Sensor 6: Tap Module
1st Mauro Jake Sabanal 2nd Jerome R. Pastrana 3rd Gienno Petalcorin 4th Elaija Rodriguez
Electrical Engineering Electrical Engineering Electrical Engineering Electrical Engineering
Cebu Technological University Cebu Technological University Cebu Technological University Cebu Technological University
Cebu, Philippines Cebu, Philippines Cebu, Philippines Cebu, Philippines
[Link]@[Link] [Link]@[Link] [Link]@[Link] [Link]@[Link]
5th Hya Shane Tejume
Electrical Engineering
Cebu Technological University
Cebu, Philippines
[Link]@[Link]
Abstract—The KY-031 Knock Sensor Module represents a
pivotal advancement in sensor technology, offering a compact
and sensitive solution for detecting mechanical vibrations and
impacts. This module integrates a piezoelectric element that con-
verts physical disturbances into electrical signals, enabling precise
detection and measurement of knocks, taps, or vibrations. With
its versatile applications across industries such as automotive,
security systems, and interactive devices, the KY-031 module
serves as a cornerstone component for projects requiring robust
impact sensing capabilities. This abstract provides an overview
of the KY-031 module, its operational principles, applications,
and potential benefits in diverse engineering endeavors.
I. I NTRODUCTION
The KY-031 Knock Sensor Module emerges as a critical
tool in the realm of impact sensing and detection. Engineered
to convert mechanical disturbances into electrical signals, this
module offers unparalleled sensitivity and reliability in captur-
ing transient events such as knocks, taps, or vibrations. At its Fig. 1. Tap Module Sensor in Calibration
core lies a piezoelectric sensor element, capable of generating
electrical charge in response to applied mechanical stress. By
leveraging this principle, the KY-031 module enables precise II. M ETHODOLOGY
detection and analysis of physical impacts, thereby finding A. Module Familiarization
widespread utility across an array of industrial and consumer - Review the specifications and pinout of the KY-031 mod-
applications. ule as provided by the manufacturer. - Identify the components
This paper aims to delve into the intricacies of the KY-031 on the module, including the piezoelectric sensor element and
Knock Sensor Module, elucidating its underlying mechanisms, associated circuitry.
operational characteristics, and practical implementations. We
delve into the design and construction of the module, ex- B. Hardware Set-up
amining the integration of piezoelectric materials and signal - Connect the KY-031 module to a microcontroller or
conditioning circuitry. Furthermore, we explore the diverse development board (e.g., Arduino) using jumper wires. -
range of applications where the KY-031 module excels, in- Ensure proper connection of power (VCC and GND) and
cluding but not limited to collision detection in automotive signal (OUT) pins according to the module’s pinout diagram.
systems, security alarms, interactive toys, and gesture recog-
nition interfaces. Through a comprehensive examination of its C. Calibration and Sensitivity Adjustments
functionalities and potential use cases, we seek to underscore - Determine the sensitivity range of the knock sensor
the significance of the KY-031 Knock Sensor Module as a module by conducting calibration experiments. - Adjust the
foundational technology driving innovation in impact sensing sensitivity level, if required, using potentiometers or software
and related domains. calibration techniques to suit the application’s needs.
D. Programming The observed behavior of the Tap Module aligns with
- Write or download firmware code compatible with the its intended functionality, wherein mechanical vibrations or
microcontroller platform being used. - Implement code to read impacts trigger the piezoelectric sensor element, generating
analog or digital signals from the KY-031 module. - Develop electrical signals that indicate a tapping event. The sensor’s
algorithms to interpret sensor readings and detect knock events sensitivity and responsiveness enable it to detect even subtle
based on predefined thresholds or patterns. taps reliably, ensuring robust performance in various real-
world scenarios.
E. Testing and Validation While the Tap Module exhibits commendable performance
- Upload the firmware code to the microcontroller and in detecting tapping events, further investigation may be
verify that the KY-031 module is functioning correctly. - warranted to explore its sensitivity range, response time, and
Test the module’s response to various types and intensities of environmental factors that could influence its operation. Fine-
mechanical impacts, including knocks, taps, and vibrations. - tuning these parameters could enhance the module’s versatility
Validate the accuracy and reliability of knock detection against and applicability across a broader range of use cases.
expected outcomes and real-world scenarios. Additionally, potential applications of the Tap Module ex-
tend beyond simple tap detection, encompassing areas such as
F. Integration into Applications security systems, industrial automation, and human-computer
- Integrate the KY-031 module into the target application or interaction. By leveraging its precise sensing capabilities, the
project design. - Incorporate additional functionalities, such Tap Module can contribute to the development of innovative
as event logging, triggering external actions, or interfacing solutions that prioritize user experience, efficiency, and safety.
with other sensors, as necessary. - Ensure compatibility and IV. C ONCLUSION
seamless communication with other components or modules
within the system. In conclusion, the results of the Tap Module test under-
score its effectiveness as a reliable and responsive sensor for
G. Optimization and Fine-Tuning detecting tapping events. With its consistent performance and
- Fine-tune the sensitivity settings and code parameters to potential for diverse applications, the Tap Module represents a
optimize the performance of the KY-031 module in specific valuable tool for engineers, designers, and innovators seeking
operating conditions. - Address any false positives or false to incorporate tactile interaction and impact sensing into their
negatives encountered during testing by adjusting threshold projects.
levels or refining detection algorithms. V. D OCUMENTATION
H. Documentation and Maintenance
- Document the hardware connections, calibration proce-
dures, firmware code, and operational guidelines for future ref-
erence. - Provide instructions for maintenance, troubleshoot-
ing, and re-calibration as needed. - Update documentation to
reflect any modifications or enhancements made to the system
over time.
III. R ESULTS AND D ISCUSSION
The results obtained from the Tap Module test reveal
consistent sensor activity patterns in response to tap and untap
events. Each test iteration involved tapping or untapping the
module, with corresponding observations recorded regarding
the sensor’s activation status.
The data demonstrates that tapping the module consistently
activates the sensor, as indicated by the ”tap” and ”activated”
entries in the respective columns. Conversely, untapping the
module consistently results in the sensor returning to an un-
activated state, as indicated by the ”untap” and ”unactivated”
entries.
The uniformity of sensor responses across multiple test runs
underscores the reliability and repeatability of the Tap Mod-
ule’s performance. This consistency is crucial for applications
requiring accurate detection and recognition of tapping events,
such as user interfaces, interactive displays, and gesture-
controlled devices.
TABLE I
TAP M ODULE T EST R ESULTS
Test No. Tap/untap Sensor Activity Result
1 untap unactivated Untap and Unactivated
2 tap activated Tap and Activated
3 tap activated Tap and Activated
4 untap unactivated Untap and Unactivated
5 tap activated Tap and Activated
6 tap activated Tap and Activated
7 tap activated Tap and Activated
8 tap activated Tap and Activated
9 tap activated Tap and Activated
10 tap activated Tap and Activated
11 tap activated Tap and Activated
12 tap activated Tap and Activated
13 tap activated Tap and Activated
14 tap activated Tap and Activated
15 tap activated Tap and Activated
16 tap activated Tap and Activated
17 tap activated Tap and Activated
18 tap activated Tap and Activated
19 tap activated Tap and Activated
20 tap activated Tap and Activated
21 tap activated Tap and Activated
22 tap activated Tap and Activated
23 tap activated Tap and Activated
24 tap activated Tap and Activated
25 tap activated Tap and Activated
26 tap activated Tap and Activated
27 tap activated Tap and Activated
28 tap activated Tap and Activated
29 tap activated Tap and Activated
30 tap activated Tap and Activated
