Learn more about Bulgin's photosensors and discover the flexibility of a one-sensor solution.
Photosensors are a critical component in the field of automation due to their incredible flexibility when it comes to applications. For those unfamiliar, a photosensor, in its simplest form, is a light sensitive component that converts photon energy into an electrical signal. The most basic of photosensors would be the photodiode, which consists of a PIN silicon configuration (p type, intrinsic, and N type). While a photodiode produces current when light falls on it, this current is far too small to drive circuitry such as motors, actuators, indicators, and drivers. So, instead, photodiodes are almost always combined with amplifying devices such as transistors to boost their sensor output to make them capable of controlling other devices.
Other light sensitive components, such as light-dependent resistors (LDRs), would appear to be photosensors, but are in fact not, as they do not convert light energy into an electrical signal (their resistance changes but they do not produce current). Photosensors will also often be targeted at specific wavelengths such as infrared, visible, and UV, which is highly advantageous if a sensor is being used in an environment that may be subject to large amounts of ambient light that might otherwise interfere with the sensor.
Indeed, photosensors have a wide range of applications. As a result, they are often used in automation, manufacturing, and robotics applications. One example of the use of photosensors in automated environments would be in a robotic arm construction zone. Robotic arms are capable of intricate assembly work at high speeds. This makes them ideal for factories, but, unlike humans, the technology cannot understand their environment and who may be nearby. Since robotic arms can be incredibly powerful (enough to cause severe harm), anyone standing next to an active robotic arm is at risk of injury.
One method of preventing this scenario is to have robotic arms operate in a zone surrounded by light fences (beams of light that hit photosensors). When a person crosses this light barrier, it automatically shuts down the robot, thus preventing harm.
Another example of photosensors use in automation is basic object detection. A conveyor belt may have a system whereby placed objects need to be picked up by an automated grip, but items being placed on the conveyor may not be placed at known distances. A beam of light hitting a photosensor can be located next to the automated grip which, when broken, stops the conveyor and the automated grip can then remove the object from the belt.
All of this being said, automated and manufacturing environments may not be the most ideal place for off-the-shelf sensors. High humidity from washing units, low temperatures from freezers, or dust from an automated saw can instantly spell disaster for electronics, which are not designed to work in these environments.
In the best-case scenario, a damaged sensor can lead to false warnings and equipment shut-off; however, in the worse-case scenario, safety features may not function properly, leaving operators at potential risk of harm. As such, it is imperative that such sensors are robust, reliable, and proven in the environment that it will be installed.
Photosensors that are up for the task
For harsh environments where reliability is crucial, Bulgin’s new family of slim-line photoelectric sensors is the component for the job. This line of photosensors includes a wide range of features that make them ideal for automated environments, including the photosensor being sealed to IP67, stainless steel housing, ambient humidity range of 35-85%, and an operating temperature range of -10°C to 50°C. The sensors have a quick response time of no more than 0.5 ms, which, in turn, makes them well suited for scenarios requiring fast reactions. What’s more, the cable termination for the line is available with M5 connectors for increased mechanical stability.
Bulgin’s new photosensors are available in either PNP or NPN variations, though an additional control signal allows for the sensor to be configured if the output is on in the presence of light (or lack thereof). The voltage supply for these sensors is between 12 V-24 VDC. This voltage range also applies to the control signal (which determines if they are normally on or off devices).
Finally, it’s worth pointing out that Bulgin’s photosensors are capable of object detection ranges from 2 mm to 40 mm. Also, the sensors’ slim-line construction of just 4.5 mm makes them ideal for fitting in space restrictive areas.
The importance of using the right photosensor
When integrating sensors into a product or application, it is essential that you understand how to correctly mount the sensor. One classic example of the importance of this was the Russian-made rocket, Proton-M, whereupon launch, the rocket rotated 180 degrees as some of the velocity sensors on the rocket were installed in the incorrect orientation.
To avoid similar scenarios, Bulgin’s photosensors have orientation considerations that need to be made when installing them. The sensors are capable of reliably detecting objects that directly approach or move in line with the sensor and emitter. The sensors, however, are not designed to reliably detect objects that traverse across the sensors as an object could be in front of the sensor region but not the light emitter region, which would result in no reflection and, therefore, no detection.
Bulgin photoelectric sensor applications
The photoelectric sensor range by Bulgin has a wide range of applications thanks to their ability to handle harsh environments as well as ensure mechanical and electrical reliability.
One possible application for the sensors would be as a door safety mechanism in machinery environments. The sensor could be mounted to detect if a door or access port is closed, and if the door is not closed then the machinery in the room or area under guard would be shut down. The bonus of the Bulgin sensor is that due to its IP67 rating, it can be used with a wide range of machinery including drills, saws, washers, and cleaners.
The flexible nature of the cables on the Bulgin sensors also make them useful in environments involving motion and movement. While the sensors themselves need to be secured mechanically, their cables do not, and so can be moved around. This would make the Bulgin sensors useful in scenarios including robotic arms, which may incorporate the sensors for homing or object detection.
The fast response time of the Bulgin range of photoelectric sensors, also makes them ideal as a counter source. Since the output signal of the photoelectric sensor range is digital by nature, and they have an incredibly fast response time of less than 0.5 ms, these sensors could be used in counting scenarios such as RPM on a rotating disc or slots in a timed belt.
See related product
See related product
See related product