Pivotable ToF Sensor for Adjustable Detection Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for controlling electrical devices in built environments, such as lighting, are cumbersome and expensive due to the need for rewiring and the limitations of wide-field motion detection sensors like PIR sensors, which require masking or refocusing to optimize performance.
Innovation Solution
A sensor device with a pivotable head housing a Time-of-Flight sensor that can be oriented relative to a surface, allowing for adjustable sensing and control functionality by detecting objects within specific distance ranges, enabling intuitive control of electrical devices like lighting through adjustable detection modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a PIR sensor with wide field of view is used for motion detection, then the sensing coverage is improved, but the precision for detecting objects in specific directions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a pivotable head that can dynamically adjust the orientation of the ToF sensor. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to switch between wide coverage (by positioning the sensor to cover larger areas) and high precision (by orienting the sensor toward specific objects of interest), resolving the contradiction between sensing coverage and detection precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the orientation parameter of the sensor by rotating the pivotable head to different angles. By adjusting this parameter, the system can optimize the detection field for different scenarios - achieving either broad coverage or focused precision detection as needed
2Ease of operation
If wall switches are installed at predefined locations during construction, then the control functionality is provided, but the installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/wired wall switch system with a wireless sensor device. The sensor device communicates wirelessly with the lighting device, eliminating the need for complex rewiring and physical installation infrastructure, thereby reducing installation complexity while maintaining control functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor device is designed to be universally applicable - it can be mounted on various surfaces (walls, ceilings) and controls lighting devices wirelessly. This multi-functional design allows the same device to replace traditional wall switches without requiring location-specific installation, simplifying the overall installation process
3Measurement precision
If PIR sensors are masked or shielded to focus detection on dedicated areas, then the detection precision is improved, but the device complexity and installation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using static masks or shields to focus detection, the patent employs a dynamic pivotable head that rotates the ToF sensor toward specific areas. This dynamic approach achieves focused detection precision without requiring physical masking components, thereby reducing device complexity and installation requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the focusing function from physical masks/shields and implements it through electronic control of the pivotable head's orientation. By removing the need for masking components and using only the rotational mechanism, the system achieves the same focused detection effect with reduced 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
The sensor device provides flexible and adaptable presence/motion detection, allowing for remote interaction and intuitive control of electrical devices, reducing installation costs and improving control precision by leveraging the orientation of the sensor relative to the surface.
Implementation Method 1
The range sensor is preferably a Time-of-Flight sensor
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a sensor device for controlling an electrical device, wherein the sensor device comprises a controller and a range sensor; wherein sensor device is configured to be mounted in an orientation relative to gravity; wherein the range sensor is configured to: obtain the orientation of the sensor device relative to gravity; operate in a first detection mode for detecting an object within a first predetermined distance range from the range sensor when the orientation is in a first predetermined orientation; wherein the controller is configured to output a control signal arranged for controlling the electrical device upon the range sensor detecting the object.