Contrast detection, Reflex sensor, Sticker Detection

Reliably capture black stickers on a light background

In automation technology, designers are often faced with a physical hurdle: How do you detect an object that absorbs light almost completely? A common requirement in mechanical engineering is to recognize black stickers on light-colored plastic surfaces. While sensors with background suppression often reach their limits here, switching to the energetic operating principle offers the ideal solution.

Precise interrogation by energetic reflex sensors

The solution to this challenge is the energetic reflex switch P1KT001. In contrast to reflex sensors with background suppression (such as the P1KH series), this sensor evaluates the amount of light reflected back (remission).

The principle of action: The white background reflects a strong signal. As soon as a black sticker enters the beam path, the amount of light drops drastically.
The logic: Configured as an NC (dark-switching), the sensor triggers exactly when the bright signal is interrupted. In this way, contrasts can be detected reliably in black and white.

Technical advantages for your design

Energetic reflector button P1KT001 against a white background — Product picture of the energetic reflex sensor P1KT001

Maximum Flexibility (USP): With a reach of up to 700 mm , the compact K design offers enormous freedom. In practice, this enables a stable working distance of 100–150 mm without having to place the sensors too close to moving machine parts.
Independence from the height of the object: Since the amount of light and not the distance is decisive, the thickness of the sticker does not matter. The sensor detects presence regardless of whether it is a thin film or a thicker label.
High cost-effectiveness: The P1KT001 is a cost-effective alternative to contrast sensors when binary presence control is sufficient.

Easy upgrade for existing systems

If you want to reliably detect stickers, the P1KT001 is the perfect choice. Since it has the same design as the P1KH004, it can be integrated as a “plug-and-play” solution without any mechanical modifications.

Do you have a similar application? Feel free to contact us for any further questions!