Proximity Sensor Types
In this guide, we will see what is a proximity sensor, the types of proximity sensor and their uses, and finally, we will do a comparison between them.
What is a Proximity Sensor?
The proximity sensor is a device used to detect nearby objects. When the object comes into its sensing area an electrical signal gets generated and this helps to detect the object.
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Types of Proximity Sensor and their Uses
1.Β Capacitive Proximity Sensor
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It works on the principle of varying capacitance. So, as the capacitance changes corresponding output signal generated also changes. This capacitance change is marked by the shape of the object and the distance of the object from the sensor.
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The sensor consists of an oscillator, trigger circuit, and output switching device. As the target enters the electric field generated by the sensor, the electric field generated gets obstructed by the target resulting in a change in capacitance which results in a change in amplitude of the oscillator circuit. When the target moves further from the sensor the amplitude of oscillation decreases and when the target comes close amplitude increases. This change triggers the trigger circuit resulting in a change in the output of the sensor and thus glowing the output sensor led.
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Application
As shown in the above image they can be used to detect objects on the conveyor belt.
2.Β Inductive Proximity Sensor
Inductive Proximity SensorΒ works on two principles
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Faraday's Law of induction
When an electrical conductor is placed in a magnetic field, eddy currents are produced in the conductor.
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Lenzβs Law
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These eddy currents generate a magnetic field that opposes the cause or the magnetic field which generated it.
This type of sensor has a wire wound around typically an iron core. As shown in the above figure, an alternating current is applied to the coil which generates a magnetic field around it. This magnetic field gives rise to an eddy current in the electrical conductor. These eddy currents then generate an eddy current magnetic field that opposes the electromagnetic field from the sensor. When the target is taken close to the sensor the electromagnetic field from the sensor gets reduced, which decreases the amplitude of the electromagnetic field. When it decreases beyond the threshold trigger circuit activates the output. This helps to identify that object has come into the desired vicinity of the sensor.
Note: It has a similar internal circuit as that of the capacitor sensor.
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Refer to this guide for interfacing proximity sensor with Arduino to get a hands-on experience with this sensor.
3.Β Magnetic Proximity Sensor
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This sensor works on the principle of the Hall effect. As shown in the figure, a potential voltage is applied across a hall element such as a hall element made of tin. So positive and negative charges start flowing. Now, when a magnet is brought in the vicinity of the hall element material, negative and positive charges get
accumulated across the opposite ends of the plate. When we measure the voltage across it a tiny voltage in microvolts is obtained. This is usually amplified by an amplifier. When the object is taken closer a higher potential gets generated across the plates and when it exceeds the threshold output is set to high. There are various other technologies too used in magnetic proximity sensors such as variable reluctance, reed switches, GMR (Giant Magneto-Resistive effect) inductive
4.Β Optical Proximity Sensor
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Optical proximity sensor consists of a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter circuit consists of a photo transmitter that sends light out by converting electrical energy into light. This light gets bounced back from the target which is received by the photo receiver. There are three types of optical proximity sensors: through-beam sensor, retro-reflective sensor, and diffuser sensor.
5.Β Ultrasonic Proximity Sensor
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An ultrasonic proximity sensor consists of a transmitter and receiver. As shown transmitter sends out a sound wave and the receiver detects the reflected wave from the object. You can refer to this guide Arduino Interfacing with an ultrasonic sensor if you want to try something hands-on.
Comparison Table of Proximity Sensors
|
Β Parameter |
Capacitive Proximity Sensor |
Inductive Proximity Sensor |
Magnetic Proximity Sensor |
Optical Proximity Sensor |
Ultrasonic Proximity Sensor |
| Sensing distance (mm) | 1-35mm (some sensors up to 70mm) | Up to 60 mm | Up to 80 mm | 2-30mm | Up to 1000mm |
|
Vibration tolerant |
Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Poor |
| Sensitivity | Very sensitive to changes in environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. | Adaptable to harsh environments | Susceptible to magnetic interference | Sensitive to dust and lubricants | Temperature variations( since the speed of sound is dependent on temperature |
| Sensing object material | The object can be made up of any material | Ferrous metals such as iron and steel. Non-ferrous metals sensing range decreases(will be given in datasheet) |
The object should be of Magnetic material only. | The object can be made up of any material. ( fails for a transparent object ) | The object can be made up of any material. ( works for transparent objects) |
| Cost | Medium | Low | Low | Medium | High |
| Size | small | small | small | small | small |
| Application | They are used for detecting parts in conveyors, workstations, and robots. | Foil seal detection inside plastic caps, to count metal cans. | Used to detect the open or closed status of windows, gates, and doors. Used in the food industry. |
Automatic soap dispenser, optical heart rate monitor, optical liquid level indicator. | Liquid level control, robotic sensing, counting people, automobile self-parking technology, and anti-collision safety systems. |
Conclusion
In this blog post, we have learned that proximity sensors are vital components in various industries, from automotive to manufacturing. They are designed to detect the presence or absence of objects, making them indispensable for automation and control applications. With different types of proximity sensors available, each with its unique features and uses, it's essential to choose the right one for your specific application. We hope that our comparison table of proximity sensors and detailed explanation of their types and uses has provided valuable insights and helped you make an informed decision. Whether you're looking to improve efficiency, reduce downtime, or enhance safety, proximity sensors can make a significant difference in your operations. So, choose wisely and enjoy the benefits of proximity sensors today!
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Check out other related blog post about sensors :Β Types of Sensors in IoTΒ ,Β Interfacing Proximity Sensors with ArduinoΒ andΒ How proximity sensor works
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the main types of proximity sensors?
The main types of proximity sensors are inductive, capacitive, ultrasonic, and photoelectric sensors.
- Inductive sensors detect metallic objects by generating an electromagnetic field and measuring changes in the field when a metallic object is brought near.
- Capacitive sensors detect the presence of any object with a dielectric constant different from the surrounding air by measuring changes in capacitance.
- Ultrasonic sensors use sound waves to detect the presence of objects by emitting high-frequency sound waves and measuring the time taken for the sound waves to reflect back.
- Photoelectric sensors use light to detect objects and come in two main types: through-beam sensors, which use a transmitter and a receiver to detect objects passing through the beam, and reflective sensors, which use a single device to emit and detect the reflection of light from an object.
2. What is the best type of proximity sensor?
When contemplating the most fitting proximity sensor to use, there is no sole option that reigns supreme. Every sort of proximity sensor possesses its own advantages and drawbacks contingent on the designated usage. For instance, inductive sensors demonstrate their superiority in pinpointing metallic objects, while capacitive sensors exhibit the ability to detect an extensive array of materials. Ultrasonic sensors have the propensity to discern objects even in soiled or unforgiving atmospheres, whereas photoelectric sensors thrive at identifying lucid or lustrous objects.
It's crucial to take into account the distinct prerequisites of the application when making a decision on the type of proximity sensor. These necessities may include the sort of material that needs to be detected, the range of detection needed, the environment in which the sensor will be utilized, and the desired degree of accuracy. Hence, one must meticulously weigh the specific requirements of the application before opting for the type of proximity sensor that would be most suitable.
Components and Supplies
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the main types of proximity sensors?
The main types of proximity sensors are inductive, capacitive, ultrasonic, and photoelectric sensors.
- Inductive sensors detect metallic objects by generating an electromagnetic field and measuring changes in the field when a metallic object is brought near.
- Capacitive sensors detect the presence of any object with a dielectric constant different from the surrounding air by measuring changes in capacitance.
- Ultrasonic sensors use sound waves to detect the presence of objects by emitting high-frequency sound waves and measuring the time taken for the sound waves to reflect back.
- Photoelectric sensors use light to detect objects and come in two main types: through-beam sensors, which use a transmitter and a receiver to detect objects passing through the beam, and reflective sensors, which use a single device to emit and detect the reflection of light from an object.
2. What is the best type of proximity sensor?
When contemplating the most fitting proximity sensor to use, there is no sole option that reigns supreme. Every sort of proximity sensor possesses its own advantages and drawbacks contingent on the designated usage. For instance, inductive sensors demonstrate their superiority in pinpointing metallic objects, while capacitive sensors exhibit the ability to detect an extensive array of materials. Ultrasonic sensors have the propensity to discern objects even in soiled or unforgiving atmospheres, whereas photoelectric sensors thrive at identifying lucid or lustrous objects.
It's crucial to take into account the distinct prerequisites of the application when making a decision on the type of proximity sensor. These necessities may include the sort of material that needs to be detected, the range of detection needed, the environment in which the sensor will be utilized, and the desired degree of accuracy. Hence, one must meticulously weigh the specific requirements of the application before opting for the type of proximity sensor that would be most suitable.