FTC Prototype Board IR Break Beam.

[JohnFogarty]

So I was wondering if it was possible to make a custom sensor using the prototype board that is like a detector beam. Where when an object is in the line of the beam the signal is tripped, I know this is simple but how do you do it?

[davidthefat]

Originally Posted by John_1102

So I was wondering if it was possible to make a custom sensor using the prototype board that is like a detector beam. Where when an object is in the line of the beam the signal is tripped, I know this is simple but how do you do it?

our team just got a IR LED thing and a IR detector and lined them up, if the IR detector is not detecting, then the thing is tripped.

[biojae]

Yes, it is possible to build an IR break beam sensor with the protoboard.
But, there are 2 reasons why it would be illegal for Hot Shot! :
1. The Q&A response for using LEDs as a sensor

Originally Posted by FTC Q&A

A: <R5>d.8 specifically limits LED's to be used only for signaling to the drive team or for decorations. Homebrew light sensors using LED light sources do not fit within the allowed usages of LEDs and are therefore not allowed.

2. The rule restricting it to visible light only

Originally Posted by FTC Rules

<R5> d.8 8. Only visible light LEDs may be connected to the Prototype Board. These visible LEDs may only be used as a cueing signal for the team or for decoration. If used, the purpose must be demonstrated during inspection.