Panasonic LS-H21-A Digital Laser Sensor Head

Technical Overview

Diffuse reflective digital laser sensor head with a 30-1000mm sensing range and spot-shape adjuster, featuring IP40 protection for precise industrial detection.

Key Features

Diffuse reflective type sensor head.
Multiple sensing modes (U-LG, STD, FAST, H-SP) for versatile applications, with sensing ranges up to 1,000 mm.
Multi-turn adjuster for precise laser spot-shape control.
IP40 protection rating against solid objects.
Integrated orange LED for operation indication and green LED for laser emission indication.
Robust construction with PBT enclosure, PEI mounting part, and acrylic lens cover.
Comes with a 2-meter, 0.1 mm², single-core two-parallel shielded cable with an attached amplifier connector.

Technical Specification Matrix

Parameter	Value
Product Type	Sensor head (Diffuse reflective type)
Applicable Amplifiers	LS-401(P), LS-401(P)-C2, LS-403
Sensing Range (U-LG mode)	30 to 1,000 mm (1.181 to 39.370 in)
Sensing Range (STD mode)	30 to 250 mm (1.181 to 9.843 in)
Sensing Range (FAST mode)	30 to 150 mm (1.181 to 5.906 in)
Sensing Range (H-SP mode)	30 to 150 mm (1.181 to 5.906 in)
Protection Rating	IP40 (IEC)
Ambient Temperature	-10 to +55 ℃ (+14 to +131 ℉) (No dew condensation or icing allowed)
Storage Temperature	-20 to +70 ℃
Ambient Humidity	35 to 85 % RH (No dew condensation or icing allowed)
Storage Humidity	35 to 85 % RH
Ambient Illuminance	Incandescent light: 3,000 lx or less at the light-receiving face
Voltage Withstandability	1,000 V AC for one min. between all supply terminals connected together and enclosure
Insulation Resistance	20 MΩ, or more, with 250 V DC megger between all supply terminals connected together and enclosure
Vibration Resistance	10 to 500 Hz frequency, 1.5 mm double amplitude or maximum acceleration 98 m/s² in X, Y, and Z direction for 2 hours each
Shock Resistance	98 m/s² acceleration (10 G approx.) in X, Y and Z directions three times each
Emitting Element	Red semiconductor laser, Class 1 (IEC / EN / JIS / GB / KC)
Max. Output	1 mW
Peak Emission Wavelength	655 nm
Enclosure Material	PBT (Mounting part: PEI)
Lens Cover Material	Acrylic
Cable Length	2 m (6.562 ft)
Cable Type	0.1 mm², single core two parallel shielded cables
Physical Weight (kg)	0.03
Dimensions L x W x H (cm)	0 x 0 x 0

Industrial Applications

1. Precise Component Detection in Automated Assembly Lines

This sensor can accurately detect the presence and position of small, irregularly shaped components on a conveyor belt in automated assembly processes. The diffuse reflective type is suitable for various material surfaces, and the multi-turn spot-shape adjuster allows for fine-tuning the detection area to avoid interference from surrounding parts or fixtures.

Problem Solved

Ensures accurate part feeding and placement, reducing assembly errors and improving throughput in high-precision manufacturing by providing reliable detection of diverse component types and positions.

Automated assemblyComponent presence detectionDiffuse reflectiveSpot-size adjustmentConveyor systemsPrecision manufacturing

2. Material Level Monitoring in Small Hoppers or Bins

Due to its sensing range up to 1,000 mm and diffuse reflective nature, the LS-H21-A can effectively monitor material levels (e.g., granular plastics, small bulk materials) within compact hoppers or bins in packaging or material handling systems. Its Class 1 laser ensures safety in environments where human interaction is possible.

Problem Solved

Prevents material shortages or overfilling, optimizing material flow and preventing production interruptions in automated material handling and packaging lines, while ensuring operator safety.

Material level sensingBulk material handlingDiffuse reflectiveClass 1 laserSmall hoppersAutomated feeding

3. Edge Detection for Web Guiding Systems

The sensor's precise laser spot, adjustable via the multi-turn adjuster, can be utilized for non-contact edge detection of various web materials (paper, film, fabric) in converting or printing machinery. Its sensing range allows for minor web fluctuations, and the IP40 rating suggests suitability for typical indoor industrial environments.

Problem Solved

Maintains consistent web alignment, preventing material waste and ensuring product quality in continuous processes like printing, laminating, and slitting by providing accurate and reliable edge position feedback.

Web guidingEdge detectionNon-contact sensingPrecision alignmentConverting machineryDiffuse reflective