Obstacle Detection System Without Reflector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing obstacle detection systems for movable barriers face challenges such as complex installation procedures, susceptibility to moisture interference, and difficulty in identifying obstacles due to misalignment or environmental conditions, leading to malfunctions and unnecessary service calls.
Innovation Solution
An obstacle detection system that includes a processor-operated light emitter and detector configuration allowing operation without a reflector on the opposite side of the movable barrier, a heater to prevent condensation, and a camera to focus on a specific zone of interest, reducing installation complexity and improving reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a retro-reflective system with emitter and detector on the same side is used, then installation time is reduced compared to opposing sides mounting, but additional installation time is required to set up the reflector on the opposing side
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the reflector component from the system entirely. Instead of using a retro-reflective system that requires a reflector on the opposing side, the invention uses a direct transmission system where the emitter and detector are positioned to detect obstacles without requiring reflection. This extraction of the reflector component eliminates the associated installation complexity and potential misalignment issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a test signal mechanism as an intermediary to verify system operation. The controller sends a test signal through the emitter and detector to confirm proper alignment and functionality before actual obstacle detection begins. This intermediary verification step ensures reliable operation without requiring complex alignment procedures during installation.
2Ease of operation
If a reflector is used in the obstacle detection system, then the emitter and detector can be mounted on the same side, but the reflector is susceptible to moisture build-up from dew, fog, rain, or other environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the reflector component from the system. By using a direct transmission configuration where the emitter and detector are positioned to detect obstacles through direct light path interruption rather than reflection, the system removes the reflector that is susceptible to moisture build-up. This extraction resolves the reliability issue caused by environmental conditions affecting the reflector.
3Measurement precision
If the reflector becomes misaligned after installation, then the system enters an error mode and will not close the movable barrier, but remedying the situation requires user recognition and realignment or repair service calls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the reflector component that can become misaligned. By using a direct transmission system where the emitter and detector are mounted on opposing sides with a fixed geometric relationship, the system eliminates the alignment issues associated with reflectors. The emitter and detector positions are predetermined and do not require field alignment, preventing misalignment errors entirely.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a self-verification mechanism where the controller automatically tests the system operation by sending a test signal through the emitter and detector. This self-test function verifies proper installation and alignment without requiring user intervention or external calibration tools. The system autonomously confirms its operational status and can identify installation issues before actual use.
4Reliability
If wired heated reflectors are used to prevent condensation, then condensation is prevented, but installation complexity increases due to wired power source requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the reflector component that requires heating to prevent condensation. By using a direct transmission system without a reflector, the source of condensation problems is removed entirely. This extraction eliminates the need for complex heated reflector systems with wired power sources, reducing installation complexity while maintaining reliability.
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
Simplifies installation, enhances system reliability by preventing moisture interference, and accurately detects obstacles within the movable barrier's path, reducing false alarms and service calls.
Implementation Method 1
a first light emitter configured to emit a light signal and a first light detector configured to receive a portion of the light signal reflected back from an object
Implementation Method 2
a heater configured to heat the reflector
Implementation Method 3
The location of the obstacle detection system may also cause moisture to condense on a surface of the reflector which interferes with the ability of the reflector to reflect light back to the detector
Data Source
AI summary
An obstacle detection system includes a light emitter that emits a light signal and a light detector configured to receive a portion of the light signal reflected back from an object. The system includes a processor operatively coupled to the light emitter and the light detector to determine a presence of an obstacle based on the portion of the light signal received by the light detector. The system includes a heater operatively coupled to a power source and at least one sensor configured to determine an ambient temperature and an ambient relative humidity. The processor is operatively coupled to the power source, the heater, and the at least one sensor. The processor is configured to calculate a dew point of the environment from the ambient relative humidity and the ambient temperature and to activate the heater in response to the ambient temperature being less than the dew point.