The optical fibre sensors are divided into two categories: thrubeam and reflective. The thrubeam type comprises a transmitter and a receiver. The reflective type, which is a single unit, is available in 3 types: parallel, coaxial, and separate. The 3 are based on the shape of the crosssection of the optical fibre.
Fiber optic sensors work based on the principle that light from a laser or any superluminescent source is transmitted via an optical fiber, experiences changes in its parameters either in the optical fiber or fiber Bragg gratings and reaches a detector which measures these changes.
The combination of fiber-optic sensor and fibers is an excellent solution for a wide range of applications. Challenging detection tasks can be solved in combination with the matching fibers thanks to the comprehensive adjustment options of the fiber-optic sensor.
The comprehensive fiber portfolio from SICK satisfies all requirements regardless of whether the size, mounting options, material resistance or suitability for a special application is the deciding factor.
When using the fiber-optic sensors in bus operation, up to 16 devices can be connected to a bus system. This creates several benefits.
Using the fieldbus gateway, up to 16 fiber-optic sensors (WLL180T and KTL180) and distance sensors (OL1, OD Mini Pro, OD5000 in combination with the AOD1 evaluation unit) can be integrated into a network. All sensor data can be read out and written on the sensor using the fieldbus gateway. Settings can also be made and reviewed in this way (e.g. in the event of format or product changes) if the sensors are installed in hard-to-reach places.
The sensor and therefore the machine status can be determined at any time with the monitoring of sensor data, and diagnostic functions can also be implemented. All sensor data is transmitted to a fieldbus cable, which considerably decreases wiring effort.
