Profile Element Position Detection with Central Cavity

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing position detection devices require structural attachment to profile elements, which can lead to damage and are not space-efficient, especially when used with profile elements that need special retaining clips.

Innovation Solution

A position detection device with a profile element featuring central cavities and recesses that house measuring probes and positioning elements, allowing for secure, space-saving, and easy installation, with optional redundancy for error correction and dirt resistance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If position detection devices are attached to profile elements using special retaining clips, then the position detection function is achieved, but the device complexity and installation complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition detection functionVSAvoidattachment structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the position detection element directly into the profile element by utilizing the central cavity and recesses as built-in mounting features. The measuring probe is positioned within the central cavity while positioning elements engage with recesses, merging the detection function with the structural profile element itself rather than requiring separate attachment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The central cavity and recesses serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for the profile element, enable positioning of the measuring probe, and facilitate secure mounting of positioning elements. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for specialized retaining clips while achieving reliable position detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If a separate space is reserved on or near the profile element for position detection, then position detection is enabled, but the available space is reduced and structural attachment is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition detection capabilityVSAvoidavailable space
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The measuring probe is nested within the central cavity of the profile element, and positioning elements are nested within recesses. This nesting approach allows the position detection system to be housed within the existing profile structure without requiring additional external space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Stability of the object's composition

If structural attachment is used to mount position detection elements, then secure mounting is achieved, but the risk of damage increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting securityVSAvoiddamage risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The profile element features locally optimized structures: a central cavity for housing the measuring probe and recesses for positioning elements. These localized features provide secure mounting at specific locations without requiring extensive structural modifications or heavy attachment hardware across the entire profile.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 solution provides a robust, space-efficient, and easy-to-install position detection system suitable for safety-critical applications, offering redundancy for error correction and reduced maintenance needs.

Implementation Method 1

a magnetostrictive displacement measuring device is known from DE 101 08 925 A1

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetostrictive effect: Magnetostriction

Data Source

PatentEP4306909B1Position detecting device and position detecting system
Publication Date: 2024.09.11 SICK AG
  • EP4306909B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4306909B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4306909B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Device for detecting a position, comprising a profile element having a substantially square cross-section and an elongated body, wherein the profile element has at least one recess and a central cavity extending along the length of the body, and a position detection element comprising a measuring probe, a first movable positioning element, and an evaluation unit, wherein the evaluation unit is configured to detect a position of the first positioning element relative to the measuring probe, and wherein the measuring probe is arranged in the central cavity of the profile element.