Non-contact linear sensing enables precise displacement tracking in harsh industrial and mobility environments
A new compact linear position sensor from Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. enables high-accuracy displacement measurement up to 40 mm, targeting demanding industrial, mobility, and automation applications. Designed with non-contact Hall Effect technology, the device delivers improved reliability and longevity while maintaining precise measurement performance in harsh operating conditions.
The sensor achieves linearity down to ±1% of full stroke and a fine resolution of 12 µm, making it suitable for precision motion control systems where tracking small displacements is critical. Compared to earlier solutions limited to shorter electrical strokes, the extended 40 mm measurement range broadens its usability across applications such as infrastructure monitoring, robotics, and in-line industrial measurement systems.
The key features are:
- 40 mm displacement sensing range
- ±1% linearity, 12 µm resolution
- Non-contact Hall Effect sensing
- IP67 sealing with high shock/vibration tolerance
- Analog and PWM output with instant power-on response
Its compact form factor—measuring just 35 mm × 14.5 mm × 28 mm—supports integration into space-constrained designs. This makes it particularly relevant for embedded sensing in robotic grippers, medical devices, and industrial automation equipment. In addition, the sensor is being positioned for use in throttle and pedal position sensing in e-bikes and motorcycles, as well as in railway systems, marine equipment, and agricultural machinery.
To ensure consistent performance in challenging environments, the device is built with IP67 sealing and can withstand high vibration levels up to 20 g and shock loads up to 50 g. Integrated protection against reverse-voltage and overvoltage conditions simplifies system design by eliminating the need for additional external circuitry.
The sensor supports both analog ratiometric and PWM digital outputs, allowing flexible interfacing with a wide range of control systems. Mechanical integration is further simplified with multi-orientation mounting options. Notably, the device provides immediate position output at power-up without requiring recalibration or initialisation, eliminating the need for backup power systems. With a typical supply current below 16 mA and standard 5 V operation, the sensor is optimised for low-power applications. Its long operational life, exceeding 10 million cycles, further enhances its suitability for continuous-use environments.
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