Planar Sensor Light Guide Discontinuities Blind Zone Elimination
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor systems for detecting incident light signals, such as those used in military training simulations, suffer from blind zones due to the use of point-shaped light sensors, leading to incomplete coverage and inaccurate hit detection.
Innovation Solution
A planar sensor system comprising a light guide with discontinuities for light entry and a support element that fixes the light guide, allowing for continuous detection of light signals without blind zones, and a reception detector to convert light signals into electrical signals for processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If point-shaped light sensors are used to detect light signals, then the sensor can be simple in structure, but blind zones are created between sensors leading to incomplete coverage
Solution Approach 1:
The planar sensor is segmented into multiple light guides arranged in a grid pattern, where each light guide acts as an independent detection element. This segmentation allows comprehensive coverage of the sensor surface while maintaining structural simplicity, as each light guide segment can be independently manufactured and then assembled into the complete sensor array.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from point-shaped sensors (0D) to planar light guide structures (2D) by arranging light guides in a grid pattern across the sensor surface. This dimensional expansion eliminates blind zones between discrete sensors while maintaining a flat, integrable structure suitable for vest mounting.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple point-shaped light sensors are provided to ensure acceptable coverage, then detection coverage is improved, but the sensor system becomes heavier and less flexible
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple light guide structures are merged into a single planar sensor assembly that can be integrated into the vest fabric. The light guides are arranged in a grid pattern and fixed to a support element, creating a unified lightweight structure that provides comprehensive coverage without requiring separate heavy sensor housings for each detection point.
Solution Approach 2:
The planar sensor utilizes thin, flexible light guide structures that can be integrated into the vest fabric. The light guides are arranged in a grid pattern on a support element, creating a flexible sensor system that conforms to the vest surface without adding significant weight or rigidity, thereby maintaining wearer comfort and mobility.
3Device complexity
If point-shaped light sensors are used, then the sensor structure remains simple, but accurate assignment of hits to body regions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The planar sensor is segmented into multiple light guides arranged in a grid pattern, where each light guide corresponds to a specific spatial location on the sensor surface. This segmentation enables precise determination of hit locations by identifying which specific light guide detected the laser signal, thereby accurately assigning hits to corresponding body regions while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from point-shaped sensors (0D) to planar light guide structures (2D) by arranging light guides in a grid pattern across the sensor surface. This dimensional expansion enables precise spatial resolution of hit locations, allowing accurate assignment of hits to specific body regions while maintaining a flat, integrable structure.
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 planar sensor system provides comprehensive and accurate detection of light signals across a surface, eliminating blind zones and enabling precise hit detection and simulation in military and other training scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
at least one light guide which comprises discontinuities along its longitudinal extension on the side thereof intended for light entry in order to allow detection or entry of a light signal
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a planar sensor (1), comprising: at least one light guide (2) which has, along its longitudinal extension and on the side thereof intended for light entry, discontinuities (9) in order to allow detection or entry of a light signal (8); and a support element (4) which supports the light guide (2) on one side, preferably such the that discontinuities (9) of the light guide (2) are oriented away from the support element (4).