Automated PIR Sensor Testing via Subzone Infrared Radiation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for testing passive infrared (PIR) sensors are cumbersome, expensive, and not suitable for automated procedures, especially in environments with furniture or other obstructions, as they require moving a thermal infrared radiation source within the sensor's field of view.
Innovation Solution
A method and test device that generates infrared radiation to excite PIR sensors, allowing for reliable and repeatable testing by positioning the device to create differential signals between detection subzones, which can be done automatically and independently for each subzone, using a radiation profile simulating a moving body, and optionally aided by a tracing device for subzone identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a moving thermal infrared radiation source is used to test PIR sensors, then the sensor can be tested for motion detection capability, but the testing procedure becomes cumbersome and difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of moving a thermal radiation source through space with an electronic control system that sequentially activates different detection zones of the PIR sensor. The control unit electronically switches between zones without requiring physical movement of the test device, thereby simplifying the testing procedure while maintaining reliability in verifying motion detection capability.
2Reliability
If a moving thermal infrared radiation source is used to test PIR sensors, then motion detection can be verified, but the testing becomes expensive and not suitable for automated procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical movement with an electronic control unit that can be integrated into automated testing systems. The control unit receives test signals and automatically activates corresponding detection zones, enabling automated testing procedures that are cost-effective and suitable for production environments while maintaining reliable verification of motion detection functionality.
3Measurement precision
If detection zones are subdivided into multiple subzones, then the precision of motion detection can be improved, but the complexity of testing the sensor increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the detection field into multiple independently controllable detection zones, each further subdivided into subzones. The control unit can selectively activate specific zones or subzones based on test requirements, allowing precise testing of motion detection in specific areas without needing to test all zones simultaneously, thereby managing complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
4Measurement precision
If a tracing device is used to identify detection subzones, then the positioning accuracy for testing is improved, but the overall system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a tracing device that emits visible light in different colors to mark different detection subzones. This visual indication system allows operators to easily identify and position the test device relative to specific subzones without requiring complex electronic interfaces or advanced positioning systems, thereby achieving high positioning accuracy while minimizing the increase in system complexity.
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
Enables reliable, automated, and cost-effective testing of PIR sensors by creating differential signals between subzones, ensuring correct operation without the need for complex setups or skilled personnel, suitable for large-scale economic use.
Implementation Method 1
a test device arranged for generating infrared radiation for exciting the sensor
Implementation Method 2
PIR sensors allow to sense motion by an infrared energy radiating body
Implementation Method 3
PIR motion detection sensors, or also often referred to as pyroelectric or IR motion sensors
Data Source
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AI summary
A method, a test device, a tracing device and a monitoring system for testing a passive infrared motion detection sensor comprising a detector (9) having a detection field of view (8) comprised of a plurality of spatially adjacent detection zones (10-17). Each detection zone (10-17) of the sensor has first (A) and second (B) adjacent detection subzones. By determining a respective detection subzone (A; B) at a position remote from the sensor in the field of view (8) thereof, and arranging the test device at a position for predominantly generating infrared radiation in the determined detection subzone (A; B), a reliable response by the sensor can be triggered by generating infrared radiation from the test device in accordance with a radiation profile. The tracing device supports the determination of a subzone (A; B) for positioning the test device.