Tier 3
Series 201
201D: Sensor Arrays
"A pilot doesn't fly with their eyes closed, hoping they won't hit a mountain. They use Radar (Raycasts) and Proximity Sensors (Overlaps). If your AI is blind, it relies on bumping into things to know they exist. A skilled Architect audits for Proactive Sensing."
The Concept: Raycasts & Overlaps
Sensors allow AI to "See" the world before touching it.
* **Raycast:** A laser pointer. Good for "Is there a wall in front of me?"
* **OverlapSphere:** A radar pulse. Good for "Who is near me?"
* **LayerMasks:** Filters to ignore debris and focus on threats.
* **Raycast:** A laser pointer. Good for "Is there a wall in front of me?"
* **OverlapSphere:** A radar pulse. Good for "Who is near me?"
* **LayerMasks:** Filters to ignore debris and focus on threats.
Red Flag Detected
The AI Trap: "The Infinity Ray"
You ask the AI: "Check if there is a wall in front of the drone."
// AI-Generated Code: Expensive & Unfiltered
void Update() {
// Audit Fail: Infinite distance? Checking every frame?
// Hitting everything including dust particles?
if (Physics.Raycast(transform.position, fwd, out hit)) {
Debug.Log("Hit something!");
}
}
This is "Infinite Range." The raycast will check objects 5 miles away, wasting CPU. It also lacks a LayerMask, so it hits non-obstacles.
Elite Telemetry
Research shows "Elite" teams achieve 15% faster lead times by keeping AI on a "very tight leash."
- Small Batches Solving one problem at a time prevents logic drift.
- Modular Design Localizing the "blast radius" of AI changes.
- Tight Loops Rapid iteration with constant code review.
The Architect's Correction
Corrective Protocol
// Corrected: Optimized Vision
int wallLayer = LayerMask.GetMask("Walls");
void Update() {
// Short range, specific target
if (Physics.Raycast(pos, fwd, out hit, 10f, wallLayer)) {
TurnAway();
}
}
Your Pilot Command
> A skilled Architect directs the AI to Focus the Sensor. You command: "Limit the Raycast distance to 10 meters and use a LayerMask to detect only Walls."