Flexible Sensor Mount with Spring-Loaded Casing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Proximity sensors rigidly mounted to objects are prone to damage during collisions, which can affect their functionality and accuracy in detecting object proximity.
Innovation Solution
A flexible sensor mount system that includes a casing with a spring-loaded mechanism, allowing the sensor to float and absorb impact by shifting within a predefined range, thereby minimizing damage from collisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a proximity sensor is rigidly mounted to an object, then the sensor is securely fixed and stable, but the sensor is prone to damage during collisions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the rigid mount with a flexible, movable mount that can shift position. The sensor is mounted on a platform that can move relative to the support structure, allowing the system to transition from a static rigid connection to a dynamic adaptive connection that absorbs collision impacts through movement rather than rigid resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements beforehand cushioning by incorporating a spring mechanism between the sensor mount and the support structure. This spring element is pre-installed to provide cushioning before collisions occur, allowing the sensor assembly to absorb impact forces through elastic deformation of the spring, thereby protecting the sensor from damage during collisions.
2Reliability
If a flexible mount is used to protect the sensor, then collision damage is minimized, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the mount structure into distinct functional components: a support structure, a movable platform, a spring element, and a sensor mount. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while keeping individual elements relatively simple, making the overall complex system easier to design, manufacture, and maintain.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a spring element as a mediator between the support structure and the sensor mount. This intermediary component absorbs collision forces through elastic deformation, protecting the sensor without requiring complex active control systems or multiple actuated mechanisms.
3Reliability
If a spring-loaded mechanism is added to the mount, then the sensor can absorb impact, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by integrating the spring element directly into the mount structure as a unified assembly. The spring is positioned between the support structure and the sensor platform, combining the functions of support, cushioning, and positioning into a single integrated component that can be manufactured and assembled as one unit, simplifying the manufacturing process.
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
The flexible mount system effectively reduces the risk of sensor damage during collisions, maintaining sensor functionality and accuracy while accommodating standard-sized sensors and supports.
Implementation Method 1
a spring intermediate the first part and the second part, wherein the spring is configured to bias the second part toward the expanded position
Implementation Method 2
The flexible mount system effectively reduces the risk of sensor damage during collisions, maintaining sensor functionality and accuracy while accommodating standard-sized sensors and supports
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly is disclosed. The assembly can comprise a sensor comprising external threads. The assembly can further comprise a flexible mount for mounting the sensor to a support. The flexible mount can threadably engage the external threads of the sensor. Additionally, the flexible mount can comprise a spring-loaded casing and/or an elastomeric sleeve and/or nut, for example. The sensor can extend through the support and can be configured to float and/or shift relative to the support. The flexible mount can be positioned on one side of the support.