Capacitive Gauge Positioning for Automated Analysis

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Automated analysis devices require precise adjustment of interacting assemblies, which is time-consuming and costly, especially after replacing gauges, due to the need for manual adjustments by trained technicians.

Innovation Solution

A device with specially shaped receiving positions made of metal or conductive plastic, detectable using capacitive methods, allows for automatic adjustment of gauges in multiple directions, enabling precise positioning without manual intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual adjustment by trained technicians is used for precise positioning of gauges, then positioning accuracy is achieved, but time consumption and costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables automatic self-adjustment of the gauge position through capacitive sensing. The control unit automatically detects the receiving position and adjusts the gauge without requiring manual intervention by technicians, thus eliminating time consumption while maintaining positioning accuracy through automated feedback control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical adjustment process is replaced by an automated electronic control system using capacitive sensors and motorized positioning mechanisms. The control unit processes capacitive signals and automatically actuates the positioning system, substituting human operators with an automated electromechanical system that achieves both speed and precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If manual adjustment by trained technicians is used for precise positioning of gauges, then positioning accuracy is achieved, but costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoidcosts
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The automatic self-adjustment system eliminates the need for trained technicians to perform manual positioning, reducing labor costs and training requirements. The system performs its own calibration and positioning tasks through integrated capacitive sensing and automated control, making the manufacturing and maintenance process more cost-effective

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The expensive manual adjustment process requiring trained technicians is replaced by a cost-effective automated electronic system. The capacitive sensors and microcontroller-based control unit provide a scalable, programmable solution that reduces dependency on specialized human labor and associated costs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If fixed receiving positions are used for gauge adjustment, then positioning is simplified, but adaptability to different orientations is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning simplicityVSAvoidadaptability to orientations
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The receiving position is designed with dynamic characteristics through capacitive sensing that can detect and adapt to different gauge orientations. The system can dynamically adjust its detection and positioning parameters based on the actual gauge position and orientation, providing both simplicity through automated detection and versatility through adaptive response

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes its operational parameters based on detected gauge orientation. The capacitive sensor measurements are processed to determine the optimal positioning parameters, and the control unit adjusts these parameters dynamically to accommodate different gauge orientations while maintaining simple automated operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This solution eliminates the need for manual position determination, reducing time and costs, and allows for accurate adjustment of gauges in various orientations, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of automated analysis systems.

Implementation Method 1

which can be detected, for example, using capacitive methods with a conductive gauge

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitive detection: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentEP2977767B1Device for determining the position of an automatically moveable gauge
Publication Date: 2021.08.25 SIEMENS HEALTHCARE DIAGNOSTICS PRODS
  • EP2977767B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP2977767B1 patent drawingFigure 4~7
  • EP2977767B1 patent drawingFigure 8~10

AI summary

The invention relates to a device (10) for determining the position of an automatically movable jig (26). The device (10) comprises the jig (26), a device for moving the jig in the spatial direction X, a device for moving the jig (26) in a spatial direction Z, a sensor for detecting the stop or approach of the jig (26) to an object, a receiving position (14) that is at least partially enclosed, into which the jig (26) can be at least partially inserted by moving the jig (26) in the spatial direction X and/or Z, and a movable assembly (27), wherein the receiving position (14) for the jig (26) is arranged on the movable assembly (27).