Definition between Sensor Resolution, Sensitivity, and Accuracy
Humans use their senses to understand the world. However, our natural senses are often not enough for science or industry.
Sensors enhance our five senses. They are often called the “electronic five senses.” In automated production, sensors play a key role.
They help watch and manage processes to make operations and product quality better. We often judge sensor performance by sensitivity, resolution, and accuracy. However, these terms can be confusing. Here is a simple explanation of each.
Sensors are now widely used in many fields, such as industry, farming, space, oceans, and the environment. They also play key roles in resource studies, medical tests, biotech, and protecting cultural items. Today, nearly every modern project—from space to sea—depends on sensors.
Sensor Sensitivity
**Definition:** Sensor sensitivity measures how much the sensor’s output changes (△y) compared to the input change (△x). This is done when conditions are stable. It shows how changes in input lead to changes in output.
In simple terms, sensitivity shows how steep the output-input curve is. If a sensor’s output and input are straight, its sensitivity stays the same. If they are not straight, sensitivity changes when the input changes.
When input and output use the same units, sensitivity can be viewed as amplification. Higher sensitivity can improve accuracy, but it often reduces the sensor’s range and stability.
Sensor Resolution
**Definition:** Resolution is how well the sensor can see the smallest change. If an input value changes slowly from a non-zero point, the sensor may not notice this change.
This is true as long as the value stays below a certain limit. This means the change is small. The sensor only reacts when a change goes above this limit.
Resolution is about how well an analog signal turns into a digital one. It shows the smallest change the sensor can notice.
Resolution depends on the sensor’s design and calibration. In digital sensors, it is set by the A/D converter’s bits. Higher resolution means more precise readings but can reduce stability.
Sensor Accuracy
Definition: Accuracy shows how close a sensor’s measurement is to the true value. It is the biggest difference between the measured and real values, usually within plus or minus three standard deviations, and applies over a certain range.
Measurement accuracy includes errors from the sensor’s circuits and its calibration. For temperature sensors, there are two grades defined by national standards: Class A and Class B.
Class A sensors should not change more than ±(0.15°C + 0.002 × sensor range). Class B sensors can vary up to ±(0.30°C + 0.005 × sensor range). For more accurate measurements, it is best to use sensors with smaller ranges.
Resolution is not the same as accuracy. It shows how well we can see small changes, not just big mistakes. Usually, higher resolution or accuracy means we might lose some other features, like sensitivity.
Conclusion
Knowing the differences between sensitivity, resolution, and accuracy can help you use sensors better. It also improves system performance in many ways. Each factor is important.
They help make sure measurements are correct. They also ensure systems work well in different situations.
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