Optical Position Sensor measures on straights and in corners.

Press Release Summary:



With resolution up to 0.1 mm, Model OLM100 optical linear measurement sensor determines position by scanning barcodes printed on barcode tape at 3 cm intervals. Sensor orients itself using barcode tape installed along travel section measuring up to 10 km. Featuring rugged metal housing, LED-based sensor uses light beam and is specified for measuring distance from tape of 100 ±20 mm. It adjusts to temperature fluctuations between -30 and +60°C.



Original Press Release:



Optical Position Detection via Barcodes - The Optimum on Straights and in Corners



SICK is pursuing new paths in distance measurement with the OLM100 optical linear measurement sensor. By scanning a barcode tape, the sensor determines positions on straights as well as in corners - even at high speeds and with great precision. This makes the OLM100 very interesting for numerous intralogistical applications.

Overhead electric conveyors, rail-mounted shuttles, slewing rings and turntables, hoisting systems, or robots are typical applications in which the important thing frequently is determining position accurately in corners as well. Here the OLM100 constitutes the ideal solution. The sensor orients itself by means of a barcode tape installed along a travel section measuring up to 10 km. By scanning the barcodes that are printed on the barcode tape at 3-cm intervals, the optical linear measuring sensor determines the current position - with a resolution of up to 0.1 mm. For output of the position values one has different interfaces available, among them RS422, RS485, SSI, and CANopen.

Designed for maximum availability

The optical linear measurement system is designed for maximum performance and availability. In the OLM100's rugged metal housing, one looks in vain for any movable parts that would thus be susceptible to wear; the LED-based sensor technology is robust and durable. The light beam is very bright: It is very well visible when aligning the sensor to the tape; it allows reliable scanning of the barcodes during operation and ensures a maximum amount of functional reserve as well as immunity against ambient light. Installation of the sensor - either by means of four through boreholes in the housing or the T-slot on the back - fits nearly any condition. The measuring distance between the sensor and the barcode tape is specified to 100 mm +/- 20 mm - therefore, any corresponding distance tolerances along the travel have no influence on reliable position detection.

Nonstop performance along the barcode tape

The barcode tape, too, masters nearly any possible conditions in the facility. It is so flexible that it adjusts to temperature fluctuations between - 30 °C and + 60 °C, expanding or contracting with the ground. Small expansion joints can be pasted over when applying the tape; at larger expansion points or discontinuities, a single barcode can be detached at a cut mark. If a barcode happens to be damaged or heavily soiled, one can repair it easily by downloading the barcode from the Internet (sick.com/OLM), printing it to a plastic film, and inserting it into the barcode tape at the appropriate point.

The OLM100 constitutes the ideal solution for path measurement on straight lines and around corners. Usable flexibly in diverse applications, the sensor delivers convincing performance because of low installation, commissioning, and operating costs, as well as a high level of plant availability.

For decades, SICK has been one of the world's most innovative companies in the sensor sector. The latest technological knowledge and processes are implemented in innovative products and system solutions. They position SICK as a technology and market leader in the customer segments of factory, logistics and process automation.

More than 50 innovations in sensor and control solutions are planned for 2009. SICK will launch a new product each week as part of its "SICK Innovation Marathon 2009". All innovations - from No. 1 to No. 52 - are more than just products: they solve tasks intelligently, efficiently and precisely. And create unbeatable customer advantages.

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