Photoelectric Switch Signal Cable Connecting Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing photoelectric switches with seven-segment displays are insufficient in providing information to users due to their elongated housing shape, which restricts the display area when using dot matrix displays like OLEDs, making it difficult to secure a sufficient display area, especially when multiple switches are coupled on a DIN rail.
Innovation Solution
A connecting structure for a signal cable is designed to secure a sufficient display area in a photoelectric switch by positioning the connecting section between the display region and the signal cable in the longitudinal direction of the housing, allowing for a dot matrix display to be effectively used on the elongated rectangular housing, with the signal cable integrated with a shield member to protect the display from noise and improve visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a dot matrix display is adopted to provide sufficient information, then information provision capability is improved, but the display area is insufficient due to the elongated housing shape and wire connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the connecting section from a lateral connection (perpendicular to longitudinal direction) to a longitudinal connection (parallel to longitudinal direction). This dimensional change in the connection orientation allows the display unit to utilize the elongated housing space more effectively, securing sufficient display area in the latitudinal direction while maintaining proper cable connectivity through the longitudinal arrangement.
2Ease of manufacture
If the connecting section is positioned laterally to connect display and cable, then cable connection is simplified, but display area in latitudinal direction is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the connection direction from lateral (width direction) to longitudinal (length direction). By positioning the connecting section to connect the display unit and signal cable in the longitudinal direction, the display can extend fully in the latitudinal direction without being constrained by lateral cable connections, thus maximizing display area while maintaining manufacturability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple photoelectric switches are coupled on DIN rail, then system integration is improved, but display area is further restricted by the elongated housing shape
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the internal arrangement by positioning the connecting section in the longitudinal direction, allowing the display unit to maximize its latitudinal extent. This arrangement accommodates the elongated housing shape required for DIN rail mounting while ensuring sufficient display area, thus maintaining system integration capability without compromising display space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different functional zones within the housing: the longitudinal direction accommodates connection and structural requirements for DIN rail integration, while the latitudinal direction is optimized for display area. This local differentiation of spatial usage allows simultaneous optimization of both system integration and display capabilities.
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
This solution ensures a sufficient display area for the photoelectric switch, enhancing user visibility and information accessibility while maintaining the compact form factor, and integrating noise protection for the display.
Implementation Method 1
the photoelectric switch projects light toward the work or the like, receives reflected light from the work
Implementation Method 2
the inventor of this application examined adoption of a dot matrix display such as an OLED (organic light emitting diode)
Data Source
AI summary
To provide a connecting structure for a signal cable capable of securing a sufficient display area concerning a display in a photoelectric switch. A photoelectric switch includes a housing having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. A display 5 is provided on a first surface of the housing and includes a display region. A signal cable 51 connects a control board and the display 5. The display 5 includes a connecting section 70a connected to the signal cable 51. The connecting section 70a is disposed between the display region and the signal cable in the longitudinal direction of the housing. Consequently, a connecting structure for the signal cable 5 capable of securing a sufficient display area concerning the display 5 in the photoelectric switch is provided.