Infrared ranging sensor 1

[trowbridge]

We've investigated ultrasonic ranging sensors to measure distances between 2" and 24" but they have some draw backs in our application. We're now looking at infrared (I believe many video cameras use this technique) for ranging but I've found very little about it. Does anyone have an idea as to where I can find a source for the components requred to build such a device? This would be an OEM application so cost is a consideration. Thank you.

 

[DanCo9]

I have done some custom analog infra-red stuff, can you explain more about your application, and maybe I can make some useful suggestions to you.

 

[trowbridge]

Thank you for your reply.  More on the application: we are trying to control the pressure inside a cylindrical pressure vessel whose ends are moving (both axially and angularly - to accomodate this movement a flexible seal is used).  When the ends come closer together than a pre-set amount, then pressure is vented; conversely, when the ends are too far apart pressure is added.  The output from the infra-red device would be used to control the air valve.  The ranging sensor could be located within the interior of the vessel or on the exterior with the light beam directed through a transparent media.  Are you aware of any off-the-shelf components that could be used for this application?

 

[DanCo9]

How fast are the cylinder ends moving?  Is there something preventing you from directly measuring position via externally connected linkages with potentiometers?  How clean will the pistons remain?  (will reflectivity change over time?)  How accurate does your position information need to be?  Do you have capabilities to produce a simple custom electronic sensor?  I don't know if there is an off-the-shelf sensor for your needs yet.  What kind of production numbers are you looking at?

 

[trowbridge]

The cylinder operates in a dirty environment which makes external linkages undesirable (though our competitors do that now).  The interior remains relatively clean and I would not anticipate the interior reflectivity to change much over time (the angularity may pose a seperate problem however).  The piston speed would, at maximum, be 100 inches/second but position is our interest and an accuracy of +/-0.1 inches would be adequate.  I have contacted the hosts of this site to determine how I can contact you directly to avoid revealling the delicate information associated with this application; they have struggled with this as well.  May I make a suggestion, would you please fax your e-mail address to 330-896-5055 and I would be glad to provide further information.

 

[DanCo9]

I faxed it this morning.  I hope it was clear.  If not, go to productdiscovery.com  (I hope this is o.k, Dave).  I will get a message left there.

 

[sovidiu]

Dear Sir,

If you want to controle the inside pressure of the cylinder, why don't you use a pressure switch.Additionally if you want to measure the distance between the ends of the cylinder,I'll suggest you to use a position sensor based on magnetostrictive effect.Try a look on

http://www.balluf.com.

sovidiu

[sig][/sig]

 

[guntherweber]

We are developing flow sensors. We are experts in analogue technic, but need help and expertise in utelizing microprocessor technic.

Gunther Weber

g-weber@mindspring.com [sig][/sig]

 

[DanCo9]

This message is for trowbridge. I faxed my email address to you a while back. Did you get it? [sig][/sig]

 

[choogbruin]

I am looking for Focal Plane Array expert anyone available for for sensors,ir question? Chris Bruin 818 706 1161 Thanks [sig][/sig]