In engineering, sensor technology refers to the science and application of sensors for measuring and controlling changes in environmental, biological or technical systems. A sensor converts measured variables into electrical signals so that these can be further used by a control system or a system.
Sensors are the "eyes" of the factory - as an interface to the outside world, they collect data necessary for a modern plant. Actuators, on the other hand, convert electrical signals into actions. These can be movements, temperature changes or mechanical work, for example.
The combination of sensor and actuator is called processor technology and is the basis of automated production.
Technical requirements