Distance Sensor Ringing Spectrum Monitoring for State Deviation Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing distance sensors face challenges in accurately monitoring their operational state due to parasitic ringing signals that interfere with the measurement process, which are temperature-dependent and sensor-specific, making it difficult to distinguish from the actual measurement signal.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the storage of a reference frequency spectrum of the ringing signal at a known good state, determining the operating temperature, and using this information to derive an expected reference frequency spectrum through statistical analysis or machine learning, allowing for comparison and detection of deviations that indicate changes in the sensor's state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the transmission signal is emitted into the detection space and partially reflected by an object, then the distance measurement function is achieved, but the parasitic ringing signal interferes with the measurement signal making it difficult to distinguish
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful parasitic ringing signal into a useful monitoring tool by analyzing its frequency spectrum characteristics. The ringing signal, which was previously considered interference, is now evaluated to detect sensor state changes, contamination, and operational conditions. The frequency spectrum of the ringing signal serves as a fingerprint that changes with sensor state, transforming the harmful interference into a diagnostic resource.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces frequency spectrum analysis as an intermediary method to separate the ringing signal from the measurement signal. By transforming the time-domain signals into the frequency domain, the system can identify and evaluate the characteristic frequency components of the ringing signal independently, preventing it from interfering with the distance measurement while utilizing it for sensor health monitoring.
2Measurement precision
If the ringing signal is filtered out by temporal windowing, then the measurement signal can be extracted, but the sensor state information contained in the ringing signal is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the signal processing into two independent pathways: one for distance measurement and one for sensor state monitoring. The frequency spectrum analysis separates the evaluation of the ringing signal from the measurement signal extraction, allowing both functions to occur simultaneously without interference. This segmentation enables the system to retain sensor state information while still achieving accurate distance measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from time-domain signal processing to frequency-domain analysis, adding a new dimension to the signal evaluation. By applying frequency spectrum analysis, the system can identify the characteristic frequency components of the ringing signal that contain sensor state information, which are not apparent in the time domain. This dimensional change allows simultaneous extraction of measurement signals and monitoring of sensor health.
3Reliability
If the distance sensor operates continuously to monitor detection space, then the monitoring function is maintained, but the sensor components are exposed to environmental contaminants increasing the risk of state changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the frequency spectrum characteristics of the ringing signal continuously monitor the sensor's own state. By evaluating changes in the ringing signal's frequency spectrum over time, the system can detect contamination or degradation of sensor components before they affect measurement accuracy. This self-monitoring feedback loop enables early warning of sensor issues while maintaining continuous operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor performs self-diagnosis by utilizing its own ringing signal as a diagnostic tool. The frequency spectrum analysis of the ringing signal provides information about the sensor's internal state, contamination level, and component health without requiring external monitoring equipment. This self-service capability allows the sensor to monitor its own reliability while continuing to perform its primary measurement function.
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 effective monitoring of the sensor's state by detecting deviations in the ringing signal's frequency spectrum, providing insights into potential contamination or structural changes, thus ensuring reliable operation.
Implementation Method 1
distance sensor operating based on propagation time determination of electromagnetic waves
Implementation Method 2
the transmission signal, through interaction with components of the distance sensor, partially returns as a parasitic ringing signal
Implementation Method 3
the distance sensor—directly or indirectly—determining the propagation time of the transmission signal
Data Source
AI summary
Monitoring the status of a distance sensor operating by determining the transit time of electromagnetic waves includes: during operation, detecting an operating temperature of the distance sensor and determining an operating frequency spectrum of a ringing signal generated and detected at the operating temperature, wherein a reference frequency spectrum of a ringing signal generated and detected at a reference temperature in a good state of the distance sensor is stored in the distance sensor; determining an expected reference frequency spectrum from the operating temperature and the operating frequency spectrum determined at the operating temperature; comparing the reference frequency spectrum stored in the distance sensor with the expected reference frequency spectrum in a comparison step; determining a reference frequency spectrum deviation based on the comparing; determining a state deviation of the distance sensor from the reference frequency spectrum deviation; and signaling, at least indirectly, the state deviation.