Multi-optical Axis Photoelectric Sensor Plug-in Function Setting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multi-optical axis photoelectric sensor systems require complex and time-consuming function setting operations, often involving PCs or special tools, and may increase housing size due to built-in switches for safety, leading to potential setting errors.
Innovation Solution
A multi-optical axis photoelectric sensor system with a plug piece that allows for simple function setting by attaching different plug pieces to a socket, incorporating specific information to determine functions, reducing the need for additional tools and minimizing housing size changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a PC or function setting tool is used for function setting, then function setting capability is achieved, but operation complexity increases and setting time extends
Solution Approach 1:
The function setting capability is segmented into separate plug pieces, each encoding specific function information. Instead of using a complex PC-based system, the invention divides the setting function into multiple simple, interchangeable plug pieces that can be directly attached to the sensor, thereby simplifying the operation and reducing setting time.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug piece acts as an intermediary between the user and the sensor's function setting mechanism. By attaching a specific plug piece, the user indirectly sets the desired function without needing to interact with complex setting menus or tools. The plug piece mediates the function selection process through simple physical attachment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If built-in switching switches are added for safety purpose, then function setting capability is improved, but housing size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The function setting capability is extracted from the housing structure itself and transferred to separate, removable plug pieces. This extraction allows the sensor housing to maintain its compact size while still providing versatile function setting capability through the interchangeable plug pieces that contain the switching functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The socket structure in the housing is designed to be universal, accepting various types of plug pieces. This multi-functionality allows a single compact housing to support multiple functions by simply changing the plug piece, eliminating the need for multiple built-in switches within the housing.
3Reliability
If multiple switching switches are provided for safety, then function setting reliability is improved, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple switching functions are merged into a single plug piece. Instead of having separate switches for each function within the housing, the invention combines all switching capabilities into one interchangeable component. This merging reduces the apparent complexity of the device while maintaining reliable function setting through the integrated plug piece design.
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
Facilitates efficient and error-free function setting by allowing selection of desired functions through plug pieces, reducing setting time and preventing errors, while maintaining a compact housing design.
Implementation Method 1
a light projecting circuit for performing an operation of projecting light by means of light projecting element arrays as a series of light axis elements
Implementation Method 2
a light receiving circuit for performing an operation of receiving light by means of light receiving element arrays as a series of light axis elements
Data Source
AI summary
To provide a multi-optical axis photoelectric sensor and a multi-optical axis photoelectric sensor system, which enable function setting by an extremely simple operation, and further make it unnecessary to increase the size of a housing or to separately prepare a PC or a function setting tool. The multi-optical axis photoelectric sensor has: a columnar housing, from one end of which in the longitudinal direction an electric cord is pulled out, and at the other end of which in the longitudinal direction a plug-in type socket is provided, and a plug piece detachably attachable to the socket of the columnar housing. Particular information to serve as a function determining element on the columnar housing side is incorporated in the plug piece in a manner referenceable from a processing circuit on the columnar housing side via the socket. Further, the processing circuit on the columnar housing side is set so as to determine a function based upon particular information in the plug piece referenced via the socket.