Technical Data for the Acuity distance meter

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Acuity's rangfinders are very unique distance measuring devices. They employ a modified time-of-flight measurement principle that leads to very fast and accurate measuring speeds.

The AR4000 differs from other long-distance rangefinders in that the laser emitter and return signal collection lens are concentric. The illustration to the right reveals the major functionality of the rangefinder. A collimated beam of laser light is emitted from a diode in the center of the fresnel collection lens. Light hits a target and is diffusely reflected, collected by the lens and focussed on an avalance photdiode. The AR4000 distance measuring technology is patented (US patent 5,309,212 ).

Engineers specify the AccuRange 4000 rangefinder for its speed, concentric optical path and its ability to be mated to the Acuity line scanner.

The standard speed of the rangefinder using RS232, RS422 or analog interfaces is approximately 770 Hz. This is the true frequency response updated to the selected interface. Additionally, the rangefinders can be ordered with High Speed Interface Cards (HSIF cards) which enable even faster sampling speeds. These cards are available in either 50 KHz or 200 KHz varieties, with either PCI or PC104 bus formats.

The concentric optical path means that the emitted and reflected signals travel down a single axis, unlike other rangefinders where the emitter and collecter are situated side-by-side. The concentric path allows users to measure down narrow paths and tubes.

The concentric design and fast sampling rates work well with the scanning capabilities of the AccuRange Line Scanner. Here, a mirror sweeps the rangefinder beam through a full 360° to collect 2D polar coordinates.

The AR4000-RET distance measuring rangefinder is used with reflective tape supplied with the sensor. It is a low-power, Class I eye-safe device, with an accuracy of 0.1 inches (2.5 mm) with a range of 2 to 54 feet (16.5 m). This is the sensor of choice where it is possible to apply the adhesive-backed retroreflective tape (3M brand) to the target surface, since this provides a strong return signal for optimum operation. We suggest using either the 3M™ Scotchlite™ High Gain Reflective Sheeting 7610 or the 3M™ Scotchlite™ Photoelectric Grade Smooth Surface Sheeting 7590 (for weather-resistant applications). Because of the target requirement, the AR4000-rET is not a candidate for use with the scanner options.

> Access the AccuRange 4000 laser rangefinder Data Sheet Adobe PDF file size 600 KB

Acuity's AR4000 User's Manual
This user's manual is a multi-page document which explains how to operate and install the sensor hardware. Output formats are described and sensor commands are explained at length.

> Access the AccuRange 4000 device User's Manual Adobe PDF file size 1.7 MB

Output interfaces
Acuity offers the following standard and optional outputs for the AR4000 laser rangefinder devices:

Standard RS-232 Serial Output

Optional RS-422 Serial Output

Optional Current Loop Output

Standard Voltage Signals for Signal Strength, etc.

Optional Pulse Width Output (Standard with High Speed Interface)