Fibre-Optic Sensors for Confined-Space Detection

ifm’s new OCF series fibre-optic sensors provides a compact, DIN-rail-mountable solution for precise small-part detection in restricted installation areas common in automation, assembly, and packaging systems. The sensors integrate IO-Link functions, automatic mode selection, and predictive maintenance features to support modern digital supply chain and machine-control environments.

Compact Architecture for Confined-Space Sensing
Fibre-optic sensors function similarly to photoelectric sensors but separate the optical head from the evaluation electronics. This architecture allows the optical fibre to be positioned in extremely tight mechanical envelopes—such as pick-and-place stations, miniature feeders, and fine-assembly tracks—while the amplifier can be mounted on the machine frame or inside a control cabinet.

The OCF series builds on this principle with housings designed for DIN-rail mounting and tool-free fibre locking. The compact format allows integrators to deploy sensing points in areas where conventional photoelectric housings cannot fit. With an IP65 rating, the units can also be mounted directly in the field without additional protection.

Automatic Operating Modes and Intuitive Setup
The OCF amplifier incorporates six operating modes that are automatically selected based on the application requirements. This automatic mode switching eliminates manual calibration steps and helps maintain detection stability during changes in part size, distance, or reflectivity.

To simplify commissioning, ifm has introduced an OLED display with plain-text menus and a three-button interface. The 2-point teach-in process enables rapid alignment, while the “find-me” function flashes the fibre to identify the active sensing channel in multi-sensor installations.

IO-Link Integration and Predictive Maintenance
The OCF series supports IO-Link for parameter setting, diagnostics, and process data transfer. In addition to a high-speed digital output for real-time control, IO-Link provides access to internal condition data, including fibre contamination level.

The sensor’s clean-me function uses diagnostic values to indicate when optical performance is degraded due to soiling or wear. This enables predictive maintenance planning, reducing unplanned downtime in automated production lines and supporting more resilient machine-monitoring strategies.

Application Areas and Technical Flexibility
ifm offers a wide portfolio of compatible fibre-optic cables, including variants for confined spaces, elevated temperatures, and chemically aggressive environments. This allows the OCF series to be adapted to assembly automation, semiconductor handling, bottling lines, and other applications requiring precise detection of small or translucent parts.

The combination of compact fibre heads, robust amplifier design, and IO-Link integration positions the OCF series as a flexible option for machine builders seeking higher detection reliability and improved diagnostic access in distributed automation systems.

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