LPT: Sensors and Instruments – DFE Tension Transducers, First Sensor LiDAR and More

ams 3D and NIR Sensors

3D sensor in action. (Image courtesy of ams.)

ams and SmartSens have partnered to develop 3D and NIR sensors. This collaboration will help to further ams’ goal of broadening its portfolio for all three 3D technologies – Active Stereo Vision, Time-of-Flight and Structured Light – while accelerating time to market.

To meet an increasing demand for 3D sensing solutions in mobile devices, the partnership’s initial focus will be on 3D Near Infrared (NIR) sensors for facial recognition and applications requiring a high Quantum Efficiency (QE) in the NIR range (2D and 3D).

For more information, visit ams’ website.

Baumer Digital Data Sensor

U500 sensor. (Image courtesy of Baumer.)

Baumer has released a family of sensors with an IO-Link which provide expanded diagnostics and adjustment features. The possibility of bidirectional communication using the standardized IO-Link interface is the basis for improved functions and services in the IIoT era. In addition to the primary function, such as a switching signal, additional secondary data provides useful information about the production process.

For more information, visit Baumer’s website.

DFE Tension Transducers

Model F tension transducer. (Image courtesy of Dover Flexo Electronics.)

Dover Flexo Electronics (DFE) has developed its Model F tension transducer. The Model F is a heavy-duty flat-style transducer that measures web tension in machines using live-shaft idler rolls. One F transducer mounts under the pillow block bearing at each end of the roll shaft. These transducers are designed for use in demanding tension measurement environments, like paper processing. The F transducer is housed in a corrosion-resistant base with a tethered stainless-steel top plate.

For more information, visit DFE’s website.

First Sensor LiDAR

Avalanche photodiode utilized in LiDAR systems. (Image courtesy of First Sensor.)

First Sensor and Analog Devices have joined forces to develop systems that shrink the LiDAR signal chain to provide higher system performance as well as reduce size, weight, power and cost for manufacturers designing sensing and perception technology into their autonomous safety systems.

“The first step in our work together is to optimize ADI’s industry leading TIAs with First Sensors APDs so we can offer our customers more powerful and efficient LIDAR solutions, and better support the mass commercial launch of LIDAR systems into the autonomous transportation market,” said Stewart Sellars, general manager, LIDAR, Analog Devices.

For more information, visit First Sensor’s website.

Mitutoyo Inspection Lens

TAGLENS. (Image courtesy of Mitutoyo.)

Mitutoyo has unveiled its TAGLENS inspection lens. Suited for demanding inspection applications such as non-contact ultra-high speed inspection systems, the TAGLENS series reduces the need for mechanical focusing modules.

Thanks to its focusing speed, the TAGLENS-T1 can increase the depth-of-field of any optical system. The TAGLENS-T1 is also capable of withstanding large amounts of vibration and shock or being mounted on robotic arms while maintaining optical performance.

For more information, visit Mitutoyo’s website.

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