A Vertec is an expensive device for measuring how high a person can jump:
I'm considering whether this could be implemented with an ultrasonic proximity sensor instead. Namely, the ultrasonic sensor would be suspended above the user at a fixed height and the user would jump up towards it. Are ultrasonic proximity sensors fast and accurate enough to detect the tip of a person's finger moving at high speed below the sensor?
Thanks.
I dont think an ultrasonic sensor is a good choice for that as the standard arduino sensors measure just up to 30cm. Idk if thats enough for you but how fast they are depends on your code. Im sure there are expensive ultrasonic sensors out there which are capable for longer distances. For what do you want to use it?
To make a cheap electronic vertec.
30cm range might be enough. The height of the sensor could be adjusted to within 30cm of a person's maximum jump height and that height could be factored in.
It would need to be sensitive enough to detect a fingertip moving at speed.
Grateful for any suggestions if there are better options than an ultrasonic sensor. Laser tripwires at 1cm intervals?