Ultrasonic sensors with CANopen

Pepperl+Fuchs show its CANopen ultrasonic sensors at the Hannover Messe 2023 in hall 9, stand D76. They come in a 40 mm x 40 mm L2 design and offers an integrated CANopen interface that enables direct integration into CAN networks.

The selection of different specialized connectors (M12, Deutsch, and AMP) enables the sensors to be used in existing configurations. Interfering machine parts can be blocked out to ensure consistent measurements. Ultrasonic sensors in the UC*-L2M-B16 series can be selected to meet the application requirements, offering versions with detection ranges of 500 mm, 2000 mm, and 4000 mm. The adjustable sound beams allow the sensors to be adapted to the respective application without reducing the range of detection; sensor synchronization via CAN ensures operation when using several sensors in a confined space. The IP68 degree of protection ensures that the sensors are impermeable and suitable for use in temperature ranges between -40 °C and +85 °C, with temperature compensation features.

To enable reliable operation in mobile equipment applications, the product family offers an increased level of EMC resistance with required limits for irradiation resistance and interference pulses, such as those from vehicle batteries, explained the company. Additional E1 approval in accordance with UN/ECE Regulation No 10 allows the sensors to be used on public roads. The sensors can be operated in safety applications up to performance level c (PL c) or safety integrity level 1 (SIL 1), or PL d/SIL 2 through redundancy - a feature that is also possible for machine retrofits. This is an updated functionality resulting from the CANopen interface and the increased diagnostic capability of the sensors themselves. A tailored safety strategy demonstrates the suitability of the sensors for safety-relevant applications and facilitates the corresponding verification by the user. A diagnostics-enabled controller is required, which is considered and evaluated in combination with the sensors.

For example, on mobile machines such as excavators - where the field of view is often limited - work areas can be monitored by integrating the sensors. The implemented features support a number of applications not only in the field of mobile equipment, but also, for example, in material handling on driverless transport systems.

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