Air Burst Window Clearing for Dust-Prone Optical Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical measuring and monitoring systems face challenges in maintaining a clear window and light source due to dust, moisture, and contaminants, leading to frequent manual cleaning needs, which is costly and inconvenient, especially in environments like tissue manufacturing machines where existing methods like wiper blades, moving windows, air knives, or pinholes have limitations.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with an air burst nozzle and a compressed air source, regulated by an air control solenoid and a timer module, periodically clears particulates from the window using controlled bursts of compressed air, minimizing downtime and interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If air knives are used to prevent particulate accumulation on the window, then dust protection is improved, but turbulent airflow causes incomplete clearing and static charge build-up
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic air bursts instead of continuous airflow. A solenoid valve opens for short intervals (e.g., 0.5-2 seconds) at predetermined times to deliver concentrated air bursts that effectively clear particulates without causing turbulent eddies or static charge accumulation. This periodic action maintains window clarity while avoiding the harmful effects of continuous turbulent flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses compressed air delivered through a nozzle to create controlled air bursts. The pneumatic system includes a compressed air source, solenoid valve, and nozzle positioned to direct air at the window at optimal angles and velocities. This pneumatic approach provides effective particulate removal without the turbulence problems of traditional air knives.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If wiper blades or water sprays are used to clear the window, then particulate removal is improved, but user view is blocked during cleaning operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces mechanical wipers and water spray systems with a pneumatic air burst system. Compressed air delivered through a nozzle clears particulates from the window without requiring physical contact or liquid application. This eliminates the need for mechanical components that block the view and provides cleaning without operational downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes mechanical cleaning systems (wiper blades) and liquid-based systems (water sprays) with a pneumatic system. The air burst mechanism uses compressed gas dynamics rather than mechanical motion or liquid flow, achieving window clearing without the drawbacks of view obstruction and extended downtime associated with traditional methods.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If moving windows are used to clear the window, then particulate removal is improved, but mechanical complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces mechanical moving window systems with a stationary window and pneumatic cleaning mechanism. Compressed air delivered through a solenoid-controlled nozzle clears particulates without requiring any mechanical movement of the window itself. This eliminates complex mechanical linkages, motors, and maintenance requirements while achieving effective window clearing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes mechanical moving window systems with a pneumatic air burst system. Instead of physically moving the window to clear particulates, compressed air is used to blow contaminants away. This substitution eliminates all associated mechanical complexity including motors, drive mechanisms, and maintenance requirements while maintaining effective window clearing capability.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If manual cleaning is performed periodically, then window clarity is maintained, but labor costs and operational downtime increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides automated self-cleaning capability through a microprocessor-controlled air burst system. The microprocessor monitors window conditions and automatically activates the solenoid valve to deliver air bursts when needed, without requiring manual intervention. This self-service approach maintains window clarity while eliminating labor costs and maximizing operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback control through a microprocessor that monitors window conditions and automatically triggers air bursts when particulate accumulation is detected or at predetermined intervals. This closed-loop control ensures window clarity is maintained without manual intervention, reducing labor costs and preventing productivity loss from manual cleaning operations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively maintains a clear view and optimal lighting by regularly removing debris with minimal disruption, reducing the need for manual cleaning and extending the interval between maintenance tasks.
Implementation Method 1
The air burst nozzle directs a burst of air at a window of a housing to clear it of any particulates
Implementation Method 2
an air knife nozzle can be configured and utilized to prevent accumulation of particulates on the window
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus including a housing having at least one window, an air burst nozzle positioned atop the housing and aimed at the window, a compressed air source, an air control solenoid connected to the air burst nozzle, the compressed air source, and a support box. The compressed air source provides compressed air to the air control solenoid. A timer module directs a magnetic valve of the support box to supply power to the coil of the air control solenoid in order to engage the solenoid. When the air control solenoid is engaged, compressed air is provided to the air burst nozzle. The air burst nozzle directs a burst of air at the window of the housing to clear it of any particulates. In accordance with user programming of the timer module, the process is then repeated at regular intervals.