New area light barrier for a wide range of applications

In many areas of application, precise and reliable object detection is essential for smooth processes. Simple retro-reflective sensors reach their limits, especially with very small or narrow objects that are not precisely aligned with the point-shaped detection area. Heterogeneous objects with irregular contours can also trigger unwanted multiple switching operations. This is where the new R305 area light barrier from Mannheim-based automation specialist Pepperl+Fuchs comes in. With its wide light band instead of a point light beam, it detects even very narrow edges and only triggers a single object-detected switching operation, even with inhomogeneous shapes.

Maximum flexibility for a wide range of applications

With a variety of setting options and its innovative light band, which consists of five beams, each twelve millimetres wide, the R305 area light barrier is designed to offer users maximum flexibility. Each individual beam can be deactivated individually to block out interfering objects in the detection area or to adapt the overall height of the light band to narrow openings. The contrast level can also be adapted to the application in order to reliably detect objects made of clear glass, for example.

IO-Link interface opens up individual optimization options

The optoelectronic sensor also allows you to choose between two preset measuring modes: a large detection range of up to four metres (in standard resolution mode) or a high resolution of up to two millimetres (in high resolution mode). Adaptation to specific applications is conveniently carried out via a rotary selector switch and button directly on the sensor. The IO-Link interface provides even more flexibility, allowing the range and resolution to be gradually adjusted and optimized. The predefined setting options offer a quick and efficient solution for various applications. But where these reach their limits, the use of IO-Link opens up additional and individual adjustment and optimization options. For example, in addition to detecting the object, the R305 area light barrier is also able to measure its height at the same time. The evaluation of this data can serve as a basis for sorting, classification or monitoring purposes and thus ensure an increase in quality and process optimization. In addition, the parallel transmission of measurement and status data via IO-Link creates the basis for predictive maintenance.

Simple commissioning and reduced maintenance

In Easy Alignment Mode, the R305 area light barrier can be installed quickly and intuitively without time-consuming adjustment. A yellow LED indicates how the sensor's light band needs to be aligned with the reflector. In addition, users can use an adapter with an integrated deflecting mirror to conveniently mount the photoelectric sensor offset by 90 degrees. This compact sidelooker version has been specially designed for very tight spaces.

Compensation for changing light conditions

If the R305 area light barrier is switched off for a maintenance-related system shutdown, for example, it automatically adjusts to the current application environment when it is switched back on thanks to the auto-teach function. A new manual teach-in is not necessary. During operation, the sensor also automatically adjusts its light intensity thanks to the intelligent signal compensation and thus compensates for changing light conditions or impairments caused by dust or dirt. This ensures consistently stable operation and keeps maintenance costs to a minimum.