Collision sensor for wood processing equipment

Abstract

A sensor system for detecting a collision between first and second parts moving relative to each other. The sensor system comprises at least one sensor for detecting a collision between the first and second parts, the sensor comprising first and second elongate conductive elements and a non-conducting spacing element partially extending between the first and second elongate conductive elements to separate the conductive elements from each other and to define spaced, adjacent portions of the conductive elements. A signal transmitting wire is in communication with each elongate conductive element. A housing retains the sensor for mounting in a region between the first and second parts such that any collision between the parts will tend to deform the spaced, adjacent portions of the conductive elements into contact with each other at the point of collision to complete a circuit via the signal transmitting wires to indicate the collision has occurred. In a preferred arrangement the moving parts are part of a wood processing unit, and the signal is used to shutdown the unit to prevent damage. The sensor and sensory system described offer improved reliability as compared to previous designs.