Light array with separate amplifier

High-precision object detection in tightest space and in dusty environments

Balluff: Optical window sensors are typically used for reliable detection and exact counting of fast-flying or falling parts in production or packaging processes. However, if the installation space is particularly small or if difficult working conditions arise, such as uncontrollable dust, solving this issue can become a challenge. The remedy is now here in the form of the BOH AI from the BAE MICROmote® family with separate amplifier.

They bring a high level of optical precision to the smallest of installation spaces together with functional diversity. The sensor head has been designed in a particularly space-saving way with the optical unit away from the evaluation electronics. It is connected to the electronics using a highly flexible but robust electrical cable. This ensures ease of handling, despite the minimal sensor size. Operators can adjust the sensor to their individual working conditions.

The photoelectric beam's optical precision is attributed to the indi-vidual beams of light projected from discreet precision LEDs, which are sequenced together and overlap in a specific manner. The high level of uniformity from the photoelectric beam produced in this manner is the key to extremely precise object detection.

Solve application-specific requirements
In general, the separate amplifier electronics for all light arrays can be individually selected from a variety of standard versions. De-pending on the electronics, light arrays can thereby be used in various ways: from the optical window to dynamic object detection of free-falling parts to analog web edge control to non-contacting optical limit switches. This modular concept also enables rapid application-specific implementations: for example adapting to the dimension, the housing material or the surface composition for individual detection requirements.

Many optical applications within automated processes reach their physical limits in very dusty environments. When for example filling of certain products results in very fine dust, the reliability and time required for a count are drastically affected.

The dynamic amplifiers of the BAE series feature automatic correction of the switching threshold, used to compensate for the optical effect of the dust layer. A separate alarm output displays the end of the automatic readjustment area. This is done to indicate when the sensor needs to be cleaned or when the sensitivity has been reset externally.