Posted to News on 2nd Sep 2020, 09:06
New array sensor from SICK
SICK has developed what it says is "A versatile, high-precision array sensor that is easily adapted to a multitude of machine guidance and process control tasks in manufacturing and logistics". The new AS30 sensor provides repeatability up to 0.03mm and a wide 50mm 2D light band and is said to be well suited for classic array sensing tasks such as edge guidance or conveyor control. It also detects object positions, widths, diameters, gaps and centre lines and comes with a choice of proximity or reflector modes. SICK says it can also be used to reliably detect shiny, opaque or transparent materials.
Other suitable uses are said to include the edge guidance of paper, foils and films in packaging machinery, bottle roundness checks in drinks manufacture, measuring the width of spray coating in surface mount processes or centre-line measurement of welding seams in robotic applications. The AS30's versatility is underpinned with plug-and-play configuration via the on-sensor full-colour TFT display or using SICK's SOPAS engineering tool. The step-by-step wizard is said to make it quick and easy for users to select from the available sensor settings and to teach-in edges or contrast zones in just a few clicks. Easy alignment using a visible light spot, along with the ability to adjust the sensitivity, aids quick and accurate set up for robust process control.
The AS30 is IO-Link enabled and its digital switching outputs and external inputs can be logically linked to configure a wide variety of machine integrations, as well as facilitating condition monitoring and predictive maintenance through smart diagnostics tools. The SICK AS30 Prime offers full-colour TFT display, four operating modes and a choice of proximity and reflector versions. With a repeatability of 0.03mm, the Prime variant can be set up with a 30mm field of view at 25mm scanning distance, or 50mm field of view at 100mm scanning distance. The AS30 Core offers what SICK says is an economical option where more straightforward proximity sensing is all that is required. The Core version still achieves 0.2mm repeatability and a 45mm field of view at 100mm scanning distance, and all sensors feature an easy-mounting fixture and flexible pin connector options.
For more information about the SICK AS30 Array Sensor machine builders should contact Andrea Hornby at [email protected], or go to www.sick.co.uk.
