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SENSORS & SENSING SYSTEMS


FEATURE SING A NEW CHALLENGE


ystems used on ed to withstand and weather


unaffected by sunlight and non-metallic dirt, but have a very short sensing distance compared to optical sensors. Radar sensors are also unaffected by sunlight and dirt. While they can have sensing ranges that exceed most optical sensors, they also have a very wide beam compared to most optical sensors, which can result in detecting unwanted objects. Any sensor that relies upon a mechanical


movement, such as linear position sensors and rotary encoders, can become clogged by dirt. However, contactless encoders are completely sealed and do not have the mechanical rotating parts of a standard encoder, thus making them suitable for dirty environments. Plus, as they do not have the inside air space required by a standard encoder, they can easily withstand high-pressure hose down cleaning.


ULTRASONIC SENSORS As their wide beam angle and long range distance measurement capabilities make them ideal for anti-collision applications – such as the parking sensors used on almost every car – ultrasonic sensors are often used on mobile equipment. Being good at detecting irregular shaped objects, these are often used in food detection and level measurement, however at longer ranges wind can blow the sound wave produced away from the sensor. As they rely on a moving diaphragm to produce the sound wave, they can also be susceptible to dirt.


RADAR SENSORS Radar sensors are becoming a common choice for mobile equipment applications. These can detect objects greater than 100mm, often for collision avoidance, object presence and distance measurement; and they are resistant to dirt, wind, rain, snow, fog and sunlight. They


can also operate over -40 to +65˚C and can detect objects over a wide area.


LASER SENSORS Although often thought of as a good solution for mobile equipment due to their precise spot and accurate distance measurement, the laser sensors that are safe to use around people actually have very little power. The nature of a laser means that the light doesn’t naturally disperse like other light beams, but is concentrated into a very small spot which is easily absorbed or dispersed if the laser beam hits rain, fog, snow or dirt. These also do not cope very well with vibrations


or movement. If the sensor angle moves by just three degrees at a range of 2m, the sensing spot will move by 10.5cm. If the target is shiny and also vibrating or moving, then the beam reflected back to the sensors will also move around, and an angle of 0.6 degrees over the same 2m will move the beam off of a 20mm receiver lens. With inclinometer sensors


predominantly used on mobile equipment, companies like Turck Banner will only manufacture them with the qualities required for that environment.


INDICATORS AND CONNECTIVITY It is not only sensors and controls that are challenged by mobile equipment. Many indicators are often unreadable in daylight, however Banner produces daylight visible indicators to meet demands. But, the higher cost of these special sensors doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom, as there are also


MAY 2024 DESIGN SOLUTIONS 21


bus systems and connectivity devices designed for mobile equipment. Choosing these fully- potted, machine mountable devices eliminates or significantly reduces the size of the control cabinet. Maintenance is also simplified as everything is accessible and primarily uses cordsets with connectors. Turck Banner can even provide bespoke


connectivity solutions, such as wiring looms with harsh duty Deutsch connectors, and sensors with customised capabilities.


UP TO THE CHALLENGE So when you need to specify a sensor capable of meeting the challenges of mobile equipment, get in touch with Turck Banner to find a solution that directly meets your application needs.


Turck Banner


T: 01268 578888 www.turckbanner.co.uk/en


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