"Sensor Fundamentals"

5th Session: Ultrasonic Sensor

In this session, the ultrasonic sensor will be introduced.

1 OUTLINE
The ultrasonic sensor detects vehicles, obstructions, etc. in front of and
behind the vehicle by transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves.
Ultrasonic sensors are installed in the front and rear bumpers, and are used
in the back and clearance sonar systems.
There are two types of ultrasonic sensors: 1) a mid-range distance (under
1.0 m) sensor used to detect obstructions behind the vehicle, and 2) a short-
range distance (under 0.5 m) sensor used to detect obstructions at the
bumper corners.

2 CONSTRUCTION
Ultrasonic sensors have a built-in microphone to transmit/receive ultrasonic waves, as well as a built-in
circuit to calculate the distance to obstructions. The microphone consists of a Piezoelectric element attached
to the case (diaphragm). In addition, the calculation circuit features a silicon filled, waterproof construction.

<Short-Range Distance (Under 0.5 m)> <Mid-Range Distance (Under 1.0 m)>
Microphone Microphone

Circuit Circuit

3 OPERATION
When Alternating Current (AC) at a frequency of several tens of kHz is applied to the Piezoelectric element
inside the microphone, the diaphragm vibrates according to the frequency (inverse Piezoelectric effect),
emitting ultrasonic waves into the air. Conversely, when ultrasonic waves (reflected waves) are received and
the Piezoelectric element vibrates, an AC voltage frequency is generated (Piezoelectric effect) according to
the vibration of the ultrasonic waves. Using the built-in distance calculation circuit, the distance to
obstructions can be detected from the time (T) taking for ultrasonic waves to be emitted and then received.

Ultrasonic Waves
Detection Object
Reception Pulse
Transmission Pulse
(Reflected Waves)

Reflection

Transmission Pulse Reception Pulse

T Time

Distance Calculation

13 SERVICE TECH Vol.489 07-4