New laser scanner series with LiDAR technology for contour measurement and navigation

The ROD 300 series laser scanners for measurement tasks in production and the ROD 500 series for AGV navigation ensure manufacturing and logistics processes can be designed for maximum efficiency. The devices are equipped with LiDAR technology (Light Detection and Ranging). The integrated window monitoring supports predictive maintenance and thus enables high system availability, and due to the compact design of 80 x 80 x 80 mm, the laser scanners can also be integrated into confined production environments and small automated guided vehicles (AGVs). The high angular resolution of 0.025° means measurement tasks in production can be carried out with the highest level of detail and production processes can be implemented extremely efficiently. With a scanning frequency of 80 Hz, even fast-moving objects in intralogistics are reliably detected — for example during container inspections. In this way, continuous conveyors can be automated with the highest possible throughput.

The devices in the ROD series scan their environment using a fast-rotating laser measurement beam. Objects can thereby be detected both directly in front of the device as well as at long distances and their contours measured. With an opening angle of 190° and a measurement distance of up to 65 m, the laser scanner can monitor an area of one hectare. Measurement data is output via a serial or Ethernet interface.

Key advantages

• Maximum precision and attention to detail due to high angular resolution: The precise detection and contour measurement of different parts in production means that manufacturing processes can be carried out with maximum efficiency, including in terms of the use of resources. The high resolution also allows automated guided vehicles (AGVs) to be positioned very precisely.
• Detection of fast objects due to a high scanning frequency: Fast-moving objects on continuous conveyors can be reliably detected, thus maximising system efficiency.
• Predictive maintenance through window monitoring: The integrated window monitoring allows soiling to be detected in good time, and high system availability can be achieved through predictive maintenance.
• Excellent integration due to compact design: The laser scanner can be integrated into the smallest installation spaces in production and intralogistics as well as in AGVs.
• For use in high and low temperature ranges: An operating temperature range of -30°C to +60°C means that they are suitable for deep-freeze storage or applications with increased temperature requirements, such as in battery manufacturing environments.
• Robust design: The ROD 300/500 laser scanner has a robust design with a protection class of IP67, a high-quality aluminium base and a built-in 905 nm laser diode.

Applications

1. Navigation of automated guided vehicles (AGV) Requirement An AGV is to be used to transport materials in a warehouse. The first step is to map the environment before the AGV executes goods movements.

Solution

With their high resolution of 0.025°, the ROD 500 series laser scanners can map their surroundings with high precision and thus create an initial map of the warehouse environment. During ongoing logistics operations, the ROD 500 is ideal for natural navigation of the AGV and for avoiding collisions.

2. Contour detection in warehouse logistics Requirement In a logistics centre, pallets need to be checked for contours during both storage and retrieval so that the subsequent logistics processes can be carried out smoothly. The check must not be affected by whether the pallets are loaded with a single or mixed type of goods, or by the surface of the goods.

Solution

Two ROD 300 series laser scanners are mounted above the continuous conveyor. This allows the contour of the pallets to be measured before they are stored or retrieved. The laser scanners deliver stable measured values regardless of the pallet load or the surface of the goods (high-gloss or matt).