Multivariate data analysis for accuracy enhancement at the example of an inductive proximity sensor

The sensitivity of inductive proximity sensors decreases exponential with increasing distance of the target to the sensing element. The temperature effect and cable influence dominates the measured impedance at the end of the sensing range. For precise measurements, also under a wide specified range of temperature and cable length, disturbance influences must be rejected. Therefore methods, known from the field of non destructive testing and metal detection can be adapted. If the sensing range is defined by a maximal tolerated deviation, a better disturbance rejection leads to a higher range for the proximity sensor.