Sensor Reflectors

Sensor reflectors are crucial components generally used in unison with photoelectric sensors, specifically in retroreflective sensing mode. Additionally, they provide critical feedback performance by holding and returning the sensor’s light beam. They are created to reflect a beam of light emitted by the sensor back to its receiver, allowing the sensor to identify the presence or absence of an object. When the sensor beam is interrupted, the output signal changes, activating the desired system response. Moreover, sensor reflectors are available in a wide variety of shapes, like round and square, featuring complex surfaces to capture and return the light beam from retroreflective sensors effectively.

How Do Sensor Reflectors Work?

In retroreflective sensing, the sensor produces a beam of light in the direction of the reflector. The reflector is built to bounce the light directly back to the sensor's receiver. When an object interrupts this light beam, the sensor identifies the change in light strength and activates an output signal.   

What are the Possible Advantages of Using Our Top-line Sensor Reflectors?

• Significantly extend the sensing range of photoelectric sensors than diffuse sensing methods.   
• Provide reliable detection of objects, even those with dark or uneven surfaces that may not reflect light well.   
• Designed for easy alignment with the sensor, streamlining installation and setup.   
• Come in various shapes (round, square, rectangular) and sizes to address different applications and sensing distances.   
• Often made using durable materials such as acrylic or glass to handle harsh industrial environments.

What are the Available Sensor Reflector Types?

• Corner Cube Reflectors: These are the most typical type, using three mutually perpendicular reflective surfaces to return light to the source, regardless of the angle of incidence.   
• Microprismatic Reflectors: They use tiny prisms to reflect light back to the source, providing high reflectivity and a wide sensing angle.
• Reflective Tape: This is made from flexible material with a reflective surface that can be cut to size and applied to different objects or surfaces.

Where Can Sensor Reflectors Be Used?

• Material Handling: Identifying the presence or position of objects on conveyor belts or in automated storage and retrieval systems.
• Packaging: Providing correct alignment and positioning of packages during filling, labelling, and sealing.
• Automotive: Detecting the presence of vehicles in car washes or automated parking systems.   
• Door & Gate Control: Triggering automatic doors or gates when a person or vehicle approaches.   
• Safety Systems: Detecting the presence of personnel in hazardous areas to avoid accidents.

Bottom Lines

Sensor reflectors are critical accessories utilised widely for retroreflective photoelectric sensors, allowing for reliable and long-range object detection in numerous industrial and automation applications.