Non-contact position sensing: Sensing the future

摘要

THE POSITION SENSORS MARKET HAS SEEN A SHIFT AWAY FROM TRADITIONAL CONTACTING TECHNOLOGIES TO NON-CONTACT METHODS. CLIFF DURLING OF PENNY & GILES DISCUSSES THE DRIVERS OF THIS CHANGE AND THE TECHNOLOGIES AVAILABLE. Potentiometer technology has provided reliable position measurement in a range of applications for more than 40 years. The development of conductive plastic and hybrid (plastic on wire) potentiometers during the 1960s and 1970s improved the performance of precision wirewound potentiometers, extending life and durability. Despite this, the technology can be susceptible to the effects of shock and dither vibration. It remains a popular choice for many applications because of ease of installation and performance against price, but it is worth reviewing other technologies. Today's applications frequently demand more reliable and longer lasting sensors - two criteria that are best met with non-contacting technology. And the reduction in price and improved performance of some non-contact sensors has made these 'fit-and-forgef technologies highly competitive for a number of applications.