Not "just" a fork! New forked light barriers with IO-Link

In order to meet the requirements of Industry 4.0 and the advancing digitalization of production, the continuous development of our products is particularly important. This is why we have completely revised our OG forked light barriers without losing sight of the proven technology.

The highlight of the new series is the IO-Link function, which is now integrated as standard. Various settings can be made easily and conveniently via an IO-Link master (e.g. VY000005). The forks have 4 sensor modes: Standard (switching frequency up to 5000Hz and repeatability up to 0.02mm), High Resolution (30% increased resolution for small part detection), Power mode (higher transmitting power with increased functional reserve for improved dirt immunity) and Speed mode (switching frequency up to 8000Hz). Other setting options include, for example, the selection of the switching output (push-pull, PNP or NPN) and the switching function (NC, NO). A switch-on or turn-off delay can also be assigned to the switching output. Several teach-in versions have been integrated to simplify the setting of process values such as the size of an object.

In this context, either individual values can be taught in (single value teach-in) or it is possible to teach in the running process (dynamic teach-in). In addition, two teach points (two-value teach-in) can also be taught in to realize a switching threshold at the output. The forked light barriers also have a diagnostics function for assessing process stability, device status and teach-in quality. Current process values, part counting, device temperature, min/max values and teach-in switching points can also be called up. This means that with a manageable range of solutions - we offer one device per size - there are now a wide range of options for further expanding process reliability.

In addition, the forked light barriers with IO-Link can still be handled in the usual way, e.g. manual setting of the fork, setting the response sensitivity via a potentiometer or presetting the output function (NO/NC) via a rotary switch.

The housing of the forked light barriers is made of zinc diecast or aluminum and is powder-coated. This makes them more resistant than painted housing. The optics are made of glass. The forks have a push-pull output stage and can therefore be used as PNP or NPN systems. The operating voltage is 10...30V and the output current is 100mA. The standard devices are equipped with a red light LED. The connection is made via an M8 connector.