Detachable Capacitive Touch Sensor Mounting for Waterproof Switches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional switches for controlling electrical devices, particularly in domestic environments, are limited by their inability to function in wet or outdoor conditions, require complex installation, and are not easily adaptable to various surface shapes or sizes, posing challenges for public safety and user convenience.
Innovation Solution
A sensor apparatus with a mount and detachable sensor element featuring compressible and expandable connecting elements for secure sealing and capacitive touch sensing, allowing for easy installation in various environments and enabling control of electrical devices through capacitive touch inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional switches are used for controlling electrical devices, then the switching function is achieved, but the switches cannot be used in wet or outdoor environments and require complex installation
Solution Approach 1:
The switch system is divided into separate modular components: a waterproof sensor element for touch detection and a separate control unit for signal processing. This segmentation allows the sensor element to be installed in wet or outdoor environments while the control unit can be positioned elsewhere, enhancing environmental adaptability without requiring complex integrated installation procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor element is designed as a universal component that can be installed in various locations including wet areas and outdoor environments. The detachable connection system allows the same sensor element to work with different control units, making the system universally applicable across multiple installation scenarios and environments
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional switches are installed on flat surfaces, then the switching function is achieved, but the switches are limited to specific surface configurations and require templating and cutting
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting mechanism incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities that allow the sensor element to adapt to different surface configurations. The detachable connection system enables flexible positioning and orientation adjustments during installation, eliminating the need for precise templating and cutting while maintaining proper functional alignment
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting parameters such as position, orientation, and connection depth can be adjusted during installation to match different surface configurations. This parameter flexibility allows the same sensor element to be installed on various surface types without requiring custom fabrication or complex preparation work
3Ease of operation
If detachable connection elements are used, then the sensor element can be easily installed and removed, but the connection must provide sufficient sealing and electrical connectivity
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting elements are pre-configured with integrated sealing features and alignment guides that automatically engage during the detachment and reattachment process. This preliminary preparation ensures that proper sealing and electrical connectivity are achieved without requiring complex assembly procedures or specialized tools
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element acts as an intermediary component that provides both mechanical attachment and environmental sealing functions. This intermediate component mediates between the sensor element and mounting structure, ensuring reliable electrical connectivity while maintaining waterproof sealing through its dual-function design
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 waterproof and versatile switch system that can be installed in diverse environments, offering reliable control of electrical devices with enhanced user convenience and safety, while minimizing installation complexity and accommodating different surface configurations.
Implementation Method 1
compression of the first connecting element in an axial direction causes expansion of the first connecting element in a radial direction
Implementation Method 2
Each of the first and second connecting elements comprises a compressible and/or expandable body
Implementation Method 3
The sensor circuit is adapted for capacitive touch sensing and for detecting and/or measuring relative changes and/or durations of electro-static charges present at the sensor probe
Implementation Method 4
the at least one intermediate portion is adapted to diffuse and/or propagate light towards to the sensor element
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A sensor apparatus and method of installation, and a system for controlling at least one electrical device and a method of use of such system. The apparatus comprises a mount adapted to be attached to a support and a sensor element adapted to be detachably connected to the mount. The method of installing a sensor apparatus comprises providing a sensor apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention. The method further comprises the steps of retainably affixing the mount to, or within, the support and detachably connecting the sensor element to the mount. The system for controlling at least one electrical device comprises at least one sensor apparatus, at least one electrical device, and a controller, wherein the at least one sensor apparatus and the at least one electrical device are electrically connected to the controller.