Collision detection device for adjustable furniture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collision detection systems for adjustable furniture, such as those using piezoelectric diaphragms, suffer from false signals due to friction and are unreliable in detecting low-force collisions, leading to potential property damage and injury risks.
Innovation Solution
A collision detection device with a circuit board and wiring circuit that measures flexure-induced electrical characteristics, allowing for reliable detection of collisions during motion by transmitting force information to a processing unit, which can halt or reverse the motion to prevent obstacles from being crushed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mini safety edge is used to detect obstacle contact, then collision detection is provided, but motion stops only when obstacle contacts the safety edge
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit board serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the telescopic column while simultaneously acting as the collision detection sensor. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate safety edges, enabling collision detection across the entire surface area where the column is mounted.
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 enhanced reliability and accuracy in detecting collisions, reducing the likelihood of false alarms and ensuring safety by accurately measuring resistance forces and adapting sensitivity to various conditions.
Implementation Method 1
an electrical characteristic of the wiring circuit is configured to depend on the flexure of the circuit board
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a collision detection device (2) configured to be arranged in an adjustable piece of furniture comprising a driving arrangement (11) and a first part (14) and a second part (16) being moveable relative to each other. The collision detection device is configured to detect a collision during motion of said adjustable piece of furniture. The collision detection device (2) comprises a holder (38) configured to, when in use, be arranged to one of the first and second parts (14, 16) of the adjustable piece of furniture to be at least indirectly in contact with a part of the driving arrangement (11), and a circuit board (31) arranged on the holder (38), said circuit board (31) comprising a wiring circuit (40) on at least one of its sides. The holder (38) is configured to, when arranged to the adjustable piece of furniture, transfer a force from the driving arrangement (11) acting on the holder (38) to the circuit board (31) such that said force implies a flexure of the circuit board (31). An electrical characteristic of the wiring circuit (40) is configured to depend on the flexure of the circuit board (31).