The grayscale Patrol sensor operates similarly to the infrared line-tracking sensor but offers enhanced recognition capability compared to the smaller infrared modules. It uses a high-brightness LED light source to illuminate the detection surface. When the surface features two contrasting colors, the reflected light intensity changes. The grayscale receiver picks up two different light intensities, and a voltage comparator within the sensor processes the difference, allowing it to identify the contrasting colors and output a signal with varying high and low levels.

This sensor is widely used in line-following competitions, where tracks often feature strong color contrasts such as red/white, black/white, green/white, blue/white, yellow/white, and yellow/black. The greater the color difference, the better the resolution. Each of the eight sensor probes is equipped with a custom-designed light shield, which improves detection accuracy and reduces interference, enhancing overall performance.

Key Features

1. Eight-Channel Sensor Array: Provides multi-point line detection, allowing for smoother and more accurate line-following in complex environments.
2. Enhanced Recognition: The sensor’s superior recognition capability is ideal for distinguishing between high-contrast color pairs, such as black/white or red/white, with excellent accuracy.
3. Adjustable Detection Range: Detection distance can be adjusted between 10mm and 60mm, offering flexibility for different application needs.
4. Customizable Installation Height: Recommended installation height is between 10mm and 30mm for optimal performance.
5. High Sensitivity: The sensor accurately detects changes in reflected light intensity, improving line-following precision.
6. Wide Voltage Support: Operates within a 3.3V to 6V voltage range, making it versatile for a variety of platforms.
7. Digital Output: Outputs in high and low digital levels, making it easy to interface with microcontrollers without the need for complex ADC conversions.
8. Light Shield Design: Each probe is equipped with a custom light shield, reducing external light interference and boosting sensor accuracy.

Additional Features

• Independent Signal / Adjustable: Each channel operates independently, and sensitivity can be fine-tuned using a linear adjustable potentiometer.
• Reverse Polarity Protection: Built-in IC protection prevents damage from incorrect power connections.
• LED Indicators: Eight-channel LED indicators show the sensor’s status and signal levels, offering real-time feedback.