Banner Releases Laser Measurement Sensor for Reliable Object Detection

Banner Engineering's newest laser measurement sensor, the Q20-2, can detect objects as far away as three meters. It has multiple teach and detection modes, meaning one sensor can do multiple tasks. With compact housing and an introductory price of just $304 for the top-end model, these sensors are affordable and well-suited for space-constrained applications.

Banner’s Q20-2 laser measurement sensor features a compact housing and can reliably sense objects within a three-meter distance. Image used courtesy of Banner Engineering

Q20-2 Laser Measurement Sensor

Banner's Q20-2 infrared laser measurement sensor has many standard features one would expect with a time-of-flight (TOF) laser sensor, as well as a few “nice-to-have” features that help it stand out from the crowd. The sensor uses standard 25.4 mm spaced mounting holes (3 mm in diameter) and a compact form factor, making it possible to mount it in numerous configurations.

The Q20-2’s IO-Link communication makes it easy to integrate the sensor with existing hardware. It also includes Banner’s PulsePro I/O to link with controllable lighting for giving real-time feedback to the user without a PLC.

All models are powered by a standard 10-30 V DC source, also easing the installation in both existing and new systems. Data can be accessed for advanced diagnostics, preventative maintenance, and process control decisions.

The Q20-2 sensor being used in a push-arm alignment conveyor application to align packages. Image used courtesy of Banner Engineering

Precise Detection and Alignment

A key feature of the Q20-2 is its detection range. Capable of detection up to three meters away, this TOF sensor demonstrates flexibility in installation and applications. Not only that, but it has multiple teach modes, meaning the same sensor can be used for multiple applications, even if detection ranges vary.

Another of the Q20-2’s notable features is a red visible LED for alignment. This feature illuminates an area to show where the Q20-2 is aimed, making it easier for users to install and align. The LED can be switched on for alignment and off for operation to save power and avoid generating an interfering light source.

In this example, the Q20-2 can determine whether a package bin is getting full, even with uneven loading and varying sizes of packages. Image used courtesy of Banner Engineering

Cost-Efficient Sensing

Laser TOF sensors have numerous applications, from ensuring proper standoff distances in machine assembly to measuring liquid level in tanks to proximity measurements for machine safety. The Q20-2's ability to detect across multiple ranges, with a maximum range of three meters, makes it suitable for all of these purposes, and then some.

One particular application where the Q20-2 excels is the detection of packages or parts for assembly and shipping. In this scenario, packages of varying sizes move down a conveyor as a robotic arm selects them. The Q20-2 can detect the location of the object and then feed that back into the robotic control system. The robot then knows where to position the gripper without additional machine vision systems.