Sick TranspaTect reflectorless photoelectric sensor

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The TranspaTect is a reflectorless multi-task photoelectric sensor with a pinpoint LED as its light source and a switching distance from 0 mm to 700 mm. Even surfaces with optical distortion or other distracting properties can be reliably detected. The optics, electronics and evaluation are accommodated in a zinc die-cast housing.

The developers integrated a variety of new ASIC and evaluation technologies in the TranspaTect so that it can detect transparent objects (such as plastic storage trays, glass or PET bottles) without any reflector acting as a reference surface. A matt and stable machine background, such as a glass-bead-blasted stainless steel wall or panel, is all that is required for this purpose.

The lack of a reflector gives machine constructors greater freedom in machine design. In constructive terms, neither an easily accessible mounting location must be provided for the reflector nor must any such reflector be purchased, mounted, cleaned or replaced. Installation and commissioning of the sensor itself is therefore considerably quicker and cheaper: the reference surface, on which sensitivity is taught-in via the teach-in button, is generally much larger than a reflector - so that accuracy is less critical for sensor alignment.

Sick’s integrated AutoAdapt technology ensures that TranspaTect performance is not unduly affected even in dusty or damp environments. The sensor carries out continuous threshold adaptation to the new detection conditions caused by contamination, ensuring reliable switching behaviour.

TranspaTect is suitable for packaging plants in the food and beverage industry and the pharmaceutical sector.