Attenuable Resistive Optical Isolation Circuit with Post-Assembly Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical isolation circuits, such as optocouplers, face challenges with longevity, initial performance calibration complexity, labor costs, and degradation over time, as well as external light noise interference, which current methods do not adequately address at a low cost.
Innovation Solution
An attenuable resistive optical isolation device with an adjustable barrier between the light source and sensor, allowing for easy adjustment post-assembly to control light intensity and minimize external noise, featuring a housing that can be calibrated and adjusted without disassembly to maintain performance over the device's lifespan.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If calibration is performed before assembly by measuring LED output and selecting resistors, then initial performance is improved, but assembly complexity and labor cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and marking multiple resistor values directly on the circuit board at different locations. This allows the correct resistor to be selected and installed based on LED measurement without requiring complex assembly procedures. The resistor values are determined in advance and physically marked on the board, enabling simple visual selection and installation during assembly.
2Manufacturing precision
If calibration is performed before assembly, then output specifications are met, but labor cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by providing visual guides and markings directly on the circuit board that enable assembly workers to independently determine the correct resistor value without requiring complex calibration equipment or extensive training. The board itself provides the information needed to complete the calibration, reducing dependency on external tools and expertise.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If exterior light blocking measures are added, then external light noise is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the taking out principle by extracting and isolating the light-sensitive sensor in a separate housing that is physically detached from the LED assembly. This spatial separation allows the sensor housing to be independently optimized for light blocking, with openings specifically designed to admit only the desired light from the LED while excluding external light sources.
4Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable barrier is added for post-assembly calibration, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by making the barrier adjustable rather than fixed. The barrier can be positioned at different locations along the light path to control the amount of light reaching the sensor, allowing the device to adapt to different LED characteristics and operating conditions. This dynamic adjustment capability provides versatility without requiring complex electronic control systems.
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 solution provides a cost-effective, reliable, and long-lasting optical isolation solution that can be easily calibrated and adjusted, reducing manufacturing and labor costs while maintaining consistent performance and minimizing external light noise.
Implementation Method 1
a light source such as a light emitting diode (LED) transmits information
Implementation Method 2
a light-sensitive receiver or a photoreceptor (e.g., a transistor, or light-dependent resistor)
Implementation Method 3
an adjustable barrier located between the light source and the light-sensitive sensor. The adjustable barrier precisely controls the amount of light reaching the light-sensitive sensor
Implementation Method 4
The housing also has an optional covering that blocks exterior light from reaching the light-sensitive sensor
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical optical isolation circuit and device characterized by a light source, a light-sensitive sensor, and a variable shield between the light source and the light-sensitive sensor, the variable shield being adjustable after assembly of the electrical circuit, and the variable shield adjustment providing attenuation of the electrical circuit output.