Heat Sensor Activated Detector for Object Loss Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for preventing loss or misplacement of personal items are cumbersome, requiring separate devices for users and objects, and fail to effectively alert users when they are about to leave an object behind.
Innovation Solution
A heat sensor activated detector that uses the user's body heat to generate an audible signal when the object is being left behind, eliminating the need for a separate device on the user and utilizing a housing with a heat sensor, logic device, and audible signal generator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple devices are used (one for user, one for object), then the detection capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the heat sensor, logic device, and audible signal generator into a single integrated detector unit that attaches to the object. This merging of previously separate components (user device and object device) into one unified system resolves the technical contradiction by maintaining detection capability while reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The detector unit performs multiple functions within a single device: it contains the heat sensor for detection, the logic device for processing, and the audible signal generator for notification. This multi-functionality allows one device to replace what previously required multiple separate devices, thereby reducing complexity while preserving reliability.
2Measurement precision
If a second device is required on the user, then the detection accuracy is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs the user's own body heat as the detection source, eliminating the need for a separate device on the user. The heat sensor on the object detects the user's body heat directly, making the system self-sufficient and much easier to operate while maintaining detection accuracy through the use of inherent biological thermal signals.
3Measurement precision
If the heat sensor is tuned to body heat, then the measurement precision is improved, but the adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The heat sensor is specifically tuned to detect body heat within a predetermined distance, creating a localized detection zone optimized for the user's proximity. This local quality approach improves measurement precision for the intended application (detecting whether the user is near the object) while the predetermined distance threshold provides sufficient adaptability for practical use scenarios.
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 solution effectively alerts users to potential loss by emitting an audible signal when the object is beyond a predetermined distance, allowing for timely retrieval without the need for additional user devices, reducing search time and frustration.
Implementation Method 1
the heat sensor is tuned to the body heat of the user
Data Source
AI summary
A heat sensor activated detector having a housing, which accommodates a heat sensor, a logic device that compares the heat signal read by the heat sensor to a predetermined level and transmits an enable signal to an audible signal generator where the heat signal is outside of the predetermined level, an audible signal generator, and a power source. The heat sensor may be tuned to the body heat of the user. Also, the predetermined level may be set to a specific distance, such as three meters. Further, the detector may be attached, temporarily or permanently, to an object the user wants to protect against loss or misplacement.