Magnetic Field Sensor Indicator for Security Alarms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic field sensors lack an effective indicator system that clearly indicates the presence or absence of a magnetic field, particularly in compact wireless security systems, where visual or auditory feedback is limited and power efficiency is a concern.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic field sensor with a microprocessor-controlled indicator, such as a light-emitting diode, that turns on when a magnetic field is sensed and remains on for a predetermined period, then turns off unless the lid is removed to restart the algorithm, ensuring power conservation and visual feedback during installation and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If the indicator is continuously on to provide visual feedback, then the information feedback is improved, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator operates periodically rather than continuously - it is activated during installation mode for a predetermined time period, then deactivated during normal operation. This periodic activation provides necessary visual feedback while significantly reducing power consumption from the battery.
2Loss of information
If the indicator remains on indefinitely to show magnetic field presence, then the information feedback is improved, but the battery life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements time-based periodic operation where the indicator is enabled only during installation mode for a predetermined duration. After this period expires, the indicator is disabled even if magnetic field presence continues to be detected, thereby preserving battery life while providing adequate feedback during the critical installation phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator's operational state is dynamically changed based on system mode and time elapsed. The microprocessor controls the indicator to be inoperable after the predetermined period following activation, creating a dynamic system that adapts its feedback behavior to different operational phases.
3Reliability
If the indicator is always operable to provide continuous feedback, then the reliability of indication is improved, but the power loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator provides reliable visual feedback during the installation phase when accuracy is most critical, then transitions to a low-power state during normal operation. This periodic operation ensures reliable indication when needed while minimizing energy loss during extended operational periods.
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 sensor provides reliable visual or auditory feedback on the presence or absence of a magnetic field, aiding in proper installation and operation while conserving power by rendering the indicator inoperable after a predetermined period, ensuring efficient battery use and reducing visual or auditory annoyance.
Implementation Method 1
a device which senses a magnetic field
Implementation Method 2
an indicator which indicates the presence or the absence of a magnetic field, wherein the power source supplies current to the indicator
Data Source
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AI summary
A proximity sensor comprises a magnet which generates a magnetic field and a magnetic field sensor. The magnetic field sensor includes a radio and an antenna which can transmit an output signal on a plurality of output frequencies. A microprocessor is programmed with a plurality of data protocols. Each of the output frequencies operates on at least one of the data protocols. There is a dip switch which is actuated to provide a code to the microprocessor. A data protocol is implemented by the microprocessor based on the code. There is a MEMS oscillator programmed to a discrete frequency based on the data protocol implemented by the microprocessor. The MEMS oscillator provides the discrete frequency to the radio. The radio is provided with single phase-locked loop which generates the output signal based on the discrete frequency. The single phase- locked loop may be a x32 multiplier.