Explosion-Proof Linear Position Control Sensor: LVDT vs. Ultrasonic Comparison

In summary, the conversation discusses the task of recommending a linear portion control sensor for use in an explosive environment. Options such as LVDT and ultrasonic sensors are considered, with the suggestion of using a sealed potentiometer also mentioned. The potential challenges of using optical sensing in a dusty and wet environment are raised, and the need for the sensor case to prevent any dust or water ingress is emphasized. Ultimately, it is suggested that the LVDT sensor may be the best option for this task.
  • #1
Big Jock
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Homework Statement

, [/B]I have to recommend a linear portion control sensor, that can be used in an explosive enviroment. Unsafe electrical contacts should be avoided and the case must not permit any dust or water.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

. [/B]My thoughts are either a LVDT sensor or a ultrasonic sensor for the task listed above. Anyone have any thoughts on which would be the best out of those or a better suggestion?
 
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  • #2
LVDT is good if you can get one. They're used all over in aircraft. But they're ac devices so you'll need to phase-sensitively demodulate, probably.

Don't know nuthin' about ultrasonic sensors.
Some kind of sealed potentiometer, maybe?
 
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  • #3
Big Jock said:

Homework Statement

, [/B]I have to recommend a linear portion control sensor, that can be used in an explosive enviroment. Unsafe electrical contacts should be avoided and the case must not permit any dust or water.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

. [/B]My thoughts are either a LVDT sensor or a ultrasonic sensor for the task listed above. Anyone have any thoughts on which would be the best out of those or a better suggestion?

How severe is the environment? (Well, other than the explosions and all :smile: ) You could look into optical linear position sensing, as is used with handheld micrometers. But if the envrionment is dusty and wet, optical sensing may not be great. What resolution do you need? Are you going to build something, or just write a paper on the proposal?

http://i.stack.imgur.com/AtTpr.gif
AtTpr.gif
 
  • #4
The sensor case must not permit any ingress of dust or water so think the LVDT is the best option here...
 

1. What is linear position control?

Linear position control is a method of controlling the position of an object along a straight line. This is typically achieved using a feedback control system that compares the desired position to the current position and adjusts the object's movement accordingly.

2. How does linear position control work?

In linear position control, a sensor is used to measure the object's position and provide feedback to a controller. The controller then compares this feedback to the desired position and calculates the necessary adjustments to the object's movement. These adjustments are then sent to a motor or actuator, which moves the object to the desired position.

3. What are the applications of linear position control?

Linear position control is commonly used in various industrial and manufacturing processes, such as robotic arm movements, conveyor belt positioning, and precision machining. It is also used in consumer electronics, such as in the autofocus feature of cameras and the positioning of disk drives in computers.

4. What are the advantages of linear position control?

Linear position control allows for precise and accurate positioning of objects, making it ideal for applications that require high levels of precision. It also enables automation of repetitive tasks, reducing human error and increasing efficiency. Additionally, linear position control systems can be easily integrated into existing systems.

5. What are the types of sensors used in linear position control?

The most commonly used sensors in linear position control are linear encoders, linear potentiometers, and linear variable differential transformers (LVDTs). These sensors can provide accurate and reliable feedback on the position of an object along a straight line.

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