Positionssensor

A position sensor is a device that measures the position of a moving part relative to a reference point and converts that position into an electrical signal. These sensors are used to provide feedback in control systems, automation, and instrumentation, enabling precise motion control and monitoring of mechanical systems.

Common types include contact sensors such as potentiometers, which provide analog position signals, and linear displacement transducers like linear variable differential transformers (LVDTs); rotary potentiometers measure angular position. Non-contact sensors include optical encoders (incremental and absolute) that provide digital or pulse outputs, magnetic encoders based on the Hall effect, and capacitive or other magnetic position sensors. Resolvers and various inductive sensors are also used in harsh environments.

Output formats vary: analog voltage or current proportional to position; digital encoders produce quadrature, SSI, BiSS, or SPI/I2C data streams that encode absolute position or incremental steps. Some sensors are designed to offer true absolute position, while others provide only relative, incremental position that requires counting pulses.

Applications span robotics and automation, CNC machinery, vehicle and aerospace control systems, medical devices, and consumer electronics. Position sensors are often integrated into servo loops and feedback systems to improve accuracy, repeatability, and stability of motion.

Key considerations when selecting a position sensor include required resolution and accuracy, measurement range and linearity, whether absolute or incremental position is needed, environmental conditions and ruggedness (temperature, dust, moisture), protection ratings (IP), power and signal interfacing compatibility, response time, and cost.