Optical distance measurement and data transmission work directly side by side

Leuze: AMS 200 distance measuring devices from Leuze electronic operate with the aid of laser red light and can be used alongside DDLS 2000 optical data transmission units without risk of mutual interference. Additional data output flexibility is provided by new interfaces.

Optical distance measurement is an ideal way of ensuring the continuous and absolute determination of automatically moving equipment such as rack handling devices, gantry crane bridges, trolleys or transfer bridges.

Absolute Measuring System AMS 200 from Leuze electronic offers outstanding precision coupled with operating simplicity and optimum connection convenience. Up to a range of 200 metres, measured positions are precisely reproduced to an accuracy of just millimetres. Over a measured distance of 120 metres, an absolute accuracy of ±2 millimetres is achieved, with ±3 millimetres over a distance of 200 metres. The high-speed position calculation of the AMS 200 permits optimum utilization of modern drive system dynamics for high-speed positioning of X and Y axes. Once processed by the software, the distance data received by the distance measuring system is made available in the form of speed information. One of the special features offered by Leuze electronic is a speed monitoring function based on this technology. Traversing paths can be subdivided into four different distance sectors, for instance, with each sector capable of configuration with a separate speed. The relevant parameters are monitored independently in the device. If the measured values fall outside the specified values, a message is transmitted to the control system. This facility cuts around 30% off the cost of installing mechanical speed control mechanisms or buffers on rack handling systems, which are normally capable of bringing the handling system to a standstill from full traversing operation. Alongside the rack handling system’s own monitoring function, the additional speed control provided by the AMS 200 ensures compliance with the requirement for a second independent measurement system.

System safety is taken care of by pre-failure messages, which the AMS 200 uses to provide advance warning of diminishing laser diode output, operation at inadmissible temperatures or the accumulation of dirt on the lens. This permits maintenance or repair measures to be undertaken in good time and enhances system availability.

In addition to the existing PROFIBUS-DP and SSI interfaces, both of which can be used simultaneously, Leuze electronic has now also equipped the AMS 200 with an RS 232 interface which will offer the user enhanced flexibility in the output of data. A separate device variant features an INTERBUS interface.

AMS 200 distance measuring devices operate using red laser light, which allows them to be used directly next to data transmission units used for no-contact, wear-free data transmission, without any risk of mutual interference. Data transmission units from Leuze electronic comprise two devices which are capable of bi-directional communication, as each device operates both as a transmitter and a receiver. Network data is transmitted on a no-contact, no-wear basis, fully tap-proof and without interference over a distance of up to 500 metres. In conjunction with data transmission unit DDLS 200, this type of combination is already used in successful operation in wide-ranging different sectors of industry, due to its outstanding flexibility, high baud rates, insensitivity, enormous operating ranges and interface versatility.

The AMS 200 and DDLS 200 are also optionally available with heating, ensuring trouble-free operating sequences even at below-zero temperatures of up to -30 °C.