Catch Detecting Sensor Diagnosis for Electrode Wire Disconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing catch detecting sensors in vehicles, such as automobiles and railway vehicles, face issues with electrode wire disconnection, which goes undetected by current technologies, leading to potential safety failures and the inability to diagnose sensor failures with low power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A detector system that includes a catch detecting sensor with a detecting unit capable of outputting detection signals in detection mode and diagnostic signals in diagnostic mode, utilizing pressure-sensitive detecting members with electrode wires and a unidirectional element to diagnose sensor failures while minimizing power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the electrode wire is made longer to extend along the slide door, then the detection coverage is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to increased risk of disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing a diagnostic mode operation before normal detection to proactively identify electrode wire disconnection. The detecting unit executes a diagnostic routine that applies a diagnostic voltage to the electrode wire and monitors for disconnection conditions, allowing the system to detect potential failures before they affect normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using the output from the diagnostic mode to inform the normal detection mode. When disconnection is detected during diagnostic operation, the system generates a diagnostic signal that indicates the failure state, providing feedback that allows the system to recognize and respond to the disconnection condition.
2Reliability
If a diagnostic function is added to detect electrode wire disconnection, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the detecting unit to perform multiple functions: normal detection mode for detecting catches, diagnostic mode for detecting electrode wire disconnection, and different operational modes (first operational mode and second operational mode) for different detection scenarios. This multi-functional design allows one component to handle various detection needs without requiring separate dedicated systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the diagnostic function with the normal detection function within a single detecting unit. The same detecting unit that detects catches in normal operation also performs diagnostic checks for electrode wire disconnection, combining multiple functions into one integrated component rather than using separate systems.
3Reliability
If the detecting unit operates continuously in diagnostic mode, then the reliability is improved through constant monitoring, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by operating the detecting unit in different modes at different times rather than continuously. The system switches between a first operational mode (with higher power consumption for comprehensive detection) and a second operational mode (with lower power consumption), and performs diagnostic operations periodically rather than continuously, thereby reducing overall power consumption while maintaining reliability.
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
Enables reliable detection of catches and diagnosis of sensor failures, ensuring safety by detecting electrode wire disconnections and reducing power consumption, thereby improving the reliability of catch detection systems in vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
When an object (hereinafter, including a passenger, a baggage, and the like) is caught, an external force causes the tubular member to be deformed so as to be squashed. This causes the electrode wires to come into contact with each other
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A detector is provided. The detector includes a catch detecting sensor provided with a detecting member, and a detecting unit connected to the catch detecting sensor. The detecting unit is configured to output a detection signal based on a result detected by the catch detecting sensor when a detection mode is specified. Further, the detecting unit is configured to output a diagnostic signal based on a failure of the catch detecting sensor when a diagnostic mode is specified.