SICK Launches 2nd Generation of Slim Light Grid Family
August 17, 2021
SICK has announced the new SLG-2 automation light grid, the second generation of its “Slim Light Grid” family. The SLG-2 provides enhanced flexibility and functionality for high-performance detection and measurement applications.
The company said features of the SLG-2 include space-saving dimensions (12 mm by 24 mm), a low-profile construction, practical 100mm-increment adjustable detection heights (between 100 mm and 2,400 mm), and a blind zone-free design, ensuring easier integration in machines where space is limited. With its patented optics, the SLG-2’s performance is complemented by the integrated smart task functionality and extensive diagnostic options. SICK said with IO-Link communication as a standard, the light grid is ready for Industry 4.0 tasks.
The SLG-2 is designed for use in logistics systems, machine building, packaging machines, fulfilling a range of requirements demanded by systems integrators and OEMs in terms of ease of integration, performance, functionality, and future-proofing capabilities, SICK added.
The light grid is available in beam separations of 10 mm, 25 mm, and 50 mm. In “multiple-cross-beam” mode, the light grid not only achieves a resolution of 6.5 mm, but can also reliably detect flat objects that can be thinner than 1 mm, the company said. An optical element developed and patented by SICK ensures maximum resistance to ambient light, reflections, or interference from other opto-electronic sensors in the surrounding area. The SLG-2 also offers short response times, ranging from 2.1 ms to 20 ms, depending on the number of light beams used. SICK said this means objects can be reliably detected even in high-speed processes.
Users can choose between the slim variant with light emission through the thin side of the device, or the flat version with the optics opening in the flat housing profile. Mechanical installation is made easier because the SLG-2 has no blind zones as the sender and receiver elements reach right up to the edge of the housing.
SICK said the SLG-2 provides extensive diagnostic information for condition monitoring and preventive maintenance. A quality of run alarm reports changes in detection quality. The light grid also monitors limit values for operating hours and temperatures. It can report possible sender-receiver synchronization errors, teach-in or hardware problems, or invalid process data.
For more details on the SLG-2 and other offerings, visit the SICK website here.
