Optical Tracking Sensor Module

Uses infrared to detect a reflective line on the floor.

DESCRIPTION

The Optical Tracking Sensor Module is a line tracking module that uses infrared to detect a reflective line on the floor.

PACKAGE INCLUDES:

• Optical Tracking Sensor Module

KEY FEATURES OF OPTICAL TRACKING SENSOR MODULE:

• IR transmitter/receiver pair
• Sensitivity adjustment
• Approximately 1″ detection range
• Detection LED
• 3.0 to 5V operation

This Optical Tracking Sensor, sometimes called a Line Tracking Sensor, uses an infrared (IR) emitting LED and IR Receiver pair to detect a reflective surface in front of the sensor.  These sensors are typically used in robotics to track a reflective line on the floor.  It can also be used to detect any reflective surface that comes close to it.

The output of the module is normally HIGH.  When a reflective surface (typically white) is brought near to the sensors, the output goes LOW and the on-board LED illuminates.  When a non-reflective surface (typically black or dark colored) is brought near, the output stays HIGH.  Maximum detection distance is generally around 1″.  There is an on-board LM393 voltage comparator and a 10K potentiometer that allows you to fiddle with the sensitivity of the detection.

The maximum range that it can detect a reflective surface depends on the operating voltage.  When operated at 5V, the range is about 1″.   At lower operating voltages, the maximum detection range decreases.  At 3.3V, the range decreases to about 0.6″.

To track a line, 2 or more sensors are generally used so that it can be more easily determined which side of the line the robot is on since one sensor will just tell you if you are on the line or not, but not how to correct course.  Another option to consider is our 3-sensor line tracking module available below.

Module Connections

There is a 3-pin header on the assembly for making connections.  There are a couple of different labeling schemes used on this header.

1 x 3 Header 

• GND / G = Ground
• Vcc / V+ =3.0 to 5V (5V gives greatest range)
• OUT / S = Signal output, connects to digital input pin on uC.

OUR EVALUATION RESULTS:

This is a commonly used module for basic robotic line tracking experiments and is a good way to get started with basic robotic movement experiments as it is relatively straightforward to read the sensors and modify direction based on the feedback received.  These modules can sometimes find use in other applications such as keeping the detector stationary and detecting when a reflective object passes in front of the sensor.

The board has two large holes that can be used for mounting if desired.

BEFORE THEY ARE SHIPPED, THESE MODULES ARE:

• Inspected
• Basic detection output verified
• Packaged in a resealable ESD bag for protection and easy storage.

Notes: 

1. None

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS