Proper alignment is critical for optimizing safety light curtain performance. However, manual methods involving mechanical adjustments and visual checks can be tedious and inaccurate.
Laser alignment devices simplify this process for faster, more precise, and consistent sensor positioning. Read on as we explore these game-changing tools to master light curtain alignment.
Laser Alignment Devices: A Light Curtain Game Changer
Laser alignment devices (LADs) emit visible laser beams to align emitter and receiver elements in light curtain systems. Models like the ReeR LAD provide rapid, error-proof alignment over distances up to 100 meters.
By projecting crosses along the sensing field, installers can instantly identify and correct any misalignments for maximum detection accuracy.
Key Benefits of LADs for Alignment
- Faster setup and realignment following impacts or vibration
- Increased consistency between multiple light curtain pairs
- Enhanced sensitivity and precision of sensing performance
- Fewer nuisance trip events and unplanned downtime
- Reduced installation and troubleshooting labor costs
ReeR LAD Key Specifications
| Visible Red Laser | 100 meter alignment range |
| IP65 rating | EOS, Micron, FMC compatibility |
| Low battery indicator | Protective carrying case |
Step-by-Step Alignment Instructions
Once mounted, power on the LAD and aim it towards the receiver element. Note the laser crosshairs projected.
Slowly adjust the orientation of the light curtain emitter and/or receiver until the crosses precisely align. The lasers act as visual guides so no measurment is needed.
Typical LAD Alignment Workflow
Upon inital installation of safety light curtains, or following any impacts or vibration, incorporating LAD alignment best practices is vital for reliability.
After mechanically mounting the emitter/receiver pair parallel to each other, utilize the LAD’s laser crosses to dial in positional accuracy. Periodic LAD verification checks can also prevent misalignments.
By incorporating LAD alignment into standard maintenance protocols, teams can cost-effectively maximize uptime and safety.
Real-World Applications of LADs
LAD light curtain alignment delivers value across industries like manufacturing, logistics, and food processing where uptime and guarding safety are paramount.
Manufacturing Production Lines
On high-speed packaging equipment, LAD alignment enables consistently precise infrared beam positioning for maximum machine access protection.
Automotive Assembly Operations
Laser alignment devices effectively mitigate sensor orientation drift from floor vibration in paint booth entry gates to safeguard workers.
Aviation Hangar Doorways
Portable LAD tools facilitate rapid verified alignment of extra-wide light curtains to bolster hangar safety protocols.
Alternatives to LAD Alignment
While laser alignment devices offer speed and accuracy advantages, manually alignment is still utilized based on application requirements and cost considerations.
Manual Mechanical Adjustment
Emitters and receivers can be aligned without lasers through manual angle and position tuning based on mechanical alignment guides. However, repeatability is lower compared to LAD precision.
Visual Aids and Guides
Mirrors or string can serve as inexpensive visual alignment references, though effectiveness is operator dependent and limited by distance. Periodic re-verification is advised.
Software-Assisted Alignment
For flexible production scenarios, software-aided methods based on monitored beam strength analytics enable automated emitter/receiver alignment modification to compensate for machine movements.
Laser alignment devices deliver rapid, reliable, and cost-effective light curtain positioning for safety applications. Equipping your team with LADs drives precision, productivity and optimized access guarding.
For additional LAD resources or alignment best practices, contact our safety solutions professionals today to maximize your operation’s capabilities.
