Fiber optic sensor with cuttable fiber optic cable

Fiber optic sensors with cuttable fiber optic cables offer flexible, compact, and reliable detection in tight or harsh environments, with customizable cable lengths and various sensing options.

Overview

Fiber optic sensors consist of a sensor amplifier and fiber optic cables that transmit and receive light for object detection. The amplifier contains the electronics and light source, while the fiber cables carry the light to the sensing area. Cuttable fiber optic cables allow users to customize the length to fit specific installation requirements, making them ideal for tight spaces, robotic arms, or areas with restricted access .

Types of Fiber Optic Cables

• Plastic (PMMA) fibers: Flexible, cuttable, and suitable for short to medium sensing distances (up to ~1.8 meters) with high durability .
• Glass fibers: Offer longer sensing distances and higher precision, often used in industrial applications requiring fine detection .
• High-flex fibers: Designed for repeated bending, such as in robotic applications, with bending radii as small as 1–2 mm .

Sensor Configurations

Fiber optic sensors can be configured in several detection modes:

• Through-beam (Thrubeam): Transmitter and receiver are opposite each other; detects objects by interruption of the light beam.
• Reflective: Light reflects off the target back to the sensor; suitable for small or moving objects.
• Retro-reflective: Uses a reflector opposite the sensor; detects objects by measuring light reduction.
• Diffuse/Definite-reflective: Light reflects off the target itself; allows background suppression and precise detection .

Advantages of Cuttable Fiber Optic Cables

• Customizable length: Users can cut the fiber to the exact length needed for the application .
• Compact installation: Ideal for tight spaces where conventional sensors cannot fit .
• Harsh environment resistance: Plastic and glass fibers can withstand high temperatures, chemical exposure, vibration, and mechanical stress .
• Flexible mounting: Compatible with various fiber heads, lenses, and mounting brackets for precise alignment .

Applications

• Detection of small parts in electronics or packaging industries.
• Robotic arm sensing where space is limited.
• Monitoring in high-temperature or chemically aggressive environments.
• Liquid level detection in pipes or tanks.
• Strip edge control and label detection .

Installation Considerations

• Fiber cables must be connected to a compatible fiber amplifier.
• Cuttable fibers should be carefully trimmed and polished if necessary to maintain signal quality.
• Selection of fiber type (plastic vs. glass) depends on required sensing distance, flexibility, and environmental conditions .
• Amplifiers may offer adjustable sensitivity, teach-in functions, or digital displays for easy setup . Fiber optic sensors with cuttable cables provide a highly adaptable solution for industrial automation, offering precise detection, flexible installation, and durability in challenging environments .