Reflexionssensoren

Reflexionssensoren, also known as reflective sensors or proximity sensors, are devices that detect the presence or absence of an object by emitting a beam of light and measuring the amount of light that is reflected back. Typically, they consist of an emitter that produces a light beam, usually infrared or visible light, and a receiver that detects the reflected light. When an object enters the sensing area, it interrupts or reflects the light beam, which is then registered by the receiver. This change in reflected light triggers a signal indicating the object's presence.

There are several types of reflexionssensoren, distinguished by how they operate. Through-beam sensors have separate emitter and receiver units, with detection occurring when the object breaks the beam between them. Retroreflective sensors use a single housing containing both emitter and receiver, and a reflector placed opposite the sensor to bounce the light back. Diffuse reflective sensors, also with a single housing, rely on the object itself to reflect the light back to the receiver.

The applications for reflexionssensoren are widespread. They are commonly used in industrial automation for tasks such as counting objects on a conveyor belt, detecting the position of machinery, and ensuring safety by preventing accidental closures of doors or gates. In consumer electronics, they can be found in automatic doors, light-activated switches, and even some types of printers. The choice of sensor type depends on factors like the object's reflectivity, the required sensing distance, and environmental conditions.