2D Laser Scanner with Pulse Ranging Technology

Pepperl+Fuchs introduces the R2000 UHD Laser Scanner. This IP65-rated 2D photoelectric sensor leverages Pulse Ranging Technology (PRT) and a rotating head to deliver quick, precise and high resolution distance measurement. Combined with a gapless 360° measuring angle and interactive wrap-around LED display, the result is highly reliable detection of objects to 10m (33 ft.) and/or reflectors to 60m (197 ft.), with quick visual status indication and access to extensive measurement data, in a single, compact device. An eye-safe, class 1 red laser light promotes quick and easy set-up and alignment. “We think the R2000 represents the new gold standard for distance measurement sensors,” says Michael Turner, Product Manager – Photoelectric Sensing. “Pulse Ranging Technology is the most effective time-of-flight measurement technology available today, providing maximum precision and reliability over large distances, even in harsh ambient conditions.

The R2000 UHD combines PRT with a rotating, measuring head capable of extremely high accuracy measurements at lightning fast scan rates – all in a cutting edge and compact design that is smaller than most coffee mugs. It also has a pinpoint light spot to detect small objects, reflectors or edges.” Just 106 mm (4.2”) x 106 mm (4.2”) x 117 mm (4.6”) (LxWxH), these laser scanners feature an interactive, 360° LED display capable of both text-based and graphical information, paving the way for new display and operating concepts. In addition to displaying basic status information, the display can provide an image of the scanned environment, enabling users to better visualize the current application. R2000 UHD laser scanners feature a high 50Hz scan rate (3000 RPM), enabling them to detect protrusions or obstacles over a large area and at high speeds – ideal for material handling and ASRS applications. The gapless 360° scanning angle is perfect for positioning, area monitoring or collision avoidance applications. Extremely high angular resolution and precise measurement provide accurate navigation for autonomous vehicles or mobile robots.  

The R2000 UHD has a fast Ethernet interface capable of transmitting data at speeds up to 100 Mbit/s. Distance data is received as packets using a separate TCP/IP or UDP/IP channel, and a simple HTTP command protocol is provided in order to configure the device. End users can develop software to meet the requirements of their application. Additionally, a driver for the Robotic Operating System (ROS) is now available for use with the R2000 UHD. ROS provides libraries and tools to help software developers create robot applications.  Sensors with PRT emit a very short, high-intensity light pulse. They calculate object distance based on the speed-of-light constant and time-of-flight of the reflected light pulse. Unlike other time-of-flight sensors that transmit a continuous light beam, PRT sensors emit short pulses of high-intensity light up to 250,000 times per second. Compared to a continuous source that uses lasers, the energy density of one PRT LED pulse can be up to 1,000 times greater. This allows stable and highly reliable detection, even at distances of 300 meters or more.  R2000 UHD distance measurement scanners are rated for use in temperatures ranging from -10 … 50°C (14 … 122°F). They have an anticipated operating life, dependent on operating conditions, of up to 20 years. In contrast to triangulation-based sensors, the detection range of a PRT sensor is not limited by the geometric layout of the sensor optics. Consequently, PRT sensors with smaller housings can be used for significantly larger detection ranges – providing impeccable measurement quality.