Laser sensor with IO-Link interface measures distances to target objects up to 60 metres away

Precision sensor supplier Micro-Epsilon has extended its non-contact laser distance sensor portfolio with a low cost unit that is even more robust and compact than its predecessor measuring distances up to 60m with a resolution of 1mm and is repeatable to <3mm. The advanced IO-Link interface provides simplified set-up and minimal wiring for the user.

The new optoNCDT ILR1040/1041 is the successor to the ILR1030/1031 laser distance sensor, offering a more compact housing and industrial communication protocol with IO-Link. The ILR1040/1041 has a very high signal stability and measures accurately on difficult surfaces such as dark, structured or weakly reflecting objects. Without any special adaptations to the target, the sensor has a range up to 10m. Adding a reflector to the target extends the range to 60m. Due to its attractive price and compact size, the sensor is ideal for series use in automation applications. For OEM projects, quick individual adjustments are possible.

The ILR1040/1041 is designed for use in harsh industrial environments. The sensor is characterised by its high protection class (IP67, IP69 and IP69K), resistance to ambient light (50,000 lux) and fast response time. Due to the time-of-flight principle, a large infrared laser measurement spot and an adjustable measuring rate of up to 333Hz, high energy pulses are achieved, enabling stable measurements with very good signal quality.

The sensor also offers a wide operating temperature range of -30°C to +60°C. The connector on the new device has been changed from M16 to the more common M12. Due to its rotatable cable outlet and compact design, the sensor can be installed in difficult-to-access and narrow spaces.

The ILR1040/1041 is suitable for a wide range of applications, from industrial automation, construction machinery, logistics, crane collision prevention, conveyor systems and renewable energies. In terms of its technical performance, the sensor provides good repeatability (<3mm), resolution (1mm) and linearity (< ± 20mm), resulting in stable measurements and good signal stability. The sensor’s small footprint (68 x 42 x 15mm) and weight (37g) represent more than a 50% reduction in size and weight compared to its predecessor, allowing it to be easily installed in narrow or restricted spaces in production lines and machines.

Continuous communication

The optoNCDT ILR1040/1041 can provide continuous measurement output via a 12-bit, scalable, 4-20 mA or 0-10 V analogue output and a digital IO-Link interface. The sensor is operated via buttons and LEDs or via software.

The advanced IO-Link interface offers many advantages. For example, there is the possibility of manufacturer-independent, digital, bi-directional point-to-point communication, as well as continuous communication between sensors, actuators and controllers. With IO-Link, users can call up diagnostic information and dynamically adjust sensor or actuator parameters via an HMI or remote controller.