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Sensor manufacturer Sick has unveiled the “world’s first” photoelectric sensor with a touchscreen display, the Sick W10. Designed for universal use and easy set-up, the W10 is an all-in-one sensor for precise detection technology and is adaptable for “countless” F&B applications. The photoelectric proximity sensor uses intelligent onboard algorithms developed from the experience of common industry applications to achieve “high repeatability” across the board. The W10’s settings are pre-configured enabling rapid installation. It is also equipped with common sensor functions, such as background or foreground suppression, available to select from a single device. With an IP69K-rated stainless steel housing and eye-safe ‘Class One’ visible red laser, the W10 is said to adapt swiftly to widespread uses in factory and logistics automation with built-in modes for standard, high-speed or precision operation. The IP69K rating means a piece of equipment can withstand intensive cleaning with high-pressure, high-temperature jets. The W10 facilitates accurate detection duties in F&B applications, “even with highly reflective, dark or uneven surfaces,” Sick said. The machine can be used to detect the level of a hopper or to detect the gaps between products on a conveyor, triggering a wrapping machine reliably. It uses precise laser triangulation detection, which enables accurate and reliable operation due to the focused beam that produces a small light spot and a precise evaluation receiver. The short-range version has a working distance between 20-400mm, and the long-range version offers a 20-700mm range. It has a response time of 1.5ms in speed mode, facilitating reliable switching at high speeds. The sensor incorporates IO-link connectivity enabling its data to be shared with Industry 4.0 IoT systems, ideal for machine diagnostics and troubleshooting, as well as for edge configurations. IO-link also provides the option of remote set-up and device replacement. David Hannaby, Sick’s UK market product manager for presence detection, said: “For the first time, it’s exciting to operate a sensor that feels as natural to use as a mobile phone. The touchscreen display is revolutionary. Just swipe up, select and configure. The W10 guides you effortlessly through the operating modes needed for any installation from the very big to the very small.” He continued: “With just four product variants, choosing the sensor you need for your application has never been more straightforward. The W10 turns the headache of having to select and stock perhaps hundreds of different spares into a single part number.”