Practical Applications of Magnetic Sensing Technology

With the increasing dependence of people on machines, there is no doubt that demand for innovation will also keep moving forward.

08:13 25 July 2018

As such, mechanisms that power technology have also undergone major changes throughout the years. For example, sensing technology has been an integral part of many industrial and commercial applications. In the years since its development, engineers and manufacturers have come up with many ways to improve performance, increase robustness, and maintain safety.

 

Position sensors are used to measure the displacement of objects with reference to their original position. Application typically involves using a linear position sensor, tilt sensor, rotary sensor, or angle sensor depending on the type of movement being measured. Sensors are also categorised as potentiometers, transducers, optical sensors, or magnetic sensors.

 

Magnetic sensors

 

Like other types of sensors, magnetic sensors are primarily used in industrial applications. Magnetic sensors are preferred because they offer non-contact sensing. Magnetic sensors are used to measure either linear, angular, or rotational displacement. The following are some of the recent applications of magnetic sensors.

 

• Power distribution units. In recent years, there has been an increasing demand for, and adoption of, cloud computing. In turn, this created a bigger niche for manufacturing servers and data centres. A power distribution unit is an essential part of a data centre. Magnetic sensors are used in this piece of electronic equipment which supplies AC or DC current to the server.
  
  

• Robotics in factories. Factory automation increases the speed and efficiency of production. This requires the use of magnetic sensors for measuring linear and angular motions. Magnetic sensors are also used for detecting proximity and creating safety switches. Non-contact magnetic sensors are preferred for this type of application to ensure higher resolution and accuracy in performance.
  
  

• Energy efficient appliances and electronics. In recent years, strict environmental guidelines have been implemented around the world in order for producers and manufacturers to comply with improved energy-efficiency. In addition to this, there is also the emerging trend in the use of smart technology. Magnetic sensors play an important role in furthering the development of intelligent sensor technology.
  
  

• Clean energy production. Magnetic sensors are also an essential component of clean energy production. Wind and solar power systems need sensors for measuring angular and linear position. Sensors are also used for switches. In wind power turbines, for example, a magnetic angle sensor helps optimise the generation of wind power.
  
  

• High demand consumer electronics. Another obvious application of magnetic sensors is in consumer electronics such as smartphones, gaming consoles, and mobile tablets. Magnetic sensors are commonly applied in consumer products for sending current and for switching. Magnetic sensors are also used in cameras, printers, and computers.
  
  

As sensors become more compact and robust, they are becoming more versatile and indispensable in many practical applications. Manufacturers are increasingly looking for ways to make better designs and manufacture sensors with higher reading resolution and accuracy in order to meet the demands of a society that is highly dependent on the use of machines and technology.