DIMETIX DLS-A 15 Distance Laser Sensor User Manual

DIMETIX DLS-A 15 Distance Laser Sensor

Product Information

Specifications

• Model: DLS-A 15, DLS-A 30, DLS-AH 15, DLS-AH 30
• Technical Reference Manual Version: V1.06
• Measuring accuracy: Refer to section 4.1

Key Features

Prevention of erroneous measurements:

• Rough surfaces: On rough surfaces, measure against the centre of the illuminated area. To avoid measuring to the bottom of plaster joints, use a target plate or board.
• Transparent surfaces: Avoid measuring towards transparent surfaces such as colourless liquids or dust-free glass. Always take a trial measurement for unfamiliar materials and liquids.
• Wet, smooth, or high-gloss surfaces: Aiming at an acute angle may cause deflection of the laser beam, resulting in weak or strong signals. Aim at a right angle for accurate measurements.
• Inclined, round surfaces: Measurement is possible as long as there is enough target surface area for the laser spot.
• Multiple reflections: Avoid any reflecting object along the measurement path to prevent erroneous measurements.

Device Setup

It is recommended to perform the configuration steps in an office before mounting the device, especially if you are not familiar with the DLS-A(H).

The DLS-A(H) supports two types of operation modes:

1. Controlled mode: Provides maximum flexibility and accuracy but may not be suitable for integration into existing PLCs or analog environments.
2. Automatic mode: Preferred for integration into existing PLCs or analog environments.

FAQ

• Q: Where can I find the latest version of the Technical Reference Manual?
• A: You can find the latest version of the Technical Reference Manual on the official website: www.dimetix.com.
• Q: How should I measure on rough surfaces?
• A: When measuring on rough surfaces, such as coarse plaster, it is recommended to measure against the centre of the illuminated area. To avoid measuring to the bottom of plaster joints, you can use a target plate or board.
• Q: Can I measure towards transparent surfaces?
• A: It is not recommended to measure transparent surfaces, such as colourless liquids or dust-free glass. Always take a trial measurement for unfamiliar materials and liquids.
• Q: How should I aim at wet, smooth, or high-gloss surfaces?
• A: To ensure accurate measurements on wet, smooth, or high-gloss surfaces, aim at a right angle. Aiming at an acute angle may cause deflection of the laser beam and result in weak or strong signals.
• Q: Can I measure on inclined or round surfaces?
• A: Measurement is possible on inclined or round surfaces as long as there is enough target surface area for the laser spot.
• Q: What should I do to avoid multiple reflections?
• A: To prevent erroneous measurements caused by multiple reflections, avoid any reflecting object along the measurement path.

Introduction

• The DLS-A(H) is a powerful distance-measuring instrument for integration into industrial applications.
• It allows accurate and contact-less distance measurement over a wide range using the reflection of a laser beam:

Key features

• Measurement range 0.2 to 200 m
• Serial interface (RS232 and RS422)
• Connection of up to 10 modules on a single RS422 line
• Wide range power supply (9…30VDC)
• Programmable analog output (0/4…20mA)
• Two programmable digital outputs
• Digital output for error signalization
• D-Sub connector and screw terminal joint for easy connection
• Adapter for the telescopic viewer for easy installation
• IP65 (protected against ingress of dust and water)
• 4 LEDs for status signalling
• Complementary configuration software available at the Dimetix website (www.dimetix.com)
• Optional: Internal heater for module operation down to -40°C
• Laser class II (<0.95mW)

CAUTION
Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure.

TECHNICAL REFERENCE MANUAL

Product identification
The product is identified by the serial label on the top of the enclosure:

Part No.: 500502

| DLS-A 30

Part No.: 500501

Extended temperature range| DLS-AH 15

Part No.: 500512

| DLS-AH 30

Part No.: 500511

Components

1. Status LEDs
   status signalling

2. 15-Pin D-Sub connector
   RS422, RS232, analog, digital output

3. Cable gland (M16 x 1.5mm)
   for connection cable insertion

4. Cab
   provides access to electrical components

5. Mounting area for viewfinder
   see accessories (Chapter 9 on page 32)

6. Reset switch
   resets the DLS-A(H) to default settings

7. Screw terminal
   RS422, RS232, analog, digital output

8. ID switch
   defines the module ID for the RS422 operation

9. Laser beam outlet

10. Receiver optics

11. Product label
    see 10.7 Labeling on page 39

Validity

• This manual is valid for DLS-A(H) devices with the following software version:
  • Interface software version: 0117 or later
  • Board software version: 0200
• To get the software version of the DLS-A use the command described in 8.3.9 Get software version (sNN00N)

Measurement range
The DLS-A(H) is an optical instrument, whose operation is influenced by environmental conditions. Therefore, the measurement range achieved in the application can vary. The following conditions may influence the measurement range:

• The DLS-A(H) does not compensate for the influence of the atmospheric environment, which may be relevant when measuring long distances (e.g. > 150m). These effects are described in:
• Edlen: “The Refractive Index of Air, Metrologia 2”, 71-80 (1966)

Prevention of erroneous measurements

Rough surfaces
On a rough surface (e.g. coarse plaster), measure against the centre of the illuminated area. To avoid measuring to the bottom of plaster joints use a target plate (see accessories) or board.

Transparent surfaces
To avoid measuring errors, do not measure towards transparent surfaces such as colourless liquids (such as water) or (dust-free) glass. For unfamiliar materials and liquids, always take a trial measurement.
Erroneous measurements can occur when aiming through panes of glass, or if there are several objects in the line of sight.

Wet, smooth, or high-gloss surfaces

1. Aiming at an “acute“ angle deflects the laser beam. The DLS-A(H) may receive a signal that is too weak (error message 255) or it may measure the distance targeted by the deflected laser beam.
2. If aiming at a right angle, the DLS-A(H) may receive a signal that is too strong (error message 256).

Inclined, round surfaces
Measurement is possible as long as there is enough target surface area for the laser spot.

Multiple reflections
Erroneous measurements can occur in the case that the laser beam is reflected from other objects than the target. Avoid any reflecting object along the measurement path.

Device setup
We recommend performing the configuration steps in an office before mounting the device, especially if you are not familiar with the DLS-A(H).
The DLS-A(H) supports two types of operation modes:

• Controlled mode
• Automatic mode

The first decision to be taken is the type of operation mode that will be used to transmit the distance measurement data. While the controlled mode provides maximum flexibility and accuracy, it is often not suitable for integration into existing PLCs or analog environments. In such cases, the automatic mode might be preferred.

Key| controlled mode| automatic mode

(with analog output and digital outputs)

---|---|---
Accuracy| Maximum measurement accuracy| Accuracy depends on signal scaling

(see 8.3.5 Set distance range (sNv) on page 23)

Flexibility| Access to the full command set| Limited
Integration| Requires protocol implementation| Wiring of AO and DO signals
Connection| Connection of up to 10 DLS-A(H)s to a single RS-422 line.| Point- to-point connection

The following two sections describe the configuration of the DLS-A(H) for the controlled and automatic modes.

Connection

To be able to configure the DLS-A(H), it must be powered and connected to a PC. The figure shows the necessary connections. On the PC, any terminal program can be used to communicate with the module. Additionally, a configuration utility is available on the web page www.dimetix.com.

Controlled mode
In controlled mode, each operation of a DLS-A(H) is triggered by a command sent from a host system over a serial line. While a single device can be connected to the host system using the RS232 interface, up to 10 devices can be connected to a single serial RS422 line. The related command set is described.

Configuration
After connecting the module, the steps below are necessary to configure the DLS-A(H) for the controlled interface mode.

Example for module 0:

Change the ID Switch to position 0

|

Set ID switch to position 0 Power OFF; Wait 10s; Power ON

2

| Set controlled mode| Set the DLS-A(H) to the controlled mode, if not already in controlled mode.

Example for module 0:

Set to controlled mode by the stop

command.

|

s0c1)

3

| Set communication parameters| If necessary, change the settings for the serial interface.

Example for module 0:

Set the serial interface to 19200 Baud, 8 Bit, no Parity

|

s0br+21) Power OFF; Wait 10s; Change settings on the host; Power ON

• Commands are described in 8 Command set on page 19
• Remark: If the communication parameters of the module are lost, please reset the configuration to the factory settings (7 Factory settings on page 18) using the reset button (5.2 Reset switch on page
• Please note that the ID switch must be reset manually.

Host software
Host software is required for the operation of the DLS-A(H) in a controlled mode. When connecting multiple devices to a single serial line (RS422), strict Master-Slave communication must be implemented (DLS-A(H) operates as slave). Please consult the Dimetix web page for application notes.
Careful testing of the host software together with the devices before installation is strongly recommended.

Automatic mode
The automatic mode is provided for host-less operation of the DLS-A(H). The analog and digital outputs are updated according to the configuration described below as soon as the unit is powered up. Analog Output
The analog output is configurable and works with two ranges:

• 0..20mA
• 4..20mA

Digital Outputs
Three digital outputs are included in the DLS-A(H). Two are programmable, while the third is used to signal an error state of the device.

Configuration
After connecting the module, the following steps are necessary to configure the DLS-A(H) for the automatic mode.

1

| Set current output range| Defines if the current output ranges from 0 to 20mA respectively from 4 to 20mA.

Example for module 0:

Set current output range from 4mA to 20mA.

|

s0vm+11)

2

| Set distance range| Defines minimum distance (Dmin) and the maximum distance (Dmax) for the distance range of the analog output.

Example for module 0:

Set distance range from 0m to 10m

|

s0v+00000000+001000001)

3

| Set analog output in error case| Sets the current, that should be applied in case of an error.

Example for module 0:

Set current to 0mA in case of an error.

|

s0ve+0001)

 | Configure digital output| Set the ON and OFF levels for the digital outputs.|

s01+00020000+000200501) s02+00040000+000400501)

4|  | Example for module 0:

DO 1: off=2000mm on=2005mm DO 2: off=4000mm on=4005mm

5

| Save settings| The changed configuration must be saved to make it permanent.

Example for module 0:

Save settings for module 0

|

s0s1)

6

| Set automatic mode| Set the DLS-A(H) to the automatic mode with the desired update rate.

Example for module 0:

Set measurement rate to the fastest possible speed.

|

s0A+01)

• Commands are described in 8 Command set on page 19
• Remark: If the serial line settings of the module have been lost, please reset the configuration to the factory settings (7 Factory settings on page 18) using the reset button (5.2 Reset switch on page 15). Please note that the ID switch must be reset manually.

Installation

Mounting
Three M4 threaded holes in the bottom of the DLS-A(H) make it easy to mount the device. Always obey all applicable safety regulations and never use the device outside the specifications stated under 4 Technical data.

Device wiring

Cable connection
A ferrite must be mounted to the connecting cable. Use a ferrite with an impedance of 150 Ω to 260 Ω at 25MHz and 640 Ω to 730 Ω at 100MHz. For example, you can use SFC10 from KE Kitagawa.

Shield and Ground
The DLS-A(H) contains two electrical isolated grounds, the general ground (GND) and the analog ground (AGND). GND and AGND are connected to the housing by an RC element. Please see figure 3

Controlled mode

• RS232
• When using the RS232 interface only point-to-point communication is possible.
• Never connect multiple DLS-A(H)s on an RS232 serial line

RS422
It is possible to connect multiple devices on a single RS422 line. To ensure proper operation, strict Master-Slave communication must be used. It is important, that the Master has full control of the communication and never initiates a new communication before termination of the previous communication (answer from the DLS-A(H) or timeout).
Ensure, that all DLS-A(H)s are set to different ID numbers

Automatic mode
The analog interface of the DLS-A(H) is isolated from the rest of the device. When using the analog interface, connect the analog ground (AGND).
Make sure, that the total resistance in the analog path is smaller than 500 Ω.

Alignment of the laser beam
Alignment of the laser beam is often difficult when the target is far away, as the laser spot is not visible. The DLS-A(H) has an adapter for mounting a telescopic viewfinder that simplifies alignment significantly. Please refer to Chapter 9 Accessories on page 32 for a description of the viewfinder.

Technical data

Measuring accuracy
The measuring accuracy corresponds to the ISO-recommendation ISO/R 1938-1971 with a statistical confidence level of 95.4% (i.e. ± twice the standard deviation σ, refer to the diagram on the right). The typical measuring accuracy relates to average conditions for measuring. It is ±1.5mm for the DLS-A(H) 15 and ± 3.0mm for the DLS-A(H) 30 valid in the tracking mode.

The maximum measuring error relates to unfavourable conditions such as:

• Highly reflecting surfaces (e.g. reflector tapes)
• Operation at the limits of the permitted temperature range, adaptation to ambient temperature interrupted
• Very bright ambient conditions, strong heat shimmer

and can be up to ± 2 mm for DLS-A(H) 15 and ± 5 mm for DLS-A(H) 30. The DLS-A(H) does not compensate changes in the atmospheric environment. These changes can influence the accuracy if measuring long distances (>150m) at conditions very different to 20°C, 60% relative humidity and 953 mbar air pressure. The influences of the atmospheric environment are described in
B.Edlen: “The Refractive Index of Air, Metrologia 2”, 71-80 (1966)

Specifications

Typical measuring accuracy for DLS-A  15  /  DLS-AH  15 1)

DLS-A 30 /  DLS-AH 30 1)

| ****

± 1.5 mm @ 2s

± 3.0 mm @ 2s

---|---
Maximum measuring accuracy for DLS-A 15 / DLS-AH 15 1)

DLS-A 30 /  DLS-AH 30 1)

| ****

± 2.0 mm

± 5.0 mm

Smallest unit displayed| 0.1 mm
Measuring range on natural surfaces| 0.2 to 30 m
Measuring range on brown (reflecting) target plate| ca. 20 to 200 m
Measuring reference| from the front edge (See 6 Physical dimensions)
The diameter of the laser spot at a target at a distance of| 6mm @ 10 m 30mm @ 50 m

60mm @ 100 m

Time for a measurement

Single measurement Tracking

| ****

0.6 to ca. 5 sec

0.6 to ca. 5 sec

Light source| Laser diode 620-690 nm (red) IEC 60825-1:2001; Class 2

FDA 21CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11

Beam divergence:0.16 x 0.6 mrad Pulse duration: 15×10-9 s

Maximum radiant power: 0.95 mW

Maximum radiant power per pulse: 8mW Measurement uncertainty: ±5%

Laser Life Time 3)| >25’000h @ 25°C
END| IEC 61000-4-2 : 1995
EMC| EN 61000-6-4

EN 61000-6-2

Power supply| 9 … 30V DC 0.5A for DLS-A

24 … 30V DC 2.5A for DLS-AH (Heating option)

Dimensions| 150 x 80 x 55 mm
Temperature range during operation 2)

DLS-A 15 / DLS-A 30

DLS-AH 15 / DLS-AH 30

| ****

-10 °C to +50 °C

-40 °C to +50 °C

Temperature range during storage| -40 °C to +70 °C
Degree of Protection| IP65; IEC60529 (protected against ingress of dust and

water)

Weight| DLS-A:          630 g

DLS-AH:       680 g

Interface| 1  serial asynchronous interface (RS232/RS422) 1 programmable analog output 0/4 .. 20mA

2  programmable digital outputs

1 digital output for error status

1. See 4.1 Measuring accuracy on page 13.
2. In the case of permanent measurement (tracking mode) the max. temperature is reduced to 45°C
3. 500 – 1000h at 50°C.

Electrical Components

ID switch
This switch is used to set the module ID and can be set from 0 to 9.

Reset switch
To reset the module to factory settings do the following:

• Switch OFF the power for the module
• Press the reset button and keep it pressed
• Switch on the power for the module
• Keep the reset button pressed until all LEDs on the module are illuminated
• Release the reset button and wait until the green power LED is on

Digital output

The DLS-A(H) contains two digital outputs for level monitoring (DO 1 and DO 2) and one digital output for error signalization (DO E). These outputs are open drain outputs as shown in figure 7 and can drive up to 200mA. In the ON state, the FET transistor is electroconductive.

Analog output
The analog output of the DLS-A(H) is a current source (0..20mA or 4..20mA). It is capable of driving loads up to 500Ω.
The analog output has an accuracy of +/- 1% Full scale.

Connector
D-Sub connector

+ 9V…+30V for DLS-A

+24V…+30V for DLS-AH (Heating option)

8| PWR
9| DO 1| Digital output 1 (Open Drain)
10| DO 2| Digital output 2 (Open Drain)
11| DO E| Digital output for error signalization (Open Drain)
12| AND| Analog ground
13| AO| Analog output (0/4..20mA)
14| GND| Ground line
15| GND| Ground line

Screw terminal

+9V…+30V DLS-A

+24…+30V DLS-AH (Heating option)

Physical dimensions

Factory settings

Operation

• Mode: Controlled

Communication parameters

• Baud: 19200
• Data bit: 7
• Parity: Even
• Stop bit: 1

Analog outputs

• Min output: 4mA
• Range min: 0m
• Range max: 10m
• Error output: 0mA

Module ID

• ID Number: 0

Digital output 1 (DOUT1)

• ON: 2m + 5mm = 2005mm
• OFF: 2m – 5mm = 1995mm

Digital output 2 (DOUT2)

• ON: 1m – 5mm = 995mm
• OFF: 1m + 5mm = 1005mm

Command set

General
Command termination
All commands for the DLS-A(H) are ASCII-based and terminated with