Flame Sensor Module

🔹 Flame Sensor Module – Digital & Analog Output (IR Detection)

A specialized infrared (IR) sensor module designed to detect the presence of a flame or fire source by sensing the characteristic flicker of IR light emitted by combustion. It provides both a digital trigger output and an analog intensity reading, making it versatile for fire alarm systems, safety cutoffs, and robotics.

✅ Specifications:

• Sensor Type: Infrared (IR) photodiode tuned to the 760nm – 1100nm flame spectrum

• Detection Range: Approximately 0.5 to 1 meter (depending on flame size/type)

• Spectral Response: Optimized for fire flicker frequency (typically ~1-10 Hz)

• Output Signals:

  • Digital Output (DO): TTL-level (HIGH/LOW). Adjustable threshold via potentiometer.

  • Analog Output (AO): Voltage output (0V to VCC) proportional to IR intensity.

• Supply Voltage: 3.3V – 5V DC

• Operating Current: ~15mA

• Interface: Standard 3-pin or 4-pin connector (VCC, GND, DO, AO)

• Adjustability: On-board sensitivity potentiometer for the digital threshold.

• Indicator LEDs: Power LED and Digital Output Status LED.

• Module Dimensions: Small PCB, typically ~ 32mm x 14mm

• Mounting: Standard 3mm mounting holes

⚙️ Key Features:

• Dual Output: Provides both a simple on/off alarm (DO) and a variable intensity reading (AO) for advanced monitoring.

• Flicker Detection: Filters ambient IR light to reduce false alarms from sunlight or hot objects.

• Adjustable Sensitivity: Fine-tune the digital trigger point for different environments or flame sizes.

• Easy Integration: Simple 3.3V/5V logic compatible with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other microcontrollers.

• Compact & Low Power: Suitable for battery-powered monitoring devices.

📦 Typical Applications:

• Fire/Smoke Alarms: DIY fire alert systems for homes, workshops, or drones.

• Safety Cutoff Systems: Automatic shutdown of gas valves, heaters, or machinery upon flame detection.

• Robotics: Flame-seeking robots for competitions or educational projects.

• Smart Home Integration: Triggering notifications or actions (e.g., turn on exhaust fan) when a stove flame is detected.

• Industrial Monitoring: As a low-cost sensor in equipment or environmental monitoring.

🔧 Wiring & Basic Usage (Arduino Example):

1. Connections:

   • VCC → Arduino 5V

   • GND → Arduino GND

   • AO → Arduino Analog Pin (e.g., A0)

   • DO → Arduino Digital Pin (e.g., D2)

2. Calibration (Digital Output):

   • Power on the sensor and point it away from any flame.

   • Adjust the sensitivity potentiometer until the DO LED just turns off. This sets the threshold.

   • When a flame is brought within range, the LED should light and the DO pin will go LOW (active low is common).

3. Basic Code Logic:
   cpp

   int DO_pin = 2;
int AO_pin = A0;
void setup() {
pinMode(DO_pin, INPUT);
Serial.begin(9600);
}
void loop() {
// Read Digital Output
if (digitalRead(DO_pin) == LOW) {
Serial.println("Flame Detected!");
}
// Read Analog Output
int sensorValue = analogRead(AO_pin);
Serial.print("IR Intensity: ");
Serial.println(sensorValue);
delay(500);
}

⚠️ Important Limitations & Usage Notes:

• Not a Precision Sensor: Detects IR flicker, not just heat or light. A steady hot object (like an iron) may not trigger it, but a flickering candle will.

• False Triggers: Can be triggered by strong sunlight, incandescent bulbs, or other IR sources with a flicker. Shield the sensor from direct ambient IR and use the AO reading to filter out false positives.

• Detection Angle: Has a ~60-degree cone of detection. Point it toward the area you want to monitor.

• Range Limitation: Best for small to medium flames within ~1 meter. For large or distant fires, consider a thermal camera or more advanced sensor.

• Lens Cleaning: Keep the IR receiver window clean. Dust or grease can drastically reduce sensitivity.