Limit switches are devices used to detect the presence or position of an object. They work by opening or closing an electrical circuit when a moving part, like a robot arm or conveyor belt, reaches a certain point. This helps control machinery and ensures safety by preventing parts from moving too far or colliding with each other. These switches are commonly found in various applications, such as industrial automation and elevators. By providing feedback to a control system, limit switches help maintain proper operation and can trigger alarms or stop machines if something goes wrong, making them essential for efficient and safe operations.