Sensatech Designs Ltd

Our Technology

At Sensatech, we are dedicated to using our research and experience to create innovative products in the field of capacitive sensor technology. Although the principle of capacitive sensing is not a new idea, we know that the range and sensitivity of an instrument depends on the ability of the electronics to accurately measure very small values of capacitance. Much of Sensatech's research has been focused on this area, resulting in techniques which maximise noise rejection and minimise the unwanted effects of temperature. We have managed to develop specific skills focused around various areas essential to the development and production of complex sensing solutions, and we feel our skilled team can bring a new approach and fresh ideas to the field. We use array control, software development, amplifier design, EIT electrical impedance tomography, electric field sensing, remote sensing and look through/around targets technologies to develop the principles for our solutions, to serve a wide variety of industries across the world.

Collision Avoidance

In many industries, such as the automotive and industrial sectors, collision avoidance is vitally important – not only for the safety of employees, but for the reduction in accidents and associated costs with loss of productivity. Sensatech specialise in collision avoidance technologies, using a sensor system to detect the proximity of objects which may cause a collision, enabling teams to prevent a potential problem. Our systems detect the threat level of a collision, and provide analogue proximity measurements of various hazards. It is possible to use capacitive or electric fields in a zone around an item, which detects any imminent object coming close to the item in question, and by using multiple fields an accurate threat level can be shown. This technology is ideal for reversing sensors on a vehicle, docking bays, robot arms, and hazardous machinery.

Electro Cardiography

Sensatech use electric field and capacitive sensing techniques in non-contact electro-cardiography. This new and exciting non-invasive method allows the medical field to collect information from multiple points on the human body in order to measure electrical cardio activity beneath the surface of the skin. This is better than traditional techniques, as this clever technology means electrodes can simply be placed close to the skin rather than being attached, making it a faster, less costly procedure with less risk of cross infection. The sensor design is based on Sensatech's knowledge of using ultra-high input impedance amplifiers and physically remote sensor heads. We are continuing to improve this technology to ensure the design has the very best high and low frequency response possible. 

Hazardous Environment Detection

It is important to provide measurements in any industry that works in hazardous environments, to protect the health and safety of employees and equipment. This is particularly vital in sectors that work with radiation, extreme temperatures, chemicals and anywhere with a risk of explosion. Sensatech have therefore created sensors for use in various hazardous situations, through the use of remote sensing materials made from compatible elements, the use of construction materials which are compatible with the environment, and hardened electronics using more than standard industrial grade components. Please click on the link or contact us to find out more.

Landmine Detection

One of Sensatech’s important areas of development includes the field of landmine detection. Landmines still threaten the lives of civilians in many countries and regions across the world, and are a continuing challenge even after conflict has ceased. Landmines are difficult to spot using traditional techniques, and many different varieties exist. Many are not picked up by metal detectors as they have a plastic construction, and can even be buried low or high in the ground. The problem with metal detectors is also that they detect all sorts of debris and may give false alarms, which is time consuming and inaccurate. Therefore, Sensatech have partnered QinetiQ to produce a fast and accurate landmine detector for field use, without contacting or transmitting any pressure to the soil, so as not to detonate an existing mine. By using arrays of capacitive sensors and non-contact 3d tomography techniques, we aim to map the soil under a sensor and detect objects embedded under the surface. Embedded objects could then be compared to a database of known landmine types to create positive identification. Also, we are working on using capacitive and electric field techniques to try to identify the chemical composition of various elements at a range, to detect landmines and other explosives. Our research and development is ongoing, towards this vital project funded by QinetiQ.

Liquid Level Detection

When suspended above a liquid, capacitive sensors can accurately detect liquid level either directly or through non-metallic container walls, glass or Perspex sight glasses or non-metallic level tubes. A capacitive sensor will still positively detect the proximity of a liquid when it has been immersed in that liquid, meaning there will in many instances be less likelihood of a failure and possible overflow than using other devices. The sensor can consist of a single sensor with analogue output or an array of sensors. We will be happy to discuss your liquid level sensing applications with you, to achieve an ideal solution, and we will be able to create a tailor-made design to suit your unique requirements.

Moisture Measurement

In many industries, the moisture content of a material can effect its ability to successfully be processed, and drying control may be required to maintain the quality of production as well as minimise the costs involved. Therefore our moisture measurement sensing application can avoid potential problems before they cause a loss in productivity or even damage equipment or the surrounding area. By measuring moisture content without having to contact a material, it can ensure the required drying is carried out to achieve the ideal moisture content desired. Examples of how our sensors can help to increase efficiency and save energy are in domestic tumble dryers, high speed high temperature extrusions, and soil moisture measurement for irrigation control. Please click on the link to contact us directly to find out more.

Proximity Detection

Proximity detection is extremely popular within the industrial sector, to detect when something comes into dangerous proximity. A proximity switch can give a switched output upon detection of an object or person nearby, and Sensatech have been working on custom made proximity switches to solve a particular application when a standard switch will not do the job. If the volumes of your requirement are sufficient, a tailor-made switch may not cost you much more than a standard unit, so please contact us today to discuss your requirements and find out how Sensatech can help.

Robotic Control & Protection

Various industrial sectors are using more and more robots within production, and it is widely known that some sensory feedback on behalf of the robot allows for improved operation and less chance of damage or injury. Examples include detecting and protecting against collision with objects that may come near, and feedback from a robotic arm. Sensatech have created protective invisible sensory barriers using capacitive fields, which allow the robots to detect objects that they may collide with. To improve grabber arm accuracy, feedback on proximity to the object and force acquired from a capacitive force cell enables better control of the operation. Please click on the link to find out more.

Reversing Sensor

At Sensatech, we have developed a highly effective reversing sensor using a capacitive sensor, for use on vehicles as a collision warning device and parking assistance device. The reversing sensor is activated when a driver uses the reverse gear, and it alerts the driver with an audible alarm is a hazard is present behind the vehicle. This not only helps with successful manoeuvring and limits damage to the vehicle, but is also an excellent safety feature to reduce collisions with pedestrians or cyclists. The advantage of using a capacitive sensor rather than a more frequently used ultrasonic device is that it is free from blind spots, which can occur between beam lobes. Capacitive sensors also have low sensitivity to target material type, and can detect a wire fence as reliably as wall, unlike ultrasonic devices. What’s more, they have three sensing zones, clearly defined ranges, can face any direction and have a field rather than a general beam. Please contact us if you would like to discuss this technology for use in cars, commercial vehicles, trucks or buses, and we will be happy to help.

Weighing Cell Sensing Application

Sensatech’s capacitive sensing technology is ideal for constructing force sensors which are suitable for use as the sensing component of load cells. They can be made into very thin package sizes, and by using a central electronics module accessing an array of force modules you can save both time and money compared with traditional load cell techniques.  Capacitive force sensing could allow the integration of more than one function into smart sensor applications, such as within the athletics industry where a three dimensional object such as a foot using one sensor array, and a secondary measurement of weight distribution over the foot, or absolute weight transmitted through the foot. The technology can also be used in commercial applications, so please contact us today to discuss your specific requirements.

Small Targets at High Speeds

At Sensatech, our small target high-speed capacitive sensor features an extremely fast response, and was developed to detect small targets at high speeds. Each sensor will have a maximum switching frequency determined by its design. Maximum switching frequency is often established by testing with regular target objects. The critical issue is the absolute time period during which the target is present in the sensor's active field. This time period will suggest the maximum switching speed the sensor can attain with other shapes of targets, whose geometry and size will cause further variation. Please click on the link to view an example of a Sensatech small target high-speed capacitive sensor, or contact us if you would like any further information.

Human Anatomy - Light Switch Sensing

Intelligent light switches that are non-contact or touch sensitive, and react to user signals, are becoming more and more popular – not only for modern home design but also for laboratories and other premises where contact is not the best option for switches. Traditional electro mechanical light switches are also not suitable for anywhere which may come into contact with water or extreme moisture, so a non-contact fully insulated light switch is a better solution. We have developed various versions of the switch: a Standard Switch – which will operate through any non-conductive material, making it usable behind glass or while wearing gloves; a Smart Switch – which can be connected in parallel with an unlimited number of other smart switches to provide multi-point control and is touch sensitive; a Smart timer - with multi-point touch sensitive controls of a load with the added ability to automatically turn off; and a Smart Dimmer - offering all the advantages of the smart switch plus the ability to adjust the power level. Alternative versions are also available, so please don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss your requirements in more detail.

Solder Wave Height Sensing

Solder wave height sensing applications are designed to improve soldering quality and regulate energy usage in electronics manufacturing. They can be fitted to all makes of machine, and are able to measure and display the height of a smooth or turbulent solder wave to an accuracy of ± 0.1mm. A linearising algorithm within the control unit, combined with a temperature stable reference capacitance in the conditioning electronics, provides a highly reliable indication of absolute or relative wave height. As well as accurate height indication, the application can be linked to pump circuit to automatically control wave height, and features no-wave detection to avoid false alarms. Overall, it offers better quality, reduces scrap rates, provides rapid pay back and has much faster setup times.

Environment - High Temperature Sensing

Sensatech’s non-contact capacitive sensing is ideal for high temperature sensing of non-metallic targets. By separating sensing elements into "remote sensing heads" and separate electronics, it enables electronics to be protected from extreme temperatures whilst the sensing elements alone remain in the hot spot. The sensing element that consists only of electrodes made out of metal and insulating ceramics can operate at extreme temperatures - for example in industrial drying. Sensatech custom make the sensors for specific industries, so please contact us today to discuss a tailor made solution for your requirements.

Powder or Granule Detection

Capacitive sensors are perfect for level detection of granules or powders, avoiding the requirement for piercing containers and allowing maintenance without creating a leak in a container. They are ideal for use in plastic moulding, to allow automated feeding of hoppers from bulk bins; as well as in printing and copying, to maintain a feed of toner and warn users to replenish toner when it falls below a level; and in baking, to monitor ingredients being conveyed and fed accurately into the process. Capacitive sensors can look through sight glasses, non metallic windows or container walls to accurately detect levels of powder or granular material on the other side. Please contact us if you would like any further information, or to discuss our custom capacitive sensors for your business.