Pivoting Sensor Mount With Spring Return After Impact
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor mounting systems are prone to physical damage from impacts, leading to sensor malfunction or damage to the mounting system, which can disrupt operations and require manual adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A spring-assisted pivot mechanism that allows sensors to automatically return to an initial position after displacement, featuring a rotating tubular member and a cam surface to compress a spring, enabling automatic reset without manual intervention, and a robust construction to withstand impacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid fixed mounting system is used, then the sensor remains stable and secure, but the sensor cannot withstand impacts without damage and requires manual adjustment after displacement
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic pivot mechanism that allows controlled rotation. The sensor housing arm can rotate about the vertical axis through the pivot mechanism, enabling the sensor to absorb impacts by moving rather than breaking, while maintaining operational stability through the spring return force that restores the initial position after displacement
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism automatically returns the sensor housing arm to its initial position after being displaced by impacts, eliminating the need for manual adjustment. The spring stores energy during impact displacement and releases it to restore the sensor to its operational position, making the system self-correcting
2Extent of automation
If a flexible pivot mechanism is used, then the sensor can automatically reset after impact, but the mounting security may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot mechanism provides controlled flexibility through rotational movement while maintaining mounting security through the spring return force. The mechanism allows the sensor to move during impact but ensures it returns to a stable, secure position, combining dynamic response with static security
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism changes the force parameter dynamically - during normal operation, the spring maintains a preset force holding the sensor in its initial position, but during impact, the spring compresses or extends to allow movement, then restores the original force to secure the sensor back in position
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 system reduces downtime and enhances operational efficiency by automatically resetting sensors, ensuring durability and reliability in high-impact environments.
Implementation Method 1
The pivot mechanism may include a spring. The pivot mechanism may be configured to rotate in either an inward direction or in an outward direction by the cam surface moving upwards on the return mechanism thereby compressing the spring
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an innovative sensor mounting system featuring a pivot mechanism that allows the sensor unit to automatically return to its original sensor detection area after being displaced by impacts, such as those from forklifts, workers or the like. The pivot mechanism enables the sensor unit to maintain a comprehensive sensor detection area, ensuring complete visibility for monitoring loading and unloading operations.