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Challenge
Point level is not an
indication of true level |
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Solution
ifm's Level Sensor uses an
array of sensing elements
to indicate true level |
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Detecting the level of food product in a hopper or bulk conveyor is necessary to run an efficient food processing operation. An empty or "run dry" condition in a hopper can cause machine downtime, place stress on equipment, and risk damage to components. In traditional level applications, multiple single-point level sensors are placed above a hopper or conveyor to detect the level of the material. Food product that is not uniform in size, such as vegetables or fine materials like grain, can shift within the hopper creating hills and valleys.
The challenge is obtaining an accurate level reading. Optical point-level sensors and ultrasonic sensors detect only one spot on top of the product. Any hills or valleys in the material will provide multiple level readings that can lead to an incorrect level detection.
The 3D level sensor is mounted above a hopper. The sensor's pixel array of 3072 data points spreads across the vegetables or grain to detect the entire area. The high and low points are identified, providing accurate level monitoring and total volume.
 ifm's 3D level sensor is designed to evaluate size, shape and volume in food processing applications. The compact, easy-to-use sensor uses time-of-flight distance measurement to identify an object in its field of view and captures the entire object in three dimensions. The level sensor detects the highs and lows of food product in a hopper or on a conveyor. The sensor can determine when the level of product is too high or if food is concentrated in one area. The sensor will help prevent food breakage and overflows.
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