A proximity switch is a sensor that senses the proximity of an object and is able to convert this signal into an electrical signal. It usually consists of the operating part of the switch and the detection part of the sensor. During use, as long as the object is close enough to the detection part of the proximity switch, the operating part of the switch can be triggered, which in turn generates a series of control signals.
The detection part of the proximity switch usually adopts the principle of inductance, capacitance or photoelectricity for detection. Among them, the inductive proximity switch is by sensing the electromagnetic induction caused by the proximity of the object to realize the action, capacitive proximity switch is the use of capacitance changes to achieve, and photoelectric proximity switch is the use of objects on the light blocking to realize the switch action.
Common types of proximity switches are:
Magnetic proximity switches: The effect of the object on the magnetic field is used to realize the switch action. Usually used in the detection of metal objects.
Inductive proximity switches: Utilizing the phenomenon of electromagnetic induction of an object in a magnetic field to realize the action of the switch. Widely used.
Photoelectric proximity switch: Utilizing the object's blocking of light to realize the switch's action. Usually used in the detection of non-metallic materials.
Capacity type proximity switch: Use the change of capacitance of the object to realize the switch action. Used in the detection of non-metallic materials.