Fluid Dispenser Light-Sensor Wake-Up to Reduce Battery Drain
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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 to detect ambient light levels, activating 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 consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electronic components are continuously powered to ensure immediate functionality, then operational readiness is improved, but energy consumption increases and battery lifespan decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic wake-up cycles where the controller activates from sleep mode at predetermined intervals to check for activation events, then returns to sleep mode. This periodic operation maintains operational readiness while dramatically reducing average power consumption compared to continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The light sensor continuously monitors ambient light levels without requiring the main controller to be active. When light levels indicate the dispenser has been removed from storage, the sensor triggers a wake-up event, preparing the system in advance for potential use and eliminating the need for continuous controller operation.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the dispenser remains in sleep mode to conserve energy, then energy consumption is reduced, but detection of activation events may be delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The light sensor serves as an intermediary device that continuously monitors environmental conditions without requiring the main controller to be active. It detects changes in light levels caused by actuator movement and triggers controller wake-up events, enabling indirect detection of activation events while maintaining energy savings.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback through the light sensor that continuously monitors for changes in ambient light caused by actuator movement. When the sensor detects light level changes indicating activation, it provides feedback to wake up the controller, ensuring timely response while maintaining sleep mode for energy conservation.
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 built-in battery by minimizing unnecessary energy usage and providing accurate fluid measurement, ensuring compliance with hand hygiene protocols.
Implementation Method 1
the light sensor detects movement of the movable component by detecting changes in an amount of the light emitted by the light emitter that is reflected from the movable component towards the light sensor
Data Source
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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.