Description
The Cytron Maker Line is a professional-grade IR sensor array designed to simplify the development of line-following robots and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs). Engineered for both educational projects and industrial prototyping, this 5-sensor array eliminates the tedious manual calibration typically required by legacy sensors. By utilizing a simple one-touch calibration process, the Maker Line stores threshold data in internal EEPROM, ensuring consistent performance that remains intact even after power cycles.
This sensor array offers exceptional versatility with dual-output capabilities: 5 independent digital outputs for traditional logic-based navigation, and a high-resolution analog output that provides precise line positioning data. This analog output is perfect for implementing advanced PID control algorithms, allowing for smoother, faster, and more accurate robotic movement. Whether you are navigating 13mm to 30mm width lines or adjusting for different surface contrasts, the Maker Line provides the reliability and ease of use required for modern autonomous navigation.
Note: Product images are for reference only. Ensure that the sensor is mounted at an optimal height (4mm–40mm) for your specific surface conditions for best performance.
Key Features
- One-Touch Calibration: Quickly calibrate the sensor array to any surface/line contrast by sweeping it across the line—no manual potentiometer adjustments needed.
- Dual Output Interface: Includes 5 independent digital outputs for simple state-tracking and 1 high-resolution analog output for precision PID-controlled navigation.
- Universal Compatibility: Works seamlessly with 3.3V and 5V logic levels, making it compatible with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other popular microcontrollers.
- High-Speed Response: Features a rapid 200Hz refresh rate, ensuring responsive tracking for high-speed robotic competitions.
- Robust Design: Includes reverse polarity protection and provides consistent performance across a wide sensing distance of 4mm to 40mm.
- Selectable Logic: Easily toggle between dark-line (Black) or light-line (White) tracking modes to suit varied project environments.
Benefits
- Accelerated Development: Auto-calibration and dual-output support significantly reduce setup time and software complexity for navigation algorithms.
- Unmatched Accuracy: The analog output provides granular position data, enabling your robot to maintain a center-line path with high fidelity.
- Long-Term Stability: EEPROM storage of calibration settings means you only calibrate once, even if the sensor is powered down or moved to a different environment.
- Versatile Application: Suitable for everything from simple entry-level school line-followers to sophisticated industrial AGV prototypes.
Applications
- Competitive Line-Following Robotics: A superior sensor choice for high-speed racing robots requiring PID-based navigation.
- Automated Guided Vehicles (AGV): Reliable tracking solution for industrial warehouse carts and autonomous logistics robots.
- Mechatronics Research: Ideal for academic labs focusing on autonomous navigation, sensor fusion, and control systems.
- Custom Automation: Precision guidance for automated material-handling fixtures and assembly-line monitoring systems.
Package Includes
- 1 x MAKER-LINE Sensor Array
- 2 x PCB Stand Screw and Nut (5mm)
- 2 x PCB Stand Screw and Nut (10mm)
Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Item Type | IR Sensor Array |
| Operating Voltage | 3.3V to 5V DC |
| Recommended Line Width | 13mm to 30mm |
| Sensing Distance | 4mm to 40mm |
| Refresh Rate | 200Hz |
| Output Types | 5 x Digital, 1 x Analog |
