P+F USi Ultrasonic Sensor—A Cut Above: USi®-Industry Ultrasonic Sensor System
Pepperl+Fuchs has expanded its extensive range of ultrasonic sensors with the powerful USi-industry ultrasonic sensor system. This innovative system stands out from standard ultrasonic sensors due to its compact design, independent ultrasonic transducers, and elliptical sound beam. Its unparalleled flexibility and robustness make it highly adaptable to diverse applications. With independent sensor channels, switchable parameter sets, and multiple operating modes, the system seamlessly adjusts to various scenarios. Its durable construction ensures reliable 3D area monitoring, whether indoors, outdoors, or under harsh conditions.
Reliable 3D Area Monitoring with the New USi-Industry Sensor System
Elliptical Sound Beam for Wide Coverage
The USi-industry ultrasonic sensor system features a unique sound beam shape, enabling comprehensive 3D monitoring. Unlike conventional ultrasonic sensors with cone-shaped beams and circular cross-sections, the USi system utilizes an elliptical beam cross-section. This characteristic provides significant advantages when detecting objects over large monitoring areas. For instance, it can reliably detect diverse object profiles such as pallets, boxes, or frames during goods inspection.
Independent and Wide Coverage for Enhanced Flexibility
The system’s actual sensing units—two ultrasonic transducers—measure just 27 x 21 x 13 mm. These transducers are separated from the evaluation unit and can be installed at different locations using cables up to 3 meters long. This compact design allows for exceptional flexibility in component placement. The small transducers can be mounted directly on robotic arms or Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), ensuring precise speed and distance monitoring as well as robust collision avoidance.
Smart Software with Adjustable Parameters
The evaluation unit incorporates intelligent software algorithms to process acoustic signals. When multiple USi systems operate in the same environment, these algorithms automatically suppress potential echo interference, allowing the devices to function simultaneously without issues. The evaluation unit can connect to up to two ultrasonic transducers, each with its own channel, and these transducers can be individually configured via PACTware. Each transducer supports two parameter sets for distance, evaluation, output, and teaching. These sets can be toggled using a configurable digital input in the application, reducing investment costs since one evaluation unit supports two transducers.
Selective Evaluation Across Three Operating Modes
In teaching mode, the USi-industry sensor system learns its surroundings in detail. During this process, users can define a reference point to exclude specific fixed elements within the sensing range, such as a stationary machine part. Users can then decide how the sensor reacts—detecting an object’s presence, absence, or changes between these states. After completing the environment teaching process, selective evaluation can be configured to meet specific application requirements.
The sensor’s cycle time is equally versatile, adjustable between 10 and 200 milliseconds. Shorter cycle times suit the detection of fast-moving objects, while longer cycle times ensure stable measurements in high-impedance environments. The ultrasonic transducers comply with IP69 protection standards, offering moisture resistance and reliable operation even in exposed environments.
Typical Applications
The USi-industry sensors are widely used in Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) in production areas, warehouses, and distribution centers. Additional applications include robotics and aviation, such as collision protection between aircraft and luggage transport vehicles.
Highlights of the USi-Industry Ultrasonic Sensor System
- Modular Sensor System: Offers installation flexibility with miniature ultrasonic sensors that easily fit into tight spaces.
- Elliptical 3D Detection Field: Provides optimal area monitoring with a unique sound beam shape.
- Independent Channels: Each equipped with two switchable parameter sets for greater flexibility.
- Customizable Operation: Three selectable operating modes and adjustable cycle times accommodate diverse application needs.
- Simplified Integration: Easy environment teaching ensures seamless integration and interference resistance.
- Enhanced Reliability: Echo suppression ensures smooth operation in challenging environments.
The USi-industry ultrasonic sensor system delivers unmatched precision, flexibility, and durability, making it an indispensable solution for modern industrial applications.
