High-accuracy compact confocal chromatic displacement sensor

The confocalDT IFS2404-2 confocal chromatic displacement sensor is designed for high-precision distance, position and thickness measurements. With a diameter of just 12mm, the sensor is easily integrated in restricted, confined spaces. Due to its special lens technology, the sensor delivers a high resolution with a very small laser spot size (10um diameter).

With a compact footprint and small measuring spot size, the confocalDT IFS2404-2 is useful for high-accuracy distance measurements on reflecting or transparent surfaces, as well as one-sided thickness measurement of transparent film, plates or layers. As well as distance measurements on highly reflective, shiny surfaces, the sensors can also be used to measure on dark, diffuse materials. Typical applications include displays, smartphones, mirrors and glass production and medical devices. The sensors are also suitable for vacuum applications in semiconductor and microelectronics production.

Together with the confocal chromatic controller, confocalDT 242x, the sensor system offers an excellent price-performance ratio, particularly for OEM series production applications. The confocalDT IFS 2404-2 sensor is compatible with all confocal controllers from the Micro-Epsilon range.

With the confocalDT 2421 and 2422 confocal controllers, Micro-Epsilon is aiming to set new performance standards in precision confocal measurement technology. Designed as a single or dual-channel version, these confocal chromatic measurement systems enable a cost-effective solution for OEMs. The system works on a non-contact basis and is therefore wear-free. The active exposure control of the CCD line allows fast, accurate compensation when measuring on different surfaces.

The confocalDT IFS 2404-2 has a measuring range of 2mm, resolution of 40nm and a linearity of +/- 1um (for distance and displacement measurements) and +/- 2um (for thickness measurements). Operating temperature range is from +5degC to +70degC.

Measurement data can be output in real time via the EtherCAT interface. Thickness calibration allows accurate thickness measurement over the entire measuring range of the sensor.

Chris Jones, Managing Director of Micro-Epsilon UK comments: "Confocal sensors are often selected when laser triangulation or other optical sensors are not accurate or stable enough on the surface being measured. The confocal principle is considered surface-independent, enabling measurements on any type of surface, both diffuse and specular - from dark, diffuse materials to highly reflective, shiny, mirrored or even transparent surfaces. With translucent or transparent materials such as glass, a one-sided thickness measurement can be achieved using a single confocal sensor, along with the distance measurement."

For more information on the confocalDT IFS 2404-2, go to www.micro-epsilon.co.uk.