Triangulation for close range
The measurement principle of optical triangulation is suitable for the precise determination of distances at close range. With the help of special receiver optics and a position-sensitive detector (e.g. a photodiode line), the sensor can determine the object distance regardless of its reflectivity (see illustration below). The color and surface properties (e.g. highly reflective) thus have practically no effect on measurement accuracy.
Time-of-flight for long distances
SensoPart uses time-of-flight technology to measure longer distances (up to 250 m). The sensor emits pulsed laser light that is reflected by the target object. The distance to the object is determined by the time taken between emission and reception of the light. The use of pulsed light provides reliable background suppression and very high immunity to ambient light.