Optimize your labeling process with the SICK WFS3-40B41CA71 fork sensor. Features 3mm fork width, 15kHz switching frequency, and IO-Link for high-speed detection.

SKU SICK-6058651 Category SICK WFS

Product Description

Product Overview

Functional Principle: Optical detection (Direct beam).
Fork Dimensions: 3 mm width with a 42 mm depth.
Light Source: Infrared light (LED).
Switching Output: Push-pull (PNP/NPN) with light/dark switching.
Connectivity: M8 male connector, 4-pin with integrated IO-Link interface.
Housing: Slim, glass-fiber reinforced PA plastic (IP65 rated).
Detection Capability: Minimum detectable object (MDO) of 2 mm (label gap).

Product Description

The SICK WFS3-40B41CA71 (Part No. 6058651) is a high-performance optical fork sensor specifically engineered to meet the rigorous demands of the labeling and packaging industries. Its ultra-slim design allows for seamless integration directly onto the edge of label dispensers, saving valuable machine space. Unlike traditional sensors, the WFS series eliminates common detection errors by allowing the switching threshold to be “taught-in” while the label strip is in motion.

Equipped with a sophisticated operating concept, users can adjust the sensor quickly via a teach-in button, manual +/- buttons, or remotely through the IO-Link interface. With a remarkable response time of 46 µs and a switching frequency of up to 15 kHz, this sensor ensures exceptional repeat accuracy even at extremely high conveyor speeds. The inclusion of IO-Link 1.1 functionality transforms this device into a Smart Sensor, providing real-time diagnostic data and automated parameter storage to minimize downtime during product changeovers. Its robust IP65-rated housing ensures reliable operation in standard industrial environments, making it a dependable solution for precision label gap detection.

Key Performance Features

High-Speed Response: 46 µs response time and 15 kHz switching frequency for high-track speeds.
Smart Sensor Technology: Integrated IO-Link for remote configuration, monitoring, and easy device replacement.
Flexible Teach-In: Supports 1-point, 2-point, and dynamic teach-in modes (while the process is running).
Slim Profile: Compact fork shape designed for mounting in narrow spaces and on dispensing edges.
Adjustable Timing: Configurable switch-off delay ranging from 0 ms to 520 ms.
Stability: High jitter resistance (17 µs) and consistent response time stability (± 20 µs).

Ideal Applications

Labeling Machines: Precise detection of non-transparent labels on various web materials.
Packaging Industry: Identifying label gaps or detecting the presence of labels on products.
Double Sheet Detection: Monitoring for overlapping materials in feeding processes.
High-Speed Counting: Counting small parts or detecting notches in high-velocity production lines.
Web Guiding: Edge detection and monitoring in printing or textile machinery.

Features

Functional principle	Optical detection principle
Dimensions (W x H x D)	10 mm x 25 mm x 64.3 mm
Housing design (light emission)	Fork shaped
Fork width	3 mm
Fork depth	42 mm
Minimum detectable object (MDO)	Gap between Labels / Size of labels: 2 mm ¹⁾
Label detection	✔
Light source	LED, Infrared light
Adjustment	Teach-in button (Teach-in, sensitivity, light/dark switching, key lock) Cable (Teach-in dynamic)
Teach-in mode	1-point teach-in 2-point teach-in Teach-in dynamic

¹⁾ Depends on the label thickness.

Mechanics/electronics

Supply voltage	10 V DC … 30 V DC ¹⁾
Ripple	< 10 % ²⁾
Current consumption	20 mA ³⁾
Switching frequency	15 kHz ⁴⁾
Response time	46 µs ⁵⁾
Stability of response time	± 20 µs
Jitter	17 µs
Switching output	Push-pull: PNP/NPN
Switching output (voltage)	Push/Pull: High = V_S – < 2 V / Low: ≤ 2 V
Switching mode	Light/dark switching
Output current I_max.	100 mA
Input, teach-in (ET)	Teach: U > 5 V … < U_V Run: U < 4 V
Initialization time	40 ms
Time delay	Switch-off delay, 0 ms / 8 ms / 16 ms / 32 ms / 65 ms / 130 ms / 260 ms / 520 ms, adjustable (0 ms = default)
Connection type	Male connector M8, 4-pin
Protection class	III
Circuit protection	U_V connections, reverse polarity protected Output Q short-circuit protected Interference pulse suppression
Enclosure rating	IP65
Weight	Approx. 36 g
Housing material	Plastic, PA (glass-fiber reinforced)

¹⁾ Limit values, reverse-polarity protected, operation in short-circuit protected network: max. 8 A.
²⁾ May not exceed or fall below U_v tolerances.
³⁾ Without load.
⁴⁾ With light/dark ratio 1:1, typical, during teach-in 6 kHz.
⁵⁾ Signal transit time with resistive load.