Proximity sensor is a type of a device used in industrial and manufacturing applications. The proximity sensors do not require to be in a physical contact with the item that is being sensed. Proximities come in various types. Each type has its own unique benefits. This article focuses to expound on the benefits of each type of proximity sensors.
The first proximity sensor is the inductive type. This type of proximity sensors consist of coil, detector, oscillator and an output circuit. Inductive sensor is used only for detecting targets made of metal. When they are operating, the coil in it starts to generate high frequencies of magnetic field. The field oscillator is affected when some of the energy from the metallic material that is targeted is absorbed. Once the oscillation amplitude receives a particular threshold value, the object is then detected. When compared with other types of technologies, inductive proximity are accurate which a benefit for users. There is a high switching rate with inductive proximity which is a great benefit. They also have the ability to work in harsh conditions.
The second proximity type is the capacitive. The principle of capacitor is what capacitive sensor works on. This type of proximity is made up of the following compounds; the threshold, oscillator and the output circuit. The object and the plate are the plates while the air is the dielectric in capacitive sensors. When an object is near to the plate, after, there is an increase in the capacitance which then triggers the circuit detector. The trigger will depend on the amplitude’s output that comes from the oscillator. The advantage of these sensors is that they are able to detect targets that are both metallic and non-metallic. They are cheaper but with a resolution that is high. They are also stable and their power usage is low.
The third proximity sensor is the photoelectric. These type of sensors are able to detect targets that are both metallic and non-metallic. The emitter is the main component of the photoelectric sensor which sends light beams and the detector that has the ability to detect. It can detect a target if the object comes between the detector and the emitter. These sensors are used in various applications like in mobile phones. The benefit of this sensor is that it is of low cost, installation is easy and the sensing range is long. They also have a fast switching traits and can be used in harsh situations.
Ultrasonic is the type number four of proximity sensor. These type of sensors have the capability to emit and receive sound waves. Ultrasonic transmitters detect the target using ultrasonic waves. Ultrasonic sensors have various advantages. They are able to detect various objects despite the properties of the material. Even in situations of diverse climate, ultrasonic sensors are able to operate efficiently.