Principles and features of ultrasonic sensors - Semiconductor business -Macnica

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Fundamental Sensors Texas Instruments

"Sensors" are now indispensable in the fields of IoT and factory automation.
Of the many types of sensors, this time we will focus on ultrasonic sensors and explain their principles, features, and applications.

Finally, we will also introduce a recommended ultrasonic sensor evaluation module from Texas Instruments (hereafter TI).
Please take a look.

The principle of ultrasonic sensors is "TOF"

TOF (Time of Flight) is a method of measuring the time it takes for an emitted object to be reflected by an object and returned to the object, thereby measuring the distance. Light and ultrasonic waves are typical examples of emitted light.

Distance measurement with ultrasonic sensor

Now, I will explain how to actually measure distance using an ultrasonic sensor and the function of each block.

Ultrasonic sensor distance measurement method

Ultrasound AFE (analog front end)
Generates a pulse waveform upon receiving a trigger from a microcomputer.

ultrasonic transducer
It converts electrical signals into ultrasonic waves and outputs transmission waves toward the target. The reflected wave reflected by the object is returned to an electric signal and returned to the ultrasonic AFE.

The ultrasonic AFE receives weak signals with high sensitivity. A STOP trigger is sent along with TOF information, and the microcomputer calculates the time difference between the START and STOP triggers, which can be converted to distance.

Three features of ultrasonic sensors

Next, we will introduce the features of the ultrasonic sensor. Please refer to it as a point when choosing an ultrasonic sensor from among non-contact sensors.

Feature 1: OK even if the object moves

TOF can be measured not only for stationary objects but also for moving objects.
As a condition, it is possible to detect an object that is several meters away in the air and is moving at a speed slower than the ultrasonic speed (340 m/s/1234 km/h * Mach 1).

Feature 2: Any material can be used for the object

Ultrasound is a type of sound that can travel through any medium. In other words, since it propagates through gases, liquids, and solids, there is no need to modify the object side.

Feature 3: Easy hardware and software design

The hardware configuration of an ultrasonic sensor can be realized with a microcomputer, an ultrasonic AFE, and a transducer.
Also, on the microcomputer side, there is only a stopwatch function that converts TOF information into distance. Therefore, difficult design is not required for both hardware and software.

Application examples of ultrasonic sensors

parking assist

Parking assist functions using ultrasonic sensors are already widespread in the market.

By installing an ultrasonic sensor in a vehicle, it is possible to measure the distance between the parked car and the wall and avoid collisions.

Water meter/liquid identifier

By changing the installation position of the transducer that emits ultrasonic waves, it can be applied to liquid level measurement and liquid identification.

recommendation! TI ultrasonic sensor evaluation module

BOOSTXL-PGA460

The evaluation module for PGA460 consists of Motherboard with PGA460-Q1 and Daughter Card with transducer.

By connecting with the separately sold MSP430F5529 LaunchPad™ Development Kit (MSP-EXP430F5529LP), control from a PC is possible.

Product details
(TI company site)

Click here to purchase
(Macnica-Mouser site)

TDC1000-C2000EVM

*Since production of "TDC1000-TDC7200EVM" previously posted has been discontinued, we will introduce it as a replacement.

The TDC1000-C2000EVM is an evaluation module for the ultrasonic AFE TDC1000. It also has a real-time control microcomputer C2000 and can evaluate the operation and performance of the TDC1000.

This module can be used for many ultrasonic sensing applications such as automotive liquid level detection, concentration and liquid identification, proximity or distance measurement.

Product details
(TI company site)

Click here to purchase
(Macnica-Mouser site)

New added value with ultrasonic sensors!

We introduced the measurement method and application examples of ultrasonic sensors that use the principle of TOF. How was it?

By incorporating ultrasonic sensors into products, it is possible to create unprecedented added value.
If you are interested, please try the ultrasonic sensor with the evaluation module.

Contact Us

If you would like more information about the TI ultrasonic sensor products introduced in this article, please contact us here.

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