IR Line Follower

Precision IR Line Follower Sensor – Fast, Low‑Power Line Detection for Robotics

The IR Line Follower is a compact, integrated sensor module designed for accurate line‑tracking in mobile robots, automated guided vehicles, and educational robotics kits. It houses a series of IR LED/photodiode pairs arranged in a symmetrical array, which emit near‑infrared light and detect reflections from the surface below. By comparing the intensity of reflected light across the array, the module determines the position of a contrasting line (e.g., black on white or vice versa) and outputs either a set of digital channels or an analog voltage proportional to the line location. Its low power consumption and fast response time (≤ 2 ms) make it ideal for real‑time control systems.

• Key Spec 1: Four infrared emitter/detector pairs with 8 mm spacing, arranged in a cross‑hair configuration for robust detection.
• Key Spec 2: Operating voltage 4.5–5.5 VDC, max current 35 mA, with an internal photodiode bias for stable operation.
• Key Spec 3: Detection range 1 cm to 8 cm on matte surfaces, with < 2 ms response time and < 0.5 % noise floor in industrial environments.
• Common Use Case: Line following and lane‑keeping for small robots, autonomous floor cleaners, and educational kits that require precise path following.