Object detector using ultrasonic sensor with 555 timer

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the design and functionality of an object detector using an ultrasonic sensor and a 555 timer. Participants explore issues related to component selection, particularly capacitors, and the operational characteristics of the ultrasonic sensor in the context of detection capabilities.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant reports issues with buzzer volume despite trying different capacitor values, indicating a need for further adjustments.
  • Another participant asserts that a 3.3 pF capacitor is too small for a 555 oscillator, suggesting a calculation for a required capacitance of 24 nF based on the circuit configuration.
  • A participant questions whether changing the resistance of R2 could compensate for the lack of suitable capacitor values, but this is met with confusion from others.
  • Concerns are raised about the minimum timing capacitor value for the 555 timer, with suggestions that a 3.3 nF capacitor would be more appropriate than 3.3 pF.
  • Discussion shifts to the ultrasonic sensor, with participants noting that it may require more than just a timer for effective operation.
  • One participant highlights the importance of having a reflector within range for the ultrasonic sensor to function properly, emphasizing the need for specific conditions for detection.
  • Another participant suggests that a comparator might be necessary for the ultrasonic sensor, particularly for maximizing its range.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the appropriate capacitor values for the 555 timer and the operational requirements of the ultrasonic sensor. There is no consensus on the best approach to resolve the issues raised.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention limitations in available component values and the potential impact of sensor placement and environmental conditions on detection accuracy.

engnrshyckh
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TL;DR
I am doing a simple project in which i want to detect object using 555 timer and ultrasonic sensor.
See the attached figure.
I used 220uF with buzzer and also tried 10uF capacitor but buzzer isn't loud enough. I don't have any 3.3pf capacitor. I used 1.1 pF instead. I also tried changing the resistance of potentiometer but still buzzer isn't sound loud enough.
 

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The 3.3 pF capacitor is much too small for a 555 oscillator.
frequency = 1.46 / ( (R1 + 2*R2) * C )
C = 1.46 / ( 5kHz * ( 10k + 2*1k) ) = 24 nF
 
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Baluncore said:
The 3.3 pF capacitor is much too small for a 555 oscillator.
frequency = 1.46 / ( (R1 + 2*R2) * C )
C = 1.46 / ( 5kHz * ( 10k + 2*1k) ) = 24 nF
I don't have such values of capacitance can i change the value of R2 FOR fixed value of C i. I 3.3pF
 
engnrshyckh said:
I don't have such values of capacitance can i change the value of R2 FOR fixed value of C i. I 3.3pF
I have no idea what you are suggesting there.

If I remember correctly, the 555 needs a timing capacitor of 470pF minimum.
The 3.3pF is not useful anywhere in the circuit. I do not know why the website showed that value on the schematic. If you look in the parts list, you will see it specifies a 3.3nF capacitor. That is a better choice.

I computed a timing capacitor value of about 24nF. The closest available value will probably be 22nF. Try any value of capacitance you can find between (1nF = 0.001uF) and (100nF = 0.1uF).

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/555_timer_IC#Astable
 
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Windadct said:
- the sensor in your image looks like a Ultrasonic DISTANCE sensor -
If there is no reflector within range in the 15° beam, then it does not produce a detection pulse, so it may be used as a detector without range.
 
Windadct said:
Asside from the 555 issues - the sensor in your image looks like a Ultrasonic DISTANCE sensor -

https://www.sparkfun.com/products/15569

This needs more then a timer.
Yes it is so may be a commarotor will work
 
Yes, a comparator will likely work.

Although likely needed only for the maximum range of 4 meters, please note the comment on page 3 of the datasheet:
(bold added)
When tested objects, the range of area is not less than 0.5 square meters and the plane requests as smooth as possible, otherwise, it will affect the
results of measuring.

Cheers,
Tom
 

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