When you need reliable object detection over several meters, a conventional sensor may struggle with different object colors or surface conditions. A TOF sensor provides a practical alternative by measuring distance based on Time of Flight technology. Huayifeng’s EST Series combines TOF detection, compact construction, and up to 4m detection capability for smart warehousing, logistics conveyor lines, and industrial automation.
For you, this means fewer sensor changes when detection distances vary and simpler installation on compact equipment.
How the EST TOF Sensor Works
The EST Series uses the TOF (Time of Flight) principle to determine the distance between the sensor and the detected object. Because the detection method relies on time-of-flight information rather than only conventional reflected-light intensity, the sensor is designed to maintain detection performance across objects with different colors and surface conditions.
The EST-3D300ON and EST-3D3000P models provide a detection range of 50mm to 3000mm, while the EST-3D4000-485 extends the maximum detection range to 4000mm.
Key product features include:
- TOF detection principle for distance-based object detection
- Detection range up to 4m
- Compact sensor housing for space-limited equipment
- One-button teaching for detection state and distance adjustment
- Detection designed to reduce the influence of object color and surface condition
- NPN and PNP output options
- RS485 communication available on the EST-3D4000-485
- IP64 or IP65 protection depending on model
TOF Sensor for Distance Measurement: Models Compared
You can select the EST model according to your detection distance, output method, and communication requirements.
| Model | Detection Range | Output / Communication | Light Source | Protection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EST-3D3000N | 50–3000mm | NPN | Red Laser 650nm | IP64 |
| EST-3D3000P | 50–3000mm | PNP | Red Laser 650nm | IP64 |
| EST-3D4000-485 | 50–4000mm | RS485 | Red LED / Infrared Laser | IP65 |
The first two models use a compact 31 × 20 × 12.4mm housing and weigh approximately 44g. The EST-3D4000-485 measures 22.1 × 12 × 32.9mm and weighs approximately 50g, making it suitable for installations where equipment space is limited.
TOF Sensor for Automation Applications
The EST Series is designed for practical industrial detection rather than laboratory-only measurement. Huayifeng identifies applications in smart warehousing, logistics, automation equipment, new energy, semiconductor, and electronic manufacturing.
Smart Warehousing
In automated retrieval machines, you can use the EST sensor for position detection and cargo positioning. Its long-range detection capability helps equipment identify whether an object has reached a specified position.
Logistics Conveyor Sorting
For logistics conveyor lines, the sensor can detect cargo as it moves through a sorting area. The 3m and 4m detection options give you flexibility when conveyor layouts or installation distances change.
Industrial Automation
For automated equipment, the sensor can provide non-contact object detection without requiring mechanical contact with the target. NPN and PNP versions also make it easier to match the sensor with different control architectures.
How to Select the Right EST TOF Sensor
Use the following steps to choose the appropriate model:
- Confirm your detection distance. Choose the 3000mm models for applications within 3m and the EST-3D4000-485 when you need detection up to 4m.
- Check your controller interface. Select NPN or PNP output according to your PLC or control system, or choose RS485 when digital communication is required.
- Check installation space. Compare the compact housing dimensions with the available mounting position.
- Consider the operating environment. The EST Series operates from -20°C to +55°C, while storage temperature can reach -40°C to +70°C for the 3000mm models.
- Confirm protection requirements. Select IP64 or IP65 according to the equipment environment.
- Validate the target object. Test the sensor against the actual cargo, surface, installation angle, and ambient lighting before mass deployment.
Why Choose Huayifeng for Industrial TOF Sensors?
Huayifeng was founded in 2009 in Shenzhen, China, and integrates sensor R&D, manufacturing, sales, and application support. The company holds a portfolio of 100+ patents, design patents, and software copyrights and serves automation equipment manufacturers across new energy, semiconductor, electronics, logistics, and other industrial sectors.
For procurement teams, these qualifications provide useful evidence when evaluating a TOF sensor manufacturer:
- National high-tech enterprise qualification
- National “Little Giant” enterprise recognition
- ISO 9001 quality management certification
- ISO 14001 environmental management certification
- ISO 45001 occupational health and safety certification
- Applicable CE compliance documentation for relevant product models
- RoHS compliance documentation for relevant product models
- Standardized and customized sensor development capabilities
Huayifeng also provides CAD files, instruction manuals, selection manuals, and software support, helping you move from sensor selection to equipment integration more efficiently.
FAQ
What is a TOF sensor used for?
A TOF sensor measures distance using Time of Flight technology and can be used for object detection, positioning, presence detection, and distance-based automation tasks.
How far can the Huayifeng EST sensor detect?
The EST-3D300ON and EST-3D3000P detect objects from 50mm to 3000mm, while the EST-3D4000-485 supports a maximum detection range of 4000mm.
Is the EST Series suitable for industrial automation?
Yes. The series is designed for applications including smart warehousing, logistics conveyor sorting, automated retrieval equipment, and other industrial automation systems.
Conclusion
If you need a compact TOF sensor for reliable distance-based object detection, the Huayifeng EST Series provides practical options from 50mm to 4m, with NPN, PNP, and RS485 configurations. Its TOF detection principle, compact housing, industrial protection ratings, and application support make it suitable for smart warehousing, logistics sorting, and automation equipment.
CTA
Contact Huayifeng with your target object, sensing distance, installation geometry, PLC/RS485 requirement, ambient conditions, and current sensor model if you are replacing an existing product. The technical team can recommend the appropriate EST model and provide selection, technical, and applicable compliance documentation for your automation project.