Look, do not touch!

Second Quarter 2007 Other technologies

Intacton GmbH, a subsidiary of the FRABA group, has developed an optical motion sensor which enables precise non-contact length and speed measurement of sensitive webs such as textiles, coated or sticky surfaces, steel wool and foam rubber. The new Optipact sensors are maintenance-free and price-competitive with conventional, contact-based measuring systems consisting of measuring wheels and encoders. By using non-contact technology, significant benefits are gained as sensitive materials are neither touched nor damaged. Furthermore, measuring errors caused by slip, deformation or accumulated dust and dirt are eliminated. The sensors are designed for a speed range of up to ±4 m/s and have a maximum resolution of 15 μm. Due to their compact size, they are easy to integrate into automation applications. The sensors interface to higher-level automation controllers via incremental or SSI interfaces and operate on a supply voltage of either +5 or 10...30 V.

For more information contact Wim Annandale, ATI Systems, +27 (0)11 824 1315, [email protected], www.atisystems.co.za

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