Door Sensor Height Error Correction via Geometric Distance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automatic door systems with sensors positioned high above the floor often provide inaccurate detection of people, especially children, leading to suboptimal movement of door leaves due to height-related errors in sensor data.
Innovation Solution
A method that calculates a correction value to eliminate the height error of sensor units by determining a direct distance and horizontal distance between the sensor and person, allowing for more accurate determination of the probable approach time and improved actuation of the door leaf.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If sensor units are arranged at significant height above the floor to detect people approaching the door, then the detection range is improved, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to height-related errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the sensor unit's vertical position from a fixed high mounting to a movable position that can be adjusted to match the height of detected objects. This allows the sensor to maintain optimal detection parameters for different object heights, resolving the contradiction between detection range and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor unit is made dynamic by enabling it to move vertically along the door leaf. This dynamic adjustment allows the sensor to adapt its position based on the detected object's height, maintaining high measurement precision while preserving the ability to detect objects at various distances.
2Ease of manufacture
If sensor units are positioned high above the floor, then installation simplicity is improved, but the reliability of sensor data deteriorates for short people and children
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor unit is made dynamically adjustable in the vertical direction, allowing it to move to different heights during operation. This enables the sensor to position itself at optimal heights for detecting people of various statures, including children, thereby improving sensor data reliability while maintaining installation simplicity through a standardized mounting mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automatic height adaptation where the sensor unit can adjust its position based on detected object characteristics. This self-service mechanism ensures reliable detection of all users including children without requiring manual reconfiguration during installation or operation.
3Extent of automation
If the door leaf is actuated based on high-mounted sensor data, then automation is maintained, but the adaptability to different user heights deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor unit's vertical mobility enables the automatic door system to adapt to different user heights dynamically. The sensor can position itself to optimally detect users of various statures, allowing the automated system to maintain high adaptability across different user groups without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the sensor's detection of object height and distance to automatically adjust the sensor's vertical position. This feedback mechanism enables the automated door system to adapt to different user heights in real-time, improving versatility while maintaining full automation.
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
This method enhances data quality for actuating the door leaf, ensuring more accurate movement and reduced errors in door operation, particularly effective for high doors and when children approach.
Implementation Method 1
Determining a direct distance between the sensor unit and the person by means of the sensor unit
Implementation Method 2
Determining a horizontal distance between the person and the door leaf by means of a geometric relationship between the position of the person, of the door leaf and of the height of the sensor unit
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operating a door system having a door leaf, which is movable by a door actuator, and having a sensor unit, which is arranged at a height above a floor of the door system and with which the approach of a person towards the door leaf is detected by a control unit, includes at least the following steps: determining a direct distance between the sensor unit and the person using the sensor unit; determining a horizontal distance between the sensor unit and the door leaf by a geometric relationship of the person, of the door leaf and of the height of the sensor unit; and determining the probable approach time of the person on the basis of the determined horizontal distance and opening the door leaf. A door system having a control unit may be used to carry out the method.