Apollon-Q PP Operating Instructions

Are you looking for the Apollon-Q PP operating instructions?

Here you will find the operating instructions for the Apollon-Q PP

Symbols and explanations

Safety instructions

Technical drawing

General function of the Apollon-Q PP

The Apollon-Q PP is a sensor for detecting the presence of objects and goods. The sensor can be used, for example, to detect parcels or pallets on shelves.

In the example, a shelf with four stacked items is used.

Depending on the set measuring frequency, the sensor detects the presence of the packets via an optical time-of-flight distance measurement. The measuring frequency can be set via the “Measuring period” (mper) parameter. The default value is 5000ms. 

For reliable detection of the packages, the distances should always be set to approximately half the height of the packages, as shown in the figure. l4d should therefore be the distance from the sensor to package 4 plus half the height of package 4. If the measured distance of the sensor is less than the set distance l4d, the sensor has detected an object in the area of level 4.

If package 4 is on the shelf, the sensor returns the following values in the payload:

...
object_present: true,
object_level: 4,
object_distance: [Distance to the object],
...

If package 4 is removed from the shelf, a beep sounds and the sensor sends a message due to the change in status. The distance is now measured and compared with the set levels. In this case, the measured distance is less than the set distance l3d and the sensor has detected an object at level 3. Here the sensor returns the following data in the payload:

...
object_present: true,
object_level: 3,
object_distance: [Distance to the object],
...

This behavior can be applied analogously to the removal of packages 1 to 3.

If a distance outside the defined limit values is measured, the sensor transmits a change of state from level 1 to no object detected and adjusts the payload as follows:

...
object_present: false,
object_level: 0,
object_distance: [Distance to the objectt],
...

This status is set if a distance greater than l1d is detected. If there is no parcel on the shelf, this is acknowledged with object_present: false. 

Up to 4 different levels can be defined in the sensor. The values can be configured via NFC or downlinks:

The dyn parameter can be used to set whether the sensor can distinguish between current levels or not. If dyn=1, the sensor returns the current level, distance and object_present, if dyn=0, the sensor only returns object_present:true or object_present:false.

Looking at the present case, the number of levels lvls=2 can be set to fulfill the use case. In this case, the maximum fill level of the shelf is two packages.

Further applications

Depending on the configuration of the sensor, different use cases can be mapped. The following scenarios have been implemented as examples:

1. detection and presence of vehicles (industrial trucks, cars, trucks, etc.)

2. detection of open doors or flaps

3. detection of parcels in shipping boxes  

Recommended fastening methods

Mounting accessories

Installation and preparation

1. If you have ordered a device with an external antenna, which can be recognized by the gold RP-SMA connector, first install the antenna included in the scope of delivery.
2. The sensor should be mounted with the long side on a container. This means that the long side of the sensor and the long side of the container should run parallel.
   
3. Ensure that the sensor has as free a field of view as possible. The opening angle can be described with a cone of 40°.
4. Spacer plate: The spacer plate can also be used for front or rear mounting. The spacer plate ensures that a flat installation is possible and guarantees the minimum distance between the sensor and the container. In this way, the antenna performance is not impaired. If necessary, the spacer plate can also be used for rear wall mounting.

General installation instructions

The sensor measures the distance to the object optimally when it is aligned parallel to it. In the case of lumpy or pourable material, the sensor should be mounted parallel to the base of the container. Ideally, the sensor beam hits the object to be measured at an angle of 90°.

If the sensor is not mounted parallel to the object to be measured, the measuring performance may be impaired. If the sensor is not aligned horizontally, ensure that the percentage calculation of the fill level is adjusted.

Rear wall mounting with screws

This type of fastening is usually used to fasten the sensor in a container. Insert the appropriate screws into the holes provided. Alternatively, suitable wood or plastic screws can also be used if the sensor is to be attached to the respective materials. Use the two-point bracket supplied for this purpose.

If the sensor is not mounted parallel to the measurement object, the measurement performance may be impaired. In the case of non-horizontal alignment, ensure that the percentage calculation of the level is adjusted.

Front wall mounting with screws

This type of mounting works in the same way as the “rear wall mounting with screws”.

Rear panel mounting with magnets

The magnets shown below are neodymium magnets. Other versions may vary.

Insert the appropriate magnets into the holes provided. The magnets shown here are NEODYM magnets. Alternatively, you can carry out this step for FERRIT magnets in the same way.

Insert the screws included in the set into the holes on the opposite side and tighten the magnets.

Front wall mounting with magnets

Please follow the instructions under “Rear wall mounting with magnets” to mount the magnets and screws in the opposite direction. The magnets are inserted into the holes on the front of the housing (logo side), the screws are inserted from behind.

Scope of delivery for mounting with blind rivets or blind rivet nuts

Rivet nuts

Spacer sleeve for blind rivets for insertion into the back of the housing for front panel mounting

Spacer sleeve for blind rivets for insertion into the back of the housing for front panel mounting

4x40 Blind rivets

Blind rivet nut (variant with countersunk head)

DIN912 cylinder head screw M4x40 for front wall mounting with blind rivet nuts, DIN912 cylinder head screw M4x30 for rear wall mounting with blind rivet nuts)

Drilling template

General information on pre-wall installation with blind rivet nuts

Step 1: Prepare materials and tools

Make sure you have all the necessary materials and tools to hand. You will need a blind rivet nut, riveting pliers, a drill, a drill bit, a measuring device and a wrench or pliers.

Step 2: Drill the hole

Drill a hole in the material into which the blind rivet nut is to be inserted. The diameter of the hole should be 0.1 mm larger than the outer diameter of the blind rivet nut.

Step 3: Inserting the blind rivet nut

Insert the blind rivet nut into the hole by pushing it through the hole.

Step 4: Fastening the blind rivet nut

Place the riveting pliers on the blind rivet nut and tighten the pliers to secure the blind rivet nut.

Step 5: Using the riveting pliers

Use the riveting pliers to insert the blind rivet nut into the material. Tighten the pliers until the blind rivet nut is fully embedded and forms a firm connection.

Step 6: Inspection

Inspect the blind rivet nut to ensure that it has been properly installed and forms a tight connection. If necessary, tighten it with a wrench or pliers to make sure it is securely fastened.

Source: https://www.schraubenbude.de/blindnietmuttern/blindnietmuttern-edelstahl/blindnietmuttern-edelstahl-flachrundkopf/

Vorderwandmontage mit Blindnietmuttern

📢 Always use the spacer plate for this type of installation to ensure the distance between the antenna and the wall.

Front wall mounting is used if you want to attach the front of the Apollon Q sensor to the wall of the object to which the sensor is to be attached. The front side is the side with the opening in the middle, on which the logo is also visible. This mounting method is the preferred option as it allows for easy battery or SIM card replacement by simply loosening the screws (as opposed to front wall mounting with blind rivets).

📢 Activate the sensor before starting the installation.

Step 1: Depending on the sensor type (Radar and ToF only), drill the appropriate holes in the wall to which you want to attach the sensor. Use the drilling template for this. The holes for the blind rivet nuts should have a diameter of 6.1 mm.

 Step 2: Now fasten the blind rivet nuts using a suitable tool. Use the spacer plate and insert the screws into the tabs as described in the illustration. Tighten the screws to a maximum torque of 2 Nm. If constant vibrations are to be expected during operation, we recommend the use of screw locking.

View of the container wall from below with the sensor mounted from above (front wall mounting). Left hole for the optical sensor, right hole for the radar sensor.

Step 3: Now the sensor is mounted.

Rear panel mounting with blind rivet nuts

Rear panel mounting works in the same way as front panel mounting with blind rivet nuts. In this case, the back of the sensor rests against the wall.

M4x30 screws are used for this type of mounting. Mounting is carried out without a spacer plate.

General information on blind rivet installation

Step 1: Prepare materials and tools Make sure you have all the necessary materials and tools to hand. You will need a blind rivet, a rivet gun and, if necessary, a drill and a drill bit.

Step 2: Drill a hole (optional) If no hole is available, drill a hole in the material in which the blind rivet is to be installed. The diameter of the hole should be 0.1 mm larger than the diameter of the blind rivet.

Step 3: Inserting the blind rivet Insert the blind rivet into the rivet gun and push it through the hole in the material.

Step 4: Using the rivet gun Place the rivet gun on the head of the blind rivet and tighten the gun to tension the rivet.

Step 5: Setting the rivet Use the rivet gun to set the blind rivet. Tighten the gun until the rivet is fully embedded and forms a secure connection.

Step 6: Check Check the blind rivet to ensure it has been set correctly and forms a secure connection. If necessary, tighten it further with a wrench or pliers to make sure it is securely fastened.

Rear panel installation with blind rivets

Rear panel mounting works in the same way as front panel mounting with blind rivet nuts. In this case, the back of the sensor rests against the wall.
4x40 blind rivets are used for this type of mounting. Mounting is carried out without a spacer plate.
The clamping range is 3 mm to 6 mm.
The holes for the blind rivets have a diameter of 4.1 mm.
Step 1: Depending on the sensor type (radar and ToF only), drill the appropriate holes in the wall on which you want to mount the sensor. Use the drilling template for this. The holes for the blind rivets should have a diameter of 4.1 mm.
Step 2: Insert the rivets through the tabs provided. Use the spacers supplied (the longer version). Insert the blind rivets first through the spacers and then through the tabs on the sensor. Now rivet the blind rivets with a suitable tool.

Step 3: The sensor is now mounted..

Front wall mounting with blind rivets

Front wall mounting is used if you want to mount the front of the Apollon Q sensor on the wall of the object in which the sensor is to be installed. The front or front side is the side with the opening in the middle, on which the logo is also visible.

The clamping range is 3 mm to 6 mm.
The holes for the blind rivets have a diameter of 4.1 mm.
Step 1: Depending on the sensor type (radar and ToF only), drill the appropriate holes in the wall in which you want to install the sensor. Use the drilling template for this. The holes for the blind rivets should have a diameter of 4.1 mm.Step 2: Insert the rivets through the tabs provided. Use the spacers provided (the shorter ones). Insert the blind rivets first through the spacers, then through the tabs on the sensor and finally through the spacer plate. Now rivet the blind rivets using a suitable tool.

Hall-Switch magnetic switch Installation instructions

1. Both magnetic field switches are active. Either one or both sensors can be used.
2. Large neodymium magnets are recommended. These should be placed as close as possible to the sensor. A recommended distance between the magnet and the sensor cannot be specified universally due to the variable size of the magnet. A maximum distance of 1 cm between the magnet and the housing is recommended.
3. For comparison: With a neodymium disk magnet with d = 20mm and h = 5mm, reliable values are achieved at distances of less than 1 cm.
4. The magnetic field switches can be operated in three different modes:

• Container is closed when the magnet is applied.
• The container is open when the magnet is applied.
• The sensor counts an opening when the magnet passes through twice.

NFC commissioning and locating the NFC tag Activation takes place via an NFC app.

1. Activation takes place via an NFC app. A smartphone is required for this. The app can be downloaded from the respective app stores. Simply search for “Sentinum LinQs” and download the LinQs app.
2. First place the tag on the sensor and then place the reader on your device. The position of the NFC tag can be found in the following illustrations.
3. Open the app and activate the sensor. To start the sensor in the basic settings, click on the “Activate sensor” button in the app's start menu. Now place your device on the NFC mark on the sensor.
4. When the sensor is activated, “Sensor updated!” is displayed. You can then continue with the activation of the other sensors.

Replacing battery

1. Open the case with a special Torx screwdriver. Carefully remove the cover and make sure the seal is not damaged.
2. Carefully remove the cells from the designated holder and insert the new cells. In order to achieve the run times and power levels indicated in the datasheets, the following primary cells are allowed:
   
   a. For LoRaWAN® and mioty® sensors
   - Energizer® Ultimate Lithium Batteries - AA
   - VARTA ULTRA LITHIUM Mignon AA
   
   b. For cellular sensors (NB-IoT and LTE-CAT-M1)
   - VARTA-CR-AH-R
   Each sensor requires 2 cells.
3. When the replacement is complete, dispose of the old cells properly. Then unscrew the housing. Make sure the original position of the seal has not been changed.

Labelling and certification