Radar for level measurement has a long history at Vega. The first corresponding device was launched back in 1991. The advantage of this technology over ultrasound is that radar is independent of temperature, gas stratification, pressure/vacuum and environmental conditions. However, all this comes at a price: the first Vega radar device from 1991, based on 6 GHz, cost around 6000 DM; current sensors in the Vegapuls series based on 80 GHz cost around 1500 euros. In comparison, ultrasonic devices cost around 500 euros.

Vega has now announced a new compact device series with a special focus on price-sensitive standard measurement applications, such as those found in the water and waste water industry or in auxiliary circuits in process automation. This is also in the 500-euro price range and therefore at the same cost level as comparable ultrasonic sensors. Among other things, the Schiltach-based company has explicitly designed a new microchip for these devices, which, according to Managing Director Rainer Waltersbacher, "incorporates the experience of 20 years of radar technology" and is characterized by a very small design and low energy consumption. The sensors are available both as a version with a cable connection compartment and with a fixed cable connection (IP68). The direct output signals available are either 4 to 20 mA, HART, SDI-12 or Modbus.

Self-sufficient sensors for IoT applications

In addition to these new Vegapuls sensors, which will be available to purchase from January 2020, Vega is also addressing the topic of IoT applications, particularly in the logistics sector. A characteristic feature of this environment is that the sensors are located in places and positions where the energy cannot come from the socket. To take this into account, the Schiltach-based company has launched the 'AuRa' project with the aim of developing autonomous level sensor systems specifically for these situations, also based on 80 GHz radar technology. Batteries in combination with optimized measurement cycles for energy management ensure a service life of up to 10 years. As far as the communication connection is concerned, the NB-IoT and LoRa standards will initially be supported. Vega relies on a multi-communication model here: the sensor is equipped with several low-power wireless standards and uses the one available in each case. At the same time, future standards can also be implemented quickly.

The first versions of these self-sufficient radar sensors have been announced for mid-2020. One possible application, for example, is the attachment to IBC containers. Thanks to radar, measurement is possible from the outside, meaning that the IBC plastic bladder does not need to be opened or modified. Installed in just a few simple steps, this solution can also remain permanently on the container and transmit the respective status, whether in the company or in transit. Even stacked on top of each other, the sensors on each individual container record the current fill level and position several times a day - and transmit these to the cloud by radio.

Universal communication via IO-Link

Last but not least, Vega has come to Nuremberg for SPS 2019 with new compact pressure sensors and capacitive limit switches - the Vegabar and Vegapoint device series - rounding off its measurement technology portfolio for hygiene-sensitive processes. An interesting feature of these sensors: All switching statuses can be visually detected from any direction by means of an all-round switching status display in the form of an illuminated ring. Its color can be freely selected from over 256 colors. It is thus possible to see at a glance whether the measuring process is running, the sensor is switching or whether there is a possible fault in the process.

The standard IO-Link protocol ensures universal and particularly simple communication. According to Rainer Waltersbacher, this provides the devices with "a standardized communication platform that enables seamless data transfer and easy integration into machines and systems." In other words: Having mainly been active in process technology to date, Vega is now looking to take a step into factory automation with these new sensors - a complementary market for the Black Forest-based company, but one in which different rules and requirements apply than in the chemical, Namur or pharmaceutical world.