Leuze Launches Switching Laser Scanners for Fast Object Detection

Object detection for automated guided vehicles (AGV) is challenging, and Leuze has developed a new laser detection system designed specifically for this task. The ROD 100 is a scanner that sweeps out an area with a laser and quickly maps where potential collisions may occur. This helps prevent injuries and accidents where a worker may walk in front of an AGV or a dropped package may interrupt a known travel path.

Leuze’s ROD 100 series of switching laser scanners has a high 80 Hz scanning frequency for detecting fast-moving objects. Image used courtesy of Leuze

Collision Avoidance With Lasers

In AGV applications, laser detectors, like the ROD 100, sweep a laser beam across the free space ahead of the vehicle. Based on the returning laser light detected by the sensor, the AGV can estimate the distance to objects that may be in its path.

In order for this to be successful, a laser detector must have high resolution and high speed. Resolution is measured in step degrees, meaning how far the angle tilts before sending another laser pulse. The smaller the step size, the higher the resolution, and thus the smaller the object that the laser can detect.

The higher the speed, the faster the laser rasterizes through its degree steps. Higher speeds mean more time for the AGV to adjust its course and avoid a collision. Ultimately, this translated to faster AGV travel speeds without sacrificing safety.

With an 80 Hz scanning frequency, the ROD 100 is ideal for collision avoidance in fast-moving AGVs. Image used courtesy of Leuze

The ROD 100 Laser Scanner

One of the key features of the ROD 100 series laser scanners is its high-speed acquisition without sacrificing much resolution. With an 80 Hz scanning speed, the ROD 100 can quickly locate objects. Furthermore, it can detect multiple objects simultaneously and detect objects with high reflectivity that may send “ghost” signals and fool some sensors.

Often, there is a tradeoff between high speed and high resolution. It is easier to rasterize through larger, yet fewer degree steps. However, despite having high-speed operation, the ROD 100 does not sacrifice much regarding resolution. It can have 0.2° angular resolution, which is small enough to detect many objects.

The ROD 100 is cased in an IP67-rated case, making it suitable for dusty, dirty, and humid environments. It can also withstand temperature ranges of -30° C to 60° C, meaning it can be used in coolers, freezers, or metal processing facilities where temperature extremes are likely.

The ROD 100 laser scanners can monitor AGV loads for shifts, alerting staff to take corrective measures as needed. Image used courtesy of Leuze

Industrial Automation and Intralogistics

Leuze has designed the ROD 100 as a high-speed, high-resolution scanner for preventing collisions with AGVs and detecting fast-moving objects. The ROD 100 complements Leuze’s portfolio of laser scanners, where the ROD 100 is focused on object detection and the ROD 500 has higher resolution, but slower speed (0.025° at 10 Hz) for contour mapping and precision navigation. When paired, the ROD 100 handles the immediate threat detection, while the ROD 500 builds a more accurate map of objects for the AGV to avoid. These tasks are distinct from the ROD 300, which is used for parts contour mapping and is typically not paired with AGVs.