Reflective optical sensors are photoelectrical sensors that are used to detect the presence or absence of objects, or measure the distance to those objects. They are a non-contact type of sensor, often used in the automation industry. They can be used to provide real-time information in a manufacturing setting in order to keep processes running smoothly.
How do reflective optical sensors work?
A reflector is positioned opposite the light sensor, and a light beam is passed back and forth between the two. When an object is present, the beam is interrupted, and the sensor will send an electrical signal to the output device.
In some cases, polarising filters may be needed if the objects being detected are themselves reflective. These allow the sensor to tell the difference between light reflected by the reflector and the object.
Advantages of using reflective optical sensors
The advantage of using a reflective optical sensor over a through beam sensor is that they are much easier and less time consuming to install. This is because the transmitter and receiver are housed within the same body.
Description:
A range of distance measuring sensors from Sharp
utilising infrared emitters and photo-detectors with integrated signal processing circuitry. The devices are available with either analogue or switched (digital) outputs and include both fixed and variable distance sensors. Mounting styles include ...
Description:
GP2Y0A51SK0F is a distance measuring sensor unit, composed
of an integrated combination of PSD (position sensitive detector) , IR-LED (infrared emitting diode) and signal processing circuit. The variety of the reflectivity of the object, the environmental temperature and the operating ...
Description:
The TCST2103, TCST2202, and TCST2300 are transmissive sensors
that include an infrared emitter and phototransistor, located face-to-face on the optical axes in a leaded package which blocks visible light. These part numbers include options for aperture width. • Package type: ...
Description:
The TCND5000 is a reflective sensor that includes
an infrared emitter and pin photodiode in a surface mount package which blocks visible light. Detector type: PIN Photodiode. Dimensions: 6 x 4.3 x 3.75 mm. Peak operating distance 6mm. Operating range ...
