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A proximity sensor emits a beam, field, or signal and detects changes when an object
is within its sensing range. It can detect both metallic and non-metallic materials as
well as different object properties.
Proximity Sensor
Proximity sensors are available in different sensing technologies with various ranges,
accuracies, and capabilities tailored to an enormous array of applications.
Various technologies are used for proximity sensing based on the requirements,
sensing environment, and target application. Each offers distinct advantages.
Inductive proximity sensors use electromagnetic fields to detect nearby metal objects.
They consist of an oscillator coil and detection circuitry encased in a rugged housing.
Key characteristics:
Inductive sensors provide reliable metal detection for manufacturing, automation, and
OEM applications.
Capacitive proximity sensors use electric fields to detect the presence of nearby
objects. Both conducting and non-conducting materials can be detected.
Key characteristics:
Capacitive sensors enable flexible object detection, but performance depends on the
sensing environment.
Photoelectric sensors use a light transmitter and receiver to detect objects. They can
operate using infrared, laser, or visible light.
Key characteristics:
Photoelectric sensors provide the versatility to detect and measure a wide variety of
object types at substantial distances.
Ultrasonic proximity sensors use high frequency sound waves to detect objects. The
sensor emits an ultrasonic pulse and measures the time for the echo to return.
Key characteristics:
Ultrasonic sensors offer versatile sensing over longer distances. Their wide detection
zone suits applications like parking sensors.
Operating Principles
Proximity sensors use different technical principles to detect nearby objects without
requiring contact.
Inductive sensors contain an oscillator coil that generates a magnetic field in the
surrounding area. When a metallic object enters this field, currents called eddy
currents are induced in the metal, which reduces the amplitude of the oscillator signal.
This change is detected and used to trigger the output.
Oscillator coil generates a magnetic field that extends into the surrounding
area
When metallic objects are present in this field, eddy currents are induced in
the metal
These eddy currents dampen the magnetic field and oscillator amplitude
The resulting amplitude change is used to detect the presence of metal objects
The distance at which objects can be detected depends on the field strength
This non-contact inductive sensing principle enables reliable metal detection for
industrial applications.
Capacitive proximity sensors use capacitance changes to detect objects. The sensor
and object together form a capacitor. When an object enters the electric field, the
capacitance changes, indicating its presence.
The sensing surface and object create a capacitor with dielectric between
A change in capacitance occurs when an object enters the electric field
Both metallic and non-metallic objects can be detected
No contact required between the sensor and object
The detection threshold depends on the sensitivity
Photoelectric sensors contain a light source and light detector. The light reflects off a
target and is detected to signify an object’s presence. There are several light
modulation techniques.
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Ultrasonic proximity sensors use high frequency sound waves to detect objects. The
sensor emits an ultrasonic pulse. The echo return time determines the object distance.
Performance Characteristics
Proximity sensors vary widely in their capabilities and limitations. Key performance
specifications should be matched to application requirements.
Sensing Range
Detection range is the maximum distance at which objects can be reliably detected.
Long range is desirable for many applications.
The detection spot size impacts the sensing resolution and ability to differentiate
objects. Small is preferred in many cases.
The ability to reliably detect objects and measure distances or positions precisely.
Response Time
Environmental Resistance
Proximity sensors span a wide performance range with tradeoffs between sensing
distance, precision, speed, and environment resistance.
Proximity sensors are ubiquitous in factory automation and process control. Typical
applications:
Rugged inductive, photoelectric and ultrasonic sensors can withstand harsh vehicle
environments.
Sensors optimize material flow in conveyors, storage systems, and loading operations:
Photoelectric and ultrasonic sensors are ideal for presence and motion detection.
Proper installation and alignment is also critical for reliable operation and maximum
range. Overall, the sensor technology should be selected based on sensing parameters
and environmental conditions.
These advantages enable unique applications and often lower costs compared to
alternatives like vision systems.
Proper installation, sensor selection, and testing helps maximize performance. For
challenging applications, vision or laser scanning systems may be preferable.
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