Compact Ultrasonic Sensors for Long-Range Detection

wenglor has expanded its sensor portfolio with the U1KM series of miniature ultrasonic sensors designed for long-range object detection in confined installation spaces. The sensors support industrial automation applications in logistics, packaging and mechanical engineering, combining compact dimensions with intelligent diagnostics and digital communication.

Long-Range Sensing in a Compact Housing
The U1KM ultrasonic sensors measure 32 × 16 × 12 mm while providing a sensing range of up to three meters. The compact housing enables installation in machines and production equipment where available mounting space is limited without compromising detection distance.

The sensors can detect up to five objects simultaneously, allowing a single device to monitor multiple targets within the sensing area. This capability supports applications such as conveyor monitoring, packaging line control, object positioning and automated material handling, where multiple objects must be tracked reliably.

MEMS Transducer Improves Measurement Reliability
The sensors incorporate a MEMS-based ultrasonic transducer designed to improve electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) stability. By reducing susceptibility to electromagnetic interference, the technology helps maintain stable measurements in electrically demanding industrial environments.

For systems requiring multiple ultrasonic sensors, the U1KM series supports multiplex and synchronous operating modes. These functions prevent interference between adjacent sensors, enabling consistent measurements even when several sensors operate in close proximity.

IO-Link Connectivity for Digital Automation
The U1KM series supports IO-Link 1.1, enabling parameterization, process data exchange and diagnostic information through a standardized industrial communication interface. Detected objects can be monitored via IO-Link, allowing sensor data to be integrated into digital automation systems, condition monitoring platforms and predictive maintenance strategies.

The sensors feature an IP62 protection rating and operate silently, making them suitable for assembly workstations and production environments where low acoustic emissions are desirable. According to the manufacturer, the combination of compact dimensions, long sensing range and diagnostic capabilities is intended to simplify integration into modern automation systems.

Additional Context :This section details technical specifications and competitive benchmarking not included in the original product announcement.
Ultrasonic sensors are widely used where optical sensors can struggle with transparent, glossy, reflective or dark materials. Because they detect objects using reflected sound waves rather than light, they are commonly applied for fill-level measurement, presence detection and distance measurement involving liquids, glass, films and irregular surfaces.

Within the industrial automation market, manufacturers including SICK, ifm and Pepperl+Fuchs offer compact ultrasonic sensors with IO-Link connectivity. Typical benchmark specifications include sensing ranges between approximately 2 and 6 meters, synchronized operation for multi-sensor installations and protection ratings up to IP67 for harsher industrial environments. The U1KM series distinguishes itself by combining a three-meter sensing range with a miniature 32 × 16 × 12 mm housing, MEMS-based ultrasonic technology, simultaneous detection of up to five objects and IO-Link 1.1 communication for digital automation integration.

Edited by Sucithra Mani, Induportals editor – adapted by AI.

www.wenglor.com