2D/3D laser profile sensors are smarter and smaller

ScanCONTROL 2600 / 2900 COMPACT 2D/3D laser profile sensors are claimed to offer a range of technical advantages, flexible installation options and versatile interfaces. Chris Jones, Managing Director at Micro-Epsilon UK, explains: "With their compact design and integral controller, the scanCONTROL 2600 / 2900 series sensors are ideal for a wide range of machine design and automation systems, particularly where space is restricted or where low sensor weight is critical. Unlike many laser profile sensors on the market that require an external controller, the scanCONTROL 2600 / 2900 COMPACT series offers users the most compact design possible. Also, for applications where multiple sensors are required or if the sensor needs to be mounted onto a moving object such as a robot arm or motorised stage, the compactness and price-performance ratio of the sensor is unsurpassed."

The scanCONTROL 2600 has up to 640 points across the line width and a profile frequency of up to 4000Hz, whereas the scanCONTROL 2900 has 1280 points across the line width and offers a profile frequency of up to 2000Hz. Moreover, the scanCONTROL 2900 is the optimum performance version for automation tasks that require both high resolutions and high profile frequencies due to the scanner's receiving matrix supporting a high point density along the sensor laser line.

Both sensor series benefit from the same compact housing dimensions, regardless of their measuring range or measuring rate. Protected in an aluminium housing, the sensors weigh just 380g and are small enough to fit inside a suit jacket pocket!

Micro-Epsilon scanCONTROL 2600/ 2900 series sensors are available with measuring ranges of 25mm, 50mm and 100mm. Linearity is 0.16 per cent of the measuring rate.

Easy integration

Each sensor is equipped with a Gigabit Ethernet interface for transferring profile data, as well as a multi-purpose connector for RS422, Digital In (HTL/TTL), power supply and synchronisation. The sensors support Power-over-Ethernet (PoE), which reduces the need for an additional power cable. Configuration of the sensor is carried out using a supplied software programme, which enables the device to be configured to a unique IP address. A modbus protocol (supported via Ethernet and the RS422 interface) also enables direct connection between the sensor and any common PLC.

All scanCONTROL series sensors are designed with a high-speed external profile trigger input. In this way, the data rate can be optimised and measurements can be triggered at a specific event in time. This is particularly beneficial when several systems are operating synchronously. Together with its compact design and simple wiring, scanCONTROL is highly suitable for multi-scanner applications.

The software development kit (SDK) and function library (LLT.dll) supplied as standard with the sensor provide users with a communications platform that offers maximum flexibility and performance via direct integration with most common programming languages.

Follow the link for more information about the scanCONTROL 2600 / 2900 COMPACT series 2D/3D laser profile sensors.