A velocity measurement system that captures an athlete in motion and automatically calculates performance metrics for coaches to use in training long jumpers seems like an ideal addition to the Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista, California. What’s unusual is the developer- the BMW Technology Office in Mountain View, California. BMW sponsors four national governing […]
Variable Capacitance Pressure Transducers Address Extreme Environment Industrial Apps
Available in pressure ranges from 1 to 10,000 psig, Setra Systems Model 209 variable capacitance pressure transducers offer users several choices. In addition to gauge, sealed gauge, or vacuum pressure options, output choices include: 4-20 mA, 0.5 to 5.5 Vdc, 1 to 6 Vdc or 0.5 to 4.5 Vdc output. The sensors have ±0.25% full-scale […]
MEMS Pressure Sensor Used in Asthma Training Device
While many people suffer from asthma attacks and use inhalers as the solution, poor inhaler technique prevents patients from receiving their full therapeutic benefit. To correct this situation, Cambridge Consultants used its sensing and wireless technology capabilities to create an asthma inhaler training device. Called the T-Haler, the healthcare tool has doubled proper usage rates. […]
Active Pixel Infrared Thermometer Array Simplifies Thermal Imaging and Reduces Cost
Far infrared (FIR) imaging is becoming an important aspect of many market segments including: automotive – pedestrian detection, close range blind spot detection and occupancy classification smart buildings -thermal measurement and occupancy functions homes - smarter microwave and conventional ovens energy efficiency – to detect heat losses and illustrate the need for improvements industrial – […]
Sensors Market Growing Fast
In fact, according to Databeans, it is growing faster than the overall semiconductor industry. Touch and orientation sensors are cited as significant factors for sensor growth. Automotive, medical electronics and security applications are driving the growth of other types of sensors. In 2010, the overall sensors market reached close to $7 billion. Databeans Q4-2011 “Sensors […]
Sensor Measures Pressures up to 6,000 BAR (87,000 psi)
Kistler’s Type 6215 pressure sensor uses a quartz crystal sensing element packaged with a front-sealed diaphragm in a rugged, stainless steel housing. Design for internal ballistics, closed bomb testing, weapons discharge and cartridge chamber testing, and other extreme high-pressure measurement requirements, the Type 6125 sensor has measurement range from 0 to 6,000 bar (0 to […]
Photoelectric Sensor Design Avoids Separate Reflector/Receiver
Claiming the first photoelectric light barrier to operate without a separate reflector or receiver, Baumer’s SmartReflect light barriers have several features. The devices create a closed light beam between the sensor and any background for reliable detection of target objects regardless of color, shape, transparency or surface texture. Substitution of any machine part in the […]
Position Sensor Expands Hazardous Capability
With its recently acquired IECEx hazardous area approval rating, Balluff’s Micropulse TA12 explosion-proof linear position transducer is ready to tackle more hazardous applications. In addition to existing ATEX and North American approvals, the transducer can address even more situations where hazardous gases and/or dusts are present. Designed for continuous feedback on hydraulically and pneumatically actuated […]
MEMS Sensors to Benefit from Advanced Packaging
Wafer-level chip scale packaging (WLCSP) to produce 3-D packages was one of the frequent topics at the IMAPS International Conference and Exhibit on Device Packaging held March 5-8, 2012 in Scottsdale, Arizona. In addition to CMOS image sensors, MEMS (microelectromechanical system) sensors including accelerometers, gyroscopes, pressure sensors and silicon microphones are candidates for the advanced […]
Reed Switch Triggers Proximity Alarm
Built around the company’s proven technology, including the GR150 and GR200 magnetic reed switches, Standex Electronics has introduced a non-contact proximity alarm that combines audio and visual alerts. Reed sensing technology competes with Hall effect sensing and both technologies use external magnets but unlike solid state Hall effect sensors, reed switches are electromechanical devices. The […]