Measuring Hydraulic Cylinder/ Actuator Travel and Tank Level

While many sensors, especially those based on microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology, get increasingly smaller, some measurements dictate the need for a large or sufficiently long sensor. This is the case when measuring the position of moving machine parts in applications such as paper and pulp mills, injection molding machinery, turbine blades and process level management. These are the types of applications addressed by a new series of sensors from Macro Sensors. The MLW Series of Long Stroke Linear Position Sensors are designed for highly accurately absolute position measurement of displacements up to 1.2 meters.  

The sensors use magnetostrictive technology and operate by transmitting a current pulse through a tube that is reflected by a moveable permanent magnet.  The output signal is based on a time of flight measurement by the sensor that determines the position of the magnet on the tube. 

For more information about Macro Sensors MLW Series of Long Stroke Linear Position Sensors, click here.

IR Sensing Used in Instrument Panel Concept

At the 2011 International CES in Las Vegas, an expert in Visteon’s tent demonstrates infrared (IR) technology to sense where a driver points in a concept instrument panel to Sensor Tips senior editor Randy Frank. Occupant interface technology using IR sensing tracks the finger and has advantages over a capacitive proximity sensing.

To see the demonstration, click here.

To find out more about instrument panel technologies from Visteon, click here.

Sensors Expo 2010 Exhibitors: ASM Sensors

If you missed Sensors Expo or did not get a chance to check out all the exhibits, here is another of the interesting booths that I visited. Fred Fiedler from ASM Sensors explains the company’s newest approach to angular magnetic sensors. To see the video click the arrow link below.

For more information about ASM Sensors magnetic angle sensors, click here.

High Temperature LVDT Position Sensor for Military/Defense Applications

The usual 150C maximum operating temperature won’t cut it in many military and defense applications. For those who need to make position measurements in ranges of ±0.05″ to ±10″ [±1.25 mm to ±250 mm] at operating temperatures up to 400°F (200°C), Macro Sensors HSTAR 750 Series Hermetically Sealed Position Sensors could provide the solution.

 In addition to their maximum operating temperature of 200C, the 3/4 inch (19 mm) diameter AC-operated LVDTs are environmentally sealed to IEC IP-68, so they can handle rugged application requirements.

 The design targets the harsh environments found in military and defense applications such as fuel / oil level monitoring, load leveling of artillery platforms and controlling flight surfaces of airplanes and rudder positions of aircraft carriers, tankers, ships as well as submarines.

For more information about Macro Sensors HSTAR 750 Series Hermetically Sealed Position Sensors, click here.

Wireless Position Sensor

Honeywell Sensing and Control now offers the XYR6000 Wireless Position Sensor that works with its OneWireless™ systems. Operating at 2.4 GHz Discrete Sequential Spread Spectrum (DSSS),  the unit has a data rate of 250 Kbps and nominal signal range of 305m (1000ft.) between Field Sensor and Infrastructure unit. The analog output has an accuracy of +/- 5% over 250° when centered between slip clutch. The unit requires a maximum operating torque of 0.50 nM (0.369 lb-ft) and has an overtravel of 90° max. Calibration is performed electronically by setting values for start point and range. The unit requires two C Cell Lithium (3.6V Li-SOCl2) non-rechargeable batteries.

In addition to monitoring valve position status, the wireless sensor can also be used for manual process valve position, safety shower and eye bath notification, tank overflow alarms, , gate/door position, and other applications.

For more information on the XYR6000 Wireless Position Sensor go to: http://sensing.honeywell.com/index.cfm/ci_id/157437/la_id/1.htm