SICK

Sick Laser

SICK Laser Measurement System - LMS291- Firmware for outdoor applications

Utilizing its radial field of vision, provided through infrared laser beams, the sensor is able to perform two-dimensional scans. It is a high accuracy non-contact measurement system. The sensor does not require any additional set up materials such as reflectors or position marks. Here is a brief list of some of the tasks that this laser can perform which are relevant to this project:

• Determining the volumes or contours of bulk materials
• Determining the volumes of objects (measuring packages, pallets, containers)
• Determining the position of objects and classifying them
• Collision prevention for vehicles or cranes
• Controlling docking processes (positioning)

One of the reasons that we use SICK laser is because of its features which provide for non-contact optical measurement, even over longer distances. When driving around with an autonomous vehicles objects such as people or other cars may move at high speeds, hence the laser also provides for rapid scanning times.

How does it operate?

The machine emits pulsated laser beams and as soon as it hits the object the beam is reflected. The time between the transmission and reception of the beam is proportional to the distance between the laser and the object.

Specification of the laser:

Sensor

• Scanning angle (field of vision) 100deg/180deg
• Motor speed 75 Hz
• Angular resolution (response time): 0.25deg (53.33 ms); 0.5deg (26.66 ms); 1deg (13.33 ms), selectable.
• Range Max. 80 m
• Measurement resolution 10 mm
• Measurement accuracy typical +-35 mm (typical +-15 mm)
• Transfer Rate: RS 232: 9.6 / 19.2 kbd, RS 422: 9.6 / 19.2/ 38.4/ 500 kbd
• Fog correction

Laser

• Class 1. Eye safe to EN/IEC 60825-1 and to 21CFR 1040.1
• 905 nm wavelength

Output

• RS 232/RS422, switchable