Shopping Cart

Sharp sensors are a range of optical distance sensors produced by Sharp Corporation. They are widely used in various applications for measuring distances and detecting objects. Sharp's distance sensors, such as the GP2Y0A21YK0F and GP2Y0D805Z0F, are popular for their ease of use and reliability.

Key Features of Sharp Sensors:

1. Distance Measurement:

   • Range: Sharp distance sensors can measure distances ranging from a few centimeters to several meters, depending on the model.
   • Accuracy: Provides accurate distance measurements based on reflected infrared light.

2. Detection Methods:

   • Infrared (IR) Reflection: Uses an infrared LED to emit light and a photodetector to measure the amount of reflected light. The amount of reflected light correlates with the distance to the object.

3. Output Type:

   • Analog Output: Provides a continuous voltage signal that corresponds to the detected distance. The voltage level varies with the distance.
   • Digital Output: Some models provide a digital signal indicating whether an object is detected or not, often used for object detection rather than precise distance measurement.

4. Power Supply:

   • Typical Voltage: Most Sharp sensors operate at 5V, though some models may work with other voltage levels.

5. Applications:

   • Obstacle Detection: Used in robotics for detecting obstacles and avoiding collisions.
   • Distance Measurement: Employed in applications where distance measurement is required, such as in proximity sensors and distance gauges.
   • Level Sensing: Useful in detecting levels of materials or liquids in various industrial and consumer applications.

Example of Sharp Sensor Models:

1. GP2Y0A21YK0F:

   • Range: Approximately 10 cm to 80 cm.
   • Output: Analog voltage output.
   • Applications: Suitable for close-range distance measurement and obstacle avoidance.

2. GP2Y0D805Z0F:

   • Range: Approximately 4 cm to 30 cm.
   • Output: Digital output with a built-in comparator.
   • Applications: Ideal for short-range object detection and proximity sensing.

Connecting a Sharp Sensor to Arduino:

Here’s a guide to connect a Sharp distance sensor with an Arduino and read its output.

Wiring Instructions for GP2Y0A21YK0F (Analog Output):

1. Sharp Sensor to Arduino:
   • VCC (Sharp Sensor) to 5V (Arduino).
   • GND (Sharp Sensor) to GND (Arduino).
   • VOUT (Sharp Sensor) to an analog input pin on Arduino (e.g., A0).

// Define the analog pin where the Sharp sensor is connected
#define SHARP_SENSOR_PIN A0

void setup() {
  // Start serial communication for debugging
  Serial.begin(9600);
}

void loop() {
  // Read the raw analog value from the Sharp sensor (0 to 1023)
  int sensorValue = analogRead(SHARP_SENSOR_PIN);
  
  // Convert the sensor value to voltage (0 to 5V)
  float voltage = sensorValue * (5.0 / 1023.0);

  // Calculate the distance in cm (using the Sharp sensor's formula)
  // For GP2Y0A21YK0F, the distance is calculated as:
  // Distance = (27.86 * pow(sensorValue, -1.10))
  // This is an empirical formula based on datasheet values

  // If using a different sensor, adjust the formula accordingly.
  float distance = (27.86 * pow(sensorValue, -1.10));
  
  // Print the raw sensor value, voltage, and calculated distance
  Serial.print("Sensor Value: ");
  Serial.print(sensorValue);
  Serial.print(" Voltage: ");
  Serial.print(voltage);
  Serial.print("V Distance: ");
  Serial.print(distance);
  Serial.println(" cm");

  // Add a delay for better readability of output
  delay(500);
}