Many of those who work within the technology industries may have heard of the concept, but very few of them have considered it. If you haven’t heard of it, we will shine some light on this concept and include some of the brilliant reasons as to why, in today’s modern world, you should be using it as an option in any environment.
What is an ultrasonic sensor?
Because it can get a little complicated for those who aren’t tech-savvy, we will simplify it for you. The basic idea behind this is an electronic expedient that is used to measure the distances of target objects. It does this by emanating a type of frequency, such as a sound wave, which is converted into an electrical indicator. These waves that are produced ate emitted faster than that of sound, the same sound that you can hear normally in your daily lives.
They are comprised of two main components, namely, the transmitter and the receiver. As the names suggest, one transmits the sound, using what is known as ‘piezoelectric crystals,’ and the related object receives it directly from the intended source.
The piezoelectric crystals, better known as ‘piezoelectricity’ are the accumulated charge within solid materials inside the device and can be harnessed through crystals, biological matter such as DNA or bone matter, and even certain types of ceramics, to name a few. A more elaborate definition of this can be found in many online sources.
The Formula to Calculate Distance Between The sender and Receiver
Typically, one would need to place both items within accepted distance so as to receive a signal. And as with most things that involve physics or science, this is usually done by use of a particular calculation. Which is:
D = ½ T x C
- D is the Distance
- T is the Time
- And C stands for the speed of sound
In order to estimate the reserve between the two entities, the instrument measures the time it takes between the emanation of the sound by the source to its interaction with the receiver.
Where You Can Find Ultrasonic Solutions
The primary reason for using these is to aid in proximity sensors. There are multiple different places you can find these and you would have possibly come across them by now, you just didn’t know.
They are found in many new and innovative technologies such as:
- Anti-collision safety mechanisms
- Robotic systems to detect obstacles
- Self-parking technology for automobiles
- Manufacturing technologies
These types of devices are not affected by outside forces such as gas, smoke, or airborne particles, much like IR or infra-red technologies are. Although, both are inevitably affected by extreme circumstances such as heat and freezing temperatures at times.
Did you know even the medical sectors use this and you would have heard or seen it during magnetic resonance imaging such as x-rays of internal organs, or babies inside wombs and also to detect tumors in the body, as explained here: https://www.britannica.com/science/ultrasonics/Medical-applications
Other common uses include the treatment of joint pains and treatment of tumors using localized heating and also to eliminate bladder and kidney stones. Its applications spread widely across many sectors and are becoming tremendously popular in many countries as well.
The main advantage of this is that the vibrations that are emitted are a form of energy and in cases where anything else, such as the use of x-rays, can be damaging, this is used instead and it limits the force on a substance especially when sensitive.
During surgery procedures and also during therapy, this application is very popular and its mechanical vibration is advantageous in focusing on tissue and dispersing harmful cells around it, and in recent times, this particular technique has also been used to treat various forms of cancer.
Why You Should Consider Using It
Besides the above-mentioned reasons as to its current application, and usefulness, there are also other reasons why this is considered a very helpful method and some of these reasons include the following:
- It is not affected by the transparency of objects and neither by color
- It is a low-cost solution to many scenarios
- It can be used in both day and night times when it is dark
- It is not affected by external aspects such as high-moisture environments or dust
- It has much greater accuracy in comparison to other forms of parallel methods
- They can be interfaced with other devices
- Because they can penetrate deep within the tissues and body it is easier to detect any inconsistencies deep within the body or any type of objects
- It is highly sensitive so can be used on fragile surfaces and controlled
Besides the advantages, we need to also point out a few precautions regarding this technology:
- They cannot be used underwater
- Sometimes when used on soft materials the sounds are not absorbed as well and may be limited in their accuracy
- The detection range is not as long and the majority of the devices work for up to 10 to 16 meters maximum
If you are wondering where to get this technology from or when to use it, to answer the first part, there are many specialized companies that you can invest in such as those that offer SensComp Sensor Solutions and can help you to sense clear objects such as liquids in the beer processing factory or for use on metallic surfaces.
There are many incredibly great things you can do with it, especially when it comes to finding an optical sensor that is fast and responsive and can be projected onto a specific target to help with alignment or precision work. The trick is to learn how it works and all the intricate details surrounding it, to make full use of the concept.
Needless to say, this is here to stay and if you want to get with the times, and you are not already aware of its benefits and how to use it, then perhaps now would be a great time to join the club and find out.
