Proximity Sensor Beam Segmentation for Shiny Object Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Proximity sensors, such as PSD sensors, face challenges in accurately detecting shiny objects and objects in water due to spurious reflections and signal instability, leading to unreliable distance readings.
Innovation Solution
A proximity sensor system that emits optical energy in multiple spatially spaced apart beams, using a diffraction grating to split the energy, and a multi-element sensor to receive and process the reflected energy, allowing for improved object detection and valve control in water delivery systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a PSD sensor is used to detect objects, then the sensor can provide range information based on angle of reflection, but the sensor produces unreliable and unstable output when detecting shiny objects or objects in water due to spurious reflections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single optical beam into multiple spatially spaced apart beams using a diffraction grating. This segmentation allows the system to distinguish between spurious reflections and valid object reflections by analyzing the spatial distribution of reflected light across multiple beams, thereby improving reliability while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-beam measurement approach to a multi-beam approach, adding the spatial dimension of multiple beams to the detection system. This dimensional change enables the system to filter out spurious reflections by comparing signals across multiple spatial positions, resolving the contradiction between precision and reliability
2Reliability
If multiple spatially spaced apart beams of optical energy are emitted, then noise and instability in readings are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a diffraction grating as an intermediary component that automatically splits the optical beam into multiple spatially spaced apart beams. This intermediary device performs the beam segmentation function without requiring complex mechanical or electronic control systems, thereby improving reading stability while minimizing the increase in device complexity
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
Enhances the accuracy and reliability of object detection in environments with shiny or water-affected surfaces by reducing noise and instability in readings, enabling precise control of water delivery systems.
Implementation Method 1
an optical system which splits the optical energy emitted by the optical source into a plurality of spatially spaced apart beams of optical energy
Implementation Method 2
a multi-element sensor which receives a portion of the emitted optical energy which is reflected back from the environment
Data Source
AI summary
A proximity sensor may be incorporated as part of a water delivery device. A holder may align an optical source and sensor of the proximity sensor.