Control.com - Nerds in Control

I just want to ask how to monitor the distance between cars/vehicles. What can I use that will not cost much?

Thanks in advance.

A tape measure.

Regards

cww

Now that we've had our little fun, how about a real answer?

You can use ultrasonics, or a laser. LED lasers are getting very cheap. So are ultrasonic sensors.

Other ideas?

Walt Boyes
Editor in Chief
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Specifically, many US cars now have prox devices directly in the bumper. If your application is vehicular, could you use the same part?

At close range my ruler will be more cost effective than your tape measure

Nathan

Yes, but you get much better turndown with the tape measure. Especially under 12 inches.

Of course, it you're upscale, you can get an electronic tape measure for < $30 at the big box stores. To offer the asker something of value, perhaps he should look at the technology they use.

Regards

cww

Or even more high tech - a laser rangefinder. Hard to interface to an automated system on a car, though.

----
Nathan Boeger
http://www.inductiveautomation.com
Total SCADA Freedom