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Gesture + RGB Sensor

Introduction:​

The Light, Proximity, and Gesture Sensor Module features the APDS-9960 sensor, a versatile device that integrates ambient light sensing, proximity detection, and gesture recognition capabilities. This sensor is commonly used in applications requiring touchless control and light sensitivity adjustments.

What is the APDS-9960?​

The APDS-9960, developed by Avago Technologies (now part of Broadcom), offers three main functionalities:

  • Ambient Light Sensing: Measures surrounding light levels.
  • Proximity Sensing: Detects nearby objects.
  • Gesture Recognition: Detects hand movements, like swipes and waves, enabling touchless user interfaces.

How the APDS-9960 Works:​

  • Measurement Process: Photodiodes measure light intensity, while infrared signals are used for proximity and gesture detection.
  • Data Output: The sensor uses the I2C protocol to communicate with microcontrollers, such as ESP32.

Key Features of APDS-9960:​

  • Multi-Functional: Ambient light, proximity, and gesture sensing in one sensor.
  • Low Power Consumption: Suitable for battery-powered devices.
  • I2C Interface: Easy communication with microcontrollers.
  • Programmable Gain: Allows customization for different sensitivity needs.

Real-World Applications:​

  • Smartphones/Tablets: For automatic brightness control and gesture-based interfaces.
  • Home Automation: Gesture control and ambient light adjustment for smart devices.
  • Robotics: Touchless interaction through gestures.

Pinout for APDS-9960 Module:​

  • VCC: Power supply (3.3V to 5V)
  • GND: Ground
  • SCL: I2C clock line
  • SDA: I2C data line

For more technical information, refer to the APDS-9960 Datasheet.

Code Guide​

Library Information:​

  • Library Name: LightProximityAndGesture.h
  • I2C Address: 0x39

Code Flow:​

#include <LightProximityAndGesture.h>
LightProximityAndGesture sensor;

void setup() {
    Serial.begin(9600);
    Wire.begin();
    
    if (sensor.begin()) {
        Serial.println("Sensor connected.");
    } else {
        Serial.println("Sensor disconnected.");
    }
}

void loop() {
    if (sensor.ping()) {
        // Display sensor data
    }
}

Step-by-Step Code Explanation:​

  1. Include the Library: To access the sensor functions, include the relevant library.
  2. Create a Sensor Object: This object will be used for all sensor interactions.
  3. Initialize Serial and I2C Communication: Serial communication helps with debugging, while I2C is necessary for sensor communication.
  4. Establish a Connection: Verify that the sensor is connected during the setup().
  5. Monitor the Sensor Continuously: In the loop(), regularly check for connection and data updates.

Available Functions in LightProximityAndGesture.h:​

Class Creation and Initialization Functions:​

  • Create an Object of the Class:

    LightProximityAndGesture sensor;

    This creates an object that allows interaction with the sensor.

  • Initialize the Sensor:

    bool begin();

    Initializes the sensor. Returns true if successful.

  • Ping the Sensor:

    bool ping();

    Checks if the sensor is still connected. Returns true if connected.

Gesture Detection:​

  • Detect a Gesture: 
    char *getGesture(bool print = true);
    Detects a gesture (like swipe left/right or wave). Optionally prints the detected gesture.

Proximity Detection:​

  • Get Proximity Value: 
    float getProximity(bool print = true);
    Returns a value between 1 (no object nearby) and 255 (object very close).

RGB Proportion Measurement:​

  • Get RGB Proportion: 
    uint16_t *getRGBProportion(bool print = true);
    Measures the proportion of red, green, and blue light in the ambient light.

Ambient Light Measurement:​

  • Get Ambient Light Level: 
    uint16_t getAmbientLight(bool print = true);
    Returns the level of ambient light in lux.

Sensor Control Functions:​

  • Enable/Disable Sensors: 
    bool enableAmbientLightSensor(STATE_t interrupt = DISABLE);
    bool enableProximitySensor();
    bool enableGestureSensor();
    bool disableAmbientLightSensor();
    bool disableProximitySensor();
    bool disableGestureSensor();
    These functions enable or disable specific sensors (ambient light, proximity, gesture).

Advanced Features:​

The library includes advanced functionality like calibration and interrupt control, allowing fine-tuning of the sensor for more accurate measurements.

For example codes, you can check out File -> Examples -> Gesture_Demo in the Arduino IDE.

This sensor is ideal for creating interactive projects that involve touchless control or automatically adjusting the environment based on light or gesture input.