7. Sensor Dalam Sistem Mekatronika

Introduction

This tutorial focuses on the role of sensors in mechatronic systems, explaining their functions, types, and practical applications. Sensors are crucial for enabling mechatronic systems to interact with their environment by converting physical, chemical, or biological phenomena into electronic signals readable by controllers.

Step 1: Understanding the Functions of Sensors

Sensors serve four primary functions in mechatronic systems:

• Detection of Presence: Identify whether an object is present.
• Position Detection: Determine the location of an object.
• Classification: Differentiate between various types of objects.
• Inspection: Examine the characteristics or quality of objects.

Step 2: Identifying Input Components

In mechatronic systems, sensors and buttons act as input components.

Buttons

• Types:
  • Push Button: Returns to its original state when released.
  • Toggle Button: Changes state when pressed and remains in that state until pressed again.
• Contacts:
  • Normally Open (NO): Closes when pressed.
  • Normally Closed (NC): Opens when pressed.

Limit Switches

• Detects the physical presence of objects to change NO/NC contacts.
• Affordable but requires direct physical contact, making it suitable for rigid objects only.

Step 3: Exploring Different Types of Sensors

Inductive Proximity Sensors

• Detect metallic objects without physical contact.
• Detection range typically between 2 to 10 mm, depending on the sensor and the metal type.

Capacitive Proximity Sensors

• Can detect a wide range of materials, including metals, wood, water, and plastic.
• Detection range is 2 to 30 mm, influenced by the dielectric constant of the material.

Photoelectric Sensors

• Utilize light for detection and come in three configurations:
  • True Beam: Separate emitter and receiver; detects objects blocking the light path. Best for distance but more complex.
  • Reflective: Emitter and receiver are on the same side with a reflector opposite; suitable for transparent objects.
  • Diffuse: Emitter and receiver are on the same side, using the object to reflect light back; easiest to install but best for lighter colors.

Step 4: Wiring and Output Types

For all types of proximity sensors, the wiring typically consists of three connections:

• Red/Brown: Positive
• Blue: Negative
• Black: Output

Output Types

• PNP Output: Positive output; connects to negative load to complete the circuit.
• NPN Output: Negative output; connects to positive load to complete the circuit.

Conclusion

Understanding sensors and their functions is essential for effectively designing and implementing mechatronic systems. With various types of sensors available—inductive, capacitive, and photoelectric—each has unique applications based on the materials and environments involved. Familiarizing yourself with their wiring and output configurations will enable successful integration into your systems. Consider experimenting with different sensors in practical projects to enhance your understanding and skills in mechatronics.