Description
The Maker Reflect is a high-sensitivity, miniature reflectance sensor engineered for precise detection of surface characteristics in compact robotic and automation environments. Utilizing an integrated infrared (IR) LED transmitter and a high-response phototransistor receiver, the sensor provides real-time analog voltage feedback based on the intensity of reflected IR light—where lighter, highly reflective surfaces produce lower output voltages.
Measuring just 18.1mm x 8.4mm x 4.2mm, the Maker Reflect is specifically designed for integration into space-constrained industrial systems. Its centered mounting-hole architecture allows for optimal positioning at the leading edge of robotic chassis, a critical requirement for precision edge-detection and line-following applications. Whether utilized for automated guidance, rotary encoding, or proximity sensing, this sensor provides the reliability and fidelity required for demanding mechatronic integration.
Key Features
- Ultra-Compact Design: Optimized for high-density robotic enclosures and tight mounting tolerances in specialized machinery.
- Precise Analog Feedback: Provides high-resolution analog voltage output, enabling developers to implement sophisticated thresholding or PID control logic.
- Versatile Operational Range: Effective sensing distance from 1mm to 40mm, offering wide adaptability to varying surface textures and materials.
- Universal Logic Compatibility: Supports both 3.3V and 5V operating environments, ensuring seamless integration with standard PLCs, microcontrollers, and embedded industrial platforms.
- Optimized Mounting: Centered mounting configuration facilitates maximum-reach positioning, essential for high-speed edge detection and automated navigation.
Benefits for Industrial Integration
- System Miniaturization: Enables the development of highly compact mobile platforms without sacrificing sensor performance.
- Enhanced Precision: High-fidelity analog output allows for superior detection accuracy compared to standard binary digital-only sensors.
- Deployment Efficiency: Compact size and simple mounting requirements significantly reduce the mechanical engineering overhead for custom integration.
- Broad Utility: A multi-purpose sensing solution capable of handling diverse tasks from rotary encoding to complex edge-boundary detection.
Applications
- Automated Guided Vehicles (AGV): Provides high-precision line-following and path-correction capabilities for warehouse logistics platforms.
- Industrial Prototyping: Ideal for custom edge-detection, border-sensing, and object-presence verification systems.
- Advanced Mechatronics: Suitable as a high-resolution input for printed rotary wheel encoders, maze-solving algorithms, and proximity-based safety interlocks.
- Automated Assembly: Facilitates precision object detection in compact material-handling and sorting fixtures.
Package Includes
- 1 x MAKER-REFLECT Miniature Reflectance Sensor
Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Item Type | IR Reflectance Sensor |
| Operating Voltage | 3.3V to 5V DC |
| Sensing Distance | 1mm to 40mm |
| Output Type | Analog Voltage |
| Dimensions | 18.1 (L) x 8.4 (W) x 4.2 (H) mm |
| Weight | ~1g |
