What is a Proximity Sensor?

Proximity sensor is a device that is capable of detecting objects and humans in its surroundings without actually contacting them. These sensors detect any kind of movement around it and immediately send a signal in the form of audio or visual warning. They have a major contribution in the safety and accident prevention sector. Proximity sensors functions on various technologies, this blog will help you understand some of the commonly used technologies.

Listed below are 4 common proximity sensor technology:

Lidar
Light Detection and Ranging Technology in a proximity sensor(Lidar) is an effective sensing system that majorly consists of a scanner, a specialized GPS receiver and a laser. It uses LED light for detection. This is one of the latest and advanced technologies and is extremely effective. It can detect the smallest object around it and can also capture 3D figures around it. Lidar technology is capable of functioning efficiently in night light too.

Radar
Radar Technology works on a similar mechanism to Lidar, the major difference in this technology is that it uses radio waves for detection instead of LED light. Unlike Lidar, proximity sensors with this technology cannot detect smaller objects. It is capable of covering large surface areas for true two-dimensional monitoring day and night in almost any weather condition; atmospheric dust or haze. Radar technology in proximity sensors is widely used in safety devices for mining and construction sites.

Infrared
Infrared (IR) technology uses light waves for detection. It can function in both day and night lighting conditions. Proximity sensors with this technology are capable of identifying complex objects of its surroundings.

Ultrasonic
As the name itself says, Ultrasonic i.e. ultra- maximum and sonic- related to sound waves. Ultrasonic technology in proximity sensors uses sound waves for detection. It can detect objects irrespective of their transparency or color. In contrast to infrared technology, ultrasonic technology cannot identify complex objects.

These were some of the common yet effective technologies used in proximity sensors of safety devices.