Figure 1a shows a slotted optical switch. An LED is mounted in a plastic housing, facing a phototransistor, but separated by a gap. If something moves into the gap, it blocks the light path between ...

When you’re designing miniature optical switches, reflective sensors are your best friend. They streamline the interaction between humans and machines in an elegant and intuitive manner. These sensors ...

CU Boulder researchers have built high-performing optical microresonators, opening the door for new sensor technologies. At ...

Optical sensors may be uniquely suited for use in robotic hands, according to researchers who have developed a three-fingered soft robotic hand with multiple embedded fiber optic sensors. They also ...

When building robots, or indeed other complex mechanical systems, it’s often the case that more and more limit switches, light gates and sensors are amassed as the project evolves. Each addition ...

Researchers at Oregon State University are making key advances with a new type of optical sensor that more closely mimics the human eye's ability to perceive changes in its visual field. The sensor is ...

Patients who remain in bed for long periods of time may develop pressure sores, which can in turn become potentially life-threatening chronic skin ulcers. A new sensor could help keep that from ...

Photo: David Snow/Cult of Mac Apple Watch’s Digital Crown helps users take full advantage of the watchOS interface, beyond using the wearable’s touchscreen. But it looks like future Apple Watches ...

A new study documents an inexpensive, spark-free, optical-based hydrogen sensor that is more sensitive -- and faster -- than previous models. Hydrogen as a clean, renewable alternative to fossil fuels ...