Sensor Optics

Fiberoptic sensors emit, receive, and convert light energy into electronic signals. Perfect for use across a range of industries and applications, this form of optical proximity sensor allows for light detection in tight and hostile spaces.

Optical distance sensors are useful when measuring the intensity of the desired incident light, converting and presenting this into a readable format to assist with the improvement of industrial tools. We're proud to stock a wide range of fiber sensors from some of the biggest names in the industry.

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How do sensor optics work?

The sensor fiber technology features a transparent optical fiber made of either glass or plastic. This fiber transmits light between the two ends of the sensor to produce an electrical signal.

The sensor system contains a fiberoptic cable which connects to a remote sensor or amplifier. This cable works as the mechanical component which transports light into and out of tight areas, directly back to the sensor.

The physical quantity of light is measured and translated by an integrated measuring device into a readable format that can be used across a wide range of applications.

What are the different types of sensor optics?

There are various types of sensor optics to suit your desired purpose. The most common types include:

• Reflective photosensors: This type of optical position sensor detects the motion of objects by measuring their reflection of light.
• Transmission-type photo-interrupters: This sensor detects an object's presence by intercepting its light. This is useful for position sensing and measuring speed rotations.
• Photoconductive sensors: This sensor absorbs incident light rays and converts them into electrically conductive components.
• Photodiodes and phototransistors: Photodiodes convert incident light into an electrical current. Phototransistors act in the same way to achieve similar results. However, the base-collector junction must be exposed to light.

What applications are sensor optics suitable for?

Optical proximity sensors play an integral role in many common devices and applications. They are utilized across several industries, including:

Medical

The need for contactless appliances during the pandemic grew massively, so the use of sensor optics across various healthcare facilities is now more widespread. For instance, sensor fiber is utilized in sanitizer dispensers to ensure health and safety rules are adhered to, reducing the likelihood of any transmission of infection.

This sensor technology is also used in biomedical devices for heart rate monitoring and breath analysis. Wearable sensors also feature fiberoptic sensor technology to track a patient's health status and detect early warning signs of potential illness.

Consumer electronics

Sensor optics are now utilized in smartphones to detect ambient light sensing, helping to extend the phone's battery life by controlling its screen brightness to match the lighting of the environment. This helps to prevent further strain on the human eye by balancing out external lighting.

Industrial

Various industrial and commercial applications require an optical distance sensor to measure distance and temperature across different industrial facilities. For instance, these sensors can determine liquid levels across various engineering equipment and detect the unwanted presence of any components inside industry buildings.

Why choose RS for sensor optics?

Our extensive range of sensor optics is sourced from market-leading brands, including Banner Engineering, Omron Automation, and Schneider Electric. We've built trusting relationships with the biggest names in the industry to ensure we only supply the best products to our customers.

As one of North America's largest suppliers of power tools and sensors, you can rely on us to help you achieve exceptional performance. Begin by browsing our wide range of products today and place your online order to receive quick and convenient shipping.

We strive to deliver excellent customer service, offering you the support you need to find the correct product for your project or application. To speak with a member of our team, contact us today and our friendly trade specialists will be in touch. You can also head over to our expert hub to read our handy selection of product guides and keep informed with our industry updates.