Hokuyo Automatic USA Corporation announced on October 2, 2026, the launch of its new online Product Guide, a database designed to help engineers, system integrators, OEMs, and end users narrow down their search for sensing technology. The guide addresses a common challenge in industrial automation: selecting the right sensor for a specific application, which involves considering factors such as the target material, sensing distance, operating environment, required interface, and whether safety-rated protection is necessary.
The Product Guide allows users to browse by product family and filter results by application and operating requirements. It also supports searches by model number, task, industry, and interface. With 45 product and model groups, the guide covers a wide variety of needs, including LiDAR and obstacle detection, safety laser scanners, crane collision avoidance, optical data transmission, hot metal detectors, and laser distance sensors. Users can narrow their search based on outdoor usage, sensing range, speed, compact size, and safety-rated protection. Links to individual product pages provide further information and specifications.
This launch matters because it directly addresses a persistent pain point in industrial sensing: the complexity of matching sensor capabilities to real-world applications. By enabling users to start with their application and work toward the technology they may need, the guide reduces the time and expertise required to identify appropriate sensors. For example, someone researching robotics can explore 2D and 3D LiDAR for navigation and obstacle detection, while someone evaluating personnel protection around a machine can explore safety laser scanners. Users can also learn about crane applications, contactless data transmission, hot metal detection, and distance measurement.
The guide also tackles a frequent question Hokuyo USA receives: what is the difference between a safety laser scanner and a general obstacle detection sensor? This distinction is critical because protecting people from hazards requires consideration of the complete safety system, not just a single component. The company emphasizes that users should check the full model number and current specifications before selecting a sensor. By providing a centralized, searchable resource, Hokuyo USA aims to support safer and more efficient automation and measurement applications across industries. For more information, visit hokuyo-usa.com.
