Sick Introduces Laser Measurement System
Sick Factory Automation Services introduces its non-contact laser measurement system (LMS) which can be used for standard applications involving measurement of objects and position determination, monitoring areas and vehicle guidance and collision control. The fundamental ability of laser scanners to offer accurate contour measurement provides an interesting asset for use in container handling operations. Advanced laser technology is relatively straightforward to acquire, install and maintain. It can provide the precision which adds value to the container handling process.
Collision control is a very real problem in container terminal areas, both as far as equipment which moves along rails such as quayside cranes and with mobile equipment. The laser scanner's function is to monitor one or more zones in front of the fixed path or mobile equipment and to alert an operator to a potential collision; i.e., it functions as a system designed to avoid a collision.
LMS measurements are based on time-of-flight measurement. The LMS calculates the distance to the object using the time of flight of pulsed light; i.e., the length of time between sending and receiving the beam of light.
An extremely short pulse of light (infrared laser beam) is transmitted towards an object. Part of the light is reflected back to the unit a fraction of a second later. A rotating mirror deflects the pulsed light beam to many points in a semi-circle. The direction is given by an angular sensor on the mirror (laser RADAR). A large number of coordinates measured in this way are put together to form a model of the surrounding area's contours. Using the serial interface of the unit, measurements are transferred in real time to a hose PC/PLC for further evaluation.
For further information contact:
Kris Zabel
Sick Factory Automation Solutions
6900 West 110th Street
Minneapolis, MN 55438
952-941-6780
Fax: 952-941-9287