Docking Interface Detection for Longer-Life Optical Monitor Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Patient monitors with bi-directional diodes that are always powered for optical communication reduce the diode's lifetime, leading to early failure due to unnecessary power consumption when not docked or during docking processes.
Innovation Solution
A docking interface system that includes a magnetic field sensor to detect docking events, a power contact that connects/disconnects based on proximity, and a rechargeable power supply to manage power distribution, ensuring the bi-directional diode is powered only during actual docking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the bi-directional diode is always powered to enable optical communication, then communication readiness is improved, but the diode lifetime deteriorates due to unnecessary power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the power state of the bi-directional diode changeable rather than fixed. The diode is dynamically powered on only when docking is detected and powered off when docking is not detected, allowing the system to adapt its power consumption state based on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/continuous power supply approach with a sensor-based detection system. Magnetic field sensors detect the docking state, and this detection signal triggers the power supply controller to enable or disable power to the bi-directional diode, substituting continuous mechanical power with intelligent controlled power delivery.
2Reliability
If the bi-directional diode is always on to ensure optical communication capability, then communication reliability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by cycling the power state of the bi-directional diode based on detected docking events. Instead of continuous operation, the diode is periodically powered on when needed (during docking) and powered off when not needed (during transport or undocked states), reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining communication reliability when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies self-service through automatic detection and control. The magnetic field sensors automatically detect docking status, and the power supply controller automatically adjusts power delivery to the bi-directional diode based on this detection, eliminating the need for manual intervention and ensuring optimal energy usage without compromising communication capability when needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If power is continuously supplied to the bi-directional diode, then optical transmission capability is maintained, but device longevity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by detecting the docking state in advance using magnetic field sensors before optical communication is actually needed. This early detection allows the system to prepare and enable power to the bi-directional diode only when docking is detected, rather than maintaining continuous power, thus preserving device longevity while ensuring capability when needed.
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
Extends the lifespan of the bi-directional diode by optimizing power usage, preventing unnecessary power consumption and reducing failure rates.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic field sensor element configured to generate an electrical signal in response to a magnetic field impinging thereon
Data Source
AI summary
A docking interface configured to dock with another device is provided. The docking interface includes an optical link module comprising a transceiver configured to transmit and receive optical signals; a magnetic field sensor element configured to generate an electrical signal in response to a magnetic field impinging thereon; and at least one processor configured to receive the electrical signal, compare a magnitude of the electrical signal to a proximity threshold value to generate a comparison result, and detect a docking event and an undocking event based on the comparison result.