Sensor Selection Charts
A four-page document for machine designers, control engineers and maintenance staff when settling the sensor for each position on a machine. The first three charts cover presence detection: proximity, photoelectric and ultrasonic sensors compared by principle, detectable objects, typical range, transparent or glossy targets, the effect of dust, oil and surface colour, response speed and cost; choosing a photoelectric type (through-beam, retroreflective, diffuse) by situation; and choosing inductive or capacitive proximity sensors by target and task. The fourth chart compares cylinder (magnetic) sensors, limit switches and inductive proximity sensors for confirming piston position or that a fixture has reached the part. The last three cover measuring a quantity: type K thermocouple, Pt100 and NTC; digital pressure switches, analog pressure sensors and differential pressure sensors; laser displacement, analog ultrasonic and LVDT. Eight checklist groups A–H (63 points) to tick before the BOM is fixed: PNP/NPN and NO/NC outputs, protection rating, measuring range, analog scaling, mounting position and the tests to run before handover. Content is drawn from eight articles in the MINATA Equipment Selection and Learn Automation series; exact ranges and outputs must be taken from the datasheet of the specific model.
What is inside
- Presence detection: proximity, photoelectric or ultrasonic
- Photoelectric sensors: choosing the type by situation
- Proximity: inductive or capacitive
- Cylinder position: magnetic sensor, limit switch, proximity
- Temperature: type K thermocouple, Pt100, NTC
- Pressure and vacuum: digital switch, analog, differential
- Distance measurement: laser, ultrasonic, LVDT
- Eight checklist groups A–H before fixing the sensor
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