Distance Measurement
Close or far away? – Non-invasive distance measurement with ultrasound
Measuring distances and determining fill levels without contact – this is made possible by sensors with ultrasonic distance measurement. Ultrasonic waves are used to measure distances without the need for mechanical devices or direct contact with the object. Ultrasonic measurement is typically done using the pulse-echo method.
SECO Sensor specializes in transducers for sensors that determine distances and fill levels using ultrasound. We are happy to inform interested sensor manufacturers and users about the advantages of non-contact distance measurement using ultrasonic sensors in practice.
Application wherever robust measuring methods are needed
Since the beginning of the company’s history, SECO Sensor has specialized in distance and level measurement in agriculture, among other things. Particularly robust and low-wear measuring methods are required here. High demands are placed on robustness, stability and resistance to harsh weather conditions, for example, when measuring fill levels from above in silos and tanks or when aligning agricultural machinery above the field.
For most measuring tasks in agriculture, SECO Sensor recommends large ultrasonic transducers with long ranges. However, ultrasonic distance measurement also works excellently on a small scale, for example for measuring the fill levels of small vessels and pipettes in the pharmaceutical industry, among others. Focused ultrasonic transducers are particularly well suited for this purpose, as their small beam angle and long range make them ideal for sounding into small vials. Thanks to the maintenance-free nature of ultrasonic sensors, reliable measurement operation is guaranteed over a long period of time.
How does ultrasonic distance measurement work?
As a general rule, an ultrasonic transducer typically uses the pulse-echo method for fast and reliable distance measurement. After an ultrasonic signal is emitted, the distance between the sensor and the reflector is calculated from its transit time to the object and back, as well as from the known speed of sound in air. In this case, the reflector is an object or a solid or liquid surface. With ultrasonic transducers from SECO Sensor, measurements from a few centimetres up to 10 meters are possible.
Bats use a similar method in nature for orientation in space. They also use sound waves to reliably detect distances and fly safely even in the dark.
SECO transducers are characterized by the following properties:
- High signal voltage and small beam width
- Reliable function even with wetting
- Chemically resistant
Highly sensitive transducer technology – robust in the field
- Alignment/levelling, for example in agriculture (e.g. distance between machine trailer and field, harvesting machines) or in road construction (e.g. tarring machines)
- Level measurement in large containers (e.g. liquids and bulk goods in silos)
- Level measurement in small vessels (e.g. pipettes)
- Presence monitoring (e.g. on production lines in automation technology, logistics, etc.)
What makes SECO ultrasonic transducers special?
- The frequency range for SECO transducers is typically 80 kHz (long range, several meters) and extends up to 500 kHz (smaller distances, a few centimeters).
- In pulse-echo measurement, ultrasound is generated, emitted, reflected from the object and the transit time of the reflected signal is measured.
- The function is completely contactless.
- Ultrasonic measurement is also ideal for fog, dirt, dust or mirrored surfaces.
We would also be pleased to inform you personally about the transducer technology from SECO Sensor, which offers ultrasonic distance measurement of the highest – and above all long-lasting – quality. Talk to us!
Thematic background to the ultrasonic sensor:
The ultrasonic sensor functions as a combination of sound emitting and receiving sensor. Its measurement is carried out via the media air or gases using ultrasound. The ultrasonic sensor can be used to measure distances, fill levels and distances without contact. Ultrasonic transducers are maintenance-free, durable and robust.
The ultrasonic sensor functions as a sound-transmitting and reflecting sensor. The measurement to the object is therefore carried out via sound. Ultrasonic sensors are durable and reliable when measuring objects. Ultrasonic sensors are therefore a sensor model that works with ultrasonic waves that are sent between objects. The ultrasonic sensor can be used to measure distances without contact. The distance between objects and materials can be measured perfectly.