Modular Sensor Module for Handheld Rangefinder
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Solution Overview
Problem
Handheld rangefinder instruments become cumbersome and expensive as their scope of functions increases, requiring multiple devices to cover desired functionalities, which is inefficient and inconvenient for users.
Innovation Solution
A modular system comprising a handheld rangefinder instrument and a compact, lightweight sensor module that can be easily connected and disconnected, providing additional sensor data without a separate power supply, using the rangefinder's power for operation, and featuring various sensor components such as angle sensors, laser rangefinders, and extendable tape measures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the scope of functions of a handheld rangefinder instrument is increased, then the instrument can cover more desired functions, but the instrument becomes larger and heavier and more cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system is divided into a permanent handheld rangefinder instrument and separate interchangeable sensor modules. Each module contains specific sensor components (e.g., angle sensors, additional rangefinders, tape measures) that can be attached or detached based on measurement requirements. This segmentation allows the base instrument to remain lightweight while functionality is extended through modular additions.
Solution Approach 2:
The handheld rangefinder instrument is designed with a universal mounting structure and interface that can accommodate multiple different types of sensor modules. The base instrument provides core functionality (laser distance measurement), while interchangeable modules add specialized capabilities (angle measurement, extended reach, tape measurement). This universal design enables one base instrument to serve multiple measurement purposes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the scope of functions of a handheld rangefinder instrument is increased, then the instrument can cover more desired functions, but the instrument becomes larger and more unwieldy
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the system into a simple base instrument and interchangeable modules, each component remains relatively simple in design. The base instrument maintains its straightforward operation for basic distance measurement, while modules can be selected and attached based on specific measurement tasks, preventing the need to operate a single complex all-in-one device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple rangefinder instruments with different scopes of functions are purchased, then the desired functions can be covered, but this is unnecessarily expensive and carrying all instruments is awkward
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple measurement functionalities that would traditionally require separate instruments are merged into a single base rangefinder through the use of interchangeable sensor modules. The base instrument provides core distance measurement capability, while modules for angle measurement, extended reach, and tape measurement can be attached as needed, consolidating what would have been multiple separate devices into one system.
Solution Approach 2:
The base rangefinder instrument is designed as a universal platform that can perform multiple measurement functions through interchangeable modules. Instead of requiring separate specialized instruments for different measurement tasks, the universal base unit accepts various modules that provide angle sensing, extended measurement capability, and tape measurement functionality, all controlled from a single device.
4Weight of moving object
If a sensor module has no power supply of its own, then the module can be lighter and more compact, but it must rely on the rangefinder instrument for power transmission
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply function is merged from the sensor module into the base rangefinder instrument. The interface connection between the base instrument and sensor module serves dual purposes: data transmission and power supply. This eliminates the need for separate batteries in each module, reducing their weight and complexity, while the base instrument's power system supports multiple modules through the shared interface.
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor module for connection to a handheld rangefinder instrument and for providing sensor data for the rangefinder instrument includes an electronic interface for connection to an applicable interface of the rangefinder instrument, and at least one electronic sensor component for generating the sensor data. A system for handheld measurement of distances to a surface region of an object includes a sensor module of this kind and a handheld rangefinder instrument having a first laser rangefinder. When the interfaces are connected to one another, the sensor module is configured for transmitting the sensor data to the rangefinder instrument, and the interfaces are configured for transmitting electric power from the rangefinder instrument to the sensor module, in which the sensor module is configured to operate the at least one sensor component by means of the electric power transmitted by the rangefinder instrument.