Proximity sensors are commonly used in many automation applications. They’re used to sense the presence of objects and don’t require physical contact with the target or object being sensed, which is why they’re often referred to as non-contact sensors. Common proximity sensor types include photoelectric, capacitive, and inductive sensors. Inductive sensors operate on the […]
Sensors + Vision
New family of inductive safety sensors from Pepperl+Fuchs
The new family of safety sensors from Pepperl+Fuchs includes four cylindrical and rectangular series with cable and plug connection. The sensors are TÜV-certified in accordance with the Machinery Directive (EN 13849) Performance Level PLd, Category 2, and SIL 2. They are used to safeguard machines and plant components as well as for reliable position detection […]
Motion Trends: IoT development drives sensor trends
The continuing development of IoT and IIoT is shaping trends in sensor design and implementation. Broader automation trends such as the continued digitalization of data and its use in more efficient control of processes and systems to the use of data for predictive maintenance purposes are big drivers. Sensors have added functions, are easier to […]
Miniature piezo components for medical device manufacturing
PI Ceramic (a division of PI Physik Instrumente) introduces a new family of micro components, including mini transducers, suitable for the most precise applications, including medical imaging, nanopositioning, fiber alignment, and optics/photonics. One of the latest applications of miniature piezo tube transducers can be found in scanning fiber/scanning catheter endoscopes (SFE). These miniature endoscopes provide […]
What are proximity sensors?
Proximity sensors are used across a broad range of industrial and manufacturing applications. They’re used to sense the presence of objects or materials and then either initiate some action or simply flag their presence or absence. Key to their operation is that they don’t require physical contact with the target or object being sensed. This […]
What are magnetoelastic sensors for torque measurement?
When a ferromagnetic material is subjected to a mechanical stress — caused by an applied force or torque — it experiences a change in magnetic flux. This phenomenon is known as the magnetoelastic effect, also referred to as the Villari effect, for the Italian physicist who discovered it in the late 1800’s. In motion control […]
AP10 IO-Link position indicators from SIKO maintain efficiency and reliability
Bus-capable position indicators from SIKO are the heart of a monitored size changeover and are indispensable in machine construction today. Their ability to display the setpoint and actual value on the adjusting spindle to the machine operator increases comfort for the setter. This greatly simplifies the process of refitting a production machine for a new […]
New photoelectric sensor from Rockwell for demanding environments
The new Allen-Bradley 42AF RightSight M30 photoelectric sensor from Rockwell Automation is the latest addition to the company’s smart sensing portfolio. Built with improved environmental resistance and long-distance detection in a mid-sized, right-angle housing, the RightSight M30 smart sensor offers the flexibility and performance required for a wide range of high-demand applications. “Our new photoelectric […]
Sensors at heart of bionic robots from Festo
The Festo Bionic Learning Network has released it latest biomimicry innovations to support ongoing research in engineering, manufacturing, and materials science drawn from natural systems. Here are the 2018 additions to the Festo Bionic Learning Network: A transforming spider that rolls or creeps A robotic fish that autonomously maneuvers through acrylic water-filled tubing A semi-autonomous flying bat-like robot […]
Q&A on sensors for food and beverage washdown (and other harsh settings)
Sensors are machine edge devices, so are on the front lines — often completely exposed to the worst of what automated assemblies endure. In a recent Design World interview, Banner Engineering global business development manager for sensors Dana Holmes answered several questions about sensor survival in these harsh environments. Here’s what she had to say. […]
