Mounting

ratgdo32 disco

ratgdo32 disco has an adjustable mount so that the vehicle presence detection laser can be aimed. The VSCEL sensor is mounted on the face of the control board and works by shooting a laser pulse out and then measuring how long it takes for the pulse to be reflected back at the sensor.

For best results, aim the sensor at a painted surface such as the car hood or roof. Avoid aiming it at the windshield, glass sunroof, canvas or other materials which absorb light.

You can use your hand or a piece of cardboard to test the sensor. The live measured distance is displayed in the ESP Home web UI in real time. As you move closer or farther from the sensor you will see the value update. For best results, position the sensor so that it is within 1' to 5' from the vehicle. The sensor can measure things up to 12' away but the reliability can be diminished due to varying reflective surface conditions.

Once aimed at the car, check the distance sensor's value to make sure it is getting a reliable reading. Adjust the aim of the sensor as necessary. Visit the device's web UI and adjust the Vehicle distance target value so that it is 200mm greater than the Vehicle distance actual value. This value can be fined tuned for best results, but 200mm is a good starting point. 

Please excuse the crudity of this diagram. I didn't have time to draw it to scale or paint it.

ratgdo32 disco parking assistance laser

If you purchased the optional parking assistance laser, the red dot laser housing can be aimed independently of the vehicle presence detection laser.

Park the car in the desired spot, and then aim the red dot laser at a part of the car that you can see from the driver seat. The trailing edge of the hood or dashboard are good choices.

When ratgdo detects the car pulling into the garage, the red laser will turn on. When the dot reaches your designated position you will know that you are parked in the correct place.