Distance-Sensor Probe Alignment for Accurate Target Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rebound measuring devices face challenges in accurately aligning with targets due to anatomical variations, often requiring manual adjustment and potentially causing harm or inaccurate measurements, and necessitate subject attention during use.
Innovation Solution
A device with a sensor system that includes multiple distance sensors to measure parallel distances to the target, allowing for automatic probe release only when these distances are within predefined ranges, ensuring accurate alignment and reducing the need for manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple distance sensors are used to measure parallel distances for automatic alignment, then measurement precision and alignment accuracy are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the alignment measurement function into multiple independent distance sensors (first distance sensor, second distance sensor, third distance sensor) positioned at different locations on the housing. Each sensor independently measures distance to a corresponding location on the target, allowing the system to achieve high alignment precision through distributed measurement points rather than a single complex sensor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment adjustment with an automatic sensor-based alignment system. Instead of requiring operators to manually position the device and judge alignment, the system uses optical/electronic distance sensors to automatically detect distances and triggers probe release based on predefined distance criteria, eliminating the need for manual intervention and improving alignment accuracy.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment of device position is used to accommodate anatomical variations, then adaptability is improved, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to potential misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts to different anatomical configurations by using multiple distance sensors to continuously monitor the actual distances to the target. Rather than relying on fixed mechanical rest positions, the system can trigger probe release when distance criteria are met, allowing automatic adaptation to varying eye shapes, sizes, and positions while maintaining measurement precision through real-time distance verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment system incorporates feedback through distance sensors that continuously measure the actual distance between the device and target. This feedback information is used to determine whether the probe should be released, creating a closed-loop control system that automatically adjusts for anatomical variations and ensures accurate alignment before measurement, thereby maintaining both adaptability and precision.
3Ease of operation
If automatic probe release based on distance criteria is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs self-alignment and self-triggering based on distance sensor measurements. The system automatically determines when the probe should be released by comparing measured distances against predefined criteria, without requiring operator intervention or judgment. This self-service capability simplifies operation while the added complexity is confined to the automated control logic, which provides consistent and reliable alignment.
4Measurement precision
If the device is positioned closer to the target to improve measurement accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but harmful factors increase due to potential unintentional harm
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary distance verification using multiple distance sensors before triggering the probe release. By measuring distances in advance and comparing them against predefined safety and accuracy criteria, the system ensures that the probe is only released when optimal alignment is confirmed. This preliminary action prevents both inaccurate measurements and potential harm from improper positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system uses feedback from distance sensors to continuously monitor the device-to-target distance and only triggers probe release when distance criteria are satisfied. This feedback mechanism ensures that the probe is released only at the correct distance, preventing both measurement errors and potential harm from incorrect positioning, thereby simultaneously achieving precision and safety.
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 precise, efficient, and user-friendly measurements by automatically aligning the probe for accurate data acquisition without subject attention, minimizing the risk of harm and improving measurement reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor system comprising one or more distance sensors located on the housing, the one or more distance sensors being operable to measure one or more distances (L) between the one or more distance sensors and one or more locations on the target
Data Source
AI summary
A device for measuring properties of a target includes a housing; a probe including an elongated body having a first end and a second end, the first end residing inside the housing and the second end protruding out from the housing during a measurement, the second end including a probe head, the probe configured to impact the target with the probe head; a sensor system, including one or more distance sensors located on the housing to measure one or more distances between the one or more distance sensors and one or more locations on the target a probe attachment means to retain the probe within the housing; and a probe release means to release the probe towards the target if each of the one or more distances between the one or more distance sensors and one or more locations on the target is within a predefined range from a predefined value.