• Detecting labels
• Placement and monitoring of caps

Contrast Sensors

Contrast sensors provide high speed, reliable solid state registration with up to three LED’s so it can select the best light source for the contrast to be detected.

How contrast sensors work:

Contrast sensors recognize colors as gray scale values. At a constant sensing range, up to 30 gray tones from a scale ranging from black to white can be distinguished. This property is essential for detecting contrast marks, for example, printed color bars.

The difference in contrast between the mark and the background is the main factor determining the readability of a mark. The surface of the material can be coarse, smooth or glossy and can be made of paper, plastic or metal. When glossy materials are to be detected the sensor should, if necessary, be tilted.

Applications include:

• Counting
• Positioning
• Sorting
• Controlling processes

Conveyor Sensors

Conveyor sensors are specifically designed for accumulation, loading and unloading applications on roller conveyors. The unique design allows the sensor to rest below and between the rollers where it won't interfere with the conveyor and it is less likely to be damaged by product loading and assembly.

The detection signal is evaluated in the logic unit and the electro pneumatic cylinder is actuated via the valve. Use of these switches automatically fulfils the principle of accumulating conveyor systems without the need for additional control elements. Models featuring the integrated miniature solenoid valve can interface directly with the conveyor’s zone control system.

Luminescence Sensors

Luminescence sensors offer unparalleled power; they are able to handle more advanced applications than standard photoelectric proximity sensors. SICK luminescence sensors include: LUT 1-4 series, LUT1-5 series and the LUT 3 series.

How luminescence sensors work:

Luminescence sensors react to luminescent pigments which are activated by the UV light source in the scanner. The light, which is then reflected, is received and evaluated by the luminescence sensor.

Applications include:

• Verification of tamper-evident seals
• Clear label detection
• Invisible registration mark sensing
• Crayon or fluorescent mark detection
• Presence sensing of adhesives, coatings, oils and detergents

Measurement Sensors

SICK laser measurement sensors are an essential aid in the classification, positioning and material flow handling of products. They can reliably detect the shape, position and outline of any object. They are excellent for measuring in both short and long distance applications. The SICK family of measurement sensors includes the following models: DME 2000 series, DME 3000 series, WTA 24 series, OD series and the LMS series.

How laser measurement sensors work:

Measurement sensors transmit light onto an object or reflector and evaluate the reflected beam of light. In the process they transform the distance thus determined into a proportional electrical signal.

Multi-dimensional Sensors

Multi-dimensional sensors can position objects or sense the height of objects. The Dimensional Multifunctional Position Finder sensor (DMP) is the sensor of choice for automated storage and retrieval systems. The DMP can control the drives of shelf-supplying devices for precision placement. The DMH height profile sensor can count shingled objects such as newspapers and cardboard boxes. The DMH can be used to replace vision systems many counting and profile verification applications.

How multi-dimensional sensors work:

DMH sensors transmit a laser line, at a defined angle, over objects to be scanned. The laser line hitting the object is then displayed upon a square receiver array as a contour corresponding to the object´s height profile. This allows height profiles to be monitored, newspapers counted, filling levels detected or the alignment of objects to be ascertained and checked for presence.

Applications include:

• Shingled object counting
• Fill level detection
• Presence detection
• Automated storage and retrieval systems

Photoelectric Light Grids

Light grid photoelectric sensors are a small, non-safety version of our famous light curtains. The WLG 12 light grid sensor is specifically designed for use in parts ejection applications or any processes where product positioning variations occur.

How photoelectric light grids work:

Light grids, such as the WLG, function according to the reflection principle. A suitable reflector, which reflects the emitted light to the receiver element of the sensor, is mounted opposite the sensor's exit window. A two-dimensional detection plane is produced between the sensor and reflector.

Applications include:

• Object detection
• Height or length determination
• Detection of irregularly shaped objects