Autonics Launches Compact Sensors for Precision Object Detection

Autonics has introduced the BTS and BTF photoelectric sensor series, expanding its sensing portfolio with compact solutions capable of detecting objects as small as 0.1 mm. The BTS series offers sensing distances up to 3 meters, while the ultra-thin BTF series is designed for installations with limited space. Featuring multiple sensing modes, IP67 protection, and interference-resistant operation, the new sensors provide manufacturers with flexible, high-precision detection for quality control and automation tasks.

What They Have In Common

Both new product lines feature through-beam, diffuse-reflectivity, and BGS-reflective detection methods. These detection modes provide flexibility in detection across many surfaces and products, and they are not sensitive to color, material, or other reflections.

One of the neatest features of these sensors is their ability to work together. Multiple sensors can be used in conjunction; they are designed not to interfere with one another, reducing “false positives” from nearby sensors. Also, to minimize alignment errors, each sensor has a visible indicator indicating its focus.

Each sensor is designed for industrial and manufacturing environments and is rated to IP67. This means dust, water spray, and other contaminants will not shorten these sensors’ lifetimes. They can also be ordered with a variety of standard connectors, making them simple to integrate with existing control hardware.

The BTS series photoelectric sensor. Image used courtesy of Autonics

BTS Series Specifications

The BTS series sensors offer long-range detection of small objects from up to 3 meters away. While the BTF sensor is incredibly thin, the BTS sensor is no giant. Mounted in a conventional manner, the sensor is only 7.2 mm wide and protrudes 10.8 mm. In this case, the thin sensor allows for multiple sensors to be mounted closely, without occupying a large space.

The BTS series sensors have a longer detection range than the BTF sensors. They will be more suitable for scanning from farther away, such as in lines where machine movements may prevent sensors from being near the workpieces, or in extreme temperatures or other hazardous conditions.

BTF Series Specifications

The BTF series sensors are incredibly thin, at only 3.7 mm thick. However, unlike many thin sensors, the BTF series can still detect objects as small as 0.1 mm at distances up to 1 meter. Designed to be mounted flat, they provide more clearance than perhaps any other sensor on the market.

They will be used in existing production lines with limited clearance, such as near mechanical hardware. The slim profile makes them perfect for retrofitting lines with new capability with minimal redesign required.

The BTF series photoelectric sensor. Image used courtesy of Autonics

Potential Applications

Autonics envisions both of these sensor lines as useful additions to electronics assembly quality control, as the 0.1 mm detection capabilities make it easy to track wires, solder contacts, thermocouple wires, and other fine components that are mission-critical yet time-consuming to detect with manual inspection alone.

Outside of electronics assemblies, the 0.1 mm detection capability can be used as a quality control tool across many industries. Verification of component placement for mechanical assemblies, parts counting, and other such tasks are just a few examples of how this sensor can be used.