Working Distance
Inductive Sensors: Working distance Sa specifies the distance from the sensor’s sensing face to the reference plate, at which a sensor functions reliably. It must lie within range of 0% to 81% of switching distance Sn (nominal switching distance Sn).
Example: Sn = 10 mm -> Sa = 0 to 8.1 mm
Photoelectronic Sensors: Working distance is the ideal distance between the sensor and the object. Working distance must lie within the sensor’s working range – otherwise the sensor cannot function.
2D vision: The working distance describes the distance from the front edge of the optics to the surface of the test object.
Figure 1: Autofocus
Figure 2: C-mount