You can use different types of sensors to detect motion which primarily detects movements based n several factors like infrared, microwave, or dual technology for hybrid sensors. Today, we are focusing on motion sensors for various applications like home automation and security processes. The motion sensor application ranges from consumer electronics to automation, but there is much more to understand about detection sensors before we explore motion sensor applications.
These sensors use sound, vibration, and motion elements as the primary factors to determine movement. Infrared detection sensors are the most common and widely used motion detectors. These are handy as they can be implemented or embedded effortlessly with other sensors around us.
It is important to use the right type of sensor for a specific requirement, and an accurate and dedicated detection technique can provide better results.
Choosing The Right Type Of Sensor For The Job
It is a common mistake from the end of the user as they overlook the factors while looking for the right type of module or sensor. These factors will be the basis for your security system and how well they will work with other systems and components. Using them in combination with other sensors will also enhance the integration with other motion sensor applications to make them better and more hybrid.
Security systems require the most effective sensors as they are used to collect data and ensure safety. Hence, people want the best components to work seamlessly with other system components. So before settling upon a new component or sensor, you should always list the existing requirements and what you would like to add to the new component.
Each solution is different from the others and has features and challenges. Some might be budget solutions, and some might not be very useful for a specific task. Every situation requires a customized or dedicated solution to meet the requirement of the end-user.
One should consider that different types of motion sensing technologies or motion sensor applications have differences in quality and effectiveness. Therefore, we will be discussing the technologies used by different motion sensors and how they impact their efficiency.
What Are The Different Techniques Used By Motion Detectors?
As we mentioned earlier, the techniques of different motion detectors here are the most common ones used in several domains like home and building automation, industries, and security. They all have different features and can be the best option for a certain type of application.
Passive Infrared
bjects. They have a certain range for their field of view. PIR sensors also monitor any changes or fluctuations in infrared radiation. For example, it can determine if the amount of radiation has gone up or down. There is a minimum and maximum threshold for the limit, and when the threshold has reached the end, the sensor triggers the detection and alarm system. The PIR motion sensors are connected with the light, alarm, or camera. The trigger will activate the action command or data collection.
PIR works on a very simple technique that starts with its simplest design. The reason for this sensor being so popular is its simplest output. It is either “yes” or “no.” it also doesn’t require much technical information for installation or plugging. Its simple techniques have become more apparent and handy than other motion detection techniques.
You can use the PIR sensors to their fullest extent if one is aware of their shortcomings and limitations. These are fine sensors for use inside the house or in a limited vicinity. These are very cost-effective and affordable to be used in houses with children and older people.
Microwave (MW)
Microwaves are another method to detect motion based on the movements of the reflection or shadows of the moving objects. However, this is not ideal in homes as home motion sensor applications require affordable and reliable methods, and MV is not compatible with the external electrical interface.
Dual Technology or Hybrid
This methodology for motion detection uses combined features for high-tech appliances and applications. Hybrid motion detection can reduce false alarms, as in PIR, as PIR and MV features are used to make this hybrid sensor. It detects actively and passively, and both technologies provide an accurate reading. The alarm is triggered only when both types of detection are triggered.
Situation-Specific Solutions
All of the motion, as mentioned earlier, detectors and their base technologies have some innate strengths and weaknesses which can be useful and unreliable based on their applications, respectively. Reliability and effectiveness dictate situations and their applications.
For example, the PIR sensors used in a security camera are the best option as they will detect the heat even at night when there is no light. Similarly, using it in an application like a video doorbell which requires a sensor to capture the video or image of the person on end, will have no use for the PIR motion detection sensor.
Several new motion sensor applications in the market are making lives easier; some companies are making occupancy sensing modules that use PIR motion sensors to monitor and allocate seats and workstations in co-working or shared working spaces.
For example, it is now very easy to monitor occupancy or vacancy of 4X4M workstations with the help of Panasonic PIR sensor detection range of 5 meters . However, using the same range sensor for monitoring the animal’s movement in a wildlife sanctuary will be of no use. You will require another sensor with a huge range of detection fields.
What Are The Most Common Motion Sensor Applications Around Us?
The motion sensor applications have a wider range than any other IoT sensor, for instance:
Security Systems: A motion detector will trigger the alarm so that you know that an intruder is in your house. Motion detector alarms raise alerts using alarm sounds to scare off intruders.
Surveillance System: Motions detector cameras are just like CCTV, which would help you notice an unwanted entry of an object/person.
Automatic Doors And Ticket Gates: The automatic gates work when a person reaches the field of the sensor, the door will automatically open and close again once the person is out of the sensor’s reach.
Entryway Lighting: Some areas in houses and big facilities are less used, like entryways and hallways but need illumination when needed. PIR motion sensors can be ht best solution here.
Security Lighting: This lighting includes big flashlights activated in case of intrusion connected with the sensor and its alarm system.
Conclusion
Every object around us, human, animal, and non-living objects, emits IR radiation alike. We cannot see these waves through our eyes but have ways to detect IRs. The PIR sensors are the best way to detect infrared waves, which can be used in safety alarms, motion detection cameras, or automation.