HOW DOES THE CHOICE OF PROXIMITY SENSORS AFFECT THE DESIGN AND OPERATION OF MOTION-CENTRIC AUTOMATION SYSTEMS?
Alex Baumer: Proximity sensors, through their specifications, have a significant effect on the overall design of a machine. For example, in a multi-axis system, their switching speed affects how rapidly the machine can be positioned, as these sensors are frequently used to provide rough position information. The overall safety of the machine is also influenced by the inherent reliability of the sensor. If a sensor fails, the machine may stop working properly or shut down altogether. Sensor size (housing diameter and length), likewise, can impact a design due to space considerations.
