Optical sensors
What is optical sensor?
An optical sensor converts light rays into electronic signals. It measures the physical quantity of light and then translates it into a form that is readable by an instrument. An optical sensor is generally part of a larger system that integrates a source of light, a measuring device and the optical sensor.
Different types of optical sensors
- Retro-Reflective Sensors
Transmitter and receiver are both in the same house, through a reflector the emitted light beam is directed back to the receiver. An interruption of the light beam initiates a switching operation. Where the interruption occurs is of no importance.
- Diffuse Reflection Sensors
Both transmitter and receiver are in one housing. The transmitted light is reflected by the object to be detected.
- Through-Beam Sensors
The system consists of two separate components the transmitter and the receiver are placed opposite to each other. The transmitter projects a light beam onto the receiver. An interruption of the light beam is interpreted as a switch signal by the receiver. It is irrelevant where the interruption occurs.