Lid Position Detection Using Zone Scan Contrast
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing copier and scanner devices face challenges in accurately detecting the open or closed state of their lids without additional components, which affects their operational behavior and power management.
Innovation Solution
The device uses an image sensor to scan zones on the scan surface, comparing contrasting portions of the lid to determine its position by analyzing the contrast between different zones, allowing for lid detection without specific components for this purpose.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional components are added to detect lid position, then detection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The existing image sensor, originally designed for scanning documents, is made multi-functional by enabling it to also detect lid position. The sensor scans zones that include portions of the lid, and the processor analyzes scan data to determine whether contrasting portions of the lid are visible, thereby detecting open/closed state without requiring dedicated detection components
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own existing resources (image sensor and processor) to perform the lid position detection function. The image sensor scans the scan surface and captures images of the lid portions, and the processor analyzes these scans to determine lid position, making the system self-sufficient without external add-on components
2Speed
If the device wakes up from power-saving mode upon lid detection, then operational responsiveness is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuously monitoring lid position or immediately waking upon any detection, the system performs periodic scans at predetermined intervals. The processor is activated only at these intervals to analyze scan data and determine lid position, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining operational responsiveness when needed
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 method enables reliable detection of the lid's position, allowing the device to wake up from power-saving mode and manage operations accordingly, while maintaining low power consumption and operating effectively in various lighting conditions.
Implementation Method 1
contrasting portions of the lid may be detected by the scanner
Data Source
AI summary
A first zone and a second zone of a scan surface may be scanned by an image sensor. A lid may be coupled to the scan surface and have an open position and a closed position, the lid being to cover the first zone and the second zone when in the closed position. The position of a lid may be determined based on a comparison of a scan of the first zone and a scan of the second zone.