Distance and position measurements with industrial laser distance meters

LASER distance meters for industrial applications

Distance measurement without contact in total safety

Visible LASER with safety class 2 also suitable for measurements in the presence of an operator

Analog data output, RS232, RS422, Profinet, Profibus, Ethernet.

The LASER LDM family of distance meters consists of a series of optoelectronic distance measuring devices for industrial applications with analogue interface (from 4 mA to 20 mA) or digital (Ethernet, Profinet, Profibus, RS232, RS422).

The LDM series LASER distance meters are used for the precise measurement of distances from a few meters to three kilometers. The distance measurement represents aconsolidated application for laser technology.

These optical sensors use LASER (pulse or modulated) light to measure distances, heights, lengths, levels and positions in a non-contact process. To achieve this, all components work together in a perfectly coordinated overall system.

This system consists of a laser emitter, optical transmitters and receivers, photosensitive diodes and sophisticated electronics and algorithms for time measurement or phase measurement. We use different optoelectronic principles for our measuring devices, such as time of flight, phase comparison and back-mixing LASER pulse. These methods allow singles accurate measurements to the millimeter, and measuring ranges up to several hundred meters. Using our LASER distance meters is possible measure on natural surfaces or on special reflectors obtaining fast and precise results.

LASER distance meters work using visible or invisible optical radiation and are classified in accordance with current regulations in class 1 or 2 (safe classes for operation even without protective glasses).

The compact construction allows easy installation of the LASER distance meter even where space is limited or in industrial applications. All devices offer standard interfaces, analog or digital data output and parameterizable switching outputs. The family of LASER LDM distance meters is particularly used for applications in the industrial sector with analog (4 - 20 mA) or digital (Ethernet, Profinet, Profibus, RS232, RS422, SSI).

Applications

Level measurement in tanks, silos or large containers with level display on remote monitors. The LASER sensor allows a precise and fast measurement even of liquid products where the surface reflection index is such as to allow the detection of the LASER spot. The LASER distance meter is a valid replacement for the contact distance meter or the ultrasonic wave detector.

Measurement of size, distance or position of large objects in the metallurgical and iron and steel industry. Real-time communication of position and distance to PLC, HMI or process control devices. With the LASER distance meters it is possible to check the coil diameter during winding for programming the acceleration or deceleration ramps. It is possible to detect the edge position for tracking the movement or the size, thickness, width and length of billets and slabs.

Measurement of length, diameter, ovality and position in the wood sector. With the LASER distance meters it is possible to measure the position of logs or blocks of material before processing. The position, thickness, length or diameter data can be transmitted in real time to PLC, HMI or SCADA systems. The irregularity of the wood surface is not a problem as the LDM series LASER distance meters constantly correct the operating parameters in order to guarantee a precise and reliable measurement.

Dimensional inspection in the paper and textile industry. Control of loop and position of the belt or carpet even in the presence of materials with a change of color or surface appearance. The distance measurement can be transmitted in real time to the line controller (PLC or SCADA) or displayed on a display or on a giant monitor.

Measurement and dimensional control in the metal industry. The characteristics of the LDM series LASER distance meters allow a precise and reliable measurement even in the presence of high temperatures, in the presence of fumes and vapors or on hot surfaces. The problems of heat or light emission by the target to be detected can be eliminated or greatly mitigated with the use of protective cases or with the installation of optical filters

Dimensional control in the metallurgical sector on both hot and cold applications. The LASER distance meter can provide in real time the position, distance and size (thickness, width, length) of slabs, blooms and billets both at room temperature and at high temperatures. The problems of heat or light emission by the target to be detected can be eliminated or greatly mitigated with the use of protective cases or with the installation of optical filters

Position measurement on overhead traveling cranes with anti-collision function. The LASER distance meters of the LDM family allow the real-time detection of the position and distance on bridge cranes and cranes ensuring the anti-collision function. The installation of the LASER distance meters also allows the parallelism to be detected or the two lateral carriers not to synchronize. The display of the position, distance or positioning differential can also be viewed on giant monitors or it is possible to generate alarms or remote signals on the control systems.

Supervision of the railway infrastructure. Detection of the position and speed of trains and moving parts. The ability to detect distances even up to 3 km allows the detection of objects that move over large distances or that must be intercepted at great distances. The ability to work on even very different surfaces or with very high variations in color and reflectivity allows the detection of distance, position and speed even on very different objects.

Measurement and control of the position, deformation and vibrations of large structures or located at very large distances.
The ability to work on even very different surfaces or with very high variations in color and reflectivity allows the detection of distance, position and oscillation even on very different objects. The use of intelligent data loggers allows constant and continuous monitoring even over observation periods of weeks or months. Remote data transmission also allows the monitoring of multiple measurement points or multiple structures from a single observation and control point.

Process monitoring in steelworks and rolling mills
Distance measurement on hot incandescent steel up to 1300 ° C
Level measurement in silos and heaps
Monitoring and positioning of cranes and transport systems
Position monitoring of vehicles and boats
Lifting system monitoring / lifting height measurement and lift positioning
General distance measurement and position monitoring
Measurement of the diameter of the rolls / reels
Distance measurement in mining, construction, forestry and material handling technologies
Detection of thickness, length and width of metal products
Measurement of the diameter of the steel coils
Detection of fast moving objects
Use as a proximity switch
2D and 3D scanning applications
Precision altimeters for cranes and gantries
Deformation and oscillation measurement of large structures such as dams, bridges, skyscrapers
Monitoring of mountain slopes or critical points.
Measurements of slabs, blooms, billets or semi-finished products in the metallurgical industry
Measurement of cutting position for saws and shearing machines
Material feed control on presses for molding
Winding or unwinding material measurement on reel
Loop control in cutting lines and slitter
Speed measurement on moving targets
Level measurement of paints and chemicals
Measure and control position of ships in port or on approach

Technical features

The LDM series distance meters are able to measure the distance between the sensor and almost all surfaces, whether solid or liquid.

Wide sensing distances
Distance measurements up to 300 m without reflector
Measurements of distances up to 3000 m with a suitable reflective system or with particularly reflective targets
High detection accuracy
Optoelectronic measurement methods with latest generation optical and electronic components
Accuracy up to ± 1 mm
Constant precision independent of target distance
Easy integration into automation systems or data acquisition systems
Flexible parameterization of all working parameters and interfacing with the outside world
Easy adaptation to the application and type of system
Various interfaces suitable for industry
4 mA .... 20 mA, Profibus, Industrial Ethernet, RS422, RS485, RS232
Reliable and robust construction
Aluminum enclosures with degree of protection IP 65 or IP 67
Integrated heating for outdoor applications
Use in bright outdoor environments with a high percentage of constant or diffused light
Safe and harmless
Visible and infrared laser radiation
Laser class 1 or 2
No special precautions for use or additional certifications are necessary

Integration

RODER SRL can provide all the necessary support for the integration of LASER distance meters in the industrial sector or in the structural control sector. All LASER distance meters can be interfaced through a physical connection (with copper or fiber optic cable) or through a wireless connection (Wi-Fi or proprietary radio link).

RODER SRL can supply standard or customized software for the continuous monitoring of the physical quantities detected by the LASER distance meters. The use of intelligent data loggers allows the control of the physical quantities monitored even for long periods of time and the real-time communication of any anomalies, even remotely via web-servers or remote control systems.

RODER SRL can provide not only the data acquisition and archiving software but also all the hardware necessary for the realization of the final application. Single or multi-channel data acquisition units, point-to-point acquisition systems or distributed control systems are available. It is also possible to centralize data from multiple distance meters on a single control and data storage location.

Accessories

REDAM series remote display monitors for data visualization coming from LASER distance meters or from other related sensors (force sensors, deformation sensors, anemometers, tensiometers, temperature meters, linear transducers, data acquisition systems). The REDAM series monitors allow not only the visualization of data in real time but also the archiving of measurements by dividing them by acquisition date, by geographical area, by production batch or by acquisition batch.

High-quality connection cable for the LDM41A and LDM42A laser distance sensors

Wi-Fi transmission system for the remote transmission of LASER distance meter data. The wireless interface allows remote transmission of the value measured by the sensor and, if necessary, parameterization of the sensor without having direct access to the installation point of the LASER distance meter.

In some cases it is useful to reduce the signal level of the laser distance sensors to avoid measurement errors caused by an overload of the receiver diode. This depends on how strongly the target reflects the transmitted laser beam.
For the laser distance sensors of the LDM4x series, optical filters with double and quadruple attenuation are available. They are mounted directly on the optical support of the measuring instruments together with an adapter, inclined at 10%.
Two spacer rings supplied with the product facilitate the exact alignment of the inclined surface to the measuring device.
The filter glass has been equipped with a seven times higher broadband anti-reflective coating for operation in industrial environments. The additional top layer is characterized by greater hardness and water-repellent and dirt-repellent qualities, which greatly facilitate the cleaning of the gray filter.

The PHSS4x housing is used to protect the sensors of the LDM4x series from humidity and dirt. It is made of sturdy stainless steel and is perfectly suitable for outdoor use. The window which has been adapted to the laser wavelength range can be easily cleaned. The serial programming interface of the sensor is always available on an external port. The power supply and other signals are connected via cable gland to an internal terminal block. The sensor can be mounted directly in the factory. Special customized versions are available on request.

The SLS series enclosures are specially designed for use on particular LASER distance meters or on triangulation sensors for protection from dust, vapors and fumes. The presence of a compressed air pressurization duct allows the maintenance of a low operating temperature and at the same time preserves the optics of the LASER sensor from contaminants, fumes, vapors.

The LMI series enclosures are designed for the protection of LASER sensors where it is necessary not only the protection from dust or vapors but it is also necessary to maintain the temperature within a range of values capable of stabilizing the behavior of the sensor even in the presence of large temperature ranges.

If the LDM4x series laser distance sensors are to be used at high ambient temperatures, the water-cooled PHSS4x-w protective enclosure is used. It protects the sensor not only from hot temperatures, but also from cold, humidity and dirt. A connection flange is provided for the programming interface. The power supply and other signals are connected via a through cable. The housing is available with optional window heating, an air purge tube and a pan / tilt support.

With the help of the mounting bracket, the measuring instruments of the LDM4x and LDM30x series can be easily and conveniently mounted on the application site. The construction of the angle facilitates the subsequent alignment of the laser beam over a range of 10 ° in a horizontal and vertical direction. With the sensor's visible laser beam, it is also possible to target remote targets. The sensor is adjusted on the bracket and fixed with the four M6 screws supplied.

The PAX series displays are extremely versatile in use and provide useful additional functions. PAXD shows analog input signals, e.g. the analog output of an LDM41A, on a five-digit display. The scale factor can be adjusted directly on the device using the keys. The display is available in a robust steel housing with IP 65 protection rating or for mounting on a switch panel. It can be supplied with additional functions, such as limit value monitoring or a serial interface.

With the LDMTool software all the laser distance sensors of the LDM series that have a serial interface can be conveniently parameterized from the PC. A simple user interface displays all the available parameters of the currently connected sensor and all measured values and the status of the different output signals. A terminal window for direct communication has been implemented. In addition, a logging function (Log Window) and a graphical display (distance-time diagram) are available with the full version of LDMTool.

The PT4x-AIR protection tube has been developed to protect the optics of the laser distance sensors of the LDM4x series from dirt and water in industrial environments. It is screwed directly onto the measuring instrument. Compressed air can be brought into the tube through the side fitting. The continuous air flow that develops keeps dirt particles and water drops away from the lens system.

Interfaces

The LASER distance meters of the LDM family can be configured with an Ethernet or Ethernet / IP communication interface for complete integration in latest generation automation systems or in "PC based" IT systems.

The LASER distance meters of the LDM family can be configured with RS232 or RS422 communication interface for direct connection to PLC or data acquisition cards based on microprocessors or microcontrollers. The RS422 communication line allows remote connection of data acquisition systems even in the presence of severe environmental disturbances.

The LASER distance meters of the LDM family can be configured with a PROFINET type communication interface for direct connection on production lines and systems that are based on the PROFINET communication standard.

The LASER distance meters of the LDM family can be configured with a PROFIBUS communication interface for direct connection on production lines and systems that are based on the PROFIBUS communication standard.