OPTEK Develops Packaged Optical Proximity Sensor
Carrollton, TX — Providing industrial and commercial machine designers with an economical means of non-contact proximity sensing, TT electronics OPTEK Technology has developed a packaged optical reflective switch capable of detecting the presence or absence of objects from a maximum range of up to 24" (610mm). Designated the OPB720 Series, the reflective sensor enables design engineers to incorporate optoelectronic sensing capability into their machines for lower cost than traditional proximity sensors.
"We developed the OPB720 Series to enable design engineers to preset its detection distance anywhere from 0.04" (1mm) up to 24" (610mm)," said Steve Coble, engineering manager for OPTEK Technology. "Packaged in a miniature plastic housing that measures just 1.1" (27.9mm) x 0.68" (17.3mm) x 0.33" (8.4mm), the sensor is ideal for most industrial machines, material handling equipment, and packaging equipment, as well as high-volume commercial applications."
According to Coble, the OPB720 Series sensor represents an expansion of OPTEK's sensor capability into the packaged industrial sensor market. "The OPB720 Series puts us in the high-volume sensor business, which is a natural extension for our optoelectronics products," he added.
The OPB720 Series proximity sensor consists of an infrared LED and a photodetector, packaged in a miniature plastic housing. The sensor's maximum range is preset at the factory, depending on the design requirements. Objects as small as 0.08" (2mm) can be recognized by the sensor at distances up to 8" (203mm), while larger objects can be detected at the maximum range of 24" (610mm).
The OPB720 Series proximity sensor features collector DC current of 50mA, with power dissipation at 300mW. The sensor can switch from high level with no reflection target to low level with reflection.
Designed to be compatible with most PLCs, the OPB720 sensor features open collector output, with an operating power requirement of 30 volts.
Designed for easy mounting, the OPB720 features an opaque plastic housing that provides ambient light reduction of <100K Lux for operation in most factory or commercial environments. Various cable length and termination options are available, as well as presetting maximum sensing distance preset specification.
Other applications for the OPB720 Series proximity sensor include conveyor belt package recognition; automatic sensors for "people mover" moving sidewalks and escalators; near-focus security sensors; product dispensing systems; and high volume commercial sensing systems for automatic toilets, sinks and soap dispensers.
OPTEK Technology is a leading manufacturer of standard and application-specific sensors using infrared, magnetic and fiber optic technologies focused on applications in office machines, industrial equipment, encoders, automotive electronics, military and high-reliability applications, and medical diagnostic equipment. Headquartered in Carrollton, TX, the company is ISO/TS16949:2002 and BS EN ISO 9001:2000 certified. OPTEK Technology was acquired by TT electronics in December 2003.
TT electronics plc is a global electronics company manufacturing a broad range of advanced electronic components, assemblies and sensor modules for the automotive, industrial, telecommunication, computer and aerospace markets.
Source: OPTEK Technology