Many companies that have a vibration energy harvesting technology propose their technique and products as a solution to structural monitoring for bridges and buildings. While successful tests have been conducted, showing that the technology works, widespread deployment does not seem to have occurred. Cost could be a major factor. The efforts of researchers at the […]
Magnetic Positioning Sensor Delivers Analog Output
In spite of the digital quest, many sensors, especially in industrial applications still require analog outputs. So SICK’s newest MPA magnetic positioning sensor has both a 4 to 20 mA analog current output and an analog 0 and 10V voltage output. Measuring lengths from 107 to 1,007 mm, the sensors provide an alternative to potentiometers […]
Pressure Sensors Target Tough Measurements
While it is the most popular approach for pressure sensors, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology requires considerable packaging enhancements to address liquid and corrosive gas measurements. In contrast, ceramic pressure sensors can more readily make these types of measurements. In its Ceracore UCS2 pressure sensors, Endress+Hauser uses Al2O3 (99.9 %), a highly resistant ceramic material. This allows the […]
Sense Air in Line to Avoid Problems
When fluids flow in tubes for patients, the presence of air in the line creates significant problems. To detect the presence of air, Morgan Technical Ceramics uses its piezo ceramics capability in ultrasonic sensors. The Air in Line (AIL) sensors include a bubble detector for a 4-5 millimeter (mm) tube. Operating at a nominal resonant […]
Take Action to Remote Sensor Readings
Rather than just monitor data from a critical process or product, Lantronix xSenso Controller allows users to control the data from a computer, tablet or smartphone. The DIN-rail or wall mount system is a member of the xSenso analog sensor networking family that enables analog sensors (voltage or current) to send real-time data to any node on […]
Simplifying the Setup for Industrial Sensing Applications
Think that there might be an easier way to teach sensors in industrial applications? You are not alone. Engineers at Lion Precision thought there could be a better way and developed the “Gap Quickset” feature for LRD8200 Ultrasonic Clear Label Sensor. Rather than requiring the operator to execute several key presses to align the sensor […]
Sensing Velocity on Large Generators
Controlling permanent magnet generators with large shafts in applications like wind turbines can pose a significant challenge since the shafts can be a meter in diameter. The Leine & Linde answer to the problem is to segment a ring encoder for the velocity sensing into pieces. This simplifies both commissioning and service, since the ring […]
Bionic Eye Receives FDA Approval
Following European approval in 2011, Second Sight Medical Products, Inc. received U.S. market approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat individuals with late stage retinitis pigmentosa (RP) with its Argus® II Retinal Prosthesis System (“Argus II”). The Argus II restores some functional vision for people suffering from blindness using a combination of […]
Detect Tough Objects with Dual Light Source
The optics in the SICK WTB4 MultiLine Photoelectric sensor create two line-shaped light spots. This allows the sensor to continuously detect objects with large gaps, such as PCBs, or products that are shiny or dark from leading to trailing edge. When reflected light from both sources is detected, the sensor remains active even if one […]
Record Breaking Sales for Sensors in 2012
According to IC Insights’ O-S-D Report—A Market Analysis and Forecast for Optoelectronics, Sensors/Actuators, and Discretes, pressure, acceleration & yaw and magnetic field sensors had recording breaking sales in 2012 with over 2011 sales of 11%, 7, % and 12%, respectively. These same products are expected to have moderate percentage growth in 2013. In addition to […]