Ultrasonic Sensor Series UC18GS with IO-Link
Benefits
Ticking All Imaginable Boxes
The UC18GS series literally ticks all the boxes—in terms of functionalities and features it combines everything you can expect from a state-of-the-art ultrasonic sensor.
Application-Specific Adaption
The adjustable sound beam width, small dead band, and built-in interference target suppression enable optimal adaption of the UC18GS ultrasonic sensors to the application settings while significantly increasing process reliability.
Easy Synchronization of Multiple Sensors
By means of the automatic synchronization feature, the UC18GS series supports the easy synchronization of multiple sensors without parameterization.
Extensive Programming Options
Whether traditional pushbuttons or interfaces like IO-Link or IrDA—UC18GS ultrasonic sensors give users maximum freedom when it comes to programming options.
Ticking All the Boxes …
The UC18GS series literally ticks all the boxes. In terms of functionalities and features it combines everything you can expect from a state-of-the-art ultrasonic sensor. It is the culmination of our ultrasonics technology knowledge in a single series built for one purpose only—to provide you with a highly-flexible yet reliable solution for every application. Learn more about all the features and benefits it holds on the following slides …
Interference Target Suppression
Built-in interference target suppression enables optimal adaptation of the UC18GS ultrasonic sensors to the application settings while simultaneously increasing process reliability. Possibly occurring interference echoes from machine parts can be easily suppressed via software without affecting the measurement. Target distances (e.g. liquid levels) are precisely being detected even in the suppressed range. For example, it is possible to suppress a component at the edge of a container and perform a measurement in the middle of it.
Adjustable Sound Beam Width and Small Dead Band
The small dead band and adjustable sound beam width of the UC18GS ultrasonic sensor allow for fault-free operation in a wide variety of possible application scenarios even in challenging surroundings and confined measuring spaces. The sound beam of the sensor can be adjusted without loss of range. If objects are causing interference—like steps on the interior wall of a tank or other machine parts—the sound signal can be narrowed. This means no expensive changes need to be made to the tank.
Automatic Synchronization
By means of the automatic synchronization feature, the UC18GS series supports the easy synchronization of multiple sensors without parameterization. As each sensor features a synchronization input for suppressing ultrasonic mutual interference („crosstalk“), several sensors (up to 10) can be synchronized together by interconnecting their respective synchronization inputs. In this case, each sensor alternately transmits ultrasonic pulses in a self-multiplexing mode. Further synchronization modes are also available (common mode / externally-triggered).
Extensive Programming Options
Whether traditional pushbuttons or interfaces like IO-Link or IrDA—UC18GS ultrasonic sensors give users maximum freedom when it comes to programming options. While the IrDA interface allows live data access in running applications for maintenance or analysis purposes, comfortable and detailed configuration to meet each individual application are being performed via IO-Link master or via DTM. The output configuration as well as the sound beam width can also be set directly on the sensor using the programming buttons.
Application Examples
Adaptable Level Measurement in Confined Spaces
UC18GS series ultrasonic sensors reliably detect the fill level of liquids and granules, regardless of their color and other optical properties. A small opening in the tank cap is sufficient for installation. The diameter of the cone-shaped sound beam can be adjusted for the target area. It strikes the surfaces of the medium over a wide area. In the case of irregular or moving surfaces, the sensor determines an average value and thus indicates the actual level —instead of a potentially distorted punctual value.
Disturbance variables such as support struts or other objects reaching into the measuring field are suppressed by software (PACTware). The level is precisely detected even in the suppressed area. The sound beam radius can be easily adjusted with push buttons on the instrument itself or via software. The range is not affected by this, the level is always reliably detected in the measuring range.
Fail-Safe Bottle Detection in Filling Machines
UC18GS series ultrasonic sensors reliably detect the presence of bottles in the end positions. Instead of taking a point-by-point measurement, their sound beam hits the surface of the container over a wide area. This ensures detection even with varying contours and position deviations and makes the color and texture of the container surfaces irrelevant. The output configuration as well as the sound beam radius can be set with push buttons on the device.
The IO-Link interface allows comprehensive parameterization via the controller without physical access to the sensor. This not only makes commissioning particularly easy, but also enables fast product changeover without time-consuming re-parameterization. Even the complete individualization of products—automated production in batch size 1—is possible via IO-Link.
UC18GS Ultrasonic Sensors at Work
Gain more insights into the UC18GS features and how they are utilized in the aforementioned application examples.
IO-Link: The Intelligent Communication Technology
An internationally standardized, cross-vendor open interface, IO-Link is an integral part of Pepperl+Fuchs’ IIoT solutions. It is standardized according to IEC 61131-9 and is compatible with any fieldbus on the market.
IO-Link sensors like the UC18GS can be configured via the control system. This simplifies commissioning and makes quick recipe changes possible without extended downtime. Even complete individualization—batch size 1 production—is possible. For example, the beam width on an UC18GS ultrasonic sensor can be adjusted to accommodate different container shapes in a level measurement application.
Trust the Ultrasonic Sensor ExpertsIn-House Quality That You Can Rely On
Ultrasonic sensors from Pepperl+Fuchs are built in our own technology center, where transducer development and manufacturing take place. For more than 30 years, our forward-thinking team of experts has been working continually to advance ultrasonic technology for the solutions of tomorrow. That means our customers always receive the highest performance products on the market.
This approach has led to the broadest portfolio in the industry— supported by numerous patents and innovations—for the highest level of flexibility in product selection and optimal application solutions. In addition to our standard portfolio, Pepperl+Fuchs has the knowledge and infrastructure to respond to customer requirements with speed and flexibility.
What's more, our extensive range of accessories offers you the right modules for customized integration, whether in tough installation conditions or for special applications, custom programming, and coordinated connection technology. They turn any sensor application into a high-performance, future-proof system solution.
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