Distance sensors combine precision, speed & flexibility
04 December 2018
Baumer has responded to market demands and introduced an innovative range of AlphaProx inductive distance sensors with IO-Link interface.
The development of increasingly sophisticated automation systems is one of the main drivers for distance measurement sensors to combine features and functions such as high-accuracy, high speed and micro-millimetre precision, along with all the benefits of IO-Link connectivity. Baumer is responding with innovative products such as its new range of AlphaProx inductive distance sensor with IO-Link interface.
In addition to providing micro-millimetre precise distance values, AlphaProx sensors also feature counter values, switching frequency along with comprehensive diagnostic data which is directly available for evaluation. Extended parameter options with IO-Link means the sensors can also be configured specifically for each application.
The sensors are designed for individual programming and data evaluation is possible in addition to the scaling of the distance characteristic (real distance vs. measured value output), the switching points and the counter function. In addition, various modes such as high-speed and high-accuracy as well as time filters for fast or precise applications, can be set individually via the IO-Link. Any offset caused by installation can be easily compensated and the IO-Link enables simple plug & play sensor replacement, without the need to manually adjust settings.
AlphaProx sensors with IO-Link have the ability to solve very different tasks, such as position measurement of gripper jaws, batch size counting, control and monitoring of belt tensions or the flexible control of vibration conveyors by means of frequency and stroke measurement. In addition to solving the primary application, the simple evaluation of secondary data, such as temperature, supply voltage, operating time or switching cycles, allows for predictive maintenance and thus optimum machine availability.
They are available in cylindrical design with sizes from Ø6.5 mm to M30 and have a scalable, linear characteristic curve, which guarantees simple control integration thanks to a measured value proportional to the distance. They detect objects and measure distances over large measuring ranges up to 18mm and are designed to ensure minimal temperature drift and minimal variance in production lots which helps to guarantee maximum process reliability.
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