Precise and flexible 3D time-of-flight sensor module

Omron Electronic Components Europe has released a new precision ToF ranging sensor delivering a convenient, modular solution providing autonomous-guidance, positioning, and proximity sensing for a wide range of applications.

Commenting, Gabriele Fulco, European product marketing manager Sensors at OMRON said: “Our new sensor is a 'mechanical eye' that is capable of accurately and easily detecting the surrounding environment, which will contribute to the more widespread use of autonomous robots as well as the automation of various other machinery and equipment. Omron’s new B5L can be fitted to moving objects such as autonomous mobile robots, to provide real-time contextual information such as guidance, collision avoidance, and cliff detection. Alternatively, located in a fixed position, the sensor can accurately detect moving objects in the field of view. It is thus suited to use in automated packaging equipment, security systems, intruder detection, and patient-monitoring and elderly-care systems.”

The B5L Series provides unique optical design technology for the stable measurement of three-dimensional distance information over an expansive area even in sub-optimal conditions such as under sunlight. Operating at up to 20fps, its specifications are optimised for long periods of continuous operation to enable it to be employed as an embedded sensor in various instruments.

The 103mm x 43mm module is fitted with a 24VDC power connector and Micro-USB communication port, providing effortless integration and flexibility for embedded-systems designers. Providing a 940nm near-infrared emitter and 240 x 320 pixel receiving array, the sensor provides ranging information for the entire field of view and calculates the absolute distance to objects from 0.5m to 4m. The module provides ±2% precision (at a detection distance of 2m). Built-in temperature compensation simplifies its integration in autonomous robots and other equipment utilised in a mixture of environments by removing the requirement for the design of separate compensation processing.

With a broad viewing angle and 0C to 50C operating-temperature range, the B5L-A2S-U01-010 can be employed in numerous indoor application scenarios.