Miniature photoelectric sensor family.

Improvment on current models with a standardized ASIC design, delivering faster responses and better detection.

The SA2E general-purpose photoelectric (PE) sensor family, in five major models, each which improve on or replace proven SA1E products has been introduced by IDC Corporation. A new ASIC, common to the entire offering, provides a significantly improved price/performance ratio, while delivering better response times and more capable detection.

SA2E PE sensors are offered in five major variations:

• T: Through-beam, for detecting objects passing between emitter/receiver pairs.
• P: Polarized retro-reflective, for detecting objects passing between the receiver and a reflector, even in difficult lighting conditions.
• D: Diffused-reflective, for detecting targets by the light reflected from the target.
• B: Background suppression reflective, for improved and reliable detection of a wide variety of targets by the light reflected by the target.
• N: Small beam reflective, for close detection of small targets.

The SA2E sensors generally improve response times to 0.5ms, compared with 1.0ms for previous generation models, for better detection of smaller and faster moving objects. Sensors are switchable between “light-on” and “dark-on” operating modes, and applicable models have an on-board sensitivity or range adjustment potentiometer. Depending on the model, sensing distances can range up to 20m for through-beam, up to 5m for retro-reflective, and between 10mm and 1000mm for other reflective models. Tighter beams and more adjustability help designers deploy the sensors in a greater variety of applications.

Electrically, the control output is connectable as NPN/PNP open collector with output reverse-polarity protection. The devices consume very low current on the order of 20mA to 35mA, at supply voltages of 12VDC to 24VDC, with the ability to switch up to 100mA maximum. Designers can choose models with cables, or on-board M8 connectors for use with straight and right-angle cables.

The sensors are extremely compact at 10.8x19.5x31.5mm, and various mounting brackets are available. Sensors are built to operate in a wide range of temperatures from -30 to +55DegC, and an optional air blower allows stable detection, even in dusty or misty environments.

They provide a superior price/performance detection option for OEM machinery, material handling equipment, freight elevators, automated guided vehicles, robotics, pick-and-place systems, packaging machines, and many other types of applications.

@IDECUSA #PAuto 

Compact reflective photomicrosensor.

Omron Electronic Components Europe has launched a new, exceptionally compact reflective photomicrosensor (PMS) with a sensing distance of 3-4mm, plugging a gap in the market for an SMD device addressing applications such as 3D printers, mini printers, e-locks and factory automation equipment.

Gabriele Fulco, Product Marketing Manager for Sensors at Omron, said, “With increasing pressure on system size, there is a definite market trend to move from leaded PMS solutions to SMD, but there is a real need for a miniature device with a mid-range 3-4mm sensing distance. Our new device achieves a comparatively long sensing distance within a compact form factor as a result of its built in lens.”

The new Omron EE-SY1201 reflective PMS is just 3mm x 4mm x 2mm – yet offers a peak sensing distance of 3mm. Typical applications include paper pass detection in mini-printers, pin or cylinder rotation in e-locks, media pass detection in cutting machines and filament rotation in 3D printers. Other uses include factory automation equipment and industrial cameras. For applications requiring a shorter sensing distance of just 0.5mm, Omron offers the EE-SY1200.

@OmronEurope @NeeshamPR #Pauto #Manufacturing

Photoionisation detector.

Ion Science has launched its ‘world first’ FalcoTAC fixed photoionisation detector (PID) with 10.0eV lamp for fast and reliable detection of highly toxic total aromatic compounds (TACs), including benzene, in high humidity environments. Designed for plant-wide safety and the on-going protection of workers in global petrochemical and oil & gas applications, the new FalcoTAC instrument also boasts the company’s innovative typhoon technology for unrivalled accuracy in condensing atmospheres and extreme weather conditions.

Aromatic chemical compounds produced by oil refineries and petrochemical plants form the building blocks for numerous important materials including dyes, detergents, solvents, adhesives, plastics, synthetic rubbers and pharmaceuticals. However the TACs produced in these environments such as benzene, toluene and xylene isomers, are also highly toxic.

Utilising the proprietary high output Ion Science 10.0 electron volt (eV) detection system, the new FalcoTAC volatile organic compound (VOC) monitor offers fast response times and the best possible protection for plant personnel, giving early warning of any harmful levels of exposure to hazardous TACs, including benzene.

Simple to install and operate, the FalcoTAC features an external intrinsically safe sensor for quick and easy servicing without the need for a hot work permit, and can be serviced and calibrated in a hazardous environment without having to remove the power.

Their advanced typhoon technology prevents condensation forming on the sensor which helps to stop the FalcoTAC short circuiting and make it ideal for harsh conditions and wet outdoor environments, without the need for weather enclosures.

By incorporating Ion Science’s market-leading PID sensor and patented fence electrode technology, FalcoTAC does not experience quenching of response due to humidity in the ambient air. This increased resistance to humidity and contamination ensures ultimate reliability in the field, as well as considerably reduced drift issues and extended run time.

The unit is operated via an intuitive user interface with OLED display and five magnetically activated switches – up, down, left, right and enter – which are back lit to help confirm the correct button is being pressed. For added convenience, safety and ease of use, brightly coloured red, amber and pulsing (optional) green status indicators are clearly visible in sunlight allowing checks to be conducted from a distance.
The FalcoTAC utilises a diffusive sample technique which ensures less contamination issues than pumped systems and reduced lamp cleaning and servicing requirements. Pumped models are available for applications where a sample needs to be drawn to the unit.

The FalcoTAC 10.0eV is available offering a detection range of 0.01 – 50 parts per million (ppm).

The explosion proof enclosure is certified to EX d IIC T4 II and the external sensor to EX ib IIC T4 Gb II. A 4 – 20 mA analogue output enables FalcoTAC to be easily integrated into a DCS control system to give warning or control of high VOC levels in the working environment. Two relay outputs means it can be connected remotely plus RS485 output with Mobus protocol included as standard allows the instrument to be connected to a network.

@ionscience #PAuto @elhcomms

SM photo-microsensor range extended.

Omron Electronic Components Europe has extended its surface mount photo-microsensor range with a new 5mm slot width type, increasing the range of applications in office equipment, consumer electronics, ATM, vending machines and industrial control systems in which this device can be applied.

The new Omron EE-SX1350 brings the range of surface mount transmissive PMS from Omron to four sizes, with 2mm, 3mm, 4mm and now 5mm slot width. The new PMS has a high resolution, with a 0.5mm detector aperture. All these devices can be reflow soldered – allowing them to be assembled to the board in a single step along with other standard components. This reduces production cost and hence total cost of ownership. The surface mounting EE-SX1350 is also 65% smaller than the existing terminal style with overall dimensions of just 8.8mm × 4mm × 9mm.

The EE-SX1350 is that it is offered with a choice of photo-transistor outputs. In the near future, Omron is to release a 5mm slot width PMS with photo-IC outputs, known as the EE-SX3350. In photo-IC form, the device gives a sharply defined and stable ON / OFF output, and excellent accuracy and repeatability. The output is also much less affected by noise especially on the input channel. It gives the highest output current, so that it can be directly interfaced with relays and PLCs. It also gives fast operation, with switching speeds of micro-seconds. The photo-transistor version is lower cost.

Omron now offers a range of 40 transmissive PMS devices, with connector, terminal and wire terminations as well as the SMD styles.

Photo caption: Omron has extended its surface mount photo-microsensor range with a new 5mm slot width type, increasing the range of applications in which this device can be applied

@OmronEurope  #PAuto

MiniPID sensor in focus!

Ion Science is refocusing on its range of MiniPID (miniature photoionisation detection) sensors during 2016. As part of this latest R&D initiative, the company is set to introduce a series of enhancements designed to further strengthen the plug and play sensor’s performance and efficiency. They state that this is "further underlining our position at the forefront of gas detection monitoring instrumentation for occupational health and the environment!"

Ion Science’s well-proven, ATEX accredited MiniPID is a simple plug and play sensor that has been specially developed to deliver a dynamic and dependable response to thousands of VOCs (volatile organic compounds).

The MiniPID is widely used across a range of global occupational health and environmental monitoring applications, including personnel safety, industrial hygiene, site soil and air sampling, fugitive emissions and VOC spills, law enforcement and emergency response.

Available with a 12-month warranty but with an impressive five-year life expectancy (excluding replaceable lamp and pellet), the complete MiniPID series boasts Ion Science’s patented Fence Electrode Technology for industry-leading humidity resistance performance. In addition, the sensor’s clever anti-contamination design protects it from moisture, dust and aerosol ingress.

Specially developed for both diffusive and in-line pumped sampling, Ion Science’s MiniPID delivers an exceptional response and clear down time.

With highly efficient lamps that offer excellent brightness and stability, the MiniPID is able to reliably detect less volatile and readily sensed compounds over an extended period of time. It also features a removable, pneumatically sealed sensing pellet and series four / A1 format.
There are currently several models in the Ion Science MiniPID range. The 0.1 to 6000ppm (parts per million) sensor is configured for a dynamic, accurate and repeatable response to VOCs at elevated concentrations. The ppb (parts per billion) MiniPID offers a minimum detection limit of 1ppb and is designed to deliver a very low background current for optimum low end sensitivity.

The 10.0 eV MiniPID, which offers a range of 5ppb to 100ppm, is the latest addition to the three pin family and is used for selectivity of VOCs with lower ionisation potentials. A common application for this sensor is the determination of ambient levels of aromatic compounds.

Ion Science also offers an 11.7 eV MiniPID. With a range of 0.1 to 100ppm (isobutylene equivalent), the 11.7 eV lamp extends the amount of VOCs detected to include chloro-carbons, CFC, formaldehyde and chlorine.

Optional accessories available with the MiniPID range are PPB and 10.0 eV pellets, lamp cleaning kit, pellet removal tongs and 10.6 eV lamp and HPPM stack.

Ion Science’s Managing Director, Duncan Johns, comments: “Our MiniPID has been extremely successful since its launch in 2007. However, as a technological leader in the gas detection instrumentation market, we felt it was time to refocus on this key sensor. As a result, we are currently investing in several enhancements that we believe will further improve its sensitivity and reliability.”

@ionscience #PAuto

Wire-mounted photo micro sensors.

Omron Electronic Components Europe has launched a new range of wire-mounted photo micro sensors, specifically designed for the many applications where the detector needs to be installed in the appliance away from the main circuit board. The new styles greatly increase the flexibility of installation and reduce assembly costs.

Aimed at office equipment, home appliances, vending machines, arcade games and medical applications, the new photo micro sensors are pre-soldered to a connecting cable. They can be directly wired to a remote PCB and bolted onto the equipment housing. This reduces cost by eliminating the need to create a specific separate PCB assembly for the sensor, and increases reliability.

Omron has introduced a range of 12 new wire-mounted devices. The general purpose EE-SX1088 series features a 0.5mm vertical aperture for the detection of objects moving horizontally into the sensor. A horizontal aperture version (EE-SX1096 series) is also available to detect objects moving vertically through the sensor, as well as an extra wide style with a 9.5mm slot (EE-SX1160 series). The EE-SX1161 series is a dust proof version with a sensing distance of 3.2mm.

All styles are available in Dark-On and Dark-Off formats. Dark-On photo micro sensors switch on when no object is present in the aperture, whilst Dark-Off devices are activated when object is present. All these new products are available with two different output configurations: phototransistor and photo-IC.

@OmronEurope  #PAuto 

Entry-level version of volatile organic compound (VOC) monitor.

Ion Science has launched its TigerLT handheld volatile organic compound (VOC) monitor. This entry-level photoionisation detector (PID), which offers worldwide Intrinsic Safety (IS) certification for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, is a streamlined, low cost version of the company’s well proven Tiger model.

Ideal for conducting environmental surveys, the handheld TigerLT incorporates Ion Science’s market-leading PID technology with advanced patented fence electrode system. This three-electrode format ensures increased resistance to humidity and contamination for ultimate reliability and accuracy in the field, as well as considerably reducing drift issues and extending run time.

With a detection range of 0.1 - 5,000 parts per million (ppm) utilising a standard two-point calibration protocol, Ion Science’s robust TigerLT also offers an unrivalled industry response time of just two seconds and equally quick clear down.

Both simple to operate and service, the new TigerLT has been specifically developed by Ion Science to allow the operator easy access to the lamp and sensor in minutes, and for the safe replacement of batteries in hazardous environments. The intrinsically safe instrument also meets ATEX, IECEx, UL and CSA standards.

Duncan Johns, Managing Director at Ion Science says: “The launch of an entry-level version of our popular Tiger instrument is another example of Ion Science responding to the demands of its global customer base. Although the TigerLT has been streamlined to offer major cost benefits, it still offers an array of industry-beating features to ensure optimum performance.
“The key advantage of TigerLT over other similar, low cost handheld PID instruments is its market leading accuracy and run time due to is anti-contamination and humidity resistant design. Another attribute is its global Intrinsic Safety certification. Although the accreditation process can differ from country to country, the TigerLT can be used in explosive hazardous areas such as within petrochemical plants that are located anywhere in the world.”

The TigerLT six pin MiniPID detector cell with anti-contamination design dramatically extends run time in the field. Low cost filters and lamps can be easily changed in minutes, minimising downtime.
This new instrument also features long life rechargeable Li-ion batteries which give up to 24 hours usage. Fast battery charging allows the instrument to be fully charged in 6.5 hours, while eight hours of use can be achieved from 1.5 hours of charging time.

TigerLT features a protective, removable boot for harsh environments while a large, clear back-lit display allows for easy viewing in any light condition. It is IP 65 rated against water ingress. An integrated torch is designed for directing the instrument’s probe into dimly lit areas. Other features include a loud 95 dB audible alarm and multiple language support.

Ready to use, straight out of the box, the TigerLT does not require complicated set up procedures via a PC to perform basic functions.

Small but powerful!

The miniaturized MICROmote® photoelectric sensors from Balluff with separate electronic processor unit provide a large amount of optical performance in a tiny amount of space thanks to the miniaturized LEDs, photodiodes and phototransistors. Balluff specially developed a new, patented manufacturing process for its production. This provides the micro-optical components with high optical precision.

The MICROmote® sensors are ideal in small installation spaces and on moving machine parts and robot grippers, where low weight is necessary.

The robust sensors integrated into the metal housing are operated with a separate amplifier, which can be positioned outside of the action area. Highly flexible electrical cables provide secure transmission of the sensor signals between the sensor head and the amplifier. In this way, the sensors are also a technical alternative to fiber optics. An additional plus: The amplifier features ergonomic indicators and operating elements.

The photoelectric sensor heads with dimensions of just a few millimeters not only have impressive technical characteristic values, but also numerous other unique selling points. Thanks to a sophisticated modular system, users can find the ideal solution quickly and cost-effectively. It does not matter if the application involves position detection of small parts, identification and counting of objects or detecting the filling levels of foaming liquids.

Available products include, diffuse sensors, through-beam sensors, high-vacuum sensors, fork sensors, but also precision hose sensors used, for example, in the detection of liquids and bubbles.

Smallest photomicrosensor!

Omron Electronics Components has launched what it believes is the smallest photomicrosensor on the market, a device that nevertheless offers exceptional sensing performance.

Despite its ultra-compact size of just 3.2mm x 1.9mm x 1.1mm, the new Omron EE-SY1200 reflective photomicrosensor can reliably detect objects between 1mm and 4mm away. It is ideal for a whole range of demanding applications including paper pass and edge detection in office equipment and cash machines, as well as motion and tamper detection in gambling and metering equipment and safety applications such as end of travel detection cover presence confirmation and moving part proximity detection.

Based on their innovative MID (moulded interconnect device) technology, the EE-SY1200 offers a detector solution with a high and reliable signal to noise ratio. The industry leading parameters of minimum light current versus maximum leakage current, for the EE-SY1200, are specified at 200micro-amps against 500nano-amps. This level of performance allows the system to reliably respond to the presence and position of the detected object.

Gabriel Sikorjak, Omron Product Marketing Manager, Sensors, commented, “The development of new EE-SY1200 photomicrosensor securely establishes Omron as a innovative supplier of high quality, high functionality, compact components for sensing and control. The new sensor has few, if any, alternatives available on the current market for surface mounting reflective photomicrosensors. The exceptional sensing distance achieved opens up new opportunities for designers looking for sensing solutions where an object needs to be detected as it approaches the detection area.”

The device is available in a surface mount termination for use with automated mounting equipment and offers it in tape and reel packaging. The sensor is compatible with the latest reflow soldering processes. The photomicrosensor supports an operating temperature range from -25°C to 85°C.

Photomicrosensor are compact optical sensors that detect objects or object positions using an optical beam. The reflective photomicrosensor incorporates an emitter and a detector. When an object is located in the sensing area of the reflective photomicrosensor, the object reflects the optical beam of the emitter, thus changing the amount of optical energy reaching the detector.

Photoelectric sensors for transparent targets

Stable and dependable detection for transparent objects, including glass, films and PET, simple installation and ease of adjustment are the key benefits of the new E3ZM-B_T photoelectric sensors. These versatile sensors are the latest additions to Omron's E3Z product range, which is the most comprehensive and competitive family of compact sensors currently available for food industry applications.

Designed for retroreflective operation, the new E3ZM-B_T sensors are suitable for sensing distances up to 500 mm. They are available with an easy-to-adjust potentiometer for range setting, or on request with a one-touch teach button for users who prefer automatic range adjustment.

All models feature 316L stainless-steel housings and can be supplied in versions with integral cables or for use with connectors. A choice of PNP or NPN outputs is offered.

These sensors use the same mounting brackets and compact connectors as the other sensors in the E3Z range, which also includes leading-edge products for standard applications, for mark detection and for use in hygienic environments. For food packaging lines, this simplifies machine design and construction, and also reduces the number of different bracket and connector types that users need to stock.

There are also benefits for those machine builders that have a multivendor strategy for sensor sourcing, as the industry-standard compact format used by E3ZM-B_T sensors ensures that the general purpose products are physically interchangeable with sensors from many other suppliers around the world.

The new sensors complement Omron’s existing E3Z-B basic transparent object sensors and its E3ZM-B sensors that are designed for the highest stability with PET targets, which will continue to be available.

Photosensor

Background suppression photosensor offers two operating modes and best-of-breed range

New from Carlo Gavazzi is a diffuse photoelectric sensor extending the company’s background suppression technology out to long-range operation. The new PD112 offers one-touch switching between door mode for entrance control applications and industrial mode for standard applications like packaging, wrapping and material handling and timber processing.

Best-of-breed sensing distances are achieved through their advanced triangulation technology: the sensor can detect black objects at distances up to 2m away, and white or grey objects at up to 2.5m. Adjustment is fast and precise using the 28-turn potentiometer on the device’s front panel and users can fine-tune the sensor to detect targets at the desired distance, distinguishing them from reflective objects just a few millimetres beyond.

A truly innovative feature of the unit is the mode operation selection. Set to traditional industrial mode, the maximum operating frequency is 250Hz and detection is optimised for objects near to the background. This ensures optimal performance in general industry automation applications such as pallet wrapping machines, airport baggage conveyors, or wood handling and plank stacking machinery.

By making a simple dip switch selection, the instrument is switched to a door mode, which automatically optimises the performance of the sensor for detecting people and objects around automatic doors, from a position above the door/in the ceiling. Maximum operating frequency is set to 16.7Hz, adapting to the speed of moving people, and the test input – which evaluates sensor function by muting the emitter – is enabled for use by a door controller or PLC. This mode allows the sensor to be remotely tested by a door controller, ensuring the sensor complies with door industry safety standards.

The PD112 features many other innovations providing versatility and ease-of-use. Each model has both NPN and PNP output, which is automatically detected by the sensor when wired. Normally open or normally closed output can be selected via a dip switch and the sensor’s dual adjustable timers (1 – 16 seconds) for ON and OFF delay allow for a customised solution.

Packaging for the sensor comes in the form of a 112 x 45 x 25 mm strong polycarbonate (PC) housing, complementing a sophisticated mechanical design and a choice of cable connection or built-in M12 connector. IP67 rating and high power LED ensures excellent performance in harsh environments.