Position Detector Smoothing Unit for Continuous Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing position detection systems experience discontinuous changes in output when switching between sensor units, leading to excessive noise in servo systems and inefficiencies in large measurement ranges.
Innovation Solution
A position detector with multiple sensor units that uses a smoothing unit to combine outputs and generate continuous positional data, employing a common power supply and detection circuit to share resources and reduce noise, and a prediction computation unit for temporal position extrapolation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple sensor units are used to cover large measurement ranges, then the measurement range is improved, but discontinuous changes occur at switching points between sensor units
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the outputs of multiple sensor units through a smoothing unit that performs weighted averaging. In overlapping segments where two sensor units both output positions, the smoothing unit combines these outputs using weighting coefficients that vary continuously from 0 to 1, ensuring continuous position outputs without discontinuous changes at switching points.
Solution Approach 2:
The smoothing unit acts as an intermediary between multiple sensor units and the final position output. It processes the discrete outputs from each sensor unit and transforms them into a continuous position signal through weighted combination, eliminating discontinuities that would otherwise occur at switching points.
2Reliability
If multiple sensor units are used to ensure continuous detection, then the measurement coverage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the measurement range into multiple segments, each covered by a sensor unit. By segmenting the overall measurement range and using overlapping segments with continuous weighting transitions, the system achieves continuous detection while managing complexity through structured organization of sensor units.
Solution Approach 2:
The smoothing unit serves multiple functions: it combines outputs from multiple sensor units, ensures continuous position outputs, and reduces the impact of individual sensor errors. This multi-functional component reduces overall system complexity by consolidating multiple roles into a single processing unit.
3Area of stationary object
If sensor units are switched to cover different positions, then the measurement range is extended, but noise is introduced to the servo system
Solution Approach 1:
The smoothing unit provides beforehand cushioning by continuously blending outputs from multiple sensor units before switching occurs. The weighted coefficients transition smoothly from one sensor unit to another, cushioning against abrupt changes that would otherwise introduce noise to the servo system.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging outputs from multiple sensor units through weighted averaging in overlapping segments, the system reduces the impact of individual sensor errors and switching discontinuities. This combination approach filters out noise that would otherwise be introduced by abrupt switching between sensor units.
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
Ensures continuous positional outputs without excessive burden on servo systems, allows for simple interpolation, disperses errors over the segment, and reduces costs through shared detection circuit usage, enabling accurate position determination across large measurement ranges.
Implementation Method 1
uses coil arrays to determine positions based on the mark. That is, phases of signals outputted from coil arrays are different depending on the relative position to the mark
Data Source
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AI summary
A position detector having a plurality of sensor units is used. Each of the sensor units is configured to determine positions. The sensor units are selectively used for outputting positions of a moving object. Positional outputs are generated by combining outputs from a plurality of the sensor units in a segment where the plurality of sensor units output positions together, for allowing the positional outputs to change continuously from a start to an end of the segment.