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R1D radar sensor for distance and ground speed measurement

Railway maintenance vehicle on tracks with exploded inset of R1D2 locations

The R1D2 radar sensor measures true ground speed with a velocity resolution of 0.036 km/h (0.022 mph) at a range of 20 m, providing excellent precision even in the harsh environments seen in mobile applications. Its resilience to environmental factors makes it ideal for outdoor use, while the user-friendly Vision Assistant software streamlines configuration, cutting down on both setup time and costs.

Discover more benefits of this technology below.

Buy the R1D201 Ground speed radar sensor

Radar (Radio Detection and Ranging) technology enables precise distance measurement by emitting radio waves and analyzing their reflections. Doppler effect occurs when the frequency of the radio wave changes due to the relative motion between the sensor and the object. Change in frequency is measured and calculated by the sensor and outputs the speed of an object.   

ifm's R1D narrow beam distance sensor uses FMCW (Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave) radar to precisely detect objects, measuring speed and distance. Since it does not depend on visually seeing an object, radar sensors are ideal for indoor / outdoor operation in conditions including rain, snow, fog, smoke and complete darkness.

Key features and benefits

   
Simplify complexity   Increase system availability and reliability   Reduce total cost of system
  • Mounting angle can be entered via the free configuration software, Vision Assistant, and true ground speed is output directly in m/s via CAN message.
  • No special input module is needed.
  • Compact and light form-factor allows easy installation and flush mounting when space is limited.
  • Built-in inclination sensor ensures proper installation conditions.
 
  • The sensor is immune to environmental factors like smoke, steam, dirt, and air disturbances, ensuring consistent measurement.
  • Resistance to varying light conditions makes it ideal for outdoor use or in areas with fluctuating lighting.
  • Mounting angle is fixed for internal true ground speed calculation. Slight vibration does not affect the speed output.
  • Highest environmental protection rating and wide operating temperature ensures reliable operation under any weather condition.
 
  • ifm's radar sensor offers the best price-to-performance ratio on the market.
  • Standard CAN communications, so no special input module is required.
  • Radar technology is robust and durable, with minimal maintenance costs.
  • Installation and integration time is reduced.
  • Speed measurement in both directions (forward and backward) is possible with one sensor.
  • Minimal infrastructure requirements reduces setup costs and the need for extensive trackside infrastructure.

Explore the R1D201 radar sensor

Radar spot calculator

The detection area of the radar sensor changes with distance.

  1. Move the slider bar to your desired range.
  2. Read the horizontal and vertical dimensions in the field of view image.
  3. Your target must fall within these dimensions to be detected.