Omnidirectional Near-Field Distance Sensing via Nullification Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional object-sensing systems for applications like robotics, wireless power transfer, and occupancy sensing are often costly, energy-intensive, and limited in omnidirectional detection, failing to accurately distinguish between objects such as vehicles and bystanders, especially in high-energy induction power transfer systems where safety is a concern.
Innovation Solution
A sensor system utilizing a nullification circuit with an electrical medium that produces a standing wave electric field, allowing for low-power, omnidirectional detection of objects by measuring changes in output voltage when an object approaches, enabling the determination of distance, position, velocity, and speed, and capable of distinguishing between conductive and dielectric materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional electromagnetic field sensing systems are used, then object detection capability is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sensing function from complex multi-component electromagnetic systems and implements it through a single resonant circuit that serves both power transfer and sensing functions. The resonant circuit's natural resonance properties are utilized to detect objects without requiring separate sensing coils or complex processing systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The resonant circuit performs multiple functions simultaneously: it serves as the power transfer medium for wireless charging and as the sensing element for object detection. The same circuit that enables inductive power transfer also detects changes in resonance caused by nearby objects, eliminating the need for separate sensing hardware.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple sensing coils are deployed for omnidirectional detection, then detection coverage is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the periodic oscillation of the resonant circuit at its natural frequency to create an omnidirectional sensing field. By monitoring changes in the resonance characteristics during each oscillation cycle, the system achieves 360-degree detection coverage without requiring multiple physically separated sensors, thereby reducing overall energy consumption.
3Length of stationary object
If high power is used for sensing, then detection range is improved, but safety hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the resonance frequency and impedance of the circuit, providing real-time feedback about the presence and position of objects. This feedback mechanism allows the system to detect objects at safe distances and adjust power levels accordingly, preventing overheating and safety hazards while maintaining adequate detection range.
4Measurement precision
If conventional sensors are used, then object position is detected, but ability to distinguish object types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system detects changes in multiple electrical parameters of the resonant circuit including resonance frequency shift, impedance change, and quality factor variation. By analyzing the pattern and magnitude of these parameter changes, the system can differentiate between various types of objects (metallic vs. non-metallic, conductive vs. dielectric) in addition to determining their positions.
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 system provides a cost-effective, low-power solution for omnidirectional object sensing, enhancing safety by accurately detecting objects and distinguishing between humans and vehicles, thereby preventing overheating hazards in high-energy transfer scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
An electrical medium can be integrated into the nullification circuit, the electrical medium producing a standing wave electric field about the electrical medium when power is supplied
Implementation Method 2
The sensing system utilizes a nullification circuit with an electrical medium that produces a standing wave electric field, allowing for low-cost, low-power, omnidirectional sensing by detecting changes in output voltage
Implementation Method 3
using a quarter wave resonator to detect objects and differentiate between conductive and dielectric materials
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor system is disclosed for sensing the position of an object. The system can include a power source and a nullification circuit electrically connected to the power source, the nullification circuit including an output voltage. An electrical medium can be integrated into the nullification circuit, the electrical medium producing a standing wave electric field about the electrical medium when power is supplied from the power source to the electrical medium. The nullification circuit is configured such that the output voltage of the nullification circuit is substantially zero when power is supplied to the electrical medium and the object is not within a predetermined minimum distance from the electrical medium, the output voltage of the nullification circuit having a non-zero value when the object is within the predetermined minimum distance from the electrical medium.