A significant proportion of industrial equipment will be deployed in what are described as hazardous areas, or possibly applications that require a functional safety assessment. Hazardous areas include locations where there is the risk of exposure to flammable or even explosive substances. In such circumstances, ensuring ongoing operation can prove to be challenging. It is therefore critical that the component parts which make up such items of equipment are suitably constructed to function in these uncompromising environments.
A new generation of touchless angle sensors can solve a number of application problems from shaft alignment issues to measuring angle through materials or in extreme environments.
The new Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC has now been in force for some time, making it increasingly important for safety-related features to be implemented in mechanical engineering. In doing so, it is essential that safety features are guaranteed throughout the entire machine or system – firstly in order to protect the operator, and secondly to preserve the integrity of the machine itself. 
Laser distance sensors have strengths and weaknesses on different surfaces. Working with rough, reflective, and uneven surfaces can create some challenges with laser-point sensing technologies. Click below to read about the advantages of laser-line distance measurement in more difficult applications.
The military demands precision and accuracy in every application, from inertial compass systems and advanced acoustic sensors to laser targeting technology. This eMagazine details guidelines for:
Design engineers integrate force sensors into medical devices to create smart tools that produce quantifiable data. These intelligent devices help to eliminate guesswork, create consistency, and improve patient outcomes. Force feedback is an increasingly valuable feature in the medical device market and a large array of products and applications use force feedback. 
From the operating room to the manufacturing floor, the robotic industry continues to grow and mature. As demand for robotic devices increases, so do the technology requirements.
Feedback is used in closed loop systems in applications across all markets to control speed and/or position, and it has an important role in keeping equipment operating smoothly and accurately. This guide provides an overview on open and closed loop systems, hall sensors, and also covers encoder options, resolvers, and more.
Design engineers involved in the development of heavy equipment that operate in high shock and vibration environments need to make some choices regarding the type of accelerometer that is used to measure inclination. 
TE Connectivity (TE) sensors are designed to meet the most demanding challenges, wherever we find them. With the broadest portfolio of solutions, we monitor temperature, humidity, position, pressure, and much more. And we’re pushing advances in sensor technology, such as digital, wireless, and combination solutions that help make applications smarter and more efficient. Partnering with customers across major industries, we’re advancing innovation and transforming industries. Our engineers help transform concepts into creations — redefining what’s possible using intelligent, efficient and high performing TE products and solutions proven in harsh environments.