Dual Sensor Module for Garage Door Detection Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional garage door openers often fail to detect objects in the path of the closing door, leading to potential damage or injury due to the limited range of their sensors and the inability to function with multiple sensors.
Innovation Solution
A dual sensor module is introduced, featuring two optical sensors positioned at different locations along the garage door path, with a data selector circuit and watchdog timers to ensure accurate detection and prevent the door from closing when an object is present, and transient voltage suppression to protect against electrical surges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single sensor is used to detect objects in the garage door path, then the device complexity is low, but the detection reliability is insufficient leading to potential damage or injury
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection system into two separate sensors positioned at different locations along the garage door path. Each sensor independently monitors a specific zone, and both must detect clear paths for the door to close. This segmentation increases detection reliability by covering more area and providing redundant detection, while the modular design keeps individual sensor complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple sensors and their detection functions into a single integrated control system. The control unit processes signals from both sensors and coordinates the motor control based on combined detection results. This merging allows the system to achieve high detection reliability through multiple sensors while managing overall complexity through centralized control logic.
2Area of stationary object
If sensors are positioned to cover a wider area of the garage door path, then the detection coverage increases, but the sensor range limitations cause detection failures
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single sensor with excessive range requirements, the patent segments the detection area into multiple zones, each monitored by a dedicated sensor positioned strategically. This allows each sensor to operate within its optimal detection range while collectively covering the entire garage door path, thereby maintaining both wide coverage area and high detection accuracy.
3Reliability
If the sensor system is designed to work with multiple sensors, then the detection reliability improves, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to wiring and configuration complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is designed with universal input terminals that can accept signals from multiple sensors with standardized connections. The system provides multi-functional capability by handling both single and dual sensor configurations through the same interface, simplifying installation and operation while maintaining high detection reliability through multiple sensors.
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
Effectively prevents the garage door from closing when objects, including vehicles or personal property, are in its path, enhancing safety by utilizing dual sensors and protective circuitry to ensure reliable operation and prevent damage.
Implementation Method 1
at least one of the at least two sensors is an optical sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A dual sensor module for a garage door opener is provided. Embodiments of the dual sensor module include a plurality of input terminals for at least two sensors configured to detect an object in a path of a garage door. There is an output terminal for providing a signal to a motor control unit for the garage door opener wherein the signal prevents the garage door from closing when the object is in the path of the garage door.