What is an Ultrasonic Sensor? Application and principle of operation
In applications that require high accuracy such as distance measurement, imaging diagnostics, or liquid ink measurement, ultrasonic sensors are always the first choice. So what are ultrasonic sensors? What are their applications and working principles? Let’s find out with RX Tradex through the article below to understand more.
1. What is an ultrasonic sensor?
An ultrasonic sensor is an electronic sensor device for measuring the distance to the target object. It works by emitting ultrasonic waves and then converting the reflected sound into electrical signals. This signal will be processed and provide the output. The sensor’s transmitter produces sound using piezoelectric crystals. The receiver has the role of receiving sound to and from different locations.
2. Structure of ultrasonic sensor
Ultrasonic sensor equipment mainly consists of a main part that emits a signal which is a transducer. The sensor probe works similarly to a microphone to receive and transmit ultrasound.
The structure of ultrasonic sensor probes typically includes:
Transmitter: Made from ceramic with a diameter of 15mm, it produces ultrasonic waves by using vibration motion to transmit waves through the air.
Receiver: Responsible for receiving vibrations corresponding to ultrasonic waves and converting them into electrical energy at the output.
Controller: Use the built-in circuit to control the transmission of ultrasonic waves from the transmitter, and evaluate the signal reception capacity and size of the receiver.
Power supply: Provides direct power to the device through a voltage stabilization circuit.
3. How many types of ultrasonic induction are there?
Industrial Application Ultrasound Sensor with Display
Conventional ultrasonic sensors will be equipped with LCD displays, which allow customization of the measurement distance without the need for a test sample. The installation of the device is also very simple, all of which can be entered manually on the sensor’s screen. This display is not only for installation, but also has the function of displaying the water level or output signal. With a durable design, water resistance and good heat resistance, this type of sensor is trusted and chosen by many people.
Industrial Application Ultrasound Sensor Not Visible
To minimize costs, non-visible ultrasonic sensors have been introduced. Due to the lack of a display, the installation becomes more complicated than the one with a display. The measurement range of the ultrasonic sensor is not quite wide. The output signal is in the form of 4-20mA or 0-10V and has good water resistance.
Ultrasonic sensor with water resistance
For liquid level measurement applications, ultrasonic sensors need to be highly resistant to water and moisture. The standards commonly seen at the waterproof rating are IP67 or higher. This type of sensor is usually installed outdoors, so it must be waterproof to withstand harsh weather such as sun and rain.
Ultrasonic Sensor – SRF05
This is a type of ultrasonic sensor specializing in measuring distances, fluid levels, or used in the electrical circuits of road detection robots, detecting breaks in cables, etc.
The strength of the SRF05 is its compact size and flexible connection with MCUs such as Arduino, DSP, AVR, etc.
However, this sensor has the disadvantage of being quite high in noise and the measurement distance is limited to 2cm to 450cm. In addition, the sensor has quite a large error with a wide range of applications.
4. Advantages and disadvantages of ultrasonic sensors
Advantages and disadvantages of ultrasonic sensors that users should carefully consider
Advantage
- It helps to measure distances and determine the speed of objects without direct contact, so that it can work flexibly with a wide variety of materials, including in harsh environments where humans cannot work.
- Ultrasonic sensors are highly sensitive, responding to signals in seconds, helping the system or humans to handle the situation effectively. The error of this sensor is quite low, only about 0.15% within 2 meters.
Shortcoming
- If not installed properly, ultrasonic sensors are susceptible to signal interference
- The cost of ultrasonic sensors is usually quite high, higher than other types of sensors with similar functions.
5. Notes when buying ultrasonic sensors
When facing many different types of sensors in the market, users should consider some important factors as follows:
About the measurement distance
Depending on each different distance measurement application, users should choose the right type of ultrasonic sensor. For example, if you need to measure short distances, choose the corresponding specialized ultrasonic sensors.
The blind area of the sensor is suitable
The sensor area is an important factor that determines the performance of the device. This is the distance from the sensor’s transmitter to the bottom point. Pay attention to selecting the sensor to suit the location of use
Temperature and measurement environment
Ultrasonic sensors are affected by ambient temperature, so it is important to keep this in mind when choosing to buy. In applications with harsh environments, it is recommended to choose equipment with high heat resistance and strength.
6. Conclusion
With the increase in the demand for ultrasonic sensors, the market now launches a lot of different types of sensors, making it difficult to choose. Therefore, through this article, RX Tradex has reviewed the detailed information about the type of ultrasonic sensor, from application to construction, along with important notes before buying this ultrasonic sensor. In addition, if you are interested in the latest technologies and market trends, join NEPCON 2024 – the only exhibition in Vietnam on SMT, Inspection Technology, Equipment and Supporting Industries for Electronics Manufacturing, organized by RX Tradex. Register here.
