Magnetic Field Sensor Indicator Power Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing magnetic field sensors lack efficient indicators for visual confirmation of magnetic field presence or absence, particularly in security alarm systems, and require improved power management to sustain indicator functionality over varying current demands.

Innovation Solution

A magnetic field sensor incorporating a microprocessor, power source, and a visual, auditory, or vibratory indicator that turns on when a magnetic field is sensed and turns off when not sensed, with a supercapacitor to support high current demands and a tamper switch for battery detection, allowing for reliable operation and power conservation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a light-emitting diode indicator is continuously powered to provide visual indication of magnetic field presence, then the indicator reliability is improved, but the power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindicator reliabilityVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The indicator is powered periodically rather than continuously. A power source supplies current to the indicator at predetermined intervals to provide visual indication of magnetic field presence, thereby reducing overall power consumption while maintaining operational reliability when needed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

2Use of energy by moving object

If the indicator is rendered inoperable after a predetermined period to conserve power, then power consumption is reduced, but the ability to provide continuous indication is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidindication availability
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The indicator's operational state is dynamically adjusted based on time and conditions. The microprocessor controls the indicator to be operable during initial positioning and subsequently renders it inoperable after a predetermined period, creating a dynamic power management system that adapts to different operational phases

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The indicator is pre-configured to operate during the initial positioning phase before being deactivated. This preliminary operational period allows for proper sensor and indicator positioning, after which the system transitions to a lower-power state

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Measurement precision

If the sensor requires precise positioning relative to the magnet for proper operation, then the detection accuracy is improved, but the ease of installation is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoidease of installation
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The indicator provides visual feedback to assist with positioning. When the magnetic field sensor is properly positioned relative to the magnet, the indicator displays the magnetic field presence, giving installers real-time feedback on positioning accuracy and facilitating correct installation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 magnetic field sensor provides reliable visual, auditory, or vibratory feedback for correct positioning and operation, ensuring accurate detection of magnetic fields and conserving power by turning off indicators after a predetermined period, thus enhancing installation efficiency and reducing power consumption.

Implementation Method 1

a magnetic field sensor comprising a power source, an indicator and a microprocessor... when a magnetic field is sensed

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field sensing: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

The indicator may be a light-emitting diode

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight-emitting diode effect: Light Emitting Diode

Data Source

PatentUS10249161B2Magnetic field sensor
Publication Date: 2019.04.02 1010210 BC LTD
  • US10249161B2 patent drawing
  • US10249161B2 patent drawing
  • US10249161B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A magnetic field sensor comprises a power source, an indicator and a microprocessor. The power source supplies current to the indicator. The indicator turns on when a magnetic field is sensed and the indicator turns off when a magnetic field is not sensed. The microprocessor renders the indicator inoperable a predetermined period of time after the magnetic field sensor is powered up.