What's behind the target can make a tremendous difference in how well reflective sensors do their job. Consider a photoelectric sensor operating in simple diffused mode (i.e., as a proximity sensor).

HOW DOES THE CHOICE OF PROXIMITY SENSORS AFFECT THE DESIGN AND OPERATION OF MOTION-CENTRIC AUTOMATION SYSTEMS? Alex • Baumer: Proximity sensors, through their specifications, have a significant effect ...

With increased automation of complex production systems, components that are capable of acquiring and transmitting information regarding the production process become necessary. Proximity sensors -- ...