Banner Engineering Sensor Solutions
Overview of Sensor Technology
Banner Engineering offers a wide array of sensor technologies designed to meet diverse industrial automation needs. These sensors detect the presence, absence, or characteristics of objects, enabling precise control and monitoring in manufacturing processes.
Optoelectronic Sensors
These sensors emit a light beam to detect the presence or absence of objects. They work by measuring interruptions or reflections of the emitted light. Optoelectronic sensors can detect most target materials, including shiny, dark, bright, or multi-colored ones. Known for their fast response times and various sensing modes, they are widely used in material handling, packaging, food and beverage, and medical applications.
Laser Sensors
Laser measurement sensors provide more detailed information than optoelectronic sensors by not only detecting an object's presence but also measuring its distance. Their small, visible measurement spot aids alignment, and their powerful beam can detect dark and difficult targets. Available in high-precision, short-range models for accurate measurements and long-range models for reliable diffuse detection.
Fiber Optics
Fiber optic technology utilizes an amplifier and fiber optic cables. The amplifier houses the electronics, while the cables transmit light to where it's needed. Bendable and routable, fiber optic cables are suitable for confined spaces, harsh environments, and applications requiring external sensing. A variety of sensor heads can address specific challenges.
Ultrasonic Sensors
Ultrasonic sensors emit high-frequency sound waves, allowing them to detect targets regardless of color, transparency, or surface texture. Ideal targets are large, flat, hard, and good sound reflectors. By measuring the time it takes for an echo to return, these sensors can detect presence and measure position. They are excellent for accurately measuring difficult targets, including close-range transparent ones.
Radar Sensors
Radar sensors use microwaves for object detection, unaffected by rain, snow, dust, or steam. This makes them ideal for outdoor applications and indoor low-visibility conditions, such as measuring the level of dry bulk materials or detecting vehicles. Beam pattern is crucial; narrow beams (≤15°) are good for liquid level measurement, while wide beams cover larger areas for irregularly shaped targets. Benefits include wide measurement ranges and broad operating temperature ranges.
Light Curtains
Light curtains are categorized into measuring and presence-sensing types. Measuring light curtains use multiple opposing pairs of optoelectronic sensors to determine a measurement by counting blocked beams, useful for product sizing or edge tracking. Presence-sensing light curtains cover a larger area than single-point sensors to detect targets that may not be in a fixed position, commonly used for leading-edge detection in material transport.
3D Distance Measurement
3D distance measurement technology emits a wide-area signal reflected by objects. It analyzes this information to visually represent distances within the sensor's range, providing more data than a single sensor. It can detect and measure multiple targets within its 3D field of view, ideal for non-uniform objects over large areas, like container fill levels or part detection.
Machine Vision
Machine vision uses imaging technology to capture and analyze an application's image, making decisions based on configured checks and parameters. It's often used in quality control to verify proper soldering or the presence of components in an assembly, increasing overall process throughput.
Sensor Technology Selection Guide
Banner Engineering provides guidance to select the appropriate sensor technology based on application requirements.
Choosing the Right Sensor Technology
- For external sensing in confined areas, high temperatures, or harsh environments: Consider Fiber Optics.
- For longer diffuse range, increased precision, or distance measurement: Consider Laser Sensors.
- For high resistance to difficult environmental conditions or detection/measurement over a large area: Consider Radar Sensors.
- For measuring transparent objects or reliability in dusty/dirty environments: Consider Ultrasonic Sensors.
- For uniform measurement and detection over a large area: Consider Light Curtains.
- For large-area inspection of multiple points or complex quality control: Consider 3D Distance Measurement or Machine Vision.
Optoelectronic Sensor Selection
Banner offers a variety of optoelectronic sensors, including the QS18 series, known for its extensive sensing modes and mounting options, and IO-Link compatibility.
QS18 Series
Key Features: Largest selection of sensing modes, multiple practical mounting options, IO-Link available in many sensing modes.
Other Optoelectronic Sensor Series
Selection depends on specific needs:
- Q20, Q2X, Q3X, Q4X: Offer various form factors, sizes, and capabilities like contrast sensing or extended range.
- S18-2, S18: Feature 18mm housing or nickel-plated brass housing for specific applications.
- S30: Provides larger range and metal housing options.
- M18-3, M18-4: Offer metal housing and extended range.
- T18-2: Available with angled cylindrical housing and IP69K rating.
- TM18: Compact metal housing sensor.
Optoelectronic Sensor Specifications Overview
| Model | Max. Range (m) | Sensing Type | Housing Material | IP Rating | Operating Temp (°C) | IO-Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| QS18 | 20 | Various | Plastic | IP67 | -20 to +70 | Yes |
| Q20 | 20 | Various | Plastic | IP67 | -20 to +60 | Yes |
| S18-2 | 25 | Various | Plastic | IP67 | -40 to +70 | Yes |
| Q2X | 3 | Various | Plastic | IP67 | -25 to +50 | Yes |
| QS30 | 60 | Various | Plastic | IP67 | -20 to +70 | Yes |
| Q3X | 30 | Various | Plastic | IP67 | -40 to +70 | Yes |
| S18 | 20 | Various | Plastic | IP67 | -40 to +70 | Yes |
| S30 | 60 | Various | Plastic | IP67 | -40 to +70 | Yes |
| M18-3 | 25 | Various | Metal | IP67 | -40 to +70 | Yes |
| M18-4 | 25 | Various | Metal | IP67 | -40 to +70 | Yes |
| T18-2 | 25 | Various | Plastic | IP67 | -40 to +70 | Yes |
| T30 | 60 | Various | Plastic | IP67 | -40 to +70 | Yes |
| TM18 | 20 | Various | Metal | IP67 | -40 to +70 | Yes |
Laser Sensor Selection
Banner's laser sensors are designed for precision measurement and detection tasks.
Q4X Series
Features: Versatile problem-solver, compact size with best-in-class performance, robust housing, reliable detection.
Consider for: Longer range, more functional reserve, higher precision beyond 100 mm.
Other Laser Sensor Series
- Q5X: Offers small housing and cost-effective solutions.
- Q2X: Provides better temperature stability, higher precision, and larger displays.
- LTF: For greatest range and precision beyond 1 meter.
- LE: For best performance, highest functional reserve, and smallest spot size.
- LM: High-precision sensors.
Laser Sensor Specifications Overview
| Model | Min. Range (mm) | Max. Range (mm) | Sensing Principle | Output Type | IP Rating | Repeatability (mm) | Min. Object Distance (mm) | Resolution (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Q4X100 | 25 | 100 | Laser Distance | Various | IP67/IP68/IP69K | ±0.2 | 0.5-1 | 0.15 |
| Q4X300 | 25 | 300 | Laser Distance | Various | IP67/IP68/IP69K | ±0.5-3 | 1-13.5 | 0.3-1 |
| Q4X500 | 25 | 500 | Laser Distance | Various | IP67/IP68/IP69K | ±0.5-6 | 1-45 | 0.3-1.75 |
| Q4X600 | 25 | 600 | Laser Distance | Various | IP67/IP68/IP69K | ±0.5-3 | 1-10 | 0.12-3 |
| Q5X2000 | 95 | 2,000 | Laser Distance | Various | IP67 | ±0.5-10 | 1-35 | 1-30 |
| Q5X3000 | 95 | 3,000 | Laser Distance | Various | IP67 | ±0.5-30 | 3-75 | 1-30 |
| Q5X5000 | 50 | 5,000 | Laser Distance | Various | IP67 | ±2.0 | 13-25 | 13-88 |
| Q5X10000 | 50 | 10,000 | Laser Distance | Various | IP67 | ±1-3 | 13-88 | N/A |
| Q2X | 20 | 3,000 | Laser Distance | Various | IP67 | ±1-3 | 20-35 | N/A |
| LTF12 | 50 | 12,000 | Laser Distance | Various | IP67 | ±0.3-2.5 | 10-13.5 | 0.9-9 |
| LTF24 | 50 | 24,000 | Laser Distance | Various | IP67 | ±0.5-3.5 | 10-25 | 0.9-12 |
| LE250 | 100 | 400 | Laser Distance | Various | IP67 | ±0.02-0.2 | 0.5-1 | 0.02-0.2 |
| LE550 | 100 | 1,000 | Laser Distance | Various | IP67 | ±0.25-1 | 2-8 | 0.5-1 |
| LM80 | 40 | 80 | Laser Distance | Various | IP67 | ±0.001 | 0.04-0.06 | 0.002 |
| LM150 | 50 | 150 | Laser Distance | Various | IP67 | ±0.002 | 0.12-0.14 | 0.004 |
Ultrasonic Sensor Selection
Banner's ultrasonic sensors offer reliable detection for challenging applications.
T30UX Series
Features: Temperature compensation, chemical resistance, variety of ranges and beam patterns.
Consider for: Shorter dead zones, highest precision.
Other Ultrasonic Sensor Series
- S18U, QS18U: Compact and versatile options.
- T18U, K50U, M25U: Offer various ranges and features for specific needs.
- QT50U: Hygienic IP69K version available.
- Radar Sensors: Mentioned for AC versions and chemical resistance (refer to pages 12-13).
Ultrasonic Sensor Specifications Overview
| Model | Min. Range (mm) | Max. Range (mm) | Output Type | Chemical Resistance | DC Power | Response Time (ms) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| QS18U | 50 | 500 | Various | Yes | DC | 0.7 |
| S18U | 30 | 300 | Various | Yes | DC | 0.5-1 |
| T30UX | 200 | 2,000 | Various | Yes | DC | 0.5-3 |
| T18U | 300 | 3,000 | Various | Yes | DC | 0.5-3 |
| K50U | 100 | 1,000 | Various | Yes | DC | 1.5-3 |
| QT50U | 200 | 8,000 | Various | Yes | AC/DC | 1.0 |
| M25U | 500 | 600 | Various | Yes | DC | 3 |
Radar Sensor Selection
Banner's radar sensors provide reliable detection in challenging environments.
Q90R Series
Features: Consistent detection in any environment, configurable beam pattern, multidimensional detection.
Consider for: Narrow beam patterns, compact housing for pipe mounting.
Other Radar Sensor Series
- T30R: Offers configurable visual feedback and lower cost per unit.
- K50R: Designed for spray pressure, IP69K rating, and process connections.
- T30RW: Features IP67/IP69K ratings.
Configuration is available via Banner Measurement Sensor Software.
Radar Sensor Specifications Overview
| Model | Frequency (GHz) | Range (m) | Beam Pattern | Output Type | IP Rating | Software Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Q90R | 60 | 20 | 40° x 40°, 120° x 40° | Various | IP67, IP69K | Yes |
| T30R | 122 | 25 | 15°, 45° | Various | IP67 | Yes |
| K50R | 60 | 5 | 40° x 30°, 80° x 60° | Various | IP67 | Yes |
| T30RW | 122 | 15 | 15° | Various | IP67, IP69K | Yes |
Fiber Optic Sensor Selection
Banner's fiber optic systems consist of amplifiers and cables, offering flexibility for various applications.
Fiber Optic Amplifiers
- DF-G1: Basic sensing, ambient light receiver.
- DF-G2: Higher response speed, various color emitters, small part counting.
- DF-G3: Extended range, analog output, water detection.
Fiber Optic Cables
Selection considerations include fiber type, sensing mode, and head. Options include plastic and glass fiber optics with different characteristics like flexibility, temperature resistance, and signal strength.
Sensing Modes
- Through-beam: Longer ranges, high excess gain, suitable for web guide detection or counting.
- Retro-reflective: Single-sided solution for spot-to-spot or contrast applications.
Sensor Heads
A wide variety of sensor heads are available, including inline, angled, slot, and specialized heads for applications like fill level detection.
Light Curtain Selection
Banner offers light curtains for both measurement and presence-sensing applications.
Light Curtains for Measurement
These consist of multiple opposing optoelectronic sensor pairs in a long housing. Measurements are derived from the number of blocked beams, useful for product sizing, hole gauging, or edge tracking.
Light Curtains for Presence Sensing
These cover a larger area than single-point sensors to detect targets that may not be in a fixed position, typically used for leading-edge detection in material transport.
Light Curtain Specifications Overview
| Model | Sensing Mode | Range (m) | Light Curtain Length (mm) | Resolution (mm) | Output Type | IP Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EZ-Array | Presence Sensing | 4 | 150-2,400 | 5 | Various | IP65 |
| 2-Stick Mini-Array | Presence Sensing | 6.1 | 150-1,830 | 9.5, 19.1 | Various | IP65 |
| Mini-Array Basic | Presence Sensing | 2 | 150-1,210 | 25.4 | Various | IP54 |
| EG24 (Edge Sensor) | Edge Measurement | N/A | N/A | <10 μm | 4-20 mA | IP67 |
| B25 | Retro-reflective | 25 | N/A | 0.5 | Various | IP67 |
| Q76E | Retro-reflective | 46 | N/A | 2 | Various | IP67/IP69 |
| LX | Through-beam | 113-951 | N/A | <3 mm | Various | IP65 |
| TTR | Retro-reflective | 120 | 200-1,500 | 1 | Various | IP50 |
| SAB D | Retro-reflective | 497-998 | N/A | 3 | Various | IP50 |
| SAB LP | Retro-reflective | 497-998 | N/A | 1.5 | Various | IP50 |
3D Distance Measurement & Machine Vision
Banner offers advanced solutions for complex measurement and inspection tasks.
3D Distance Measurement
- K50Z: Multizone sensing, wide field of view.
- ZMX: For higher resolution, advanced configuration, and application-specific solutions.
Banner 3D Configuration Software simplifies defining sensing conditions, setting measurement areas, and configuring detection criteria.
Machine Vision
- Image Sensors & Smart Cameras: Robust, compact solutions for automated inspections. Features include various resolutions, color options, and integrated lighting.
- Barcode Readers (ABR Series): Offer superior decoding for track & trace applications, available in different form factors and configurations.
Banner's software supports configuration and management of these vision systems.
Additional Sensing Technologies
Banner provides specialized sensors for various niche applications.
Color Sensors
Distinguish object colors for quality and inspection applications.
- QCM50: 150mm range, 0.18ms response, white LED.
Luminescence Sensors
Use UV light to activate luminescent colors/inks for reliable detection of labels, seals, etc.
- Q26: 30mm range, 0.25ms response, UV LED.
- QL56: 50mm range, 0.25ms response, UV LED.
Registration Mark Sensors
Detect fine color contrast differences for registration mark verification.
- R58: 10mm range, 0.05ms response, RGB LED.
- R55F: Fiber optic, dependent on fiber, 0.05ms response, various colors.
Slot Sensors
Detect objects passing between sender and receiver arms, ideal for counting and part detection.
- SLM: 10-220mm slot width, 60-120mm depth, 0.5ms response.
- SLE10: 10mm slot width, 45mm depth, 0.15ms response.
- SLE30: 30mm slot width, 45mm depth, 0.15ms response.
Label Sensors
Designed to reliably detect labels or their carrier material in labeling equipment.
- SLE5: 5mm slot width, 50mm depth, 0.04ms response, photoelectric.
- SLE3: 3mm slot width, 50mm depth, 0.035ms response, photoelectric.
- SLU4: 4mm slot width, 79mm depth, 0.2ms response, ultrasonic.
Complementary Products
Banner Engineering also offers products that enhance sensor system performance.
Remote I/O
Optimize control systems and simplify design with remote I/O blocks that reduce wiring and offer integrated diagnostics.
Connectivity
Provides seamless integration solutions with various cable assemblies, connector blocks, and converters.
Lighting & Indication
Offers LED lights, tower lights, and indicators for improved industrial automation, providing excellent illumination and status indication.
Key Terms
Understanding key sensor terminology is crucial for proper selection and application.
- Triangulation: Measures distance based on the angle of reflected light. Precise at close range.
- Distance Measurement: Measures distance by timing light travel. More consistent over range than triangulation.
- Repeatability: How reliably a sensor produces the same result under identical conditions.
- Minimum Object Distance (MOS): Minimum distance an object needs from the background for reliable detection.
- Resolution: The smallest change in a measured property a sensor can detect.
- Linearity: Maximum deviation from an ideal linear measurement over a defined range.
- IP Rating: Enclosure's resistance to dust (first digit) and liquids (second digit).
- Beam Pattern: The area where the sensor responds to an object.
- IO-Link: A serial, point-to-point communication protocol for bidirectional data exchange.
Intelligent Automation. Better Solutions.
Banner Engineering develops and manufactures products for industrial automation, including sensors, IIoT and wireless technology, LED lighting, machine safety, barcode scanners, and vision inspection. Their solutions support the manufacturing of everyday products across various industries. With a global presence and a commitment to innovation and service, Banner is a reliable source for intelligent automation technologies.
For more information, visit bannerengineering.com.
