In practical applications, there are the following differences between ultrasonic sensors and infrared sensors:
Detection principle:
The ultrasonic sensor relies on emitting and receiving ultrasonic signals to measure distance or detect objects, and is not sensitive to the material and color of the object.
The infrared sensor works by detecting the infrared rays emitted or reflected by the object, and has a certain correlation with the temperature and surface characteristics of the object.
Detection range:
The ultrasonic sensor can usually achieve a relatively far detection distance and is suitable for medium and long distance measurement and detection.
The effective detection range of the infrared sensor is relatively close, and is generally suitable for perception at a relatively close distance.
Environmental adaptability:
The ultrasonic sensor is relatively less affected by environmental temperature, humidity, airflow, etc.
The infrared sensor may be interfered by environmental factors such as strong light sources (such as sunlight), smoke, and dust.
Accuracy and resolution:
In general, the ultrasonic sensor can achieve better accuracy and resolution in distance measurement.
In some cases, the accuracy of the infrared sensor may be slightly inferior.
Examples of application scenarios:
In industrial automation, ultrasonic sensors are often used in liquid level measurement, object positioning, etc.; infrared sensors can be used for temperature detection, human body induction, etc.
In smart home, infrared sensors are often used for human presence detection, remote control, etc.; ultrasonic sensors can be used for distance detection to realize functions such as automatic door opening and closing.
In the automotive field, ultrasonic sensors are often used in reverse radar; infrared sensors can be used for in-car temperature adjustment, etc.