Multi-Directional Optical Sensing Module with Planar Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional optical sensing modules are limited to a fixed detection direction, constrained by their design, which restricts their ability to adapt to user-specific sensing requirements.

Innovation Solution

An optical sensing module with a multi-directional sensing function is achieved by incorporating a supporter with bent lateral portions forming an accommodating space for a photosensitive component, and a connecting component featuring hole structures or a stretching portion, allowing the module to be fixed to a circuit board via a bridging medium, enabling adjustable sensing directions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the detecting module is designed with a fixed pin structure for circuit board assembly, then the assembly process is simple, but the detection direction is constrained to be parallel to the planar normal vector of the circuit board

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly simplicityVSAvoiddetection direction flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a single vertical pin connection to a planar surface mounting structure with multiple contact points distributed on the bottom surface. This dimensional change allows the detecting component to be oriented at various angles relative to the circuit board while maintaining electrical connection, thereby enabling multi-directional detection capability without complicating the assembly process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The bottom surface of the detecting module is designed as a universal mounting interface that can accommodate different mounting orientations. The multiple contact points and planar structure allow the same component to function in various detection directions (vertical, horizontal, angled), making the module adaptable to different application requirements while maintaining simple assembly procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of manufacture

If the detecting component is mounted with the detection direction parallel to the circuit board normal vector, then the assembly is straightforward, but the detection direction cannot be varied according to user demand

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly straightforwardnessVSAvoiddetection direction variability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces rotational freedom and angular adjustability in the mounting configuration. The detecting component can be positioned at different angles on the circuit board while maintaining electrical connection through the planar contact structure. This dynamic positioning capability allows users to vary the detection direction according to specific application needs without complicating the manufacturing or assembly process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 module can be oriented in various directions relative to the circuit board, providing flexible signal transmission and accommodating different design demands, such as active or passive circuits, thereby enhancing user adaptability and functionality compared to prior art.

Implementation Method 1

The photosensitive component is disposed inside the accommodating space to receive an optical signal passing into an opening of the accommodating space

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS9976898B2Optical sensing module with multi-directional optical sensing function
Publication Date: 2018.05.22 PIXART IMAGING INC
  • US9976898B2 patent drawing
  • US9976898B2 patent drawing
  • US9976898B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An optical sensing module capable of providing a multi-directional optical sensing function teaches that the optical sensing module can be fixed on a circuit board via a bridging medium. The optical sensing module includes a supporter, a photosensitive component and a connecting component. The supporter includes a base and several lateral portions. The lateral portions are bent from edges of the base to form an accommodating space. The photosensitive component is disposed inside the accommodating space to receive an optical signal passing into an opening of the accommodating space. The connecting component is disposed on the supporter and includes a conductive terminal. The supporter is connected with the bridging material via the conductive terminal to stand on the circuit board by one of a plurality of sensing directions.