Spotguard, the hardware and software product, reliably detects objects entering hazardous areas and movement zones in real time. The camera performs defined safety tasks and protects people and machines against collisions. Compared to conventional safety sensors, users also benefit from significant cost reductions.

The new Tofguard product group is based on the TFM IC5 outdoor cameras, which Tofmotion has further developed for safety applications. The new ToF (flashLIDAR) cameras are certified and approved in accordance with EN 13849 (Performance Level D) and EN 62061 (SIL 2, Cat.). With a frame rate of up to 100 fps, the 3D cameras with QVGA resolution are very fast. All images are processed immediately using an onboard processor and the information derived from them is forwarded directly to control systems. Data transfer remains as lean as possible. Ultimately, a fast camera results in short reaction times, which in turn means increased safety. Autonomous transport systems can therefore move much faster, and the speed of robots is not restricted by slow sensors.

Robust cameras for outdoor use

The interference-free detection of objects takes place via infrared lasers, which are not affected by unfavorable shadows, low contrasts and even extreme lighting conditions. The camera works reliably both in dark production environments and in the bright summer sun. The optical power can be flexibly adapted to the lighting conditions in the range from 0 to 16 W, whereby laser class 1 and therefore eye safety is always guaranteed. The working range of 0.05 to 10 m makes it possible to detect both very close and distant objects.

The industrial-grade cameras are robust and suitable for outdoor use thanks to their shock resistance and an extended temperature range of -45 to 85 °C. The aluminum housing with PMMA front complies with protection class IP65. The compact design and low weight of 650 g allow integration even in tight installation spaces and lightweight constructions. As there are no moving parts in the camera, no mechanical maintenance is required.

The cameras can be put into operation via plug & play. Thanks to an easy-to-use software development kit, the camera systems can be easily implemented and integrated into the customer's software environment. The 3D cameras have one Ethernet and three OSSD interfaces; further connections can be implemented on request. Customers can use the software packages developed by the manufacturer or use their own application software. Tofmotion offers application interfaces to ROS, C++, Python, SDK, Octave and Matlab.