Detector Detection Circuit for Measuring Machine Connection Status

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional measuring machines face issues with determining whether a detector is properly connected to the connector, leading to measurement errors and increased burden on manufacturers to diagnose the cause, due to unclear connection status.

Innovation Solution

A detector detection device with a detection circuit and determination section using a comparator to differentiate input voltage based on connection status, outputting a binary signal to determine connectivity, and optionally including a switching section to manage reference potential and filter to reduce noise.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a detector is removably connected to a connector in a measuring machine, then the measuring machine becomes more adaptable and versatile, but the connection status becomes unclear leading to measurement errors and increased diagnostic burden

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetector replaceabilityVSAvoidconnection status clarity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system automatically detects and notifies users about the connection status of the detector. The notification device provides real-time feedback when the detector is not properly connected, eliminating the need for users to manually diagnose connection issues and ensuring reliable measurement operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-diagnosis of the connection status between the detector and connector. The measuring machine automatically detects whether the detector is properly connected through its detection circuitry, and the notification device alerts users to connection issues without requiring external diagnostic tools or manufacturer intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Device complexity

If no connection detection mechanism is implemented, then the device complexity is reduced, but the time required to diagnose connection issues increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection circuit simplicityVSAvoiddiagnosis time

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary detection of the connection status before measurement operations begin. The detection circuit continuously monitors whether the detector is properly connected, and the notification device alerts users to any connection issues in advance, preventing wasted measurement time and enabling quick troubleshooting.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual connection checking with an automated electrical detection system. The detection circuit uses electrical signals to automatically determine connection status, substituting what would otherwise require manual inspection or trial-and-error measurement attempts, thereby significantly reducing diagnosis time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Facilitates quick identification of connection issues, reducing user and manufacturer inquiry burdens and improving measurement accuracy by clearly indicating detector connection status and enabling noise reduction during measurement.

Implementation Method 1

a comparator that is electrically connected to the first ground and that is configured to receive the detecting signal from the connector and compare an input voltage and a predetermined threshold voltage

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVoltage comparison: Ohm's Law

Implementation Method 2

a switching section that is selectively connected to one of the first ground and the second ground and is configured to perform switching of a reference electric potential of the comparator between the first electric potential and the second electric potential

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical potential switching: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 3

the detection circuit further includes a filter that is configured to form the input voltage to be input to the comparator by attenuating an AC component of the detecting signal

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSignal filtering: Filter (electronic)

Data Source

PatentUS20240328770A1Detector detection device and measuring machine

Publication Date: 2024.10.03 MITUTOYO CORP

AI summary

A detector detection device includes a detection circuit to which a detecting signal is input, via a connector of a measuring machine, from a detector connected to the connector, and a determination section that determines whether the detector is connected to the connector, in which the detection circuit includes a first ground having a first electric potential that is lower than a reference electric potential of the detector and a comparator that is electrically connected to the first ground, receives the detecting signal from the connector, and compares an input voltage and a predetermined threshold voltage, and the determination section determines based 10 on a binary signal output from the comparator whether the detector is connected to the connector.