Brushless tool detector and method of use therefor

A detection sensor for monitoring a machining system to detect a presence or absence of a tool or object in a machining system;

• the detection sensor comprising:
• a casing that defines a casing cavity therein;
• an alternating current (AC) permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) arranged in a first segment of the casing cavity, the PMSM including a motor shaft that extends through a wall of the casing to a location that is outside of the casing cavity;
• a sensing needle mounted outside of the casing cavity, wherein:
• the sensing needle is driven into movement by rotation of the motor shaft of the PMSM during a monitoring procedure through a range of motion;
• and
• during the monitoring procedure while the sensing needle moves the through the range of motion, the sensing needle physically contacts the tool or object as a presence detection event;
• and
• a control device configured to control the PMSM for commanding movement of the sensing needle during the monitoring procedure is arranged in a second segment of the casing cavity.