A new R305 retroreflective area sensor enables reliable detection of thin and irregularly shaped objects from a height of just 2 mm.

The R305 easily out-performs the single-point light beams of traditional retroreflective sensors, detecting very small or narrow objects that are not precisely aligned with the point-shaped detection area. For objects with irregular contours, such as bubble mailers and polybags, the point light beam may either miss the object entirely or detect it with a delay, which can trigger multiple switching operations. But the new R305 retroreflective area sensor, with its wide light band, always detects the leading edge of an object and avoids multiple switching.

Using a light band of five individual beams that can be switched off individually, the R305 sensor allows interfering objects to be blocked out or the detection height to be adapted to narrow openings. Its adjustable contrast level ensures reliable detection of challenging targets such as clear glass, while the High-Resolution Mode extends this capability by detecting objects with a height of just 2 mm. Beyond simple presence detection, the sensor measures object height and transmits values via IO-Link, while integrated trend evaluation delivers insights like plastic bag fill levels—enabling quality control, process optimization, and new application possibilities.

With Easy Alignment Mode, the light band can be quickly aligned with the reflector. A right-angle bracket with an integrated deviation mirror also enables mounting offset by 90 degrees, creating a compact side-looker version for tight spaces.

Pepperl+Fuchs