Posted to News on 30th Sep 2014, 14:05
Miniature capacitive sensor for high-speed object detection
SICK UK is launching a versatile miniature capacitive proximity sensor with the capability to perform a wealth of non-contact sensing tasks in printing applications, for example for ink fill level sensing in printing machines. The CQ4 has a rapid switching frequency up to 100Hz and a sensing range of up to 8mm, making it suitable for high-speed object detection through non-metallic surfaces.
Phil Dyas, SICK (UK) industrial sensor specialist, explains: "The CQ4 is no larger than a couple of cubes of sugar with the sensitivity and rugged construction to be used almost anywhere where you might have struggled to find the space to install a sensor before.
"Because the CQ4 is a capacitive sensor with a range of up to 8mm through non-metallic materials, it can "see' through packaging and you don't have to cut a hole in a pipe or vessel wall for example, so there are no sealing issues. Often non-contact sensors are fastened with cable ties to a plastic pipe or a container wall and the CQ4 has a helpful mounting groove at the back to ensure the sensor remains securely in place.
"At the same time it is easy to adjust the sensitivity and range for optimum detection performance, with a potentiometer control. The CQ4 is very easy to set up and commission and the wide choice of switching output options and connection configurations give the engineer plenty of scope for optimising selection to match the production specifications."
The new SICK CQ4 capacitive sensor is contained in a 39.5 × 12 ×16mm highly durable fibreglass mounting with IP67 protection and the integral metal fastening threads ensure secure connection under industrial use conditions. With rapid 100Hz switching, it is able to provide real-time detection to match application changes for precise production control and feedback.
SICK's CQ4 is simple to commission and the LED indicators in the housing provide clear status for voltage, switching output and short-circuit operation at all times. The range of versatile mounting brackets include floor, wall and a swivelling ball mount, and the combination of mounting options and switching options offer a choice of 12 versions to meet most plant requirements.
For more information on the new SICK CQ4 capacitive proximity sensor, please contact email [email protected] or visit www.sick.co.uk.
