Infrared (IR) Proximity Obstacle Detecting Avoidance Sensor Module

An Infrared Obstacle Avoidance Sensor Module is a short‑range reflective IR detector (typically 2–30 cm) that uses an IR LED and receiver to output a digital HIGH/LOW signal indicating whether an object is present. It operates on 3.3–5 V, includes an adjustable potentiometer for tuning distance, and is widely used in Arduino/ESP32 robot‑car collision avoidance.

Overview

Infrared Obstacle Avoidance Sensor Modules detect nearby objects by emitting infrared light and measuring the reflected signal. When an obstacle reflects IR back to the receiver, the module outputs a LOW signal; when clear, it outputs HIGH. This makes it a binary proximity detector rather than a distance‑measuring sensor.

Typical Features

• Detection range: ~2–30 cm (adjustable via potentiometer)
• Operating voltage: 3.3–5 V
• Output: Digital (HIGH = clear, LOW = obstacle)
• Detection angle: ~35°
• Components: IR LED emitter + IR receiver + LM393 comparator (common design)
• Use cases: Robot collision avoidance, line‑following, automation triggers, object counters.

Example Applications

• Autonomous robot obstacle avoidance
• Line‑following car edge detection
• Conveyor object detection
• Touchless dispensers (short‑range triggers)