INFRARED SENSOR

Throughout lots of discussions and testings, we have make a serious decision, changing the ultrasonic sensor to an infrared sensor.

So, what is an infrared sensor? An Infrared sensor is an electronic sensor that measures infrared (IR) light radiating from objects in its field of view.

We plan to use the sensor to detect the wall or banks of our water body. This allows our boat to know when to turn. Using this knowledge combined with our compass the boat is able to achieve a 90° turn for both left and right hence completing the lawn mower pattern.

On the other side, we had figured out how to mount the infrared sensor onto our boat. Firstly we purchased some pipes, we got an one-side threaded connector and 45° connector.Then, we cut the pipe into 2 pieces, one is 20mm long and another is 10mm. We drilled a hole on one end of the 20mm long of pipe.

We also designed and 3D printed a bracket to hold the pipe.

The bracket is mounted on top of the cover of the tupperware and secured with screws and nuts.

Besides that we designed and 3D printed a shelter for the infrared sensor to prevent the excess infrared light from the sun which may affect the reading. The infrared sensor is inserted into the one-side threaded connector and sealed with transparent silicon sealant.

After that, we assemble the pipes and connectors as shown in the photo where the pipe with hole attached to the bracket and secured with a screw and nut while the other pipe connect both the pipe connectors.