Low Pressure Sensing Chip uses Advanced MEMS Technology
July 7, 2010 by admin
Filed under Frank Talk
Welcome to Frank Talk about Sensors. I’m Randy Frank and today I’m talking to Tim Shotter, director of new products at All Sensors, a leading supplier of MEMS-based pressure sensors and systems. Tim, welcome back to Frank Talk About Sensors.
RotorFlow® Sensors Combine Continuous Fluid Flow Sensing with Visual Indication
Plainville, CT – Gems Sensors & Controls introduces the RFO type of the RotorFlow Series of fluid flow sensors. RFO stands for “RotorFlow Output”, and is designed for flow rate monitoring or metering applications. RotorFlow RFO type sensors provide a pulsed DC voltage output that is proportional to the rate of flow. The 4.5 to 24VDC pulsed output is easily integrated into most digital logic units. What makes RotorFlow sensors unique is the highly visible paddlewheel that provides verification at a glance to confirm that fluids are moving. Typical applications for RotorFlow RFO type sensors include water purification, dispensing systems, chemical metering, laser and welders, semiconductor processing, water injection systems, and chillers and heat exchangers.
As liquid passes through the RotorFlow RFO body, a magnetic rotor spins at a rate proportional to flow. The magnetic fields turning with the rotor excite a static Hall Effect sensor, located in the body, and generate a series of voltage pulses. The output pulse voltage is equivalent to input (4.5 – 24 VDC), with a frequency proportional to the flow rate. Digital rate meters, totalizers, and other electronic controllers then utilize the output signal. A subset of the RFO type RotorFlow sensors is the RFA Type. These use the same operating principle, but instead of outputting a voltage pulse they are conditioned to provide an analog output signal of 0-10 VDC.
RotorFlow sensors are offered in ¼” to 1” port sizes, and monitor fluids with flow rates ranging from 0.1 GPM to 60 GPM (0.4 LPM to 227 LPM). Accuracy is dependent on model and flow range selected, and is typically within ±7%. RotorFlow sensors combine their high visibility rotors with solid-state electronics that are packaged into compact, panel mountable housings. Housing bodies are available in brass, stainless steel or polypropylene. Brass and SS bodies provide operating pressures (@ 70°F/21°C) to 200 psig (13.8 bar), while polypropylene allows 100 psig (6.9 bar). Maximum media temperature for polypropylene models is 180°F (82°C), and with brass or SS bodies is 212°F (100°C).
Gems Sensors & Controls
www.GemsSensors.com
Randy Frank discusses “thinking outside the chip”
July 1, 2010 by admin
Filed under Frank Talk
Welcome to another Frank Talk about Sensors. I’m Randy Frank and today I’m talking to Roger Grace. Roger is the president of Roger Grace Associates, a technical marketing consultancy that is deeply involved with microelectromechanical systems or MEMS technology, which his based on semiconductor processes and designs.
Slim Line Magnetostrictive Sensors from ASM
ASM launches the new PCFP25 series of slim line Magnetostrictive sensors to compliment the existing “POSICHRON®” range. The PCFP25 is a slim, non-contact linear position sensor using Magnetostrictive sensing technology which has been specifically designed for harsh applications with limited space. With a profile of only 8mm x 28mm it can fit into areas that were previously inaccessible.
The PCFP25 is an industrial grade sensor which has been designed to be maintenance free due to the non-contact Magnetostrictive sensing technology which is also highly resistant to shocks and vibration. Due to the very small profile of the sensors they can also be used for safety critical applications where two PCFP25 units can be mounted together, either vertically or horizontally to provide two totally independent redundant outputs.
POSICHRON® represents a complete family of non-contact linear position sensors and the addition of the new PCFP25 extends the application ranges to areas with limited access or that are safety critical. This series of sensors offer a range of absolute analogue outputs of 0-10VDC and 4-20mA as well as CAN-bus versions and can be supplied in stroke lengths from 100mm to 5500mm in increments of 10mm.
ASM UK
www.asm-sensor.co.uk
ASM Introduces Compact MEMS Inclinometer for OEM Applications
June 16, 2010 by admin
Filed under Inclinometer, Level
ASM introduces its smallest addition to the POSITILT® inclinometer series that is available in single and dual axis versions. By using MEMS technology, this new inclinometer PTAM20 series is packaged into a very compact, flat housing making it ideally suited for OEM applications. The measurement range for the single axis version is available from +/- 15° to +/- 180°, in increments of 15°. For the dual axis version, the measurement range is available from +/- 15° to +/- 60°, in increments of 15°.
Due to its small size of 7mm in height and 48 mm in diameter, the PTAM20 series inclinometer has been designed to fit into the tightest locations in OEM applications. The enclosure is rated IP60 which is suitable for many instrumentation functions.
The maximum measurement range for the single axis version is +/- 180° and +/- 60° for each axis in the dual axis version. Each version is available with smaller ranges in +/- 15° increments. Several analogue output types are available: 0.5-4.5 V, 0.5-10 V and 4-20 mA.
The resolution is 0.05° and the linearity is up to +/- 0.5°. Each version offers high shock resistance.
ASM UK
www.asm-sensor.co.uk
Scott D. Seehawer Named President of TRI-TRONICS
May 12, 2010 by admin
Filed under Image, Photoelectric
TRI-TRONICS COMPANY, INC. Since 1995, he has held the positions of Electrical Engineer, Director of Engineering, VP of Engineering, and most recently Senior VP of Operations.
Seehawer is a graduate of the University of South Florida with a Bachelors Degree in Electrical Enginneering and also graduated with honors from their MBA program. He holds several patents through the TRI-TRONICS Company.
TRI-TRONICS Company
www.tritronics.com
Servo Inclinometers Have IP64 Environmentally Sealed Housing
May 11, 2010 by admin
Filed under Inclinometer
Sherborne Sensors announced the North American market introduction of the LSI series, a family of cost-effective, rugged, closed loop gravity referenced servo inclinometers. The LSI series is specially designed to withstand severe shock and vibration inputs, for precision measurement capabilities in even the most demanding of environments.
The LSI series incorporates a unique, flexure-supported torque balancing system, which is rugged enough to withstand shock inputs of 1500 g, yet still provides excellent accuracy and repeatability over a wide operating temperature range. For added durability, sensor components and associated electronics are contained within IP64 environmentally sealed housing. Units are available in ranges of ±14.5°, ±30° and ±90°, and offer a high level, 5-Volt analog DC-output signal, proportional to sine of the angle of tilt. LSI series models are fully self-contained, and are able to connect to a DC power source and a readout or control device, to form a complete operating system. These robust units are ideal for use in civil engineering, structural monitoring, geophysical and seismic studies, machinery and structural alignment, pipeline leveling, crane safety and satellite antenna leveling applications, among others. Recommended accessories include bi-polar power supplies and the new DTI series digital panel indicator, which allows a user to read outputs directly in degrees. All are available from Sherborne Sensors.
Flow Sensor From PKP Built for Low-Viscosity Liquids
PKP Process Instruments, A manufacturer and distributor of a wide range of process instrumentation introduced its model DR05 Flow Meter.
Model DR05 paddle-wheel flow sensors are used wherever the flow of liquids having low viscosities must be reliably and economically measured, including but by no means limited to, cooling systems, demineralized water and aggressive/caustic liquids in the chemical industry.
The DR05 paddle-wheel flow sensor measures the flow of water and substances similar to water. The flow sensor consists of a section of polypropylene pipe fitted with a paddlewheel. The paddle wheel, which extends into the area of flow, is set into rotation by the flowing liquid. The rotary motion is detected by a Hall sensor and output as a series of pulses. The output frequency of these pulses is directly proportional to the flow rate. Alternatively, the pulsed output can be converted into an analog signal (4 to 20 mA) or into two limit contacts by optional integrated electronics. DR05 paddle wheel flow sensors are made completely of plastic; they have no metal parts. Wetted materials include a PP housing, ECTFE rotor and ceramic axels and bearings. Viton seals are standard (EPDM optional).
These devices are available for pipe sizes of 1″ to 2″ with turndown ratios of up to 50:1.
World’s Smallest Digital Temperature Sensor Ideal For Harsh Environments
May 11, 2010 by admin
Filed under Temperature
With the new SHT21, Sensirion launched the world’s smallest digital humidity and temperature sensor. The SHT21 consists of a newly designed, sophisticated sensor chip encapsulated in a 3x3x1.1-mm DFN 3-0 package. Over-molding provides excellent protection against aging and ambient impact, such as condensation and harsh environments, and thus yields outstanding long-term stability.
The SHT21 is fully calibrated and provides an I2C digital interface. Analog output modes (such as PWM) are available on request. The digital communication mode enables superb low power consumption: A value in the range of 3μW at normal operation is well achieved. Typical sensor accuracy is ±2% RH over 20–80% RH and ±0.3 °C over 25–42 °C. Provided on tape & reel, the reflow solderable SHT21 is suitable for high volume applications. Furthermore, the sensor is qualified in accordance with automotive standard AEC-Q100 and an extended quality assurance program guarantees low PPM values.
Report Finds Demand for Sensors Is Rising
May 10, 2010 by admin
Filed under Industry News, Market Research
The rising demand for multifunctional personal electronics devices and intuitive applications has revved up the demand levels for sensors.
Large-scale deployment of sensors is being witnessed in mobile devices, media players, game consoles, and cameras. New opportunities are unfolding for innovative applications, including gesture recognition, motion sensing, location sensing, and fingerprint biometrics.
Gesture-based interfaces have triggered a surge in applications in the mobile gaming and personal devices sectors, and are set to change the way user interfaces are designed. These interfaces are likely to transform mass advertising solutions in the retail business.
New analysis from Frost & Sullivan (technicalinsights.frost.com), Opportunities for Sensors in Consumer Electronics, finds that the demand for complex scenarios that provide intuitive gaming experiences is on the rise, and the industry is cashing in on this market. The availability of 3D depth sensors and state-of-the-art accelerometers and gyroscopes is ensuring that the money is flowing into the industry.
If you are interested in a virtual brochure for this study, please send an email to Sarah Saatzer, Corporate Communications, at sarah.saatzer[.]frost.com, with your full name, company name, title, telephone number, company email address, company website, city, state and country.
Location data from all possible inputs such as cars, buses, taxis, mobile phones, cameras, and personal navigation devices that are network-connected with positioning technologies, including ground positioning system (GPS), wireless fidelity (WiFi), and cell tower triangulation, provides an ocean of information. Making sense of this data is especially becoming useful to consumers and businesses that utilize location-enabled devices for services, locating friends and family, navigating, asset- and pet-tracking, dispatching, sports, games, and hobbies.
Although the outlook for the market is upbeat, some challenges are restraining market progression. Privacy issues have emerged as a critical concern in location-based sensing. Considering the massive amount of personal information available online, the risk of susceptibility to crimes such as stolen identity is greatly amplified.
Dealing with these complexities would necessitate further research in the desired application areas. Standardization with regard to sensors would take longer as the applications are wide and varied, and the onus is on the end user to facilitate such processes. Advances in nanosensors can be used to develop portable lab-on-foil and lab-on-chip, along with developments in printing technologies. These low-cost, miniature sensors can be developed for quick chemical and threat detection in mobile, portable personal electronics.
Going forward, several technologies are poised to shape the consumer electronics space in the near future. Accelerometers and gyroscopes have conventionally been the forte of the automotive and aviation industries; however, the uptake of these sensors is likely to pick up steam in the consumer electronics space. Gyroscope manufacturers would be wise to target the high-volume cell phone market. Gyroscopes can open up new applications and interfaces with mobile phones, and if successful, a significant drop in unit cost owing to economies of scale will result.
In the long term, the convergence of various types of sensor technologies will pave the way for more comprehensive solutions that ensure optimized end-user experiences socially.
Opportunities for Sensors in Consumer Electronics, a part of the Technical Insights subscription, provides an insight into the recent advances in the field of sensors for consumer electronics along with the emerging application areas for the same. Further, this research service includes detailed technology analysis and industry trends evaluated following extensive interviews with market participants.
Technical Insights is an international technology analysis business that produces a variety of technical news alerts, newsletters, and research services.
