AIRRS™ is a low-cost, short-range Infrared (IR) alternative to ultrasonic range-
finding systems. Usable detection range is 10 cm to 80 cm (approximately 4”
to 31.5”).
The Analog Infra-Red Ranging System consists of the Sharp GP2Y0A02YK0F
Distance Measuring Sensor and a custom cable assembly. The GP2Y is a
compact, self-contained IR ranging system incorporating an IR transmitter,
receiver, optics, filter, detection, and amplification circuitry. The unit is highly
resistant to ambient light and nearly impervious to variations in the surface
reflectivity of the detected object.
Unlike many IR systems, AIRRS™ has a fairly narrow field of view; making it
easier to get the range of a specific target. The field of view changes with the
distance to an object (see the graph at the end of this document), but is no
wider than 5 cm (2.5 cm either side of centre) when measuring at the
maximum range.
Connecting to the AIRRS
A custom cable assembly is included with the AIRRS™ kit. The miniature
connector is keyed so that it may only be inserted one way. The following table
shows the necessary connections:
Table 1 - GP2Y0A02YK0F Pinout
Pin
Symbol
Wire Colour
Connect To
1
Vcc
Red
+ 5 V DC
2
GND
Black
Ground
3
V
out
Blue
Input pin of microcontroller or A/D
Operation
Since the GP2Y makes continuous analog measurements. The module does
not require a trigger to initiate a measurement. The distance to an object is
returned as an analog voltage level. By reading the voltage level produced a
threshold can be set or a distance calculated. By attaching the AIRRS™
cabling to a suitable Analog to Digital converter or microcontroller with
onboard A/D, the AIRRS™ can be incorporated into many systems.
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AIRRS+ Manual v1.7