Infrared Lens Switch Assembly for Compact IoT Motion Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing IoT devices often require a larger physical footprint to perform multiple functions, which can be inefficient in terms of space usage and integration within IoT networks.
Innovation Solution
The infrared lens switch assembly, which combines a multifunction button and infrared sensor functionality, allows for a compact design by using an infrared lens to focus infrared light onto a sensor and act as a button to alter the state of a switch, thereby reducing the overall device size while maintaining functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate buttons and infrared sensors are used for multiple functions, then device functionality is maintained, but physical footprint increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a button and an infrared sensor into a single integrated assembly. The button structure houses an infrared sensor that can detect infrared radiation, allowing the same physical component to serve both as a mechanical input device and an infrared detection device, thereby reducing the overall physical footprint while maintaining multiple functions
Solution Approach 2:
The button assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it can be pressed mechanically as a traditional button, and simultaneously functions as an infrared sensor to detect infrared radiation. This multi-functionality allows a single component to replace what would traditionally require separate buttons and sensors, reducing the device's physical footprint
2Measurement precision
If infrared lens is used to focus light onto sensor, then motion detection precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The infrared lens is integrated directly into the button structure, combining the optical focusing function with the mechanical button housing. This integration allows the lens to focus infrared light onto the sensor element without requiring a separate optical assembly, thereby improving motion detection precision while minimizing the increase in device complexity through unified design
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 enables IoT devices to maintain multiple functions with a smaller physical footprint, allowing for more efficient use of space and integration within IoT networks, while also enabling features like motion detection and notification provision.
Implementation Method 1
an infrared lens can be utilized to focus infrared light on to a sensor
Implementation Method 2
a resistive element can be coupled to the infrared lens such that the resistive element alters a state of the switch when the infrared lens alters a position of the resistive element
Data Source
AI summary
An example device can include a circuit assembly, an infrared sensor coupled to the circuit assembly, a switch coupled to the circuit assembly, an infrared lens coupled to a resistive element to alter a state of the switch when the infrared lens alters a position of the resistive element, and a light pipe ring positioned around the infrared lens to allow visible light to pass between an exterior and interior portion of an enclosure.