New LiDAR Sensors more Powerful, Compact and Robust

Sensor supplier SICK has expanded its high performance multiScan and picoScan LiDAR ranges to make them even more powerful, compact and robust. With a variety of industry specific software applications that run on-device, SICK aim to take LiDAR sensor technology to new levels of performance, reliability and flexibility.

The modular multiScan 100 3D product family and compact picoScan 150 LiDAR sensors are customisable to suit a wide range of applications, with bespoke parameters, operation and integration. From robotic guidance and outdoor automation to SLAM, SICK’s sensor range is enhanced with new products and capabilities, including improved light performance and accuracy.

Select your variant: Configure your solution

SICK’s flexible 2D and 3D LiDAR product range and families are based on a common user environment and programming development platform. Fast data streaming, 2D and 3D object detection with field evaluation enhance the quality, security and usability of both the multiScan and picoScan. This enables companies to develop dynamic sensing profiles and scale their LiDAR capabilities, leveraging the data generated and customizing sensors to their specific applications and requirements.

Superior performance and robustness

SICK’s expertise in the field of 3D and 2D LiDAR technology enhances the robustness of both product ranges, improving accuracy, and providing ambient light immunity up to 100 klx (making them suitable for all lighting conditions). The picoScan and multiScan devices have a ruggedized design, with an anticorrosive coating, venting element and vibration resistance, making them resistant to shock, vibration and interference. Suitable for use in rough ambient conditions (such as fog, rain and bright sunlight) and harsh environments, both ranges have a selection of connectivity options and accessories designed for outdoor use.

The picoScan and multiScan products also have a contamination indication and the predictive maintenance system means sensors can notify the operator before the system is influenced.

Based on time of flight (ToF) technology, SICK’s high value multiScan range delivers high quality 3D with simultaneous multiple measurements individually configured for precise detection and localisation. The multiScan 3D LiDAR range’s unique combination of high-density horizontal layers and 3D point cloud offers outstanding measurement performance and advantage in real conditions, including wide-area environment perception on large machines and outstanding measurement accuracy for access protection in stationary applications. Capable of reliably detecting drop-off edges and obstacles ahead, the range is ideal for anti-collision and environmental perception to support autonomous driving for outdoor automation.

With no blind zone and superior detection of small objects at a distance, the multiScan 100 is a product family of 3D LiDAR devices with 3D object detection and contamination indication on board. The multiScan 136 builds on the capabilities of the multiScan 100 platform by providing 16 LiDAR layers, including two HD layers, 65° coverage at 360° and 30 m range all round. Meanwhile, the multiScan 165 has the highest detection capability in foggy, rainy and dusty conditions. It offers the same 16 LiDAR layers, but with a narrower coverage angle and range of up to 60 m, and the upcoming multiScan 165S will provide PLb and outdoor safety.

Small in size, big in range and performance

The next evolutionary step from the popular SICK TIM sensor, with higher data streaming speeds and more precise localisation, the picoScan 150 compact 2D LiDAR sensor is one of SICK’s highest angular LiDAR devices, with a rotary resolution of 0.05 degrees. The increased light suppression performance helps outdoor performance reach unprecedented levels. The multiScan family has a wide range of accessories, including mounting kits, connection boxes, gateways and reflectors. The picoscan 150 comes in three variants – Core, Prime and Pro, with a working range from 0.05 m up to 120m. Each model has a different specification to allow easy selection of a device for a specific application.

Easy to integrate into various environments, with a range of software interface options, the picoScan 150 is one compact sensor for multiple applications and it ticks all the boxes in terms of range, resolution, accuracy, field of vision, scan rate, power consumption and connectivity. Its high robustness is perfect for harsh and challenging applications, such as mobile platforms, outdoor automation, mobile robots, building security, interactive 3D studios, logistics automation and security protection.

Nathaniel Hofmann, SICK UK Market Product Manager – Machine Vision and Measurement Systems, says, “These are two great product families with new features and capabilities that expand the capabilities and possibilities of LiDAR sensor technology. We are continually growing and enhancing our LiDAR sensor range, based on a commonality of user environment that ensures products are easy to use, customisable, robust and consistent.

“We are winning high-profile projects because of the new light immunity and resolution capabilities of the picoScan and multiScan ranges, across a huge range of applications and industries; from robotics to interactive art installations, intelligent infrastructure to outdoor automation. Our modular, customisable sensors fit almost all applications, with the exceptional reliability and performance you expect from SICK.”

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AR Data Visualization and Error Analysis in your Pocket

SICK UK unveiled its trailblazing SICK Augmented Reality Assistant (SARA) at Smart Factory Expo 2024 in Birmingham. The intuitive augmented reality app provides data visualization and error analysis by merging machine, sensor and diagnostic information with the real environment using technology most people carry in their pocket.

With the unique SARA app, you can take data from any source and map it into the SARA augmented reality (AR) engine for review on a handheld device, such as a mobile phone, without requiring costly wearable devices or fixed HMIs. SARA provides visibility of information that can’t be seen with the naked eye, taking you directly to the site of the problem that needs maintenance.

Created in response to customer demand, SARA provides access to data and faults at the location where they arise to accelerate commissioning, diagnostic, condition monitoring and maintenance activities. The market-leading engine empowers shop floor staff to diagnose faults and monitor the performance of machines to get the best results.

Skills shortages continue to bite

UK manufacturers and OEMs are experiencing significant skills gaps and the problem is showing no signs of abating. According to the WorldSkills UK Manufacturing Excellence report , published last year, more than half (55%) of manufacturers questioned were experiencing shortages in advanced manufacturing skills and 61% in traditional manufacturing skills. Similarly, the Manufacturing Commission warned in October 2023 that labour shortages and skills gaps in the sector are costing between £7.7 billion and £8.3 billion a year in lost economic output.

With increasing use of automation, it is more important than ever to monitor and maintain machinery and prevent costly stoppages. However, the skills and recruitment problems dogging the industry are particularly acute when it comes to qualified operators and maintenance technicians. As companies require more from employees on the ground, SARA offers the ideal opportunity to upskill existing staff and get new hires up to speed fast, empowering them to carry out more tasks such as machine monitoring and basic maintenance. OEMs and equipment providers also report increasing numbers of callouts as end-users struggle to hire the maintenance staff and operators they require.

The potential applications of SARA for OEMs, equipment providers and manufacturers/end-users are limitless and as SICK UK Data Solutions Consultant Charlie Walker explained to visitors at the SICK stand at Smart Factory Expo 2024, “You can let your imagination do the talking.”

SARA was in action on the SICK stand at Smart Factory Expo 2024 as part of demonstrations of SICK products working in harmony to deliver digital manufacturing solutions. These included one demo on the use of various SICK devices (load detection, line guidance, height measurement, safety laser scanners and barcode readers) to enhance the safety and performance of AGVs, and another showcasing the vertical integration of SICK smart encoders and sensors.

With such a vast range of potential applications, SICK has created various licences (including LiDAR and Robotics variants, in addition to the Base licence) that unlock specific features of SARA to allow users to customize solutions for specific use cases. There are plans to develop further specialist licences in the future.

Charlie Walker, SICK UK Data Solutions Consultant, says, “SARA is a unique application, blending data visualization with the real environment and delivering it via the technology you have in your pocket. Using SARA, teams can reduce the risk of outages, increase machine availability and boost productivity by ensuring equipment is performing optimally.

“SICK’s SARA AR app can be used to bring employees up to speed quickly with equipment, to regularly monitor machines and to enhance safety. Codes can be scanned and linked to relevant documentation to provide access to critical information where and when it is needed. The possibilities and opportunities SARA can bring are vast and we are excited to officially launch it to the UK market to see how companies unleash its potential.”

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Liquid Lens Technology to Small Code Reader

SICK has added Liquid Lens technology to the Lector 61X, its smallest image-based code reader, to deliver rapid and infinitely-variable focal adjustment and a significantly-extended depth of field. The SICK Lector611 with Liquid Lens packs outstanding read performance and operational versatility into an ultracompact device.

The SICK Lector611 image-based code reader reliably reads 1D, 2D and stacked codes even when they are low contrast, contaminated or of poor quality. It also excels with Direct Part Marking (DPM) and very small codes, including where they are practically invisible to the human eye or at very close range.

As well as code-reading duties in fast-moving production and logistics, is therefore ideal for reading direct marks on electronics or automotive components, for example. It also reliably reads slowly-degrading codes, for example on totes in hard-working materials handling environments.

Darren Pratt, SICK UK’s Product Manager for Identification explains: “The liquid lens used in the Lector 611 is infinitely variable. When combined with the automatic parameter switching function available in all Lectors, this enables the Lector 611 to switch automatically between different focal points on the fly.

“Focal distances switch automatically in milliseconds, resulting in an incredible depth of field over the full operating range of 50mm and 300mm. This is ideal e.g. for detecting packages of different heights on a conveyor or adapting to rapid batch changes in production logistics.”

Rapid Set-Up

Measuring just 30 mm x 40 mm x 50 mm and featuring snap-in mounting and flexible cable connectors, the SICK Lector 61X is installed with ease in the tightest of machine spaces. Configure the Lector 611 automatically via a quick set-up wizard in the free-of-charge SOPAS configuration software or directly via the on-sensor push-button auto-tune feature. Whichever method is preferred, optical and code settings are quickly optimised and the unit is ready to read in seconds. With intelligence onboard, the SICK Lector 611 can be set up to distinguish between several codes, or to read multiple codes simultaneously on a package or component.

Despite its tiny size, the SICK Lector 611 is a camera jam-packed with versatile functions. Its design incorporates magnifying optics so it can read microcodes with a minimum bar width down to 0.02 mm for 1D codes and a cell size as small as 0.04 mm for 2D codes. Combining eight LEDs and two lighting colours, the Lector 611 has a highly-flexible lighting capability to optimise the code identification, regardless of the surface or colour. Further optical accessories such as a polarising filter can be attached with no additional tools.

Data Analysis

As with all the cameras in SICK’s Lector family, the Lector 611 can help operators track the quality of the codes it reads. Good reads and no-reads are recorded and statistical analysis of read performance is provided alongside live images so operators can inspect code quality.

The SICK Lector 611 has an integrated time-of-flight laser to aid rapid set-up, while the built-in orientation sensor ensures optimal positioning, as well as rapid detection should the camera move out of alignment e.g. by being knocked.

The SICK Lector 611 with Liquid Lens features a flush screen, so it is ideal for environments with dust and liquid contaminants with a rating up to IP65. The onboard algorithms can pre-filter data before communicating to the control system. It is compatible with all common communication protocols, including TCP/IP, EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, serial and CAN.

Other cameras in SICK’s Lector family, the Lector 62X, the Lector 63X and the Lector 85X, extend the camera-based reading capability across many industries and applications. For example, the Lector 63X is ideal for hand-presentation applications in retail logistics, and the Lector 85X, the biggest in the family, is used for rapid throughput applications reading multiple packages on wide conveyors, e.g. in Courier, Express and Parcel hubs.

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Automated Hand-Scanning Upgrade

The automation of hand scanning processes increases productivity at inbound and outbound areas of logistics hubs dramatically. Now, a milestone upgrade to SICK’s Lector65x image-based code reader family has made it quicker and easier to set up and use the technology in high-volume operations.

Hand-held barcode readers are still widely used to ensure the traceability of goods and packages, for example in retail, warehousing and parcel sorting operations. However, this process not only takes time, but picking and putting down the hand scanner while handling the object risks repetitive stress and strain to the operator.

With a SICK Lector654 matrix camera installed above their workstation, operators can instead present the package to the scanner at the most ergonomic height, confident of highly-reliable read rates. With SICK’s innovative dynamic focus function, the camera can adapt flexibly to the working distance and the position of the code. Meanwhile, the operator can use both hands where necessary to handle more bulky or heavier objects.

Increase Productivity and Throughput

“In many logistics operations, the pressure is on to increase throughput, maximise productivity and eliminate any processes that could lead to delay or stoppages,” comments Darren Pratt, SICK’s UK Product Manager for Identification.

“SICK’s Lector654 offers a simple solution that is easy to set up without major changes to existing working areas. Operators can then work without the delays, interruptions and unplanned downtimes which are unavoidable when using hand scanners.

“Some overhead camera set-ups have a fixed focal point, but with the Lector654’s dynamic focus, adapting the workstation for people of different heights can be automated.”

The SICK Lector654 adapts flexibly to the position of the code, thanks to its extensive field of view and depth of field. Used for hand presentation, it can read a wide range of common 1D and 2D code types, while onboard decoding algorithms ensure maximum read performance and high-throughput even for difficult-to-read codes.

Hand-Scanning

The SICK Lector654 reliably identifies and decodes all common 1D, 2D and stacked code formats. With a high-resolution CMOS sensor, the Lector654 has the resolution to read all object sizes from large to small. Thanks to both dynamic focus and brightness adjustment, the Lector654 produces the highest quality images, which can also be recorded for other track and trace purposes, if required.

The SICK Lector654 also shares the high-performance features of SICK’s Lector65x family of image-based code readers. With a frame repetition rate of 40 Hz and real-time decoding, Lector65x track and trace systems reliably identify 1D, 2D and directly marked codes at high speeds. Training and installation time are minimised thanks to the camera’s function buttons, auto setup, an aiming laser, an acoustic feedback signal, and a green feedback LED.

With SICK’s 4Dpro common communications platform, the SICK Lector65x family of image-based code readers communicate easily with other SICK devices, for example for volume or weight measurement, and share their data and parameters, linking seamlessly with factory control and data systems. Compatible with TCP/IP, EtherNet/IP, PROFIBUS, serial and CAN interfaces, the Lector 65x cameras also have a MicroSD card slot to enable parameter cloning and image storage.

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Smart Box Detection for Safe, Continuous Material Flow

SICK has launched an industry-first safety light curtain system for Smart Box Detection, designed to enable the continuous safe material flow of cartons or cuboid goods at the entry or exit points of protected areas, while safeguarding people from dangerous materials-handling, conveying or packaging machinery.

The SICK Smart Box Detection system is a plug-and-play automation solution for the SICK deTec4 Safety Light Curtain. It uses intelligent pattern recognition to detect cuboid objects and even some cylindrical goods that produce a cuboid-shaped silhouette and differentiate them from people. Unnecessary stoppages are therefore avoided, for example close to loading and unloading machinery in intralogistics facilities. The protected area above the material remains safeguarded by the light curtain at all times.

No Muting Sensors or Tunnels

The SICK deTec4 Smart Box Detection is the first safety system of its kind to facilitate safe material flow without having to receive signals from an external machine controller. It removes the need to use muting sensors, which take up space, require maintenance and can be easily knocked or damaged.

The Smart Box Detection system can also replace the tunnel guards that are frequently used to provide protection at the openings of machines. As a result, the maximum distance to the hazard can be reduced by more than half.

It is quick and easy to configure using dip switches integrated into the SP2 system plug, so there is no requirement to use a laptop or software. There’s also no need for any additional teach-in, programming, mounting or wiring. Each system can be configured to meet the needs of the application, and if objects of different heights and lengths are being detected, for example on a conveyor, there is no need to teach them in or to adjust the configuration of the safety solution.

Productivity Gains

Martin Kidman, SICK UK’s Market Product Manager for Safety Solutions, commented: “Installing a SICK Smart Box Detection system can improve productivity significantly, which will be welcomed both by machine builders and end users in a wide range of industrial and logistics facilities e.g. in goods inward areas where top- and sideloaders are in operation.

“There are also both cost- and space-saving benefits from installing Smart Box Detection. Machine designers can build new machinery in a smaller footprint, while production teams can remove tunnels, or eliminate the need to keep an inventory of muting sensors, for example.

“Using SICK’s innovative deTec4 safety light curtain means boxes can also be measured, if needed, without additional sensors by transmitting beam data over IO-Link. The user could then combine with speed data to calculate volume. Diagnostic information accessed via either Near Field Communications or IO-Link makes it easier for operators to investigate machine stoppages in real time, as well as making informed service decisions for predictive machine maintenance.”

The SICK deTec4 Prime offers protective field heights in increments from 300mm to 2100mm and a choice of finger (14mm) or hand (30mm) resolution providing protection against operator intervention in accordance with ISO 13855 in applications covering up to 21 metres. It is a Type 4 device (IEC 61496), enabling compliance in applications with requirements up to PLe (ISO 13849) and SIL 3 (IEC 62061).

Distance Sensor Sets Precision Standard

With the launch of its next-generation DT80 distance sensor, SICK claims to have revised the standard for measurement precision in materials handling, warehousing and logistics with a compact and robust device. Equipped with high-performance time-of-flight measurement technology, the SICK DT80 1D laser distance sensor achieves unparalleled accuracy of +/- 2 mm with a resolution of 0.1 mm at ranges up to 80 metres.

The SICK DT80 laser distance sensor uses a class 2 eye-safe laser to detect, measure and position on natural targets with no reflector. SICK has developed the DT80 with simple commissioning and versatile integration in mind, fitting even the tightest of spaces in both mobile and stationary machinery. With a robust metal housing, the DT80 delivers resilient performance despite challenging environmental conditions, such as mechanical vibrations, strong ambient light or extreme temperatures.

The outstanding precision and range of the SICK DT80 offer broad scope for both stationary and mobile machines, both indoors and outdoors. Typical applications in materials handling, warehousing and logistics include height detection of forklifts in automated transport vehicles, positioning of cranes and gantries.

‘Raising the Bar’ in Distance Sensing

“SICK’s development programme for the DT80 laser distance sensor has perfected our time-of-flight measurement technology and raised the bar in this class of mid- to long-range distance sensing,” explains Nick Hartley, SICK’s UK market product manager for distance measurement. “Achieving the best possible precision and repeatability is a constant challenge for many industrial measuring and positioning tasks.

“When engineers can trust the DT80’s repeatable performance, their mobile transport vehicles can operate without interruption and the need for adjustments. Accurate measurement is equally critical in diverse machine operations to ensure product and process quality. Ensuring minimal deviations reduces rejects, saves waste and reduces scrap.”

Simple Set-Up and Commissioning

The DT80 will accurately detect an object that has up to 90% remission at a distance of 80 metres. For objects with extremely dark surfaces and only 6% remission, it still achieves an impressive range of 14 metres. The SICK DT80 can be configured in a variety of combinations of distance and remission, helping to streamline inventories and make servicing more efficient. Setting up the DT80 is quick and easy using the icon-supported colour display. Four on-sensor LEDs also show the sensor’s current status and settings. Alternatively, the DT80 can be configured using HTML-based SOPAS engineering tool or using IO-Link.

Industry 4.0 IO-Link Connectivity

As well as enabling easy configuration, the DT80’s IO-Link connectivity enables data to be transferred and exchanged between sensors, actuators and OT control systems. Using an IO-Link-Master with OPC UA, data from the DT80 can be exported into on-premise and cloud-based analytics and remote diagnostics software, e.g. for condition monitoring.

At only 65 mm x 33 mm x 57 mm (HxWxD), the SICK DT80 is one of the most compact laser distance sensors on the market. Its cast zinc housing, durable PMMA sensor window, IP65 and IP67 protection and high shock and vibration resistance, ensure it operates reliably under the harshest industrial and environmental conditions. Since its housing and connectivity concept mirror SICK’s other DT distance sensors, users can easily upgrade to the SICK DT80 to take advantage of its greater precision and range.

IO-Link for Auto-ID Devices

SICK has pioneered the addition of IO-Link to two of its most compact and industry-standard identification devices. Both the SICK CLV61X fixed-mount 1D bar code reading scanner and the RFU61X UHF RFID read/write device were first to market with IO-Link variants, enhancing the integration versatility of SICK’s identification portfolio.

Both the SICK CLV61X and the RFU61X are already well known for their compact dimensions and wide-ranging connectivity with standard communications interfaces. The addition of IO-Link opens up opportunities to configure edge integrations with other IO-Link sensors and IO-Link Masters. It promises to improve data transparency from the lowest field level right up to the Cloud.
With IO-Link, using either device for identification also presents an opportunity to reduce cabling significantly, lowering costs and enabling more efficient installation. IO-Link also facilitates rapid commissioning, as well as easy device replacement.

IO-Link Integrations ‘Make Sense’

“It is rare for identification devices to be used in isolation,” explains Darren Pratt, SICK’s Market Product Manager for Identification. “They are almost always used with presence detection sensors for triggering or measurement sensors for classifying or measuring. Such sensors now frequently use IO-Link to provide access to additional data for diagnostic purposes. So, it makes sense for the customer to use IO-Link for their identification devices, too. Using IO-Link results in a common interface infrastructure with low-cost plug-and-play cabling, while still providing access to diagnostic data and enabling configuration via the communications network.”

Both the CLV61X and the RFU61X already offer highly-versatile connectivity with Ethernet/IP and PROFINET protocols, and an option for a single Power-over-Ethernet connection. Both devices offer a direct connection option for a trigger sensor.

Excellent Reading Performance

THE CLV 61X’s is used in many industries thanks to its highly-reliable 1D code reading performance across a wide reading field even at short distances, ideal for many common identification tasks on a conveyor belt. With SMART620 code reconstruction, even damaged, contaminated and partially-obscured barcodes are read consistently. Some CLV61X variants come with integrated heating in order to work reliably even in deep-freeze environments down to -35 °C.

Compact and Rugged

The smallest industrial UHF RFID read/write device of its kind, the SICK RFU61X needs an installation space of just 80 x 92 x 38 mm and achieves an impressive scanning range up to 0.5metres. The innovative design of the SICK RFU61X combines in-built antenna, intelligent control and connectivity into a single, rugged, IP67 aluminium housing. Compact and economic integration into tight spaces is therefore assured because there is no need for a separate connection box, and cabling is minimised.

The SICK RFU61X is ideal for applications such as tracking of smaller parts, sub-assemblies and electronic components, materials handling in e-Kanban processes, identifying pallets on a roller conveyor, or monitoring consignment transfers onto smaller Automated Guided Vehicles and Carts.

Off-Site Configuration Options

Pratt concludes: “The choice of identification device depends very much on the individual applications, with RFID devices offering a solution in dirty and dusty environments, where direct line-of-sight is obscured or where identification data needs to be both written and read. Increasingly, operators are choosing to have a section of conveyor configured off-site, including barcode scanners, RFID and photocells. With these two IO-Link devices, the wiring concept can be much more straightforward so on-site installation and commissioning is much quicker and easier.”

3D Inspection in a Camera Snapshot

Configuring machine vision inspections in 3D is now possible in a “snapshot”, thanks to the combination of SICK’s powerful and compact Visionary-T Mini AP camera with the new easy-to-use SICK Nova 3D Presence Inspection sensorApp.

The SICK Visionary-T Mini AP uses best-in-class time-of-flight snapshot technology to set new standards of data accuracy for detailed environmental perception at rapid production speeds. It captures both the 3D depth and 2D intensity values of every pixel at an exceptional (512 × 424 px) resolution in a single shot of light, at up to 30 3D frames per second.

Common 3D Vision Tasks

Common 3D inspection tasks in warehousing and logistics such as completeness, fill level monitoring, or robot palletising, can be set up rapidly and cost-effectively to run onboard the Visionary-T Mini AP camera using the SICK Nova 3D Presence Inspection sensorApp. Users simply select the 3D machine vision tools they need via an easy graphic user interface and the Visionary-T Mini AP camera is soon delivering reliable inspection results via I/O to the machine controller or over TCP/IP.

No Programming Skills

“Thanks to SICK’s Nova foundation software, you don’t need programming skills to run a ready-made sensorApp directly onboard our smart devices,” explains Nathaniel Hofmann, SICK’s Market Product Manager for Machine Vision and Measurement. “With the SICK Nova Presence Inspection toolset, you can easily configure a 3D machine vision solution that exactly matches your application.

“Just select the tools you need from the App to run directly on board the Visionary-T Mini AP. The graphical user interface is simple to use, from where you also can also access other industry-standard vision tools, or install one of the ready-made, application-specific solutions should you need them.”

As a programmable device, the SICK Visionary-T Mini AP is easy to configure and commission. A multicam mode is available to process image data from more than one Visionary-T Mini. With rapid 3D data transmission, the Visionary-T Mini is suitable for integration into most industrial applications.

3D Vision Toolset

With a toolset of commonly used 3D vision tools, the SICK Nova Presence Inspection App easily masters tasks like emptiness checks in bins, totes and crates, presence detection of objects in 3D scenes, as well as simple measurements and quality tolerance checks. “3D quality checks for completeness often need several, more advanced, machine vision software tools and programming skillset to identify the quality inspection issue, but with SICK Nova Presence Inspection, they are easy to configure,” Hofmann adds. “The camera outputs results, such as confirming all parts are present and at the right locations, or verifying a set of measurements.”

Using the SICK Nova Presence Inspection on Visionary T Mini, the position, height and volume of any package can be determined, for example for a robot to pick it and place it in a container or pallet. The Visionary-T mini-camera’s 3D snapshot technology can also be used for continuous 3D Fill Level monitoring for example to determine if totes are empty, filled, full or overfull, or it can measure the presence of parts in a bin, for example.

With a low-weight and no moving parts, the Visionary-T Mini’s IP65/67 housing measures just 80 mm x 70 mm x 77 mm, ideal for installation in compact robotics and automation solutions. It performs reliably despite the shocks and vibrations of applications such as robot palletising and depalletising. The automatic High Dynamic Range of the Visionary-T Mini ensures even widely-varying contrasts and lighting conditions across a scene are captured in each frame without complex set up, or expert knowledge of time-of-flight settings. The high-density 512 x 424 px resolution is complemented by a 70° x 60° field of view.

The SICK Visionary-T Mini CX provides an alternative option for customers wishing to use the power of the Visionary-T Mini’s snapshot technology to stream 3D data for their own software applications.

Precision 3D Navigation and Collision Avoidance

SICK has unveiled a milestone advance in its three-dimensional LiDAR technology with the launch of the multiScan multi-layered LiDAR sensor. The SICK multiScan combines floor-to-ceiling 360° environment perception with high-resolution navigation for reliable real-time localisation, mapping and collision avoidance in automated mobile robots (AMRs) and industrial vehicles, such as forklifts.

Developed on the foundations of SICK’s industry-leading multi-echo LiDAR technology, the SICK multiScan is a compact, lightweight and rugged 3D sensor designed to maximise vehicle availability in both indoor and harsh outdoor environments. With their broad 360° x 65° field of view and 16 scan layers, the LiDAR sensors in the multiScan100 family use on-device pre-processing to output a dense 3D point cloud with 690,000 measuring points, complemented by a high-resolution 0° 2D scan plane for precision navigation.

Each multiScan arrives factory-calibrated and ready for use, whether it is specified as a standard pre-configured product or using the specially-developed Online Configurator. Machine builders and integrators can select the features they need for their application using the time-saving online platform with access to software apps and add-ons for easy customisation.

“Designed with the needs of integrators in mind, the multiScan’s ability to pre-process precision measurement data in real time with no external controller sets it apart,” explains Nathaniel Hofmann, SICK’s Market Product Manager for Measurement Systems.

“The multiScan provides a detailed 3D point cloud of its environment, so the AMR knows exactly where it is, and where any objects are, and it can update its 3D map as it travels around. At any moment in time, it is providing real-world measurements of the production floor or warehouse to make the AMR as efficient and available as possible.”

To enhance the 16-layer 360° horizontal coverage, the multiScan’s vertical aperture angle is configured to optimise the layers between -22.5° to +42.5°. This ensures reliable collision avoidance for objects at ground level, as well detecting cliff edges and ramp inclinations. Objects protruding into the field of view at height, e.g. on warehouse shelving, can also be reliably avoided. The multiScan136, the first sensor to be launched in the product family, has a 360° x 65° field of view and a 60m working range with further variants available from later in 2023.

On-the-Spot Troubleshooting

The multiScan can also be used with SICK’s Augmented Reality Assistant, SARA for troubleshooting and configuration of LiDAR sensors on Automated Mobile Robots. Diagnosis and correction of machine downtime, such as a field infringement, can be done ‘on the spot’ with a mobile phone, without the need to connect a PC.

The multiScan100 family achieves high performance and availability in harsh industrial environments, with a choice of rugged housings available up to IP69K. Using SICK’s unique multi-echo LiDAR technology, the multiScan generates three echoes per beam at 20Hz to achieve higher availability by filtering out the false signals caused by unwanted laser reflections from raindrops, snow, fog or dust particles.

Online Configurator

With SICK’s Online Configurator, engineers are prompted to make selections to customise the multiScan for its working environment, with the opportunity to select hardware options and software add-ons.

In addition to the standard sensor software for data streaming, customers can also select feature add-ons, e.g. for reflector recognition, data reduction and pre-processing, or a filter package where additional robustness is needed e.g. outdoor weather or harsh industrial conditions. Specialised pre-developed SICK sensor apps, such as Safe Break Assist and the SICK LiDAR-LOC are also available to use with the multiScan.

Equipped with 100Mbps Ethernet, eight multifunctional I/Os and matching system plugs, the SICK multiScan is easy to integrate and saves engineers valuable time during commissioning. When ordering, customers can select predefined parameters or choose previously stored configurations. SICK imports them onto the device before delivery.

SICK Extends Light Beam System Product Portfolio

Producer of sensors and sensor solutions for industrial automation applications company SICK has extended the range of its deTem 4 A/P multiple light beam system to eight metres, the longest ever available for an active/passive safety device, suitable for applications up to SIL3 / PLe.

The extra-rugged and compact SICK deTem 4 A/P safety light beam system offers wide flexibility to install safe access protection with entry/exit monitoring  in storage, material handling and logistics environments. With sender and receiver integrated into the active device, SICK deTem 4 A/P minimises wiring and helps achieve compact machine designs. With integrated muting functions there is no need for an external module and additional wiring effort.

With real-time diagnostics accessible by smartphone through Near Field Communication, and also via IO-Link, the SICK deTem 4 A/P is a smart system that enables operators to respond quickly to machine downtime. Engineers can access a range of diagnostic status and process data to manage maintenance interventions effectively.

Dr Martin Kidman, safety specialist with SICK UK explains: “The SICK deTem4 Active/Passive light beam system offers operators fingertip diagnostics to respond quickly to stoppages in common access protection applications such as warehousing, palletising or packaging machinery.  You can find out straight away what caused a lockout just by using the easy-to-use status display on your smartphone.

“The SICK deTem4 A/P offers all the functionality you would expect from a high-performance SICK safety light beam system, and more. Its slim housing and active/passive functionality lend themselves to machine layouts where space is limited. With IP65 and IP67 protection ratings, an operating temperature range of -30oC to +55oC, the deTem4 is ready for harsh industrial environments.”

Guided by the SICK Safety Assistant smartphone App, and with integral dip switches and automatic range adjustment, in-situ configuration and commissioning are quick and simple and there is no need to use a PC.

Earlier this year SICK announced it had established a new web-based platform, SICK IntegrationSpace, to be the home for its growing data-based digital software and services portfolio.

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