Datasheet
4 REFLECTORS | SICK 2011-03-07
Subject to change without notice
Refl ectors are an indispensable counterpart for all photoelectric retro-refl ective sensors.
Together they form a fi xed functional unit. Reliable detection of objects can only be
guaranteed, even under critical application conditions, if both components are
optimally coordinated with one another.
Sensing range and effi ciency of detection of a photoelectric retro-refl ective sensor
are signifi cantly infl uenced by the quality and geometrical size of the refl ector used.
The larger the refl ector, the greater the operating reserve and the larger the sensor
sensing range possible.
Useful information about refl ectors and refl ective tapes
Standard refl ectors vs. refl ective tapes
Standard refl ectors from SICK differ according to size, geometry and
mounting options. The large selection of different types guarantees
optimal sensor operation at all times and perfect integration into
systems.
Refl ective tapes (→ page 34 ff.) are typically used where use of a stan-
dard refl ector is not possible due to mounting or space restrictions, or
if the application requires a large, uninterrupted refl ection area. It is
important to note however that the sensing range of a photoelectric retro-
refl ective sensor is signifi cantly reduced compared to a standard refl ector
of the same size when REF-DG or REF-Plus standard refl ective tapes are
used.
Refl ectors and refl ective tapes for laser sensors
Laser photoelectric retro-refl ective sensors are particularly characterized by their large sensing ranges and very
small light spots. These place special requirements on the refl ector however. If the refl ector’s individual triple ele-
ments are too large, erroneous refl ections may occur resulting in signal interruptions – particularly if the laser
light spot passes over the refl ector.
For this reason, SICK provides fi ne triple refl ectors specially for laser photoelectric retro-refl ective sensors (page
18 ff.) that have a particularly small triple structure and hence guarantee a stable refl ection signal. In the case
of refl ective tapes, the REF-AC1000 with its uninterrupted microprism structure offers optimal signal stability and
sensing range for laser photoelectric retro-refl ective sensors. REF-Plus and REF-DG standard refl ective tapes on
the other hand are not suitable for laser photoelectric sensors due to their honeycomb structure.