Proximity sensor

A proximity sensor is a sensor able to detect the presence of nearby objects without any physical contact.

A proximity sensor often emits an electromagnetic field or a beam of electromagnetic radiation (infrared, for instance), and looks for changes in the field or return signal. The object being sensed is often referred to as the proximity sensor's target. Different proximity sensor targets demand different sensors. For example, a capacitive or photoelectric sensor might be suitable for a plastic target; an inductive proximity sensor always requires a metal target.

The maximum distance that this sensor can detect is defined "nominal range". Some sensors have adjustments of the nominal range or means to report a graduated detection distance.

Proximity sensors can have a high reliability and long functional life because of the absence of mechanical parts and lack of physical contact between sensor and the sensed object.

Proximity sensors are also used in machine vibration monitoring to measure the variation in distance between a shaft and its support bearing. This is common in large steam turbines, compressors, and motors that use sleeve-type bearings.

International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 60947-5-2 defines the technical details of proximity sensors.

A proximity sensor adjusted to a very short range is often used as a touch switch.

Types of sensors

• Capacitive
• Capacitive displacement sensor
• Doppler effect (sensor based on effect)
• Eddy-current
• Inductive
• Laser rangefinder
• Magnetic, including Magnetic proximity fuse
• Passive optical (such as charge-coupled devices)
• Passive thermal infrared
• Photocell (reflective)
• Radar
• Reflection of ionising radiation
• Sonar (typically active or passive)

Applications

• Parktronic, car bumpers that sense distance to nearby cars for parking
• Ground proximity warning system for aviation safety
• Vibration measurements of rotating shafts in machinery
• Top dead centre (TDC)/camshaft sensor in reciprocating engines.
• Sheet break sensing in paper machine.
• Anti-aircraft warfare
• Mobile phones
• Roller Coasters
• Conveyor systems
• Touch screens on mobile devices that come in close proximity with the face

Manufacturers

• AutomationDirect
• c3controls
• Hyde Park Electronics
• Pepperl+Fuchs
• Turck
• Rockwell Automation
• ifm electronic

References

http://www.sensors-transducers.machinedesign.com/guiEdits/Content/bdeee4/bdeee4_7.aspx