Infrared Prize Detection Sensor for Claw Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing claw machines face inefficiencies in prize detection due to the need for manual adjustment of infrared sensors to accommodate varying chute sizes and interference from ambient lights, leading to inaccurate detection.
Innovation Solution
A sensor system comprising infrared units, a comparator, a calculating and judging unit, an actuating unit, an indicator, and a controller, supported on an integrated circuit board, which automatically adjusts infrared beam intensity and range, and emits colored lights to diagnose and correct settings, preventing interference from ambient light.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If infrared sensors are manually adjusted to accommodate varying chute sizes, then detection accuracy can be improved for specific configurations, but the system becomes time-consuming and difficult to operate across different chute sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The infrared sensor system automatically adjusts its beam intensity and range to match the chute dimensions without manual intervention. The controller manages the infrared units to emit beams of appropriate intensity based on detected chute characteristics, enabling the system to adapt to varying chute sizes autonomously across different game machine configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the infrared beam parameters (intensity and range) based on the detected chute size and characteristics. The controller modifies these parameters in real-time to optimize detection accuracy for each specific chute configuration, eliminating the need for manual knob adjustments while maintaining precise prize detection
2Illumination intensity
If ambient lights are used to increase entertainment effects, then user engagement is improved, but the infrared sensors become interfered with and detection accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system converts the potentially harmful ambient light interference into a beneficial feature by using the controller to distinguish between entertainment lights and prize objects. The infrared receiver selectively processes reflected infrared beams at specific frequencies, filtering out ambient light while maintaining detection accuracy even when entertainment lights are active
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the infrared units and the detection system, filtering and processing signals to eliminate ambient light interference. It manages the infrared receiver to identify and reject signals from entertainment lights while preserving genuine prize detection signals, enabling accurate operation in brightly lit entertainment environments
3Measurement precision
If infrared beam intensity is manually adjusted using a knob, then detection accuracy can be optimized for specific conditions, but the adjustment process becomes time-consuming and imprecise
Solution Approach 1:
The infrared sensor system performs self-adjustment of beam intensity without requiring manual knob manipulation. The controller automatically manages the infrared transmitter units to emit beams of appropriate intensity based on detected chute characteristics and environmental conditions, eliminating time-consuming manual adjustment while achieving precise optimization
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary automatic calibration of infrared beam intensity during initialization or when chute configuration changes are detected. This preliminary adjustment prepares the system for optimal detection before actual prize detection begins, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual adjustments during operation
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
Ensures accurate and automatic detection of prizes in the chute, eliminating the need for manual adjustments and reducing errors caused by ambient light interference, thereby enhancing the gaming experience.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the infrared units includes an infrared transmitter for emitting an incident infrared beam with a carrier wave at a predetermined frequency
Implementation Method 2
an infrared receiver for receiving a reflected infrared beam at the predetermined frequency
Data Source
AI summary
A claw machine includes a chute and a sensor for detecting a won prize dropped to the chute. The sensor includes infrared units, a comparator, a calculating and judging unit, an actuating unit, an indicator, a controller, an integrated circuit board and a casing. Each of the infrared units includes an infrared transmitter for emitting an incident infrared beam with a carrier wave at a predetermined frequency and an infrared receiver for receiving a reflected infrared beam at the predetermined frequency. The controller instructs, controls, commands and manages the infrared units, the comparator, the calculating and judging unit, the actuating unit and the indicator. The infrared units, the comparator, the calculating and judging unit, the actuating unit and the indicator are supported on the integrated circuit board. The casing contains the integrated circuit board. The casing, which contains the integrated circuit board, is supported on a wall of the chute.