Hello, this is Cody Carlson from MaxBotix Inc.,
I saw your forum post, and I would like to lend some assistance.
You state: This is our first year trying to use the MaxBotix ultrasonic, and we're getting a *lot* of jumping around and noise.
I apologize as I'm unsure of which MaxBotix ultrasonic sensor you are using. We did send an MB1013 to every team in the First Robotics completion this year. This sensor has a relatively wide beam pattern. As such if there is clutter around the edge of its detection zone, you would see range readings jump. Two options that you could employ would be using blinders to narrow the line of sight of the sensor or test a less sensitive sensor like the MB1023, MB1033, or MB1043 where each is less sensitive than the previous model.
If you would like to look at making a blinder. This is, in general, a large flat object that runs parallel to the sensor to restrict its beam width. Some customers even attempt to make horns to restrict the beam width, but this is a more involved solution.
If you would like any help with sensor selection please let us know.
Sensor Selection Guide:
http://www.maxbotix.com/SelectionGui...tion-Guide.htm
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Best regards,
Cody Carlson
Technical Support
of MaxBotix Inc.
Phone: (218) 454-0766
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