Fluid Dispenser Light Sensor Wake-Up to Reduce Battery Depletion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hand cleaning fluid dispensers with electronic components face energy depletion issues due to continuous power consumption even when not in use, leading to rapid battery depletion.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a light sensor and controller that detect ambient light levels to activate electronic components only when needed, such as during use or when removed from storage, and using a pump position sensor with magnetic sensors to accurately measure fluid dispensed, thereby reducing energy usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electronic components are continuously powered to ensure immediate functionality, then the reliability of the dispenser is improved, but the battery life deteriorates due to rapid energy depletion
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from continuous operation to periodic operation by using a light sensor to detect ambient light levels and activating electronic components only during daytime or illuminated conditions. The controller periodically checks light sensor data and adjusts component activation accordingly, ensuring functionality when needed while conserving battery during storage or nighttime periods.
2Ease of operation
If the dispenser remains in active mode to respond quickly to user needs, then the ease of operation is improved, but the energy consumption increases causing faster battery depletion
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its operational state based on environmental conditions detected by the light sensor. During daytime or illuminated conditions, electronic components are activated for immediate response. During nighttime or storage conditions, the system enters low-power mode. This dynamic adaptation allows the dispenser to optimize between responsiveness and energy conservation based on actual usage context.
3Productivity
If electronic components are activated continuously to maintain functionality, then the productivity of the dispenser is improved, but the loss of energy increases causing rapid battery depletion
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback control by continuously monitoring ambient light levels through the light sensor and adjusting the activation state of electronic components accordingly. The controller receives feedback from the light sensor about environmental conditions and modulates component operation to match actual usage needs, eliminating energy waste during periods when the dispenser is not in use or when ambient light indicates storage conditions.
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 solution extends the battery life of hand cleaning fluid dispensers by minimizing unnecessary energy consumption and providing accurate fluid measurement, ensuring efficient operation and compliance with hand hygiene protocols.
Implementation Method 1
a light sensor that detects light in or around the fluid dispenser
Implementation Method 2
The pump position sensor comprises a first magnet sensor and a second magnetic sensor that are arranged to detect the magnetic field of a magnet that is attached to the movable component of the fluid dispenser
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid dispenser with a pump mechanism that dispenses fluid when activated. A light sensor detects light in or around the fluid dispenser, and a controller controls a function of an electronic component of the fluid dispenser based on detection data received from the light sensor.