In this post, we will guide you about What is a pyroelectric infrared sensor?, What is the function of the pyroelectric infrared sensor?, How does a pyroelectric sensor work?
What is a pyroelectric infrared sensor?
A pyroelectric infrared sensor is a type of sensor that detects infrared radiation emitted by objects. It uses the pyroelectric effect, which is the ability of certain materials to generate an electrical charge in response to temperature changes. These sensors are commonly used in applications such as motion detection, security systems and temperature measurement.
What is the function of the pyroelectric infrared sensor?
The main function of a pyroelectric infrared sensor is to detect changes in infrared radiation, usually caused by the movement of objects in its field of view. When an object moves within the sensor’s detection range, it causes a change in the amount of infrared radiation reaching the sensor. This change is detected as a signal, which can trigger actions such as turning on lights, sounding alarms or activating recording devices in security systems.
How does a pyroelectric sensor work?
Pyroelectric sensors work by using a thin film of pyroelectric material, such as lithium tantalate or polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). When infrared radiation from an object enters the sensor, it heats or cools the pyroelectric material, causing it to generate a small electrical charge. This charge is then amplified and processed by the sensor electronics to detect the presence or movement of objects emitting infrared radiation.
A pyroelectric sensor is classified as a passive infrared (PIR) sensor, meaning that it does not emit infrared radiation itself but rather detects changes in infrared radiation emitted by other objects. This makes it suitable for applications where motion or presence detection without actively transmittable signals is desired, such as motion-activated lighting systems or burglar alarms.
The range of a pyroelectric infrared sensor depends on several factors, including sensor sensitivity, detection area size, and specific application requirements. Typically, these sensors are designed to detect infrared radiation in the range of a few meters to tens of meters, depending on the design and configuration of the sensor. Sensitivity and signal processing adjustments can also affect the effective range of the sensor under different operating conditions.
We believe this explanation of What is a pyroelectric infrared sensor? was straightforward.