Monitoring conveyor belt utilisation.

The Contour2D sensor system from Pepperl+Fuchs, enables optimally efficient detection of conveyor belt utilisation. It is the only system on the market to require just one LiDAR sensor to do this. The unique performance characteristics of the R2000 LiDAR sensor and an intelligent algorithm ensure reliable shadow correction. Minimal installation effort and quick, straightforward, three-step commissioning round off this highly economical solution.

Only one 2D LiDAR sensor is required
to reliably detect conveyor belt occupancy.

To distribute packages on a conveyor belt as efficiently and evenly as possible for transport to the downstream station, the conveyor belt's current utilization must be detected reliably. The Contour2D sensor system is the most efficient solution for this on the market, comprising a single LiDAR sensor mounted centrally above the conveyor belt. The central position of the sensor means that it detects shadows of packages on the conveyor belt, which would ordinarily distort the measurement results of the system. However, the high angular resolution of the R2000 2-D LiDAR sensor combined with an intelligent algorithm makes corrections for these shadows. The sensor system's Multi Scan Evaluation Unit (MSEU) takes care of running the algorithm and the further processing of the raw data from the LiDAR sensor.

Since there are only two components (sensor and MSEU) to install, the Contour2D impresses with very low hardware costs and minimal installation effort. Unlike conventional systems, there is no need for time-consuming configuration to align several sensors with each other. And since only a single sensor is mounted centrally above the conveyor belt, installation requires no major adjustments to the conveyor belt. Therefore, even existing plants can be retrofitted easily.

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Conveyer belt alignment!

Conveyor belt alignment and rip detection switch

4B Braime Elevator Components have launched the new 4B Bulldog belt alignment and rip detection switch. This electro-mechanical system has been designed to detect dangerous misalignment of the conveyor and also detection of belt tear damage.

The switch will detect horizontal misalignment of belts when contact is made with the roller; the roller arm will be forced to pivot by the belt activating a switch at 15º to trigger an alarm, and 30º to trigger a shut down procedure of the conveyor. The sensors are usually installed in pairs on opposite sides of the belt.

A steel flexible wire is set below the running conveyor belt approx 20-30mm attached by a rare earth magnet at each end. If the belt is ripped or damaged the wire is pulled away releasing the magnet connection which in turn will activate a switch.

The Bulldog’s robust design makes it suitable for the use in heavy duty applications such as quarrying and mining. It is easy to install and doesn’t need calibrating. The Bulldog is compatible with 4B’s CBS2 belt alignment monitor and the Watchdog Elite monitoring system. It has been approved for use in hazardous areas according to ATEX.