In many automated systems, objects such as boxes and components need to be measured as they pass along the automated lines. Due to the shape of the items, it is necessary to measure them in a 3D format.

According to Gerry Bryant, managing director of Countapulse Controls – South African agents for Leuze products – Leuze light curtains can be configured as a portal for size detection on automated lines. “A classic example of the success of this principle is at LCS S.p.A., an Italian logistics company. The company required a system that could accurately measure the size of the boxes as they travelled along the line. Leuze supplied three cascading CML 720i PB light curtains to LCS, who are very pleased with the success of the system.”

Bryant points out that the incorporation of a number of light curtains in a cascade format results in more comprehensive and faster measurement of items. In addition, the detection of transparent media enables object tracing on conveyor belts. “The Leuze light curtains monitor a large measurement field of up to 6 metres (3 metres for large objects), with a dead zone of just 23 mm between beams. Depending on the configuration and model, the devices are suitable for a variety of measurement tasks with various resolutions. They can be readily integrated into different fieldbus environments, such as Profibus, CANopen, RS485 and IO-Link for direct configuration via the control panel. This eliminates the need for additional gateway boxes, as well as the corresponding space requirements and effort required for mounting,” Bryant explains.

The cycle time is a mere 1.36 ms and the response time per beam is a noteworthy 30 µs. The units have a large, easy to read display with a robust membrane keyboard and bar graph display for easy alignment. The unit, which is contained in a robust metal housing, weighs in at just 400 g, measures 29 mm by 35.4 mm and can operate in ambient temperatures of between -20 and +60°C. An M12 connector provides fast installation times.