Author Archives: NATHAN KALTHOFF

Accelerometers are complex sensors that can be used to detect the acceleration of a robot. This can be used for multiple functions, such as calculating the robot’s velocity. This function could then be used to determine if the robot ran into an object, due to the robot’s sudden loss of velocity. The robot has threeContinue reading “Accelerometer”

Ultrasonic range finders are unique sensors that use high-frequency sound waves to detect objects. The range finder is then able to measure the distance between the object and itself, and the robot can be programmed to react accordingly. This can be used to avoid bumping into walls or other robots, without the need to hitContinue reading “Ultrasonic Range Finder”

Line trackers are useful tools in autonomous control for detecting changes in light. They work by shining an infrared light onto a surface. An sensor then detects the intensity of the light that bounces back, and translates it into a numerical value. Since darker colors absorb more light than lighter colors, the data value willContinue reading “Line Tracker”

Encoders and potentiometers can be some of the most useful sensors for autonomous control, as they can be used to measure the distance a part moves. This is done by measuring the axle rotation of a shaft, which is inserted inside of the encoder or potentiometer. While both are similar, encoders and potentiometers each haveContinue reading “Potentiometers and Encoders”

With the introduction of the V5 kits came the vision sensor. It works as a camera, and can be used to detect colored objects and react accordingly. The camera is able to detect seven different colors at once, which can be useful, as most game objects in the VEX competition are different colors. Vision sensorsContinue reading “Vision Sensors”

Touch sensors are some of the easiest sensors to program and use. When pressed, touch sensors will activate and send a signal to the brain of the robot. The two types of touch sensors are the bumper switch and the limit switch. They may have similar functions and program, but they each have their ownContinue reading “Touch Sensors”