Birkenhead-based Micro-Epsilon UK Ltd (www.micro-epsilon.co.uk) has launched a high-precision blue-laser triangulation sensor designed specifically for taking measurements on highly polished, reflective, shiny and mirrored targets with a resolution down to 30nm.

The OptoNCDT 2300-2DR (direct reflection) blue-laser sensor with integrated controller benefits from an extremely small laser spot that achieves precise distance measurements. Measuring the distance and thickness of transparent targets, such as optical glass, can also be performed.

Unlike conventional laser triangulation sensors, the OptoNCDT 2300-2DR blue laser light operates by direct reflection rather than diffuse reflection.

However, because the design of the sensor housing is similar to a conventional laser sensor, the sensor body can be mounted parallel to the object being measured, simplifying the installation process.

Due to the short wavelength (405nm) of the blue-laser diode, the measurement signal is said to be extremely stable, enabling the sensor to measure reliably.

The short wavelength also means there is less ‘speckling’ than is witnessed when using a red laser light, again resulting in higher stability and more-accurate measurements. The system is configured using an integrated web browser that is ‘addressed’ to an Ethernet interface.

This enables the user to make settings for the processing of measured values and signals, such as peak selection, filtering and scaling the measurement range.

Data can also be output via this interface, which simplifies sensor set-up, configuration and diagnostics.

The OptoNCDT 2300-2DR has a measuring range of 2mm and a measuring rate that is adjustable up to 49kHz. Data output is via Ethernet, RS422 or EtherCAT. If the sensor is operated with the C-Box/2A signal processing unit from Micro-Epsilon, an analogue output is also available.