Motion sensors and their types
Types of motion sensors
A motion sensor, or motion detector, is an electronic device that uses a sensor to detect nearby people or objects. Motion sensors are an important component of any security system. When a sensor detects motion, it will send an alert to your security system, and with newer systems, right to your mobile phone.
Passive Infrared (PIR) sensors
The most common type of motion sensors are passive infrared (PIR) sensors. They detect changes in the infrared radiation that objects in their field of view (FOV) emit to be able to detect movement. PIR sensors are used in automatic lighting systems, home security systems, elevators, and public spaces like shops and certain roadways. They are an effective and cheap solution for detecting human presence.
Ultrasonic sensors
Sound waves are used by ultrasonic sensors to identify movement. High-frequency sound waves are emitted by these sensors, which are then reflected back to them by objects in their field of vision (FOV). The duration of time it takes for sound waves to return to the sensor is used to calculate the object's distance from the sensor. These sensors are used in plenty of applications, including industrial automation, automated doors, and parking sensors.
Microwave sensors
Motion is detected using microwave sensors using microwave radiation. Low-power microwaves are emitted by these sensors, which are then reflected back to them by objects in their field of view (FOV). The distance between the object and the sensor is determined by the amount of time it takes for the microwaves to return to the sensor. The same applications that use ultrasonic sensors also use these types of sensors.
Tomographic motion sensors
Tomographic sensors are used to detect motion in a particular area by using multiple sensors placed around the perimeter of the area. These sensors use radio waves to detect motion and can accurately detect the motion of multiple objects. Tomographic motion sensors are used in industrial automation and security systems.
Image sensors
Image sensors are used to detect motion by capturing images or videos of a particular area. These sensors can detect the motion of objects and also the direction and speed of the motion. Image sensors are used in surveillance systems, home automation and traffic monitoring.
Conclusion
Motion sensors are very important devices to use in industries and applications. Using motion sensors to light a space can make a difference of less cost in the electricity bill because they will light the space when they only detect motion. Each type of motion sensor has their own specifics characteristics and applications so you should choose the one that fit you best. You have to remember that there are two types of motion sensor: for indoor lighting and outdoor lighting.
