Industrial sensors: introduction to relevant technologies

A machine is composed by a mechanical structure and a control system (usually a PLC), which is responsible of the appropriate machine working. Sensors act like the link between the mechanics and the control system: they allow the controller to receive a real time feedback on the status of one or more parts of the machine and this information can be used to implement a closed-loop control.  For these reasons, the selection of the sensor type and its features are crucial for guaranteeing the proper operation of the whole machine.

This talk aims at providing a description of largely used typologies of sensors for the operational control of industrial equipment (e.g., proximity sensors, displacement sensors, photoelectric sensors). Metrological and technical aspects of different sensing elements and measurement chains will be pointed out. The last part of the lecture will be devoted to an open discussion with the audience on the design of optimal sensors for defined applications, according to specific user requirements.

Michele Todeschin, Product Engineer Vision and Advanced Sensors, Omron Industrial Automation Europe