Datasheet

Page 78· Applied Robotics with the SumoBot
ACTIVITY #1: TESTING AND TUNING INFRARED OBJECT DETECTORS
Figure 3-1 shows the SumoBot and the locations of its front left and front right infrared
(IR) object detectors. The IR LED and receivers were plugged into headers X8 and X9
and tested in the Chapter 4 of the SumoBot Manual. Testing and tuning these object
detectors can make a huge difference in your SumoBot's performance in the competition
ring. This activity introduces four important tests you should perform on your SumoBot's
IR detectors before starting a match:
1. Basic functionality
2. Sources of IR interference
3. Electrical continuity
4. Effective range
Figure 3-1 Front IR Object Detectors in the X8/X9 Headers
Parts Required
(1) SumoBot with QTIs and IR detectors mounted. See SumoBot text, Chapter 4 for
instructions.
IR Object Detection
Figure 3-2 shows schematics of the left and right IR object detectors. The left detector is
connected to header X8, and the right to X9. Each schematic is separated into three
columns. The leftmost column shows the connections that are built into the SumoBot
printed circuit board (PCB). The middle column shows the silk-screened markings next
IR Object
Detector
Front Left
IR Object
Detector
Front Right