Object Detection With a Touchscreen: The New W10 Sensor from SICK
SICK recently launched the W10, a touchscreen sensor that includes selectable operating modes, a durable stainless steel housing with IP69K protection, and IO-Link functionality.
SICK, a leading sensor solutions provider, recently introduced the W10 photoelectric proximity sensor. The sensor hopes to ensure a new era of versatility in object detection for the automation industry.
W10: SICK Creates New Sensor For Object Detection
This latest sensor series, consisting of four variants, changes how sensors are used by simplifying detection tasks across the industry. The W10 includes a Class 1 laser light source that ensures precise detection results with improved repeatability. In addition, the W10 includes a first-of-its-kind intuitive touchscreen interface, providing seamless operation for an enhanced user experience.
IO-Link and Touchscreen Capability
The W10 proximity sensor is IO-Link capable, meaning that users can configure the sensors remotely and all sensor data is available for use and recording via a plant’s data infrastructure. IO-Link also means industry 4.0 and IIoT capabilities for data monitoring, predictive maintenance of equipment, and more.
The W10 proximity sensor from SICK is the world’s first touchscreen-capable proximity sensor. Image used courtesy of SICK
Considered the "world's first" touchscreen-capable triangulation sensors. This distinction gives the W10 proximity sensor the means to eliminate the use of slide switches, potentiometers, and rotary knobs. Customers can simply use the touchscreen to configure and adjust the sensor with precision instead of using traditional methods. Some of the user-defined settings with touchscreen adjustment include:
- Speed mode settings
- Limit values (min and max)
- Standard or precision operating modes
- Preconfigured parameters
- Fore/background suppression
- Individual teach-in settings.
The touchscreen-capable sensors have a lockable feature ensuring that only approved personnel can make changes to the settings of the sensors for enhanced security. In addition to touchscreen capability, the sensors can operate over IO-Link, meaning that they can be controlled without the touchscreen through the IO-Link interface alone. The sensor uses two digital outputs to provide discrete signal switching.
Key Features of the W10 Sensor
The sensor has been designed with a high degree of flexibility options in mind and can be used in multiple industries such as factories or logistics operations. The sensors detect multiple different or sometimes difficult surface types, such as glossy surfaces, surfaces of different colors, or structure makeup. The W10 contains a high-precision Class 1 laser light source, that emits a focused beam to create a small light spot on objects, with a rapid and accurate receiver evaluation line.
Laser technology enables the sensor to achieve precise detection results with consistent accuracy. The precision can be found in both short-range applications spanning 25 to 400 mm or long-range scenarios covering distances of 25 to 700 mm. This capability makes it well-suited for accurately detecting objects and positions. Additionally, in speed mode, the sensor boasts a response time of just 1.8 ms, ensuring reliable switching performance even at high machine speeds.
The W10 has an IP69K stainless steel housing for protection from harsh environments. Image used courtesy of SICK
The W10 employs dynamic algorithms tailored for specific applications, ensuring high reliability and repeat accuracy from the outset. It provides various teach-in options for customization, including 1-point and 2-point teach modes for detecting objects at different distances and heights. Manual mode further enhances flexibility for some applications.
Available in short and long-range versions, the W10 offers two housing variants for versatile mounting options, catering to standard and hybrid setups. Equipped with color LEDs indicating operating status, it adapts seamlessly to diverse installation scenarios. With a robust stainless steel housing rated IP69k, the W10 withstands harsh environments and frequent cleaning cycles, ensuring uninterrupted operation and minimal downtime when used in harsh environments.
