The Kistler Correvit SF-Motion (Type 2059A...) is a series of non-contact optical sensors designed for measuring longitudinal and transverse vehicle dynamics, particularly in motor sports applications. These sensors utilize proven Correvit technology, incorporating a special algorithm to significantly reduce signal noise and achieve a minimal signal delay of 6 ms with a high measurement frequency of 500 Hz.
Function Description:
The SF-Motion sensors measure speed (x, y), distance, acceleration, and angular rates without physical contact. Integrated accelerometers allow for the determination of additional measurands such as longitudinal and transverse vehicle acceleration. Integrated angular rate sensors enable the measurement of pitch and roll angles, as well as rotation around the vehicle's vertical axis. The sensor also calculates other signals internally, such as leveled acceleration or curve radius. It can convert speed measurements to any point on the vehicle, like the center of gravity or rear axle. The device is capable of detecting driving direction (forward or backward). The KiCenter software, provided with the sensor, facilitates easy configuration and offers programmable, standardized signal outputs and interfaces for direct connection to a PC and various data acquisition systems.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Speed: Up to ±400 km/h (optional: calibrated to 250 km/h).
- Distance Resolution: ≤1 mm.
- Measurement Accuracy (Speed & Angle): <±0.2 %FSO (determined on test surface with distance >200 m).
- Angle: Up to ±30°.
- Angle Resolution: <±0.01°.
- Angular Speed: Up to ±2,000 °/s.
- Acceleration: Up to ±16 g.
- Non-linearity (Angle speed & Acceleration): ±0.15 %FSO.
- Measurement Frequency: 500 Hz.
- Working Distance/Range: 180 ±50 mm (range ±80 mm on request).
- Interfaces: CAN (Motorola/Intel) 2.0B, USB (Full Speed) 2.0, Ethernet (yes), DTI (yes).
- Power Supply: 10 to 28 V.
- Max. Power Consumption (at 12 V): 30 W.
- Temperature Range: Operation: -25 to 50 °C, Storage: -40 to 85 °C.
- Relative Humidity (non-condensing): 5 to 80 %.
- Degree of Protection (cable mounted): Sensor head IP67, Electronics IP40.
- Dimensions (LxWxH): Sensor head 88x76x28 mm, Electronics 168x125x95 mm.
- Weight: Sensor head 175 grams, Electronics 890 grams.
- Shock: 50 half-sine / 6 g/ms.
- Vibration: 10/10 to 150 g/Hz.
- Illumination: LED-IR 850 nm, laser class 1.
- Signal Delay: 6 ms.
- Bandwidth: Approximately 220 Hz (with filter deactivated).
Usage Features:
- Mounting: The sensor can be mounted using magnetic holders (part no. 18012545) or suction holders (part no. 18012551). The mounting distance from the lower surface of the sensor body to the road must be 180 ±50 mm. Magnetic holders can be attached horizontally or vertically. Suction holders require a clean, grease-free surface and their rubber discs must be checked for damage before each use. A safety line is highly recommended when using suction holders.
- Coordinate Systems: The manual defines both "Body Coordinate System" (X-axis: forward, Y-axis: left, Z-axis: up relative to the car) and "Horizontal Coordinate System" (X-axis: body X-axis projected to horizontal plane, Y-axis: body Y-axis projected to horizontal plane, Z-axis: vertical up parallel to gravity axis).
- Filter Settings: A moving average filter can be activated to smooth output signals. The "Average time" setting influences the degree of smoothing and signal delay.
- Acquisition Rate: If the acquisition rate is lower than the sensor's processor rate, the moving average filter should be activated, with the filter time at least equal to the time between two acquisition samples to prevent information loss and aliasing.
- Sensor Settings:
- Angle Deactivation: The angle output is set to 0 below a determined velocity threshold to prevent fluctuations at very low speeds.
- Standstill Threshold Value: A threshold (default 0.5 km/h) is set to prevent the sensor from incorrectly detecting vehicle vibrations as movement.
- Pitch/Roll Offset: Existing mounting offsets for pitch and roll angles can be corrected by setting the current angle value as the offset. The vehicle should be on an even, non-sloping surface for correct adjustment.
- Mounting Direction: "Normal" or "Reverse" settings are available to account for sensor mounting orientation.
- Calculation to POI (Point of Interest): Allows calculation of signals (Vel, VelX, VelY, Angle, Dist, Radius) at a virtual measuring point on the vehicle by entering correct X and Y distances from the sensor.
- CAN Bus Configuration: The CAN Bus page in KiCenter allows configuration of baud rate, data format (Intel or Motorola), and termination resistor. Individual CAN frames can be switched on/off and addressed.
- KiCenter Software: Used for sensor configuration, calibration, and data display. It allows saving/refreshing device parameters, importing/exporting parameters, and browsing for connected devices via serial or network connections.
- Firmware Update: KiCenter provides a function to update the sensor firmware. It is crucial to ensure stable data connection and power supply during the update to prevent irreparable damage.
Maintenance Features:
- Regular Cleaning: The sensor lens (protection glass) should be checked and cleaned regularly to ensure proper operation.
- Suction Holder Check: The function of suction holders, particularly the rubber discs, should be checked prior to every use for damage or cracks.
- Troubleshooting: The manual provides detailed troubleshooting steps for issues related to cables, power supply, status display LEDs, illumination, operating range, software settings, and CAN bus communication.
- Service & Calibration: Kistler recommends sending the SF-Motion sensor for inspection, maintenance, and calibration once a year to ensure continued optimum performance. The manufacturer's calibration is valid for 12 months. In case of persistent problems, Kistler customer service can be contacted, requiring a ".kdx file" from KiCenter, a list of problematic outputs, and serial numbers of relevant components.
- Environmental Conditions: The sensor should be mounted away from heavy spray areas (e.g., directly behind rear wheels) to prevent anomalous measurements from snow or water.
- EMC Interference: If the sensor sends output signals without vehicle motion, excessive EMC interference might be the cause. Resetting the sensor by disconnecting and re-connecting power can resolve this.
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