Impress Sensors

Some types and features of capacitive distance sensors

December 21st, 2010

The capacitive linear position sensors are specially designed to take the non-contact measurement of vibration, position, displacement and thickness or run-out measurements. These types of sensors can be used on non-conductive and conductive target materials. However, they can be quite sensitive to environmental parameters that alter the dielectric constant of medium between the target (air) and the sensor.

The measuring range of capacitive linear position sensors is one of the most important specifications to look for when getting one. Maximum usable range of these sensors is another important specification of the capacitive distance sensors. This is the complete range over which the device can offer sensible readings, even if it is non linear.

Accuracy and outputs of capacitive distance sensors

The accuracy of capacitive distance sensors is usually measured as a percentage of its full-scale measurement. Considering the sensing frequency range is also equally important. When it comes to output, a number of different options are available.

Analogue outputs of capacitive distance sensors include frequency or voltage. On the other hand, digital outputs include parallel, serial or other outputs like TTL output. Another alternative for the output can be a change in the state of switches or an alarm.

The packaging of capacitive distance sensors is an important consideration. Sometimes, the sensor element with signal conditioning or no external packaging is available. A transducer is a more common and complex device that comes with signal conditioning or/and packaging. It offers outputs like 4-20mA, DC volts, etc.

Meters and instruments are also available. They are mostly self-contained units that offer output near the device and also include signal conditioning or processing.

Capacitive linear position distance sensors

August 22nd, 2010

The capacitive linear position sensors are specially designed to measure the non-contact measurements of displacement, position, thickness or vibration. These sensors can be used on both non-conductive and conductive target materials. However, capacitive linear position sensors can be sensitive to the environmental parameters that alter the dielectric constant of the medium between the target (air) and the sensor.

Measuring range of capacitive linear position sensors is one of their most important specifications. The maximum usable range of these sensors is also a specification to consider when purchasing one. This is the maximum range over which the sensor can offer a sensible reading, even if it is non-linear.

The accuracy of capacitive linear position sensors is generally measured as a fraction of its full scale measurement. Sensing the frequency range of these sensors can also be an important application.

Types of output options

With capacitive linear position sensors, you can get different output options such as;

• Current
• Voltage
• Frequency

The digital outputs can include parallel, serial or any other digital output like TTL. Other alternatives for digital output can be a change in the state of switches or an alarm. The packaging of capacitive linear position sensors is also an important consideration.

Sometimes the sensor element with no external signal conditioning or packaging is available. A transducer is the most common example. It is a complex device with signal conditioning or/and packaging and offers an output like DC volts, 4-20mA. When you are looking to purchase a capacitive linear position sensor, you need to consider the above specifications. This will help you get the right device that suits your application.

Some advantages of capacitive distance sensors

August 2nd, 2010

Capacitive distance sensors are specially designed to take non-contact measurements of displacement, position, thickness or vibration. These sensors can be used on non-conductive and conductive target materials. However, they may get sensitive to the environmental parameters as it changes the dielectric constant of the medium between the target and the sensor.

Measuring the range of capacitive distance sensors is one of the most important specifications you need to consider when purchasing one. The maximum usable range of a capacitive distance sensor is another important consideration. This is an absolute range over which the distance sensor can offer sensible readings, even if it is non-linear.

Features of capacitive displacement sensors:
• Nearly temperature independent
• Independent of changes in the conductivity of electrically conductive materials
• High zero point stability
• Wear-free and maintenance free
• Exerts no interference force on the target

Application of capacitive displacement sensors
• Amplitude, run-out, clearance and vibration
• Elongation, position, distance and displacement
• Stroke, axial shaft oscillation
• Dimensions test and in-process quality-control
• Part recognition, sorting and measuring of tolerances
• Deformation, deflection, tilt and waviness

The accuracy of a capacitive distance sensor is measured as a percentage of full scale displacement. Sensing the frequency range of capacitive distance sensor is crucial for its application. Non-contact capacitive displacement sensors measure dimensions, length, distances or positions of any electrically conducting targets.

An extensive range of electronic unit and distance sensor options enable optimum solutions even for most complicated measuring tasks. If you want to take accurate distance measurement, make sure that you choose the right capacitive displacement sensors.


Bookmark and Share

Impress Sensors & Systems Ltd  Unit 6 Mercury House, Calleva Park, Berkshire, RG7 8PN
Tel: +44 (0)118 981 7980  Fax: +44 (0)118 981 7990  Email: sales@impress-sensors.co.uk
Copyright � 2002-2007 Pressure Transducers & Systems Ltd RSS