Modular Motion Sensor Assembly for Accurate Occupancy Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motion sensors for security and occupancy detection often require complex installation, have limited flexibility in mounting options, and may trigger false positives due to environmental factors like animal movement or temperature changes, lacking efficient discrimination between valid and invalid motion events.
Innovation Solution
A modular motion sensor assembly that can be easily installed over a standard electrical switch box, featuring a compact design with wireless or wired communication, incorporating multiple sensor types (infrared, radar, temperature, etc.) and advanced signal processing to differentiate between valid and invalid motion events, using a microcontroller and algorithms like SVM or HMM for improved accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sensor types and advanced signal processing are incorporated, then discrimination accuracy between valid and invalid motion events is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensor types (infrared, radar, temperature sensors) into a single integrated sensor assembly. This merging approach enables the system to collect diverse environmental data simultaneously, improving discrimination accuracy between valid and invalid motion events through multi-parameter analysis while managing complexity through unified hardware architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor assembly is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a detection device and an environmental monitoring system. The same hardware platform supports multiple sensor types and various mounting options (ceiling, wall, portable), allowing the system to perform multiple functions including motion detection, temperature monitoring, and environmental assessment without requiring separate dedicated devices
2Ease of operation
If wireless communication and modular design are used, then ease of installation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular components including the sensor assembly, communication module, and processing unit. This segmentation allows for simplified installation where components can be independently configured and connected, enabling easy replacement or upgrading of individual modules without affecting the entire system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional hard-wired mechanical connections with wireless communication technology. The sensor assembly communicates with external systems via wireless protocols, eliminating the need for complex electrical wiring during installation while maintaining reliable data transmission and system integration
3Reliability
If advanced signal processing algorithms are implemented, then reliability of motion detection is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic signal processing and analysis rather than continuous processing. The sensor assembly collects data continuously but processes signals at optimized intervals, allowing the microcontroller to perform complex algorithms like SVM or HMM only when necessary. This periodic approach maintains high reliability in motion detection while significantly reducing average power consumption compared to continuous processing
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
Enables easy consumer installation, reduces false triggers, and enhances discrimination between valid and invalid motion events, improving the accuracy and reliability of motion detection systems for security, HVAC, and illumination control applications.
Implementation Method 1
incorporating multiple sensor types (infrared, radar, temperature, etc.)
Implementation Method 2
incorporating multiple sensor types (infrared, radar, temperature, etc.)
Implementation Method 3
incorporating multiple sensor types (infrared, radar, temperature, etc.)
Data Source
AI summary
A motion sensor assembly may include a cover plate configured to be mounted to an electrical box. The cover plate may include a front surface configured to face away from the electrical box and a rear surface opposite the front surface. The cover plate may further include an aperture configured to receive a toggle or rocker type switch. A motion sensor may be coupled to the cover plate. A power source and processor may be operably coupled to the motion sensor. Furthermore, the processor may be operably coupled to a communication device.