The demands on modern 3D sensors are constantly growing – particularly in the areas of robot vision, the food industry and logistics. A new laser triangulation sensor combines high precision with a field of vision of up to 1,020 mm (40 inches). The large field of vision in particular simplifies numerous industrial applications.

The northern German technology company AT Sensors has expanded its affordable ECS 3D sensor series with the addition of a new product – the ECS 4090 with a field of view of 40.16 inches. This makes the sensor suitable for demanding applications in various industries where a high-performance solution is not required, such as robot vision. In bin picking, the automated picking of unsorted objects in containers, it is crucial that the sensor recognizes as many objects as possible at once.

In the automotive industry, for example, it enables the precise detection and gripping of metal parts such as screws, gears or body parts from large containers, while in logistics, packages and products are automatically removed from randomly filled storage boxes for shipping or packaging. In mechanical engineering and metal processing, too, a sensor of this kind makes it easier to precisely handle milled or cut metal pieces that have to be provided for subsequent production steps. In the food industry, it is used in the automated removal of baked goods or packaged food for further efficient processing or packaging. In addition, electronics manufacturers benefit from the sensor's high resolution, as it precisely detects the smallest components or printed circuit boards and enables robots to grip and position them securely. The technology is even used in the waste industry, where it reliably detects different materials such as plastic, metal or e-waste, thus enabling precise sorting.

In all these areas, the ECS 4090 3D sensor, with a field of view of more than 1 meter (3.28 feet), reduces the need for additional sensors or complex robot movements, thereby accelerating processes, reducing costs and optimizing automation.
 

High precision despite a wide field of view

In addition, the ECS 4090 delivers detailed 3D data with a profile resolution of 4,096 points per profile despite its large field of view. Its X-resolution of 251 micrometers ensures accurate measurements, enabling the detection of fine structures and surface irregularities. In addition to its technical specifications, the ECS 4090 also impresses with its ease of integration into existing systems. By supporting standard interfaces such as GenICam and GigE Vision, it can be combined with industrial machine vision systems. At the same time, the intuitive software makes implementation and operation easy, so that even companies with limited experience in 3D sensing can quickly integrate the ECS 4090 into their processes.

Another major advantage of the sensor is its price-performance ratio. While comparable 3D sensors with a large field of view and high precision often require a costly investment, the sensor offers these features at an affordable price. This makes it particularly attractive for companies that require high-quality 3D measurement technology but are not looking for a high-end solution with over-engineered features.

Author
Nina Claaßen, Head of Marketing AT Sensors