Distance measuring photoelectric sensors typically provide a dynamic continuous analog output signal, in some cases a digital output can be activated as well, that relates to object position. These sensors emit either a visible red or laser light that reflects back to the sensor.
Some models utilize triangulation, based on the angle of the light reflected on the sensor receiver from the target, to determine the distance to the target. Longer-range models use time of flight, which measures the time it takes a pulsed light from the emitter to return to the receiver sensor after it is reflected off the target. Time of flight sensors offer longer ranges, up to 6 meters, whereas the triangulation method offers higher resolution, as low as 20 micrometers.
Applications
- Contour checking
- Profile verification
- Thickness measuring
- Diameter measuring
- Loop control
- Fill levels