Sensors have been a key component of electronics-based technologies and these have seen an enhanced level of development and sophistication. One such adaptation is proximity sensors that are particularly useful to detect motion and relay data on any movement or even the presence of any object in a range.
What are proximity sensors?
A proximity sensor is a useful tool that eliminates the need to have physical contact to establish the presence or movement between two objects. By design, these sensors are programmed to work with objects that are fragile or sensitive to pressure. Their use is particularly useful in situations where expensive equipment is used that can be damaged due to continuous touch.
How do they work?
Proximity sensors, as the name suggests, utilise a non-contact method of converting the data through an electrical signal. These help to convey inputs relating to any movement or even the presence of an object without the need to establish actual contact.
As and when a foreign object enters the range, the signals detect it based on its presence in the proximity and convey or alert this development to the user. This reaction of detection through the opening and closing of the sensors enables the electrical circuit to complete the task.
Why are proximity sensors an indispensable tool?
- Suitable for harsh conditions
- The response is quick
- Long service life
- No physical contact
- Not affected by the colour and condition of the object
Types of proximity sensors
While the general underlying principle is common, the various applications have spawned many types of proximity sensors across multiple environments.
- Capacitive proximity sensor: Based on the working of a capacitor, the capacitance of the capacitance proximity sensors increases when an object is found nearby.
- Inductive proximity sensor: Used to detect metals, the inductive proximity sensor changes its properties in the presence of metals.
- Photoelectric proximity sensors: Uses a beam emitter and detector to detect a target.
- Magnetic proximity sensor: Used to detect magnetic objects.
- Ultrasonic proximity sensor: Detects an object using reflected or transmitted ultrasonic waves.
- IR proximity sensor: IR proximity sensor uses infrared light to detect objects and obstacles in front of the sensor.
What are the uses of proximity sensors?
With their unique nature of non-contact functioning, proximity sensors are used in a wide array of modern-day situations. Their application is especially invaluable where there is a need to detect the presence or movement of any entity in a defined space.
Their relevance and usage in a manufacturing environment, for instance, points to their importance in varied industries. Be it an automated production set-up or industrial assembly lines, proximity sensors are a boon with their ability to eliminate touch sensors that could cause wear and tear or maintenance issues.
Proximity sensors also are indispensable in modern day workplace functions like safety adherence, inventory management and even basic requirements like ensuring contactless washrooms. Some of the day-to-day applications where you will find proximity sensors are in automatic doors, automatic room cleaners, or security alarm systems.
Proximity sensors are one of the most commonly used tools in motion-based detection. To know more about the different types of proximity sensors, visit our website.