Whereas conventional ultrasonic sensors emit acoustic signals in the form of a radially symmetrical sound beam, the USi-industry uses a highly elliptical sound field. The opening angle of ± 17° / ± 5° creates an especially wide sensing range in one plane and a narrow sensing range in the other. This allows the transducer to be mounted in confined installation situations.

This means that the system can also be used successfully just above ground level or close to a wall. At the same time, this technology—which is optimized for capturing 3-D spaces—enables the sensor to detect switching targets as well as overhanging or ground-level obstalces.

Up to two ultrasonic transducers can be connected to the evaluation unit of the USi-industry ultrasonic sensor system. As they work completely independent of each other, various different applications can be solved with a single USi-industry sensor system. This outstanding adaptability is further enhanced by the fact that the evaluation unit can save two different parameter sets for each autonomous sensor channel—so the user has the option of triggering a change between both sets via the parameterizable digital input of the evaluation unit during operation.

In combination with the remote design of the transducers, which are available with cable lengths of up to three meters, the system can be used very efficiently in applications where left/right or forward/reverse movements in a space need to be monitored—on automated guided vehicles (AGV), for example. Due to its robust design and the exceptionally high degree of protection (IP69) of the transducers, the USi-industry system can also be used effectively for similar applications in outdoor areas.

To ensure collision-free movement of AMR fleets (autonomous mobile robots) in warehouses, the individual vehicles must be extensively equipped with reliable sensors. This is the only way to react to changes and recalculate the route if obstacles or other AMRs are detected on the route. At the same time, it is important to ensure that the sensor signals of the individual AMRs do not interfere with each other.

The USi-industry sensor system offers an excellent solution for implementing a gapless anti-collision system on AMRs: With its large 3D detection field, it can be used as a stand-alone sensor system, or in combination with other sensors used for AGV navigation by reliably monitoring blind areas in the vehicle’s periphery. Due to the integrated mutual interference suppression, several USi-industry sensor systems can be operated in parallel without interfering with each other. The small size of the ultrasonic transducers, which are detached from the evaluation unit, also favors both functional integration and harmonious integration into the vehicle design.

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.

In our downloadable documents, we share our expertise with you—sign-up for your free digital copies of our technology guides on ultrasonic sensors now! They will help you select the ideal sensor for your applications and get the most out of your device.