Working Principles and Differences of Laser, Ultrasonic, and Torque Sensors

Laser distance sensors, ultrasonic sensors, and torque sensors are common sensing technologies with different principles and application domains. This article explains their working principles and distinctions.

1. Laser distance sensors: these use a laser beam to measure distance by timing the round-trip travel of the pulse or using time-of-flight techniques. Advantages include high precision, wide range, and fast measurement—suitable for industrial automation and robotics.

2. Ultrasonic sensors: these measure distance by sending ultrasonic pulses and measuring echo time. Advantages include low cost and low power, usable indoors and outdoors for applications like parking assistance and security.

3. Torque sensors: used to measure rotational torque on shafts by sensing strain or deformation. They commonly use strain gauges, magnetic sensors, or capacitive elements and provide high accuracy and fast response for automotive, aerospace, and machinery applications.

Each sensor differs in principle, measurement range, and application. Laser sensors suit high-precision tasks, ultrasonic sensors suit cost-sensitive distance detection, and torque sensors measure rotational force. Consider accuracy, range, cost, and reliability when choosing.