Sensor technology helps get the required information from appliances, equipment, machines, and a variety of systems. The sensors make it possible to detect chemical, physical, and biological elements. The physical properties measured include speed, pressure, distance, temperature, acceleration, and torque, among others. So what happens is that the sensor produces electric signals that are readable, enabling interpretation.
After achieving the data, the operators will be in a position to properly manage the system, properly utilize resources available, control the system and watch out for any system abnormalities.
5 Sensor Technology Applications
So many industries have adopted the use of sensors in their operations. We outline some of them below and the sensor applications.
Manufacturing
In the manufacturing industry, sensors applications include:
• Closely monitoring the performance and relentless aligning of the operations with the information collected.
• Maintenance of the machines through predictions
• Monitoring the quality of the system and revamping it in case of any declines.
Automotive
• Avoiding Collisions: To help avoid collisions, proximity sensors are placed at the side, back, and front parts of the vehicle and detect any imminent danger. They are very functional, especially when parking. They also warn drivers on fuel level, overspeeding, tire pressure, and lights.
• Engine Data: Sensors avail lots of information on engine performance like combustion, fuel mix, ignition, transmission control, and exhaust gas recycling.
• Air Bags: In case of an accident, crash sensors help in sending information to the Anti Cushion Restraint System, which then makes the airbag active. This helps save the lives of those on board.
• Braking: Brake sensors oversee the speed of the tire and help prevent the wheels from skidding in case of immediate braking.
Aviation
In the aviation industry, sensors help in system control, controlling instruments, and keep records of data during navigation. The information retrieved helps to properly facilitate flight operations and manage the operations of the aircraft. They also come in handy in case of an emergency as they help the pilot sense danger.
Marine
For the marine industry, sensors aid in measuring the levels of fuel and tank as well as the pressure. Other moments that rely on sensors are the speed, roll, and pitch of the ship. One ship engine holds more than one sensor for the various attribute measurements.
Medical and Healthcare
Most surgical equipment and medical instruments rely on sensors for diagnosis and treatment. Some of the sensor technology applications in the medical industry are:
• Robotics
• Monitoring of glucose
• Measuring the state of body organs automatically
• Monitoring blood pressure
Sensor technology application helps measure data on the various activities that are going on in a given system. The benefits that come with it have made many industries tap in for proper management of their systems. For instance, a furnace that has a temperature sensor takes note of the levels of temperature after specific periods and forwards the data to the control panel. If the temperatures happen to rise above the standards recorded over time, the control unit can turn off the power supply in the furnace, which may help avoid accidents.