This work is protected by copyright. Any rights derived from the copyright shall be reserved
for SICK AG. Reproduction of this document or parts of this document is only permissible
within the limits of the legal determination of Copyright Law. Any modification, expurgation
or translation of this document is prohibited without the express written permission of SICK
AG.
1.1Information regarding the operating instructions
These operating instructions provide important information on how to handle laser
measurement sensors from SICK AG.
Prerequisites for working safely are:
Adherence to all the specified safety instructions and guidelines.
Complying with any local work safety regulations and general safety specifications
applicable to the use of the laser measurement sensors
These operating instructions are intended for specialists and electricians.
ImportantRead these instructions carefully before starting any work on the device to familiarize
yourself with the LMS5xx laser measurement sensor and its functions.
The operating instructions are considered a part of the device and must be kept in an
accessible location in the immediate vicinity of the device at all times, optimally in printed
format. Should the device be passed on to a third party, these operating instructions should
be handed over with it.
These operating instructions do not provide information on operating the machine in which
the laser measurement sensor is integrated. For information about this, refer to the
operating instructions of the respective machine.
Chapter 1
1.2Scope
These operating instructions are designed to address the technical personnel in regards to
safe mounting, electrical installation, commissioning and configuration and maintenance of
the following laser measurement sensor variants.
A step-by-setp approach is taken for all tasks.
1.2.1LMS5xx variants
These operating instructions apply to the following variants:
LMS5xx variantResolution
LMS500-20000 PRO IndoorHigh Resolution (HR)
LMS500-21000 Lite IndoorHigh Resolution (HR)
LMS511-10100 PRO OutdoorStandard Resolution (SR)
LMS511-11100 Lite OutdoorStandard Resolution (SR)
LMS511-12100 Heavy Duty OutdoorStandard Resolution (SR)
LMS511-20100 PRO OutdoorHigh Resolution (HR)
LMS511-21100 Lite OutdoorHigh Resolution (HR)
LMS511-22100 Heavy Duty OutdoorHigh Resolution (HR)
LMS531-10100 PRO Security OutdoorStandard Resolution (SR)
LMS531-11100 Lite Security OutdoorStandard Resolution (SR)
LMS581-10100 PRO OutdoorStandard Resolution (SR)
LMS581-20100 PRO OutdoorHigh Resolution (HR)
Tab. 1:Variants of the LMS5xx laser measurement sensor
Below, the LMS5xx laser measurement sensor is referred to in simplified form as "LMS5xx".
The exceptions are where distinction between device variants is required because of the
technical features or functions are different. In this case either the designation of the
variant line (e.g. LMS500 Lite Outdoor) or the complete type designation according to the
type code (e.g LMS500-20000) is used.
1.2.2Software versions
Software/ToolFunctionState
LMS5xx-xxxxxFirmwareFrom V 1.50.9
Device description
LMS5xx-xxxxx
SOPAS ETConfiguration softwareFrom V 02.32
Tab. 2:Software versions
Device specific software module
for SOPAS ET (device
description: *.sdd file)
From V 01.00.00
Access to the LMS5xx via the SOPAS ET configuration software is password protected.
For details see section “Interactive configuration using SOPAS ET” on page 88.
1.3Depth of information
These operating instructions contain the following information on the LMS5xx:
Product description
Transport and storage
Mounting
Electrical installation
Commissioning and configuration
Maintenance
Troubleshooting
Technical data
In addition, an online help is available in the SOPAS ET configuration software supplied; this
help provides information on the usage of the software user interface, as well as on the
configuration of the LMS5xx.
You will find a detailed description of the different telegrams for the LMS5xx in the
document “Telegram Listing Laser Measurement Sensor”, part no.: 8014631, English
version.
You will find general information about the laser-guided object monitoring in the "Laser
detectors" project planning manual, part no.: 8017354, English version.
You will find further information on the LMS5xx, its accessories as well as documents on the
online product page. Please see section 1.5 “Further information” on page 8.
Warnings in these operating instructions are indicated by symbols. The warnings are
introducedby signal words that indicate the extent of the danger.
These warnings must be observed at all times and care must be taken to avoid
accidents, personal injury, and material damage.
... indicates a situation of imminent danger, which will lead to a fatality or serious injuries if
not prevented.
… indicates a potentially dangerous situation, which may lead to a fatality or serious injuries
if not prevented.
.… indicates a potentially dangerous situation, which may lead to minor/slight injuries if not
prevented.
… indicates a potentially harmful situation, which may lead to material damage if not
prevented.
Important… highlights useful tips and recommendations as well as information for efficient and
trouble-free operation.
RecommendationRecommendations are designed to give you assistance in the decision-making process with
respect to a certain function or a technical measure.
ImportantSections marked “Important” provide information about special features of the device.
ExplanationExplanations provide background knowledge on technical relationships.
M
ENUCOMMANDThis typeface indicates a term in the SOPAS ET user interface.
Terminal outputThis typeface indicates messages that the LMS5xx outputs via its interfaces.
Take action …Here you must do something. This symbol indicates an instruction to perform an action that
contains only one action or actions in warnings where a specific sequence does not need to
be followed. Instructions to perform actions that contain several steps in sequence are
numbered.
This symbol refers to additionally available documentation.
Software notes show where you can make the appropriate settings and adjustments in the
SOPAS ET configuration software.
Operating Instructions
1.5Further information
ImportantAll the documentation available can be found on the online product page at:
http://www.sick.com/lms5xx
The following information is available for download there:
Model-specific online data sheets for device variants, containing technical data,
dimensional drawings, and working range diagrams
EU declaration of conformity for LMS5xx product family
Dimensional drawings and 3D CAD dimension models in various electronic formats
Working range diagrams
These “LMS5xx laser measurement sensors“ operating instructions. In English (part no.
8013796) and German (part no. 8013795), and other languages (if applicable)
“Laser Measurement Sensor” telegram listing, from version 2012-05-08, in English
(part no. 8014631)
"LMS5xx Laser Measurement Technology" product information in English (part no.
8013793) and German (part no. 8013792), and other languages (if applicable)
Publications dealing with accessories
1.6Customer service
Do not hesitate to contact our customer service should you require any technical
information. Please refer to the back page of these operating instructions for your agent's
contact details.
ImportantBefore calling, make a note of all type label data such as type code, serial number, etc. to
ImportantThe LMS5xx is only allowed to be operated in the ambient temperature range allowed (see
For your safety
This chapter deals with your own safety and the safety of the equipment operators.
Please read this chapter carefully before working with the LMS5xx.
Chapter 2
2.1Correct use
The LMS5xx is a non-contact optical distance measurement sensor for stand-alone or
network operation, based on a 2D laser scanner. It is suitable for applications in which
precise, electro-sensitive measurements of contours and surroundings are required. It is
also possible to create systems, for instance, for collision protection, for building
surveillance or for access monitoring
It must be initialized only by qualified personnel and only in industrial environments.
The LMS5xx does not constitute a safety component according to the EC Machinery
Directive (2006/42/EC).
The LMS5xx is not a device for the protection of people in the context of the related
safety standards for machinery.
The LMS5xx must not be used in explosion hazard areas.
Any other use that is not described as correct use is prohibited.
The use of accessories not specifically approved by SICK is at own risk.
2.3IP technology
SICK uses standard IP technology in its products. The emphasis is placed on availability of
products and services.
SICK always assumes the following prerequisites:
The customer will ensured the integrity and confidentiality of the data and rights
affected by the use of the aforementioned products.
In all cases, appropriate security measures, such as network separation, firewalls, virus
protection, and patch management, is be taken by the customer on the basis of the
situation in question.
2.4Limitation of liability
Applicable standards and regulations, the latest state of technological development and
many years of knowledge and experience have all been taken into account when
assembling the data and information contained in these operating instructions. The
manufacturer accepts no liability for damage caused by:
Failing to observe the operating instructions
Incorrect use of the device
Use by untrained personnel
Unauthorized conversions
Technical modifications
Use of unauthorized spare parts, consumables and accessories
With special variants, where optional extras have been ordered, or owing to the latest
technical changes, the actual scope of delivery may vary from the features and illustrations
shown here.
Operating Instructions
2.5Modifications and conversions
Modifications and conversions to the LMS5xx and/or the installation may result in
unforeseeable dangers.
In case of any other usage as well as in case of modifications to the LMS5xx, e.g. due to
opening the housing and/or breaking the seals during mounting and electrical installation,
or to the SICK software, any claims against SICK AG under the warranty will be rendered
void.
Before any technical modifications to and expansions of the LMS5xx, the prior written
approval of the manufacturer must be obtained.
2.6Requirements for skilled persons and operating personnel
Risk of injury due to insufficient training!
Improper handling may result in considerable personal injury and material damage.
All work must only ever be carried out by the stipulated persons.
These operating instructions list the training requirements for the various fields of activity,
as follows:
Instructed personnel have been given a briefing by the operator about the tasks
assigned to them and about potential dangers arising from improper action.
Skilled personnel have the specialist training, skills, and experience, as well as
knowledge of the relevant regulations, to be able to perform tasks delegated to them
and to detect any potential dangers independently.
Electricians have the specialist training, skills, and experience, as well as knowledge of
the relevant standards and provisions to be able to carry out work on electrical systems
and to detect any potential dangers independently. In Germany, electricians must meet
the specifications of the BGV A3 Work Safety Regulations (e. g. Master Electrician).
Other relevant regulations applicable in other countries must be observed.
The following qualifications are necessary for the various tasks:
ActivitiesQualification
Mounting and maintenanceBasic technical training
Knowledge of the current safety regulations in the
workplace
Electrical installation and
replacement
Commissioning, operation and
configuration
Operation of devices in the related
application
Tab. 3:Authorized personnel
Practical electrical training
Knowledge of current electrical safety regulations
Basic knowledge of the Windows operating system
Basic knowledge of data transmission
Knowledge on the use and operation of devices in the
related application (e.g. crane, assembly system)
Knowledge on the software and hardware environment in
the related application (e.g. crane, assembly system)
2.7General safety notes and protective measures
Please observe the safety notes and the warnings listed here and in other chapters of these
operating instructions to reduce the possibility of risks to health and avoid dangerous
situations.
Safety notes
Please observe the following items in order to ensure the correct and safe use of the
LMS5xx.
The notices in these operating instructions (e.g. on use, mounting, installation or
integration into the existing machine controller) must be observed.
When operating the LMS5xx, the national, local and statutory rules and regulations
must be observed.
National/international rules and regulations apply to the installation, commissioning,
use and periodic technical inspections of the laser measurement sensor, in particular:
– the work safety regulations/safety rules
– other relevant health and safety regulations
Manufacturers and operators of the machine/system on which the LMS5xx is installed
are responsible for obtaining and observing all applicable safety regulations and rules.
The tests must be carried out by specialist personnel or specially qualified and author-
ized personnel and must be recorded and documented to ensure that the tests can be
reconstructed and retraced at any time.
The operating instructions must be made available to the operator of the system where
the LMS5xx is fitted. The operator of the system is to be instructed in the use of the
device by specialist personnel and must be instructed to read the operating
instructions.
LMS5xx-1xxxx/LMS25x-1xxxx:
Impulsleistung: 55,6 W
Impulsdauer: 3,6 ns
LMS5xx-2xxxx:
Impulsleistung: 29,6 W
Impulsdauer: 2,9 ns
21 CFR 1040.10 und 1040.11
wird erfüllt, mit Ausnahme der
Abweichungen nach Laser
Notice 50 vom Juni 2007.
Die im normalen Betrieb
austretende Strahlung ist
ungefährlich für die Augen
und die menschliche Haut.
VORSICHT –
Bestimmungsfremder Einsatz
kann zu gefährlichen
Strahlungsexpositionen führen.
Laserwarnschild
Der LMS5xx hat kein
Laserwarnschild am Gehäuse.
Um die Einhaltung der
Laserklasse 1 zu gewährleisten,
ist keine Wartung notwendig
Gehäuse nicht öffnen
(durch das Öffnen wird der
Laser nicht abgeschaltet).
Beachten Sie die Laser-
schutzbestimmungen
gemäß
EN/IEC 60825-1:2014.
Laseraustrittsöffnung
Die Laseraustrittsöffnung ist die
Frontscheibe am LMS5xx.
Siehe Fig. 1 on page 13
CLASS 1
LASER PRODUCT
Wavelength: 905 nm
(invisible infrared light)
EN/IEC 60825-1:2014
Identical laser class for issue
EN/IEC 60825-1:2007
LMS5xx-1xxxx/LMS25x-1xxxx:
Puls output: 55.6 W
Puls duration: 3.6 ns
LMS5xx-2xxxx:
Puls output 29.6 W
Puls output: 2.9 ns
Complies with 21 CFR 1040.10
and CFR1040.11 except for
deviations pursuant to Laser
Notice No. 50, June 2007.
The radiation emitted in normal
operation is not harmful to the
eyes and human skin.
CAUTION –
the use of controls, or
adjustments or performance of
procedures other than those
specified herein may result in
hazardous radiation exposure.
Laser warning sign
The LMS5xx has no laser
warning sign on the housing.
No maintenance is necessary to
ensure compliance with laser
class 1.
Do not open the housing
(opening the housing will
not switch off the laser).
Pay attention to the laser
safety regulations as per
EN/IEC 60825-1:2014.
Laser output aperture
The laser output aperture is the
front screen on the LMS5xx.
See Fig. 1 on page 13
APPAREIL À
LASER DE CLASSE 1
Longueur d‘onde: 905 nm
(lumière infrarouge invisibles)
EN/IEC 60825-1:2014
Même classe laser pour
l’édition EN/CEI 60825-1:2007
LMS5xx-1xxxx/LMS25x-1xxxx:
Puissance d‘impulse: 55,6 W
Durée d‘impulse: 3,6 ns
LMS5xx-2xxxx:
Puissance d‘impulse: 29,6 W
Durée d‘impulse: 2,9 ns
Soit 21 CFR 1040.10 et
1040.11 à l’exception de
différences sur les indications
du Laser N° 50, juin 2007.
Le rayonnement émis en
fonctionnement normal n‘est
pas dangereux pour les yeux et
la peau humaine.
PRUDENCE –
tout usage de commandes,
réglages ou toute application de
procédures autres que ceux
décrits dans ce document peut
entraîner une exposition
dangereuse au rayonnement.
Avertissement laser
Le LMS5xx n‘a pas un avertissement laser au boîtier.
Aucune maintenance n'est nécessaire pour assurer la conformité avec la classe laser 1.
Ne pas ouvrir le boîtier.
(La diode laser n'est pas
désactivée en cas d'ouverture du boîtier).
Se conformer aux dernières
consignes de protection en
date contre le rayonnement
laser
EN/IEC 60825-1:2014.
Orifice de sortie
L'orifice de sortie du faisceau laser correspond à la vitre dans
son ensemble.
Voir Fig. 1 on page 13
Fig. 1:Laser output aperture on the LMS5xx, here on LMS500
Chapter 2
The LMS5xx operates with a infrared-light laser diode. The laser beam cannot be seen with
the human eye.
2.8.2Electrical installation work
Only authorized, specialist personnel are allowed to perform electrical installation work.
The power supply must be disconnected when attaching and detaching electrical
connections.
Select and implement wire cross-sections and their correct fuse protection in
accordance with the applicable standards.
Do not open the housing.
Observe the current safety regulations when working on electrical systems.
2.8.3Damaging potential equalization currents due to different ground potentials
For electrical safety, the LMS5xx has been designed and checked according to
IEC 61010-1:2010-06.
The LMS5xx is connected to the peripheral devices (power supply, encoder, PLC/host, if applicable other LMS5xx, etc.) by using shielded cables. The shield of each cable is connected
to the metal housing of the LMS5xx via the system connector.
If the peripheral devices have metal housings and if the cable shield also is connected to
their housings, it is assumed that all devices involved in the installation have the same ground potential.
This is achieved for instance by fulfilling the following conditions:
mounting the devices on conductive metal surfaces
correctly grounding the devices/metal surfaces in the system
a low-impedance and stable current carrying equipotential bonding between areas with
different ground potentials, if necessary
If these conditions are not met, e.g. on devices in a widely distributed system over several
buildings, potential equalization currents may, due to different ground potentials, flow along
the cable shields between the devices and may cause danger.
Risk of injury/risk of damage via electrical current!
Potential equalization currents between the LMS5xx and the peripheral devices can have
the following effects:
Dangerous voltages on the metal housing, e.g. of the LMS5xx
Incorrect function or irreparable damage to the devices
Damage/irreparable damage of the cable shield due to heating and cable fires
Where local conditions are unfavorable and thus do not meet conditions for a safe
earthing method (same ground potential at all grounding points), take measures
according to chapter 6.2 “Conditions for safe operation of the LMS5xx in an
installation” on page 63.
2.9Quick stop and restart
2.9.1Switching off the LMS5xx
LMS500:
Switch off the voltage supply (power supply).
LMS511/ LMS531/LMS581:
Switch off the voltage supply (power supply) or disconnect the M12 supply cable on the
device.
The LMS5xx retains configurations parameters stored in the internal, non-volatile memory.
Measured values on the data interface are lost.
2.9.2Switching back on the LMS5xx
LMS500:
Switch on the voltage supply (power supply).
LMS511/LMS531/LMS581:
Switch on the voltage supply (power supply) or re-connect the M12 supply cable on the
device.
The LMS5xx re-commences operation with the parameters last saved.
2.10Environmental protection
The LMS5xx has been designed to minimize environmental impact. It uses only a minimum
of power.
2.10.1Power consumption
LMS5xx variantMax. power consumption during operation
LMS500Sensor: Max. 25 W (without load on the outputs)
LMS511/LMS531/LMS581Sensor: Max. 25 W (without load on the outputs)
Heating: Additionally max. 65 W
Tab. 4:LMS5xx variants: Maximum of power consumption
While working, always act in an environmentally responsible manner.
Repairs to the LMS5xx are only allowed to be undertaken by trained and authorized service
personnel from SICK AG.
Any manipulation or modification of the LMS5xx by the customer will invalidate the
manufacturer warranty.
This chapter provides information on the special features and properties of the LMS5xx
laser measurement sensor. It describes the construction and the operating principle of the
device, in particular the different operating modes.
Please read this chapter before mounting, installing and commissioning the device.
3.1Delivery
The LMS5xx delivery includes the following components:
QuantityComponentsComment
1An LMS5xx laser measurement sensorModel type depends on order.
1 Type-specific notes on device with
Chapter 3
Outdoor variants:
M12-round plug-in connectors
equipped with protection caps and
plugs made of plastic.
Included in the LMS5xx packaging
electrical circuit diagram for getting started
Tab. 5:Delivery
An overview about the available LMS5xx variants, its accessories and, device
documentation is available from the web product page:
http://www.sick.com/lms5xx
The configuration software SOPAS ET, the current system prerequisites for the PC, and the
instructions for downloading the software and the device description file(s) can be found
online at:
http://www.sick.com/SOPAS_ET
The required USB driver for the PC when using the USB interface of the LMS5xx can be
found online at:
http://www.sick.com/lms5xx
Section 11.1 “Ordering information” on page 115 provides an overview of the
consumables available for cleaning the front screen.
System connector (removable) with terminal blocks
and cloning parameter memory (for replacement with
automatical configuration of
the replacement device)
Indicators
"USB"
connection
Product description
Operating Instructions
LMS5xx Laser Measurement Sensors
3.2Device variants
TypePurpose of useRangeHeatingEnclosure rating
LMS500-2x000 Lite/PROIndoor Max. 80 m
26 m at 10%
LMS511-1x100 Lite/PRO/
Heavy Duty
LMS511-2x100 Lite/PRO/
Heavy Duty
Outdoor Max. 80 m
40 m at 10%
Outdoor Max. 80 m
26 m at 10%
LMS531-11100 Lite/PROSecurity Max. 80 m
40 m at 10%
LMS581-10100 PROOutdoor Max. 80 m
40 m at 10%
LMS581-20100 PROOutdoor Max. 80 m
26 m at 10%
Tab. 6:Device variants
1) Object remission
2) Under the following conditions: the SICK cables plugged into the M12 round plug-in connections must be
screwed tight. Any electrical connections that are not being used must be fitted with protective caps or plugs
that are screwed tight (as in the delivery condition
screwed tight
). The M8 connection of the USB interface on the front is
System connector with cloning
parameter memory.
Removable only from LMS511
Heavy Duty (for replacement
with automatical configuration
of the replacement device).
LMS5xx
Product description
Chapter 3
Fig. 3:View of the LMS511/581/531 Outdoor
The LMS5xx comprises three components:
Sensor head with the opto-electronic acquisition system (housing)
Application module, this defines the functionality of the LMS5xx
System connector with the cloning parameter memory and electrical connections.
The system connector is only removable from LMS500 Lite/PRO Indoor and LMS511
Heavy Duty Outdoor. Due to the cloning parameter memory that is included, the existing
configuration may be transferred to the relevant replacement device automatically on
start-up if, for example, a sensor defect occurs.
Placeholder CharacteristicsVariant
aDevice family5: LMS5xx
bDesign0: Indoor housing without heating, IP 65
1: Outdoor housing with heating, IP 67
2: Security indoor housing without heating, IP 65
3: Security outdoor housing with heating, IP 67
7: Indoor housing without heating, IP 65, special
8: Outdoor housing with heating, IP 67, special
cColor0: blue
1: gray
2: black
3: white
dPerformance1: Standard resolution
2: High resolution
eVariant0: PRO
1: Lite
2: Heavy Duty
fConnectivity0: Cable gland / 1x M12
1: M12 Standard
2: M12 CAN
ggApplication00: Standard
51: Special
90: Bulkscan software
Tab. 7:Type code of LMS5xx
Not all possible combinations are available according to the type code.
Flexible system configurations
Configuration and measured data request using SICK command language (CoLa)
Digital switching inputs
Lite: 2 inputs
PRO/Heavy Duty: 4 inputs
Digital switching outputs
Lite: 3 outputs
PRO/Heavy Duty: 6 outputs
Data interfaces
Lite: Ethernet, RS232/-422, USB
PRO: Ethernet, RS232/-422, USB, CAN
PRO/Heavy Duty: Ethernet, RS232/-422, USB, CAN für Erweiterungsmodul
Chapter 3
Measured value output (raw data)
Non-contact, active distance measurement technique
Measurement of objects with almost any shape
Measured value output for all reflection pulses (echoes), e.g. in rain or on measurement through a window
Integrated field application
Configurable evaluation fields
Lite: 4 fields
PRO: 10 fields
Heavy Duty: 10 fields
Monitoring of the evaluation field contours
Activation of the evaluation fields using digital switching inputs
Encoder inputs (PRO and Heavy Duty version only)
Output of the evaluation field (unoccupied or infringed) via digital switching outputs or telegrams
LMS500-2x000
Lite/PRO
LMS511-1x100,
LMS581-10100
LMS511-2x100,
LMS581-20100
LMS531-11100
Lite
LMS531-10100
PRO
Tab. 8:Special features of the LMS5xx variants
Scanning range up to 80 m with > 100% object remission (26 m with 10% object remission)
Housing with enclose rating IP 65
Scanning range up to 80 m with > 100% object remission (26 m with 10% object remission)
Outdoor housing with enclose ratingIP 67
Scanning range up to 80 m with > 100% object remission (40 m with 10% object remission)
Outdoor housing with enclose rating IP 67
Scanning range up to 80 m with > 100% object remission (40 m with 10% object remission)
Outdoor housing with enclose rating IP 67
2 potential-free relay outputs
2 digital switching inputs, 1 switching output
4 potential-free relay outputs
4 digital switching inputs
Further information see section 9.2 “Error displays of the indicator lights” on page 97.
7segment display
Used for diagnostics on occurring errors or malfunctions (see section 9.3 “Indications of the
7-segment display” on page 98).
LMS5xx measuring and no error reported
LMS5xx either not measuring (stopped by user) or measuring with error
events
Off: no contamination
On: contamination warning
Blinking: contamination error
At least one field is infringed (see section 3.10.3 “Operator for the
evaluation cases on the output” on page 43).
Reserved
Operating Instructions
3.7Operating principle of the LMS5xx
The LMS5xx is a non-contact laser measurement sensor that scans the surrounding
perimeter radially on a single plane using pulses of light. The LMS5xx measures in twodimensional radial coordinates. If a laser beam emitted is reflected from a target object,
then the position of the object is given in the form of distance and angle. The LMS5xx cannot see through objects during this process.
Fig. 5:Measuring principle of the LMS5xx
Scanning takes place in a sector of 190°. The scanning range of the LMS5xx is maximum
80 m on light, natural surfaces with an object remission > 100% (e.g. a white house wall).
See also section 10.2 “Operating range diagrams” on page 106.
The LMS5xx emits pulsed laser beams using a laser diode. If a laser beam is reflected on a
target object the reflected beam is received at the sensor.
Fig. 6:Principle of operation for time of flight measurement
The distance to the object is calculated by the time required for the pulsed beam to be
reflected and received by the sensor. This principle of “Time of flight” is used by radar
systems in a similar manner (see also section 3.9.4 “Measured value output for a pulse
reflected with multiple echoes” on page 36).
Direction measurement
The emitted laser beams are deflected using an internal rotating mirror and scanning the
surroundings in a circular manner. The measurements are triggered at regular steps using
an angular encoder.
The LMS5xx PRO/Heavy Duty scans with an adjustable scanning frequency of 25, 35, 50,
75 or 100 Hz. During this process, a laser pulse and therefore a measurement is triggered
after an angular step of 0.1667°, 0.25°, 0.33°, 0.5°, 0.6667° or 1°.
The LMS5xx Lite scans with a scanning frequency of 25, 50 or 75 Hz and angular steps of
The signal received from a perfectly diffuse reflecting white surface corresponds to the
definition of a remission of 100%. As a result of this definition, the remissions for surfaces
that reflect the light bundled (mirrored surfaces, reflectors), are more than 100%.
Fig. 7:Reflection of the laser beam at the surface of an object
The majority of surfaces reflect the laser beam diffusely in all directions (Fig. 7).
The reflection of the laser beam will vary as a function of the surface‘s structure and colour.
Light surfaces reflect the laser beam better than dark surfaces and can be detected by the
LMS5xx over larger distances. Bright white plaster reflects approx. 100% of the incident
light, black foam rubber approx. 2.4 %. On very rough surfaces, part of the energy is lost due
to shading. The scanning range of the LMS5xx will be reduced as a result.
Fig. 8:Reflection angle
The reflection angle is the same as the angle of incidence. If the laser beam is incident
perpendicularly on a surface, the energy is optimally reflected (Fig. 9). If the beam is
incident at an angle, a corresponding energy and scanning range loss occurs (Fig. 8).
If the reflected energy returned is over 100% (basis: Kodak standard) the incident beam is
not reflected diffusely in all directions, but is reflected in a specific direction (Fig. 9 on
page 26). As a result a large portion of the energy emitted can be received by the laser
distance measurement device. Plastic reflectors (“cats’ eyes”), reflective tape and triple
prisms have these properties.
Fig. 10:Mirror surfaces
At mirror surfaces the laser beam is almost entirely deflected (Fig. 10).
Instead of the surface of the mirror, it is possible that the object on which the deflected laser
beam is incident may be detected.
Fig. 11:Object smaller than diameter of the laser beam
Objects that are smaller than the diameter of the laser beam cannot reflect all the energy
of the laser light (Fig. 11). Therefore the amount of light not incident on the object is lost. If
the total amount of light reflected back to the sensor is not sufficient the object may not be
detected. This can reduce the scanning range of the sensor. If the multiple echo option is
selected, the amount of light not reflected by the front object may be reflected by a
background surface, creating therefore a second echo (see section 3.9.4 “Measured value
output for a pulse reflected with multiple echoes” on page 36).
Scanning range LMS500-20000 (HR)/LMS511-10100 (SR) and LMS511-20100 (HR)
Target remission [%]
Target distance [m]
HR
SR
Optical axis
Expanding laser beam
Beam diameter at the front
screen = 13 mm
Product description
LMS5xx Laser Measurement Sensors
Operating Instructions
3.7.1Scanning range of the LMS5xx
The scanning range of the LMS5xx is dependent on the remission of the objects to be
detected. The better a surface reflects the incident radiation, the greater the scanning
range of the LMS5xx. The diagrams in Fig. 12 indicate the relationship between remission
and detectability.
Fig. 12:Scanning range of the LMS5xx as a function of the target remission
Example to Fig. 12: Up to a distance of 15 m the LMS5xx (HR) can detect objects from 3%
remission. At a distance of 80 m objects are only detected if they have a remission > 95%.
ImportantThe diagram in Fig. 12 is only applicable if no filters are configured.
The scanning range can be significantly reduced depending on the environment (e.g.
fog, rain, dust).
3.7.2Beam diameter and distance between measured points
With increasing distance from the LMS5xx the laser beam of the LMS5xx increases in size.
As a result the diameter of the measured point on the surface of the object increases.
The distance-dependent diameter of the measured point is the distance (mm) × 0.0046 rad
(HR) or 0.011 rad (SR) + 13 mm.
With increasing distance from the LMS5xx, the distance between the individual measured
points also increases. The distance between the measured points is also dependent on the
angular resolution selected. With a coarser resolution (e.g. 1°), the distance is larger, with
a finer resolution (e.g. 0.1667°) the distance is smaller. The distance-dependent spacing
between the measured points is the tangent of the angular resolution × distance.
Fig. 14:Schematic layout of the distance between measured points at different angular
resolutions
The diagram in Fig. 15 shows the beam diameter and the measured point spacing as a
function of the distance from the LMS5xx.
ImportantFull scanning without gaps depends on the resolution of sensor (SR or HR) and the
selected angular resolution.
Fig. 15:Beam diameter and distance between measured points of the LMS500 at 0 to 80 m
Example for angular resolution 0.1667° (HR) in Fig. 15
Distance intersection point 30 m gives a distance between the measured points of approx.
87 mm.
Distance intersection point 30 m with the characteristic curve for beam diameter gives a
beam size of approx. 150 mm (HR) or 342 mm (SR).
To reliably detect an object, a laser beam must be fully incident on it once. If the beam is
partially incident, less energy could be reflected by the object (see Fig. 11 on page 27).
An object is only reliably fully seen if it is at least as large as the measured point spacing
plus the beam diameter.
Fig. 16:Minimum object size for detection
In the example in Fig. 16, the beam is fully incident on the object at least once during each
scan. It will therefore be reliably detected if it has the necessary remission.
How to calculate the minimum object size:
Beam diameter + distance between the measured points = minimum object size
For beam diameter and measured point spacing as a function of the distance from the
LMS5xx see the diagram in Fig. 15 on page 29.
ImportantIn particular on the usage of the LMS5xx for measured value output, it is necessary for a
reliable measurement that the beam is incident on the object several times. The example
shows the minimum size of an object. For a reliable measurement it is important that the
beam is incident on the object several times. Therefore an object should be either larger
than the minimum object size or the LMS5xx as well as the object should not move.
3.7.4Contamination measurement
The LMS5xx has a front screen for protection. This front screen can become contaminated.
The laser beam radiation emitted and received is reduced by the contamination. As a result
scanned objects are perceived with a lower remission than they actually have, or no longer
measured at all from a certain level of contamination. The LMS5xx is equipped with 6 dedicated contamination sensors. Depending on the contamination strategy chosen, a selected
number of these sensors will be taken into account. The 6 contamination sensors are
divided in 2 groups (3 + 3).
For this reason the contamination is monitored continuously by a dedicated system while
the device is in operation. For different levels of contamination, first a contamination
warning is output; if the screen is not cleaned and the contamination becomes worse, a
contamination error is output and the LMS5xx stops taking measurements.
Depending on the application in which the LMS5xx is used, you can choose between various
strategies for the contamination measurement.