Transducers can convert energy from one form to another kind. Because of this, transducers are used in many things around us and they can come in different shapes and sizes. Though there are generally two types of transducers, a sensor, and an actuator, there are many kinds that fall under each category.
Input transducers are the kind that acts as sensors that take energy from their environment and convert it into a readable signal. Some of these transducers can take the physical force around it and convert it into electrical signals which are both readable and measurable. A perfect example of this is a seismograph that utilizes a feedback system during an earthquake that is interpreted by a transducer.
Output transducers, on the other hand, are actuators and do the exact opposite of input transducers. They convert electrical signals into other forms of energy like how a car motor can turn electricity into motion. With both categories defined, it’s easy to deduce that the key element that revolves around a transducer is the sensitivity of the output and input quantity.
However, during the conversion process, energy can still be lost and not properly utilized. Though this is something inevitable, some transducers are more efficient than others. Its efficiency can be seen through the power output and the type of power input.
Types of Transducers Explained
As aforementioned, there are many types of transducers that fall under both the input and output categories. With so many devices and machines around us, there is a need for efficient electrical conversion, and manufacturers today must make sure that the transducers that are incorporated into each design can perform without failure.
1. Thermocouple Sensors
These types of transducers are considered sensors since they can read and measure temperature. They typically consist of metal wires that come in pairs and join together at one end. These types of transducers can measure temperature when properly utilized and configured. Thermocouples have a vast range of applications and can be utilized in industrial settings or even consumer electronics.
2. Current Transducers
These types of transducers are capable of multiplying or reducing the alternating current. It does this while ensuring that the voltage output is directly proportional to its AC input current. They can monitor the current that flows through and generate the necessary data for status reading applications.
3. Pressure Transducers
From the name itself, this type of transducer is used to measure the pressure of a specific fluid and gives data after coming in contact with it. A pressure transducer typically uses something that can withstand forces such as a flexible diaphragm which changes its shape depending on the pressure applied. The movement of the diaphragm is then interpreted after it generates an electric signal.
4. Magnetic Transducers
These types of transducers are capable of reading or sensing a magnetic source from a specific field. A perfect example of this is a magnetic compass which utilizes the electromagnetic force emitted by the earth to provide us with our accurate location. They are also used in bank cards and notes to control a specific magnetic device or machine.
5. Electromechanical Transducers
Electromechanical transducers are often found inside stereos, speakers, and microphones. This is because they have the ability to convert electrical signals into sound waves or vice versa. They are some of the most commonly used transducer since we rely on gadgets like headphones and speakers in our everyday lives.
6. Piezoelectric Transducers
These types of transducers have the ability to convert electrical charges coming from some forms of solid materials into energy. The term “piezoelectric” means electricity caused by pressure although it can also measure strain, temperature, acceleration, and force by electrical charge conversion.
7. Strain Gauges
Strain gauges are types of transducers that are considered sensors since their main purpose is to measure force or strain. When force is applied to a strain gauge, the resistance changes and reflects an electrical output. They can also measure weight, tension, pressure, and force.
8. Mutual Induction Transducers
From the name itself, mutual induction transducers have one mutual induction that relies on two individual coils. One coil is responsible for generating excitation while the other is for output purposes. The voltage difference between each coil would depend on the movement of the transducer’s armature in response to stimuli.
Transducers in the Cosmetic Industry
Since transducers are used in industrial applications, it’s also interesting to understand how they were able to drastically improve the cosmetic sector. Since the beauty industry utilizes different types of machines and devices to perform various treatments, it play an important role in harnessing energy.
One of the skin treatment procedures popular today that uses efficient transducer technology is called HIFU or High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound. These device can produce the necessary energy to successfully rejuvenate the patient’s skin without causing too much damage. Therapeutic transducers are very popular in the cosmetic industry since they are capable of delivering the proper amount of energy to the skin without harmful effects.
These procedures are capable of helping patients with different skin conditions as well as simply improving the overall integrity of the skin. They can prove to be highly effective and can also minimize downtime. The two most common conditions that these treatments can improve are as follows:
Improves Skin Complexion
Treatments that utilize energy harnessed by efficient transducers can improve the skin’s complexion and texture. It can also get rid of scars and hyper-pigmented marks on the skin. After treatment, patients can expect tighter and brighter skin with minimal to zero downtime.
Reduces Signs of Aging
One of the most sought-after benefits of treatments like these revolves around their anti-aging properties. Since they use machines that can provide the necessary energy to stimulate collagen production, they can allow the skin to regenerate and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
The Future of Transducer Technology
Though the technology behind transducers may not be well-known to the public, in a way they have managed to change and revolutionize different industries. They can be found in different devices and machines that allow us to perform various tasks. At this point, it’s easy to say that the innovation behind its designs will continue to evolve and break technological limitations.
