Ultrasonic Sensor for Non-Contact Distance Measurement

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Ultrasonic Sensor

Definition

An ultrasonic sensor is a non-contact measurement device that operates by emitting high-frequency sound waves (typically above 20 kHz) and analyzing the reflected echoes to determine the presence, distance, or level of objects. These sensors are widely used in industrial automation, robotics, automotive systems, and various measurement applications due to their reliability, accuracy, and ability to function in diverse environmental conditions. The sensor typically consists of a piezoelectric transducer that converts electrical signals into ultrasonic pulses and vice versa, housed in a durable enclosure with an aluminum or PBT/stainless steel housing. The device is designed for industrial environments, offering an IP rating of IP65 to IP67 for dust and water resistance, and operates within a temperature range of -20 to +70 °C. Key parameters include a detection range of 0.2 to 6.0 mm, an operating frequency of 40 kHz, a beam angle of 60 to 80 degrees, and a response time of 50 to 200 ms. The sensor requires a 12–24 V DC ±10% power supply and provides output options such as PNP/NPN and analog 4–20 mA. It achieves a resolution of 1 mm and an accuracy of ±0.5% of range under nominal conditions at 20 °C. The supply current is 30–50 mA with no load. Connection is via an M12 connector or a 2 m cable, and the weight ranges from 100 to 200 g depending on housing and cable options. The sensor is constructed with materials including piezoelectric ceramic, epoxy resin, aluminum housing, and a printed circuit board (PCB). For proper selection and integration, users must verify model-specific values and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier, as the listed parameters are reference ranges that may vary by model and application.

Working Principle

The sensor generates ultrasonic pulses through a piezoelectric transducer. These sound waves travel through the air until they encounter an object, then reflect back to the sensor. The time interval between emission and reception of the echo is measured, and using the known speed of sound in air, the distance to the object is calculated using the formula: Distance = (Speed of Sound × Time of Flight) / 2. This time-of-flight method allows for non-contact distance measurement. The sensor's beam angle and frequency determine its field of view and resolution. The reflected signal is processed by the internal electronics, which output a signal proportional to the distance. The sensor can be configured for different output types, such as PNP/NPN or analog 4–20 mA, to interface with control systems. Environmental factors like temperature and humidity can affect the speed of sound, so some sensors include temperature compensation. The sensor's performance is specified within its operating temperature range, and its accuracy is given as a percentage of the measurement range. For reliable operation, the target must be within the detection range and beam angle, and the sensor should be mounted to avoid acoustic interference.

Common Materials

Piezoelectric Ceramic, Epoxy Resin, Aluminum Housing, PCB (Printed Circuit Board)

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Detection RangeRequired	0.2–6.0 mm	Minimum and maximum distance the sensor can reliably detect objects
Operating FrequencyRequired	40 kHz	Frequency of the ultrasonic waves emitted by the sensor
Beam AngleRequired	60–80 degrees	Angular width of the ultrasonic beam pattern
Response TimeRequired	50–200 ms	Time required for the sensor to process and output a measurement
Operating VoltageRequired	12–24 V DC ±10% V DC	Required power supply voltage for proper sensor operation
Output TypeRequired	PNP/NPN, analog 4–20 mA N/A	Signal output format (analog, digital, serial communication)
Operating TemperatureRequired	-20–+70 °C	Temperature range within which the sensor maintains specified accuracy
IP Rating	IP65–IP67 N/A	Ingress Protection rating indicating dust and water resistanceIEC 60529
Resolution	1 mm	Minimum detectable change
Accuracy	±0.5% of range	At 20°C, nominal conditions
Supply Current	30–50 mA	No load
Housing Material	PBT/Stainless steel	Stainless for harsh chemicals
Connection Type	M12 connector, 2 m cable	Cable length customizable
Weight	100–200 g	Depends on housing and cable

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM

Ultrasonic Transducer
Converts electrical signals into ultrasonic waves and vice versa

Material: Piezoelectric ceramic with protective membrane
Signal Processing Circuit
Generates excitation pulses, amplifies received signals, and calculates time-of-flight

Material: PCB with integrated circuits and discrete components
Housing Part
Protects internal components from environmental factors and provides mounting interface

Material: Aluminum alloy or engineering plastic
Connector
Provides electrical interface for power supply and signal output

Material: Plastic with metal contacts
Temperature Compensation Circuit
Adjusts measurements based on ambient temperature to maintain accuracy

Material: Thermistor and associated circuitry
LED Indicator Part
Provides visual status indication for power and operation

Material: LED with current limiting resistor

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Ultrasonic Sensor.

Manufacturers of Ultrasonic Sensor

12 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

Broadsens

Shanghai, CN

Also makes: Machine Monitoring System, Ultrasonic Transducer, Analysis Software and 7 more