Mechanics Experiments with SEELab3: Displacement Measurements using VL53L0X LIDAR & SR04 Echo Module

Using SEELab3 with distance sensors like the VL53L0X LIDAR or the HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Echo Module allows you to accurately capture real-time spatial coordinates for dynamic mechanics experiments.

1. Wiring & Sensor Connections

A. VL53L0X Laser LIDAR (I2C Interface)

The VL53L0X uses standard I2C communication to transfer distance measurements back to SEELab3.

Software Note: In the SEELab3 software GUI, the VL53L0X is automatically detected when plugged into the I2C port.

B. HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Echo Sensor

The HC-SR04 relies on a trigger pulse to emit sound bursts and measures the duration until the echo returns.

2. Mechanics Applications & Experiment Setups

By tracking distance as a function of time$y(t)$or$x(t)$, SEELab3 automatically differentiates position data to yield velocity$v(t)$and acceleration$a(t)$.

1. Mass-Spring Harmonic Oscillator

• Setup: Suspend a mass on a vertical spring with the VL53L0X or SR04 pointing directly in the normal direction to a flat plate attached to the mass.
• Physics: Measures continuous displacement over time:$$y(t) = A \sin(\omega t + \phi)$$
• Data & Analysis:
  • Fit a sine wave to the distance-time curve to extract the natural oscillation frequency ($f$).
  • Observe Damped Harmonic Motion by tracking the exponential decay of amplitude over time:$$A(t) = A_0 e^{-\gamma t}$$

2. Simple & Driven Pendulum Motion

• Setup: Position the sensor horizontally facing a pendulum bob at its lowest point (equilibrium position).
• Physics: Tracks small-angle angular displacement over time.
• Data & Analysis: Verify the period formula:$$T = 2\pi \sqrt{\frac{L}{g}}$$and analyze damping.
• SQ1: Set SQ1, and use its pulsed output to transfer energy to the pendulum. You can attach a small magnet to the pendulum, and a solenoid connected to SQ1 to drive. you can also use the DC motor as the pivot, and power it from SQ1 to drive.

3. Motion on an Inclined Plane

• Setup: Place the sensor at the top or bottom of a smooth track/ramp aimed at a low-friction rolling cart.
• Physics: Measures constant acceleration down an incline:$$a = g \sin\theta$$
• Data & Analysis: Real-time demonstration of linear velocity profiles:$$v(t) = u + at$$

3. Sensor Selection Guide

• VL53L0X LIDAR: Best for small or curved targets. Features a narrow beam angle, and precise range (~30 mm to 1.2 m).
• HC-SR04 Ultrasonic: Best for broad or flat reflecting surfaces over longer ranges (up to ~4 m). Note that its wider acoustic cone can occasionally capture unwanted side reflections.