Laser measurement sensors by Acuity cover a variety of ranges

The AR200 laser measurement sensor, available from Durham Instruments

Acuity manufactures an impressive group of state-of-the-art laser measurement tools, available in Canada from Durham Instruments. One of the more advanced examples is its AR200 group of laser measurement sensors, the producer’s most compact line of triangulating laser displacement sensors, which have been designed for use in some of the most difficult industrial environments.

The Acuity AR200 series comes in several different standard models that cover metric measurement ranges from six to 50 millimetres (mm).

Top resolution and sensitivity

Each of these AR200 laser measurement sensors works by aiming a Class 2 visible laser spot onto the target to gauge the distance accurately. A CMOS line scan camera inside the sensor views reflected light from the surface from an angle, and the target distance is calculated from the image pixel data. The sensor measures accurately to mirror-like surfaces on which most of the light beam reflects back to the detector, with top resolution and sensitivity, and it cannot be overloaded.

What makes this instrument unique is that it is the only sensor of its kind with pushbutton selection of Analog, Limit Switch, and Serial output signals; it is also programmable with serial commands through a PC computer.

Durham Instruments recommends the AR200 series for applications in general manufacturing, aerospace, automation, education, the military, power generation, alternative energy, transportation, and research and development. The sensors are also frequently used in forestry, the medical field, and high-tech industries. Common applications include water fabrication, automobile brakes, laser calipers, steel strip mills, and postal automation.

All of the AR200 models have a 0.03 per cent resolution across their whole measurement span. Each one – the AR200-6M, AR200-12M, AR200-25M, AR200-50M, and AR200-100M – has a range in mm that matches the model number; for example, the AR200-50M can measure 50 mm to within 15 micrometres.

Additional options include the following:

• Connectivity kit with terminal blocks, serial cable, and power supply;
• Cables with optional lengths and polyurethane jackets;
• Software library; and
• Touch panel display that monitors up to two sensors for thickness measurements and includes an RS485 output.

For more information, contact Durham Instruments.

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