5-Channel Reflectance Sensor Array for Balboa 32U4 Robot-Pololu

Reflectance sensor module is designed specifically for use with the Balboa 32U4 balancing robot. It features five IR LED/phototransistor pairs that are great for identifying changes in reflectance on the ground directly underneath the Balboa (like detecting or following a black line on a white background). The sensor array offers dimmable brightness control, and each sensor provides an independent output that can be measured with a digital I/O.

The 5-Channel Reflectance Sensor Array for Balboa provides an easy way to add line sensing to the Balboa 32U4 Balancing Robot. It features five separate reflectance sensors, each consisting of a dimmable IR emitter coupled with a phototransistor that responds based on how much emitter light is reflected back to it. The array is intended for Balboas assembled with 80×10mm wheels that are operating in upright (balancing) orientations.

The 1×7 female headers should be soldered to the connections near the bottom edge of the control board. You can do this without removing your Balboa control board from the chassis. One female header should be soldered between the pins labeled GND and A3, and the other female header should be soldered between the pins labeled GND and A2. The solder joints should be on the component side of the control board.

The sensor board can be mounted to the Balboa so that it aligns with the center axis of the chassis or the edge of the chassis, which might make following a line easier (since the sensors will be farther forward when the Balboa is upright). How the included right angle headers are connected to the sensor board determines whether the board will be center- or edge-aligned.

Specifications of Reflectance Sensor Array:

• Voltage: 5 V

• Peak wavelength: 940 nm
• Maximum current draw: 40 mA

Package Includes:

 

• 1X Reflectance sensor module
• 2X 7 pin female header
• 2X 7 pin male header

Development Resources:
 

• Product page

• Schematic diagram                                                     
• Dimension diagram