JUNE 7--A high-speed PSD-based laser triangulation sensor from LMI Technologies (Detroit, MI; www.lmint.com) is now available for various quality applications in numerous industries. The affordable Laser Distance Sensor (LDS) tracks object displacement or running profile changes at analog outputs up to 100-kHz response. The highly accurate, fast measurement rate makes these sensors an ideal choice for measuring vibration, alignment, distance, thickness, positioning, and similar applications. Differential measurement by two sensors allows on-line thickness and profile measurements to be made at the same high rates without sacrificing production speed or quality. Among other applications are on- and off-line quality control, positioning, oscillation measurement, surface control and other specialized inspection applications.
Other technical specifications include an available measurement range from 10 to 45 mm (0.4 to 1.8 in.), depending on the model selected. The sensor's small laser spot size from 0.20 to 0.250 mm (0.008 to 0.010 in.) makes it ideal for measuring small targets. Color and texture variations in the measurement target area are automatically compensated for by the sensor's variable laser power-control circuit.
The LDS is available in a standard continuous-power version for applications requiring a higher frequency response or an optional modulated-power version for higher ambient light applications. The standard continuous version's optical filter reduces the affect of disturbing ambient light influences while the modulated version's 50-kHz modulation frequency efficiency cancels any influence from other light sources. Resolutions can be resolved down to 0.1 μm when averaged at 9 Hz.
Stand-off distance of both versions is from 80 to 90 mm (3.1 to 3.5 in.) and offset distance from 65 to 75 mm (2.6 to 2.95 in.). Accuracy is better than 0.5% at 10 kHz and resolution less than 0.1% of the measuring range.
Analog voltage output is from 0 to 10 Vdc. An analog current out option of 4--20 mA is also available. The sensor comes in a compact, rugged IP-65 NEMA-4 for optimum durability. Sensors can be custom designed for particular OEM applications.
LMI Technologies Inc. develops laser-based machine-vision sensors for monitoring and control in various industries. The company has more than 40 vision and laser sensor models and more than 100 issued and pending patents.