Optical Sensor Signal Light Source Solid Angle Hazard Warning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical sensors for liquid or gas analysis using non-visible radiation pose a safety risk to users during maintenance, monitoring, and cleaning as they may be tempted to look directly at the hazardous light sources, particularly when they are not visibly emitting.
Innovation Solution
An optical sensor design that includes a visible signal light source emitting light in the same solid angle as the measurement radiation, which is activated when the sensor is operational, to alert users of potential hazards and prevent direct exposure, with features such as multiple optical windows, blinking, and colored light to indicate operational states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a light source emits non-visible measurement radiation, then the sensor can perform liquid or gas analysis, but the user may be exposed to hazardous radiation without visual warning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color changes by introducing a visible signal light that emits visible radiation in the same solid angle as the non-visible measurement radiation. This visible light acts as a visual indicator, changing the information state from invisible hazard to visible warning, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliable measurement and safety warning.
2Reliability
If a visible signal light is added to indicate radiation emission, then user safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the signal light source to serve multiple functions: it provides safety warning through visible radiation, indicates operational status, and can be used for alignment purposes. This multi-functionality justifies the addition of the light source by making it contribute to several system goals simultaneously.
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
Enhances user safety by clearly indicating when hazardous radiation is being emitted, reducing the risk of eye damage during sensor operation and providing visual cues for maintenance and operational status.
Implementation Method 1
a light source (2) that emits measurement radiation (8)
Implementation Method 2
the housing comprises at least one optical window which is transparent at least to the measurement radiation and visible light
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure discloses an optical sensor for liquid or gas analysis including a light source that emits measurement radiation and a housing, wherein the light source is arranged in the housing, and wherein the light source radiates measurement radiation out of the housing in a solid angle. The optical sensor further includes a signal light source that emits visible light from the housing in at least the same solid angle.