Simple, smart sensors solve problems
For more than three years, a worldwide team of sensor experts from Schneider Electric's Square D and Telemechanique divisions gathered to design sensors that could solve problems in the field. Users reported mechanical and electrical setup problems with proximity sensors. Among photoelectrics, selecting the proper type was the biggest problem, followed by installation time, and users wanted "co...
A 2002 EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS WINNER
| MACHINE CONTROL & DISCRETE SENSORS | |
For more than three years, a worldwide team of sensor experts from Schneider Electric’s Square D and Telemechanique divisions gathered to design sensors that could solve problems in the field. Users reported mechanical and electrical setup problems with proximity sensors. Among photoelectrics, selecting the proper type was the biggest problem, followed by installation time, and users wanted ”componentized” limit switches to minimize inventory.
The result was a concept called Offering Simplicity through Intelligence (OSIConcept), and the resulting sensor family was named Global Detection . This Square D/Telemecanique XS Rectangular proximity sensor line has been designed to eliminate problems like sensitivity to metal environments, setup, and mounting.
When the user presses a button, the product runs in ”each” mode to set the maximum sensing distance. The ”flat pack”-style sensor is programmable to detect when just a portion of the face senses the target, or just where on the face the target is. The target can be moving in either axial or radial orientation, and the sensor will detect it.
By applying OSIConcept to photoelectric sensors, Schneider’s team developed multi-mode photoelectric sensors capable of operating accurately in diffuse environments and with background suppression. Each sensor can function in five sensing modes and has two output states (NO or NC), reducing typical product part numbers required by a factor of 10.
OSIConcept principles have even been adapted to limit switches. Schneider’s XC family of limit switches completely modularizes bodies, contact blocks, operating heads, and cable entries. More than 40 metal, interchangable operating heads can be combined with five body styles and six conduit entries, all of which conform to standards and local customs worldwide.
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XS proximity sensors eliminate problems, such as sensitivity to metal environments, setup, and mounting
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”Teach” mode sets the maximum sensing distance
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Photoelectric sensors can operate accurately in diffuse environments and with background suppression
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