An infrared distance sensor is used to measure the distance to an object without physical contact. Infrared distance sensors are typically small and cost-effective, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. They are commonly used for human detection, obstacle detection and distance measurement in robots, control of automatic doors, and non-contact control of devices, etc.

Infrared distance sensor is an optical sensor that detects distance. It is mainly composed of a light source LED and a semiconductor position sensing device (PSD) that outputs the position of the light input as a voltage. The light beam emitted from the LED light source is reflected by the target object and received by the PSD. The light receiving position on the PSD changes depending on the distance to the target object. This change is output as a voltage, which is converted into distance to determine the distance between the target object and the sensor.
The characteristic of this method is that it can detect the distance to people and objects without being affected by color or reflectivity. Its advantages are applied in various situations such as stair detection for cleaning robots, human detection for toilets and office equipment, proximity switches, and non-contact switch operations.

One application is human detection. It is used in office equipment and financial devices such as copiers and ATMs, where the screen lights up when a person approaches.

Distance sensor can be applied to touchless operation devices such as faucets that automatically dispense water when hands are brought close, and contactless input devices for inputting information without physical contact.

Recently, a combination of aerial display technology, which projects images in mid-air, and detection technology using distance sensors has been proposed. This proposal aims to create touchless touch panels or buttons that enable easy information input on displayed panels in mid-air, where there is no physical contact.
These devices not only demonstrate eye-catching appeal but also offer the following advantages:
・They allow for hygienic operation as there is no physical contact with objects.
・They can be operated even with dirty hands or while wearing gloves.
We propose these solutions for public spaces, shopping malls, amusement facilities, and in environments where hygiene is essential, such as healthcare facilities and food processing plants.

Collision and object fall detection can be applied to automatic cleaning robots or automated robots and AGVs in the industrial sector. With the IoT integration of factories, the role of distance sensors will expand even further.

Distance sensors are widely utilized as key devices for human detection, operation, control, and even collision and fall detection in the equipment and facilities that are commonly found in our daily lives.
KODENHSI offers a wide range of products, from long-range to short-range, and even those with resistance to electromagnetic noise and sunlight.