Ninshuti - Group A - Pressure Sensors

A pressure sensor determines pressure from gases or liquids. In addition to pressure, pressure sensors can also measure fluid/gas flow, speed, water level and altitude. For measurement of pressure, the application is usually in the field of weather instrumentation, aircraft and other industries where the equipment has pressure functionality. For altitude measurement, this is most applicable for rockets, aircraft, satellites and others. 

Pressure sensors are used to determine pressure changes between altitudes. A pressure sensor can also act as a transducer. “The pressure is sensed by mechanical elements such as plates, shells, and shells that are designed and constructed to deflect when pressure is applied.” [1] This is how pressure is converted into a physical movement. This movement is then transduced to create an electrical output.

The main types of sensing elements are Bourdon tubes, capsules and bellows. All these provide a large displacement when a pressure is applied which is useful for some electrical sensors that require a significant displacement. There are different types of sensors. For mechanical pressure gages, the motion applied can be read by a dial or pointer. In the case of electromechanical pressure sensors, the sensors convert the applied pressure into an electric signal.

Pressure sensors have evolved in the last few years. Touch screen devices are commonly used in smart phones. When a pressure is applied by the finger, the sensor determines where it has been applied and an electrical signal is generated which then informs the processor. Pressure sensors can also be used in the biomedical industry in digital blood pressure monitors and ventilators, “pressure sensors are needed to optimize them according to patient’s health and his requirements.” [3] For airplanes, these sensors are used to maintain a balance between the atmospheric pressure and control systems of the airplanes.

Pressure sensors have definitely evolved during the last century from their use in steam engines to their application in biomedical engineering. When it comes to Intelligent Buildings, sensors are also becoming more popular: the security of a home can be improved by allowing access only by finger or hand prints and other methods.

Comments:
Ian: Great post! We usually don't realize how much sensors have become part of our lives especially light sensors and toilet sensors. I liked that you looked at their advantages as well especially when it comes to energy efficiency.

Tyler: Great post as well! I didn't know that much about temperature sensors. Like Ian's post, you talked about the energy that is saved from using these temperature sensors. This also ends up saving money from utilities. 

Sources:

1.      Bicking, Robert E. "Fundamentals of Pressure Sensor Technology." Sensors Magazine. N.p., 1 Nov. 1998. Web. <http://www.sensorsmag.com/sensors/pressure/fundamentals-pressure-sensor-technology-846>.

2.      "The Pressure Sensor." Sensorland. N.p., n.d. Web. <http://www.sensorland.com/HowPage004.html>.

3.       "Pressure Sensors." Engineering Garage. N.p., n.d. Web. <http://www.engineersgarage.com/articles/pressure-sensors-types-working>.