Obstacle Detection Sensor Alignment via Audible Visual Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aligning obstacle detection components in movable barrier settings is a tedious and time-consuming process, especially at greater distances, and is further complicated by environmental factors like sunlight and airborne particles, which obstruct visibility of alignment LEDs or beams.
Innovation Solution
A device that assists users in aligning obstacle detection system components by providing feedback through audible and visual signals, allowing for alignment in various settings and accommodating different types of sensors and movable barrier operators with minimal modification to existing equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the distance between sensor components is increased to cover wider barrier openings, then the coverage area is improved, but the alignment difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs LED indicators on both transmitting and receiving sensor components that provide visual feedback during alignment. The LEDs illuminate to show when components are properly aligned, giving real-time feedback to the installer and eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures over long distances.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses visible light beams and LED indicators that change visibility states during alignment. The transmitting component emits a visible light beam that can be seen by the installer, and LEDs change from off to on states to indicate alignment status, making the alignment process intuitive regardless of distance.
2Reliability
If direct sunlight or airborne particles are present in the environment, then the operational reliability is maintained, but the visibility of alignment LEDs or beams decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides feedback through multiple channels including audible signals and visual indicators. When the receiving component detects the light beam from the transmitting component, it sends a signal back that activates alignment indicators, confirming proper alignment even when environmental conditions obscure direct visual observation of the light beam.
3Area of stationary object
If the distance between sensor components is increased, then the coverage area is improved, but the time required for alignment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates preliminary alignment aids built into the sensor components themselves. The transmitting component is designed to emit a visible light beam in the general direction of the receiving component before full alignment is achieved, and LED indicators are pre-positioned to become visible at appropriate distances, allowing installers to quickly locate and align components even across large distances.
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 solution significantly simplifies the alignment process by providing clear feedback, ensuring accurate alignment even at greater distances and in challenging environmental conditions, thereby enhancing the efficiency and reliability of obstacle detection systems.
Implementation Method 1
a small light-emitting diode (LED) on one or more of the sensor components informs an installer of the alignment status
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus having a controller will initiate an obstacle detector alignment mode. An annunciation system of the apparatus effects a first annunciation mode in response to a receiving component of an obstacle detection system receiving a signal transmitted from a transmitting component of the obstacle detection system. The annunciation system effects a second annunciation mode in response to the receiving component of the obstacle detection system not receiving the signal transmitted from the transmitting component of the obstacle detection system.