Transducer
a device that converts a primary form of energy into a corresponding signal with a different energy form
Primary Energy Forms: mechanical, thermal, electromagnetic, optical, chemical, etc.
take form of a sensor or an actuator
Sensor (e.g., thermometer)
a device that detects/measures a signal or stimulus
acquires information from the “real world”
Actuator (e.g., heater)
a device that generates a signal or stimulus
real
world
sensor
actuator
intelligent
feedback
system
Sensor Systems
Typically interested in electronic sensor
convert desired parameter into electrically measurable signal
General Electronic Sensor
primary transducer: changes “real world” parameter into electrical signal
secondary transducer: converts electrical signal into analog or digital values
usable
values
real
world
analog
signal
primary
transducer
secondary
transducer
sensor