Optical sensor for conveyor

Anyone ever make or use optical sensors to control a conveyor? I have a bin tipper which will dump its contents onto a sorting conveyor, I want the conveyor to “see” when there is something on the conveyor and turn on automatically and off when there is nothing. Any thoughts? I have plenty of old and new contactors, relays, switches, etc. Looking for advice and a diagram.

Usually you'd use a beam sensor, but the problem is making sure it's blocked when you put something on the conveyor. You may need multiple or a curtain-style sensor. Easier to pick up off the bin tipper operating if you can.

Then a ~1-minute run on timer.

SomeoneSomewhere said:

Usually you'd use a beam sensor, but the problem is making sure it's blocked when you put something on the conveyor. You may need multiple or a curtain-style sensor. Easier to pick up off the bin tipper operating if you can.

Then a ~1-minute run on timer.

Click to expand...

Any recommendations for a beam sensor? Any ideas on wiring one up to a 220V motor?

Optical proxes or sensors are common. Some here:
https://www.automationdirect.com/ad...ensors/general_purpose_photoelectric_sensors#
Some need a reflector on the other side of the conveyor and some do not. Some have a send on one side and a receive on the other side.
These mostly provide only a control signal. You will need a relay or SSR in between to handle the motor's power which is fairly simple but not plug and play type stuff.
Does the bin tipper want to shut off after a dump shows no stuff on the conveyor or does it need to go home before shutting down?
Is other logic needed or is the bin tipper smart? No matter the turn on, how about the stop.
Bob

Photoswitches are used all the time on industrial conveyors. Ensure the conveyor is adequately guarded, restricted or interlocked if it is to be automatically controlled. Place warning signs on and around it to inform that it starts automatically and install emergency stop controls which are adequate in type, number, visibility and accessibility for the use. Install warning devices which produce both a visual and audible alarm for a minimum 10 seconds prior to motion of the conveyor. This allows time for escape and/or intervention in the event of unexpected startup.

Example: https://youtu.be/9s7H76Axx0w?t=7

See Edwards 51 series beacons, cable-type emergency stops and bulletin 800t emergency stops.

As for actually making it 'go', a simple single-section conveyor could be controlled by a N.O. retroreflective-type photoswitch, two timing relays and a motor starter with auxiliaries. One for the 10 second pre-startup alarm period and one to keep the conveyor in motion for a time after the photoswitch circuit has opened. One DOE, one DODE.

Always remember that conveyors can break bones, remove limbs and strangulate. They ain't no joke.

Try a ultrasonic sensor Works better probably

peter

So for clarity, the conveyor moves at 30 rpm, it’s only 18” deep and 10 ft long. The bin tipper does not need to be part of the optical system. My goal is to allow the operator the ability to work the bin tipper, dump product, and the conveyor move only when items are present. The motor (1.5hp) is controlled by a magnetic contactor and start stop buttons. There is a slam switch for emergency stops, which also shuts down the washing machine, elevator and pump down the line.