Full speed ahead!

Radar technology, often associated with speed control and flight monitoring, has found its way into industrial automation. Radar sensors, such as those from Turck, offer advantages over ultrasonic, optical sensors and media contact technologies. In 2020, Turck introduced radar sensors for level measurement (LRS series) and radar sensors for distance measurement (DR-M30) followed in 2021. These operate at 120 GHz, providing excellent range and resolution. Now Turck is expanding its portfolio with the MR15-Q80 radar sensor, a 60 GHz device with a rugged IP69K housing. Although the resolution is lower than 120 GHz, this sensor offers a wider beam angle (120 degrees horizontal, 100 degrees vertical) and a range of up to 15 meters, ideal for object detection and collision avoidance. From mobile devices to intralogistics.

Applications in mobile devices

Designed for mobile devices, the MR15-Q80 provides maximum protection against water and dust intrusion and can withstand shocks and impacts of up to 100 g. Unlike lidar technology, which is vulnerable due to movable mirrors, radar is more robust and less sensitive to dust, fog or light reflections. The MR15-Q80 can withstand 12 or 24 Volt supply voltages and can withstand voltage spikes. The device is ideal for non-safety-related collision avoidance and object detection, with 3D measurement via the SAE J1939 CAN bus communication protocol.

3D data for spatial information

The MR15-Q80 provides 3D information, giving machines more detailed data about their surroundings. This is useful for machines with arms or booms at different heights. The accurate 3D data helps map obstacles and clear heights, which is crucial for safe operations. In mining, for example, the radar scanner can accurately map topography and rock formations.

Detection of animals and objects

Another application is in agriculture, where the MR15-Q80 can detect animals and objects in fields. The sensor can be mounted on a combine to monitor the field, and its wide opening angles and long range allow it to detect foreign objects that could damage the threshing unit.

Warning radii and signal spaces

Users can define six configurable warning radii, which activate switching signals when objects are detected. The sensor can distinguish intensity thresholds and trigger switching signals based on these thresholds. Up to six warning fields and three three-dimensional signal spaces can be set and associated with the switching outputs. The sensor also recognizes when a warning field is in the radar shadow.

Application in intralogistics

In intralogistics, the MR15-Q80 helps with navigation and collision avoidance for industrial trucks and AGVs. Lidar scanners, often used for safety monitoring, are less suitable for vertical monitoring because of their limited opening angle. Turck's 3D radar scanner, however, provides the necessary information for all three spatial dimensions, helping to safely control lifting movements and prevent damage to vehicles, goods and equipment.

Easy commissioning with TAS

Turck supports users with its TAS (Turck Automation Suite) configuration and IIoT software, which facilitates sensor commissioning and setup. The software visualizes raw data from the sensor in real-time in a Web browser, which helps in the optimal adjustment of the sensor.

Available variants

Turck offers the 3D radar scanner in two variants: one with IO-Link and one with an SAE-J1939 interface for mobile devices. Both variants have two classic switching outputs that can be activated by different threshold values.

Visit Turck at the WoTS - Booth number 11B006