High-tolerance proximity switch capable of isolating signals

By designing a high-tolerance proximity switch with signal isolation, and utilizing the electromagnetic induction principle of the target and actuation mechanism, reliable detection of targets with large shape errors is achieved. This solves the problems of high false alarm rate and short lifespan of sensors in complex environments, and is suitable for scenarios such as automated warehousing and logistics and motion mechanisms.

CN223942688UActive Publication Date: 2026-02-24CHENGDU CAIC ELECTRONICS CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202520443142.9
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-03-13
Publication Date
2026-02-24
Estimated Expiration
2035-03-13

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing sensors perform poorly in application scenarios with large target object errors, complex environments, and limited power supply, and are prone to false alarms or poor contact reliability.

Method used

A high-tolerance proximity switch capable of signal isolation is designed. It employs a target, an actuation mechanism, and a proximity switch assembly. It utilizes the principle of electromagnetic induction for detection and isolates signals, including proximity signals between the target and the sensitive element, through an isolation cover when not in operation.

Benefits of technology

It achieves reliable detection of targets with large shape errors, reduces false alarm rate, improves sensor lifespan and anti-interference capability, and is suitable for complex environments and energy-limited application scenarios.

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Abstract

The utility model discloses a high-tolerance proximity switch capable of isolating signals, which is characterized in that the high-tolerance proximity switch comprises a target, and the target is mounted on an actuating mechanism used for realizing passive displacement and rebound of the target; the proximity switch assembly comprises a sensitive element which is used for detecting the approaching and departing states of the target and providing corresponding detection signals; the proximity switch assembly is arranged in the shell, and the shell is detachably provided with a partition cover plate used for partitioning a proximity signal between the target and the sensitive element; according to the scheme, the large-area target and the sensitive element are adopted to carry out electromagnetic induction matching, so that the scheme has relatively large range tolerance, the requirement on the in-place position degree of the target object is relatively low, and the in-place state of the target object with a large shape error can be detected; and in a non-working state, an approaching signal between the target and the sensitive element can be isolated through the isolation cover plate, so that the scheme can always keep a far-away signal in the non-working state, and signal false alarm in the non-working state is avoided.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of proximity switch technology, specifically to a high-tolerance proximity switch with signal isolation capability. Background Technology

[0002] In in-situ detection scenarios such as automated warehousing and logistics, and motion mechanisms, commonly used detection sensors include laser photoelectric switches, industrial cameras, limit switches, and proximity switches.

[0003] Laser-guided photoelectric switches utilize the obstruction relationship of the detected object to detect its position. Photoelectric switch sensors offer advantages such as non-destructive testing and long-distance detection; however, their ability to identify interference is poor, and false alarms are prone to occur when non-target objects block the light path. Industrial cameras rely on visual inspection technology to locate targets; however, this technology requires a computer for image acquisition and analysis, thus demanding high computational and power consumption, consuming significant resources on devices with limited computing or energy. Limit switches, on the other hand, utilize the contact of moving mechanical parts... The contactor actuates the circuit to connect or disconnect it. However, the contact reliability of this type of sensor is poor. Long-term use can lead to contact deformation, wear, ablation, and oxidation, all of which can affect the lifespan of the sensor. Proximity switches are sensors that do not require mechanical contact with moving parts and can convert the movement and presence information of the detected object into electrical signals. They have advantages such as being contactless, sealed, highly reliable, and having strong anti-interference capabilities. However, proximity switches have high requirements for detection distance and target material. The detection effect is poor when the target material composition is unknown or the shape error is large.

[0004] Therefore, in order to meet the needs of application scenarios with large target object errors, complex environments, and limited power supply, there is an urgent need for a proximity switch with low power consumption, large detection tolerance, and proximity signal isolation. Utility Model Content

[0005] To address the aforementioned shortcomings of the prior art, this utility model provides a high-tolerance proximity switch with signal isolation capability, solving the technical problems mentioned in the background section.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted by this utility model is as follows:

[0007] A high-tolerance proximity switch with signal isolation is provided, characterized in that it includes a target mounted on an actuation mechanism for achieving passive displacement and rebound of the target; a proximity switch assembly including a sensitive element for detecting the approach and departure states of the target and providing corresponding detection signals; and a housing, in which the proximity switch assembly is disposed, and a detachable isolation cover is provided on the housing for isolating the proximity signal between the target and the sensitive element.

[0008] Furthermore, the actuation mechanism includes a support column disposed within the housing, an actuating block slidably fitted on the support column, and the support column and the actuating block are connected by a spring disposed within both, with a target disposed on one side of the actuating block.

[0009] Furthermore, the top of the actuator block is provided with an arched ramp that allows the actuator block to move downwards when the target object passes by, and the target and the sensitive element have a certain proportion of overlapping area when the actuator block moves downwards, triggering a proximity signal.

[0010] Furthermore, the partition cover includes a horizontal plate and vertical ribs. In the working state, the partition cover is fixed to the front end of the housing by quick-release screws. In the non-working state, the partition cover is fixed to the upper end of the actuation mechanism. The horizontal plate compresses the actuating block into the housing, and the vertical ribs isolate the proximity signal between the target and the sensitive element.

[0011] Furthermore, the target is a vertically extending strip plate, and the length of the target in the vertical direction is greater than the length of the sensing element in the vertical direction.

[0012] Furthermore, a stop pin for sliding limit actuator is provided inside the support column.

[0013] Furthermore, the proximity switch assembly also includes a printed circuit board electrically connected to the sensing element, the printed circuit board being disposed within the housing.

[0014] Furthermore, a mounting base plate is provided at the bottom of the outer casing.

[0015] The beneficial effects of this utility model are as follows:

[0016] 1. This scheme uses a large-area target and a sensitive element for electromagnetic induction, which gives the scheme a large range tolerance and lower requirements for the position of the target. It can detect the position of targets with large shape errors.

[0017] 2. When the solution is in operation, the partition cover can be fixed to the front end of the housing with quick-release screws. When the solution is not in operation, the partition cover can be fixed to the upper end of the actuating mechanism. The actuating block is compressed into the housing by the horizontal plate and the proximity signal between the target and the sensitive element is isolated by the vertical rib plate. This ensures that the solution can always keep the signal "away" when it is not in operation, thus avoiding false alarms when the solution is not in operation.

[0018] 3. This solution uses a proximity switch assembly as the detection sensor, which has the advantages of being contactless, non-contact, sealed, highly reliable, and strong anti-interference. When the "approach" and "away" signals are switched, there is no damage to the proximity switch assembly, thus giving this solution an extremely long lifespan. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a front view of the proximity switch in the working state of this solution.

[0020] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of region AA in the middle.

[0021] Figure 3 This is a front view of the proximity switch in the non-operating state of this solution.

[0022] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Cross-sectional view of the BB region.

[0023] Among them, 1. Actuating mechanism, 2. Partition cover plate, 3. Quick release screw, 4. Proximity switch assembly, 5. Housing, 6. Mounting base plate, 1-1. Actuating block, 1-2. Spring, 1-3. Stop pin, 1-4. Support column, 1-5. Target, 2-1. Horizontal plate, 2-2. Vertical rib plate, 4-1. Sensing element, 4-2. Printed circuit board, 4-3. Housing. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The specific embodiments of this utility model are described below to enable those skilled in the art to understand this utility model. However, it should be understood that this utility model is not limited to the scope of the specific embodiments. For those skilled in the art, as long as various changes are within the spirit and scope of this utility model as defined and determined by the appended claims, these changes are obvious. All utility model creations utilizing the concept of this utility model are within the scope of protection.

[0025] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the high-tolerance proximity switch with signal isolation in this scheme is used to detect the position status of targets such as goods and mechanisms. It includes a target 1-5, a proximity switch assembly 4, an isolation cover 2, and a housing 5. The target 1-5 is mounted on the actuation mechanism 1 to achieve passive displacement and rebound of the target 1-5. The proximity switch assembly 4 includes a sensitive element 4-1 for detecting the approach and departure states of the target 1-5 and providing corresponding detection signals. The proximity switch assembly 4 is disposed inside the housing 5, and the isolation cover 2 is detachably disposed on the housing 5 to isolate the proximity signal between the target 1-5 and the sensitive element 4-1.

[0026] The actuation mechanism 1 includes a support column 1-4 disposed inside the housing 5. An actuating block 1-1 is slidably fitted on the support column 1-4, and the support column 1-4 and the actuating block 1-1 are connected by a spring 1-2 disposed inside both. A target 1-5 is disposed on one side of the actuating block 1-1, so that the actuating block 1-1 can drive the target 1-5 to move vertically and rebound. The top of the actuating block 1-1 is provided with an arched ramp that facilitates the actuating block 1-1 to move downward when the target passes by, and when the actuating block 1-1 moves downward, the target 1-5 and the sensitive element 4-1 have a certain proportion of overlapping area and trigger a proximity signal.

[0027] The target 1-5 is a vertically extending strip plate. The length of the target 1-5 in the vertical direction is greater than the length of the sensitive element 4-1 in the vertical direction, which enables this solution to have the tolerance capability for targets with large errors in shape. Moreover, when the target passes by, only the actuator 1-1 needs to be driven to move a certain distance to cause a signal change. Therefore, this solution is compatible with targets of different materials.

[0028] As an optional implementation, the proximity switch assembly 4 also includes a printed circuit board 4-2 electrically connected to the sensing element 4-1. The printed circuit board 4-2 is disposed in the housing 4-3 to provide corresponding circuit signals. A stop pin 1-3 for sliding limit actuation block 1-1 is disposed in the support column 1-4. A mounting base plate 6 is disposed at the bottom of the housing 5 to facilitate the assembly of this solution with external equipment.

[0029] As an optional implementation, the partition cover 2 includes a horizontal plate 2-1 and a vertical rib plate 2-2. In the working state, the partition cover 2 is fixed to the front end of the housing 5 by quick-release screws 3 so as not to affect the electromagnetic induction between the target 1-5 and the sensitive element 4-1. The signal change of the proximity switch assembly 4 is determined by the position state of the target 1-5. In the non-working state, the partition cover 2 is fixed to the upper end of the actuation mechanism 1, and the actuation block 1-1 is compressed into the housing 5 by the horizontal plate 2-1, and the proximity signal between the target 1-5 and the sensitive element 4-1 is isolated by the vertical rib plate 2-2.

[0030] Specifically, utilizing the principle of eddy current effect, the vertical rib plate 2-2 can be made of a material that reduces the inductance between the target 1-5 and the sensitive element 4-1. When its inductance decreases to the inductance of the far-away state, its state changes from the near state to the far-away state, thereby achieving the function of isolation.

[0031] The working principle of this solution will be explained in detail below:

[0032] When this solution is in operation, the target 1-5 and the sensitive element 4-1 have no overlapping area, and the sensor assembly generates a "away" signal. When the target passes the top arched ramp of the actuator 1-1, it forces the actuator 1-1 to move downward, causing the target 1-5 and the sensitive element 4-1 to have a certain proportion of overlapping area, triggering electromagnetic induction. The sensor assembly switches from the "away" signal to the "approach" signal. When this solution is not in operation, the actuator 1-1 is compressed into the outer shell 5 by the horizontal plate 2-1, allowing the target above it to pass freely. The electromagnetic induction between the target 1-5 and the sensitive element 4-1 is blocked by the vertical rib plate 2-2. Specifically, using the principle of eddy current effect, the vertical rib plate 2-2 can be made of a material that reduces the inductance value between the target 1-5 and the sensitive element 4-1. When its inductance value decreases to the inductance value of the away state, its state changes from the approach state to the away state, thereby achieving the function of isolation.

[0033] In summary, this solution, based on targets 1-5, actuation mechanism 1, and proximity switch assembly 4, utilizes the principle of electromagnetic induction to achieve in-situ detection of targets with large shape errors, and can isolate the proximity signal through the partition cover 2 when not in operation.

Claims

1. A high-tolerance proximity switch with signal isolation capability, characterized in that, include: A target, which is mounted on an actuation mechanism for achieving passive displacement and rebound of the target; A proximity switch assembly, the proximity switch assembly including a sensitive element for detecting the approach and departure states of a target and providing a corresponding detection signal; The housing contains the proximity switch assembly, and the housing is detachably provided with a barrier cover for isolating proximity signals between the target and the sensitive element.

2. The high-tolerance proximity switch with signal isolation according to claim 1, characterized in that, The actuation mechanism includes a support column disposed within the housing, an actuating block slidably fitted on the support column, and the support column and the actuating block are connected by a spring disposed inside both, and the target is disposed on one side of the actuating block.

3. The high-tolerance proximity switch with signal isolation according to claim 2, characterized in that, The top of the actuator block is provided with an arched ramp that forces the actuator block to move downward when the target object passes by, and when the actuator block moves downward, the target and the sensitive element have a certain proportion of overlapping area and trigger a proximity signal.

4. The high-tolerance proximity switch with signal isolation according to claim 3, characterized in that, The partition cover includes a horizontal plate and vertical ribs. In the working state, the partition cover is fixed to the front end of the housing by quick-release screws. In the non-working state, the partition cover is fixed to the upper end of the actuation mechanism. The horizontal plate compresses the actuating block into the housing, and the vertical ribs isolate the proximity signal between the target and the sensitive element.

5. The high-tolerance proximity switch with signal isolation according to claim 3, characterized in that, The target is a vertically extending strip, and the length of the target in the vertical direction is greater than the length of the sensing element in the vertical direction.

6. The high-tolerance proximity switch with signal isolation according to claim 2, characterized in that, The support column is equipped with a stop pin for sliding limit actuator.

7. The high-tolerance proximity switch with signal isolation according to claim 1, characterized in that, The proximity switch assembly also includes a printed circuit board electrically connected to the sensing element, the printed circuit board being disposed within the housing.

8. The high-tolerance proximity switch with signal isolation according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom of the outer casing is provided with a mounting base plate.