A non-contact sensor for speed and length measurement of objects moving in a linear path measures a range of web and continuous materials as well as blanks with an accuracy of just 4 μm. The SPEETEC from SICK operates without slip, measuring elements or marking, and wear and tear on tactile sensor elements. Materials that cause wear, adhesion or abrasion damage to measurement solutions such as measuring wheel encoders, impairing their function, can be measured by sensor with a high degree of process reliability and availability.
The system is equipped with class 1 lasers, and the non-contact measurement is performed with a laser 
Source: SICKDoppler at speeds of up to 10 m/second. Two transmitters emit laser light: one in the direction of movement of the material and the other in the opposite direction. Since the transmitters work independently, possible mounting tolerances and surface fluctuations can be balanced out.
Length, speed and position can also be detected in linear movements when switching between forward and backward motions. Acceleration measurement in applications with high motion dynamics is reportedly possible since only three milliseconds pass between the start of the movement and the output of measured values.
