An Ultrasonic Sensor for Any Application: Wenglor Expands U1KT Miniature Series

Wenglor has expanded its U1KT series of ultrasonic sensors. The sensors feature three distinct operational modes, a compact design, and communication capabilities through IO-Link 1.1. Due to their small build and minimal blind spots, the U1KT sensors are well-suited for various applications and are ideal for installation in narrow spaces.

The U1KT series of ultrasonic sensors can be used in a variety of applications ranging from fluid level monitoring to precise part detection of transparent, reflective, glossy, or dark objects. Image used courtesy of Wenglor

U1KT Miniature Ultrasonic Sensors

Introducing the U1KT, Wenglor’s series of miniature ultrasonic distance sensors. Due to their small size, the sensors, measuring 32 x 16 x 12 mm, can be flexibly mounted and used in confined spaces. Thanks to their IP68 rating and ability to operate at -30 to 60 °C, the U1KT sensors are designed for reliability in even the most challenging environments.

The U1KT series of ultrasonic sensors offers five distinct models, each capable of operating in three versatile modes: reflex, through-beam, and synchronous. In reflex mode, the sensors can detect objects between 30-400 mm, while the through-beam mode can detect objects up to 800 mm away and has an accurate resolution of 0.5 mm. 

Each sensor can be equipped with Wenglor’s Z1KG001 Soundpipe accessory to narrow the sonic cone to 12 mm and measure between 35-240 mm in reflex mode and 30-600 mm in through-beam mode. Thanks to IO-Link, integrators can configure the sensors remotely or via a teach button.

The U1KT series of ultrasonic sensors detect the level of screws in a bowl feeder. The sensor has two digital switching signals that notify whether the bowl is full or almost empty. Image used courtesy of Wenglor

Ultrasonic Detection

The U1KT runs off of the principle of sound runtime measurement. Simply put, the sensor emits ultrasonic waves, which are reflected when an object moves in front of the wave. By measuring the time taken for the sonic pulse to travel to the target object and retire, the sensor can accurately calculate the distance to the object. This allows the U1KT to be used in many applications, such as checking the fill level of fluids in bottles or even bowl feeders. The levels can be monitored continuously via IO-Link or monitored via two digital switching outputs.

When equipped with the Z1KG001 Soundpipe, the U1KT ultrasonic sensor can be used in difficult applications, such as detecting small holes or defects. For example, when filling glass bottles, the bottle's narrow neck requires the sound waves to be narrowed. Thanks to the sound pipe, objects at the edge of the sonic cone are no longer detected, allowing the sensors to detect small openings reliably.

When equipped with the Z1KG001 Soundpipe, the U1KT's sound waves are reduced to 12 mm, allowing them to pass through a bottle's narrow neck. Image used courtesy of Wenglor

Synchronous Mode

The expanded U1KT series also features synchronous mode. This mode enables multiple sensors to be used in tandem to increase their working range. The synchronized sensors send out ultrasonic impulses simultaneously and, depending on the signal back, can detect exactly where the object is.