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  1. OG Photoelectric sensor in M18 barrel housing
  2. Applications

OG photoelectric sensor applications

OG photoelectric sensors, based on reliable photoelectric sensing technology, are suitable for a wide range of applications, including conveying and material handling, as well as food industry environments such as cheese plants, breweries, and meat processing facilities. With their long sensing ranges, high switching frequencies, and long-term stability, these sensors are an ideal solution for demanding automation tasks in industrial settings.

Applications for industrial automation

Detection of different colored lids in packaging

Challenge: Packaging machines handle products with varying lid colors. Standard photoelectric sensors often detect white targets at longer ranges than black ones, leading to inconsistent performance.

Solution: The OG series photoelectric sensors reliably detect targets of any color at the same range. This eliminates the need for adjustments when product colors change, ensuring smooth operation.

Part presence detection before vacuum pick

Challenge: End-effectors with vacuum cups are popular because they don’t leave marks on parts and can easily approach from above, simplifying robot or gantry motion. To operate reliably, they must confirm the presence of a part before activating suction. Without accurate detection, the system risks missed or faulty picks, leading to errors and downtime.

Solution: Photoelectric sensors mounted on the end-effector signal the robot when it is close to the part. Once all sensors are activated, the system safely triggers the vacuum to pick the part without error.

Reliable detection of shiny metals

Challenge: Reflective metal surfaces can cause inconsistent detection with standard optical technologies.

Solution: The OG series uses diffuse, retro-reflective, or through-beam optical sensing with precise red light spots. This ensures reliable detection of shiny or small metallic targets, improving machine efficiency and control.

Fast-moving target detection with through-beam technology

Challenge: High-speed packaging and material handling require sensors that can keep up with fast-moving objects.

Solution: Through-beam sensors, with separate transmitter and receiver housings, provide high-speed detection. Their fast response time makes them ideal for packaging and other rapid conveyor applications.

Part presence sensing in automotive assembly

Challenge: Automotive manufacturing involves detecting a wide variety of components, from painted bodies to seats, tires, and interiors, often in different surface conditions.

Solution: OG series red light optical sensors reliably detect all automotive components. Standard M18 mounting simplifies installation, reducing downtime and increasing system flexibility.

Box detection for conveyors

Challenge: Conveyor systems need reliable detection to monitor product flow and prevent congestion, regardless of box color or surface. Because facilities often run multiple conveyor lines, numerous sensors are required across the system to ensure smooth and coordinated operation.

Solution: Diffuse and retro-reflective OG sensors with M18 mounting integrate easily into conveyor side channels. They ensure consistent detection of any box, supporting smooth material flow.

Applications for the Food & Beverage industry

Detection of moving metal hooks

Challenge: Food and beverage processing requires detection of small stainless steel parts, often in washdown environments.

Solution: OG series diffuse sensors reliably detect stainless steel hooks. Their IP69K rating, washdown-rated cables and IO blocks, and simple pushbutton teach-in functions make them ideal for hygienic environments.

Position confirmation of saws

Challenge: Cutting saws in food processing environments must be continuously monitored, even under exposure to dirt, water, and harsh conditions.

Solution: OG series sensors with rugged IP69K stainless steel housings and robust optical detection provide reliable position feedback. This ensures safe, continuous saw operation in demanding environments.