Laser-sensor market forecast to grow 16% annually
The extended range and accuracy of photoelectric sensors with laser light sources will enable their market to grow 16% annually to the end of the decade, according to a study by Venture Development Corp. (Natick, MA). A decline of 1.6% is projected for incandescent-light-source-based sensors. Consumption of photoelectric sensors without fiberoptics is expected to grow more slowly than for those units so equipped. Despite higher costs, fiberoptic sensors offer mounting flexibility and operation remote from hostile environments being monitored.
Overall, however, the US market for proximity and photoelectric sensors is projected to grow at only 6.2% annually, according to the forecast. This rate results in dollar volume increasing from $430 million this year to $548 million in 1999. The automobile industry, with an expansion in manufacturing facilities, and the food and beverage and pharmaceutical industries, with increased automation, were highlighted as specific application growth areas by the report.