Tag: proximity sensor

Installing a proximity sensor is a task that involves electronic equipment and automation systems. Proximity sensors are typically used to detect the proximity or presence of an object, which triggers the appropriate operation or control. Proximity sensors, including capacitive proximity sensors, use high-frequency oscillating circuits. Therefore, when multiple proximity sensors are mounted side-by-side or facing each other, the sensors must be separated from each other by at least a specified distance. the ATO store describes how to install proximity sensors and the related precautions.

The proximity sensor is a general term for sensors that detect objects without touching them instead of contact detection methods such as limit switches. The sensor converts the movement and presence information of the detected object into an electrical signal. Among the detection methods that convert the information into electrical signals, some methods utilize the eddy current generated in the metal body of the detection object due to electromagnetic induction, methods that change the capacity of the electrical signal due to the proximity of the detection object, and methods that use a sharp stone or a guide switch, etc. ATO.com will introduce the basics such as the principle of operation, types, and applications of the proximity sensors in detail in this article.

With the continuous development of science and technology, sensor technology plays an increasingly important role in various fields. From smart homes to industrial automation, from healthcare to environmental monitoring, sensor applications have become ubiquitous. To better understand why we need to connect sensors, the ATO online shop will delve into the nature of proximity sensor technology and its importance in modern society.

Proximity sensors play a vital role in modern automation systems for detecting the presence or distance of a target object. However, for a variety of reasons, proximity sensors can malfunction, affecting the normal operation of the system. This article will detail the steps of proximity sensor troubleshooting to help engineers quickly and accurately locate and resolve problems.

The proximity sensor is the general name of sensors that replace the contact detection methods such as limit switches and do not need to contact the detection object for the purpose of detection. It can detect the movement information and existence information of the object and convert them into electrical signals.

The proximity sensor is a general term for sensors that replace contact detection methods such as limit switches and are designed to detect without touching the detection object. It detects the movement and presence of objects and converts them into electrical signals. The principle of PNP and NPN sensors is to use the saturation and cut-off of triodes to output two states, which belong to switch sensors, but the output signals are diametrically opposite. high level and low level. NPN output is low level 0, and PNP output is high level 1.

A proximity switch is a position switch that can be operated without direct mechanical contact with moving parts. When the object is approaching and the sensing surface of the switch is at the action distance, the switch can be actuated without mechanical contact and any pressure to drive the DC electrical appliance or provide control instructions to the computer (plc) device. ATO proximity switch is a non-contact switch. It not only has the characteristics of a limit switch and microswitch but also has sensing performance.

Proximity sensor is a general term for sensors that replace the contact detection methods such as limit switches and aim to detect without touching the detection object. The movement information and presence information of objects can be detected and converted into electrical signals.

As proximity sensor is so important, today we are going to introduce two types of proximity sensor. We hope that you can know the specialties of two types of proximity sensor.

Proximity sensors are known as non-contact travel switches which are generally widely used in material sorting control systems and automatic detection. Proximity sensors are divided into inductive proximity sensor, capacitive proximity sensor, magnetic proximity sensor, analog proximity sensor and Hall proximity sensor, which can detect whether there is an object approaching within a range of several millimeters to tens of millimeters. When the distance between the object and the proximity switch reaches a certain range, this proximity sensor can send out the corresponding action signal.

Hall effect magnetic proximity sensor can achieve the largest detection distance with a small switch volume. It can detect magnetic objects (usually permanent magnets), and then generate a trigger switch signal output. Since the magnetic field can pass through many non-magnetic objects, this triggering process does not necessarily require the target object to be directly close to the sensing surface of the magnetic proximity switch, but the magnetic field is transmitted to a long distance through a magnetic conductor.

Proximity sensor is a new type of integrated switch, which is an ideal electronic switch sensor. It has a lot of advantages, including small size, fast frequency response, wide voltage range, strong anti-interference ability, high repositioning accuracy, high operating frequency, reliable operation, long life, low power consumption, corrosion resistance, vibration resistance and adaptability to harsh working environments. What’s more, there will be no friction during the use of the proximity sensor, and will not increase the torque of each sensed element.

Proximity sensors are widely used in a variety of automated production lines, mechatronics equipment, and often appear on the purchase list, so what types of proximity sensors are available?

The difference between limit switch and proximity sensor:

1. Proximity sensors are non-contact switches with a long life and are suitable for passing objects. Limit switches are contact switches. Due to the internal contacts, the working life is relatively shorter.
2. Limit switches are used for position detection in one direction. For two-way position detection, using a proximity sensor is better.
3. Use limit switch for protection function. Use a proximity sensor to detect when an object passes a certain point.
4. The limit switch usually has 1 NO + 1 NC contacts. Generally only one group of contacts is used, so there are 2 wires. Proximity sensors generally adopt 2-wire, 3-wire and 4-wire, so they have more wires than limit switches. Some proximity sensors have to confirm it is PNP or NPN based on the connected equipment.

In PLC control system, we mostly use DC proximity sensors. And in DC circuit, the proximity sensors used include 2-wire proximity sensor, 3-wire proximity sensor and 4-wire proximity sensor. And they can be further divided into NPN type and PNP type. Generally, people in the United States and Japan usually use NPN proximity sensor, while in the Europe use the PNP proximity sensor.
The difference of NPN proximity sensor and PNP proximity sensor lies in the conduction situation. NPN proximity sensor belongs to the low level conduction and PNP proximity sensor belongs to the high level conduction. In other words, signal of the NPN proximity sensor flows from the load to the proximity sensor, while that of the PNP proximity sensor flows from the proximity sensor to the load.
We will take FX3U PLC and S7-200 PLC as examples to explain how is the NPN proximity sensor and PNP proximity sensor connected to PLC.

Proximity sensor belongs to the non-contact static position switch. When an object approaches it at a certain distance, the proximity switch gives an action signal. Different from the mechanical position switch that needs to be applied with mechanical force, the proximity switch acquires signal by the change of medium energy between the probe and the object under test. The proximity switch is widely used and has exceeded its scope of limit and protection, and common applications include speed measurement, liquid level control, and metal detection. When you are going to buy a proximity sensor but without any suggestion of others, you will be clear after reading this article.

The proximity sensor is a position sensor or switch that can have operation on the moving parts without mechanical contact. When the object gets close to the sensing surface of the sensor to the working distance (detection distance), the proximity sensor can operate without mechanical contact and pressure, thereby provide control instructions to the computer or PLC.
There are two main types of ATO proximity sensors: inductive proximity sensors and capacitive proximity sensors. Inductive proximity sensors are specifically designed to detect metal, and capacitive proximity sensors are primarily used to detect dielectric, such as conductors, insulating liquids or powders. According to output methods and wiring, the proximity sensors can be divided into DC 2-wire NO/NC, DC 3-wire NPN/PNP type NO/NC, DC 4-wire NPN/PNP type NO+NC, AC 2-wire NO/NC and AC 3-wire NO+NC.