Medical Device Link.

Originally Published EMDM November 2003

Technology News

New sensor technology enhances the capabilities of inductive proximity sensors, making them suitable for use in automated manufacturing. Developed by Balluff (Cheadle, Cheshire, UK), Ultralinear technology pairs traditional proximity ruggedness with a linear analogue feedback signal for reliable process monitoring. 
Conventional switching sensors use an oscillator coil assembly to generate an inductive eddy-current field that extends in front of the sensing surface. When a conducting metal is introduced into this field, an eddy current is induced in the metal. The change energizes the sensor’s output. 

Ultralinear sensors are based on this standard design, but they generate a linear analogue voltage or current proportional to the distance between the sensor’s active surface and the metal target. The feedback signal has resolution down to 1.5 µm. Applications that could benefit from this technology include parts sorting by size, shape or material, detection of object orientation, and monitoring of the thermal expansion of ball screws and shaft imbalances on rotating machinery. 

 
Rita Emmanouilidou

Copyright ©2003 European Medical Device Manufacturer