Proximity Sensor Internal Channeling Section for Close-Range Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional proximity sensor devices are susceptible to blind spots when detecting external objects at close proximity, making it difficult to effectively detect objects positioned very close to the sensor.

Innovation Solution

The design incorporates an internal channeling section with specific height dimensions and reflective surfaces to direct light and enable detection of external objects at close proximity by channeling reflected light to the detector, reducing crosstalk and enhancing detection capabilities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional proximity sensor devices are used, then they can detect objects at normal distances, but they are susceptible to blind spots when detecting objects at close proximity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection capabilityVSAvoidblind spot susceptibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The optical cavity is segmented into multiple regions including a first aperture for emitting light, a second aperture for receiving reflected light, and an internal channeling section with reflective surfaces. This segmentation allows different portions of the optical path to serve specific functions, enabling detection at close proximity while maintaining proper optical separation between emitter and detector

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The internal channeling section incorporates reflective surfaces with specific optical properties at localized positions within the optical cavity. These reflective surfaces are strategically positioned to redirect light paths, creating localized optical pathways that enable close-proximity detection while preventing direct light leakage between emitter and detector

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Measurement precision

If optical structures are added to direct light, then detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection capabilityVSAvoidoptical structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The emitter, detector, and internal channeling section with reflective surfaces are integrated into a single optical cavity structure. This merging of components into one integrated unit simplifies the overall device architecture while maintaining the optical functionality needed for close-proximity detection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The internal channeling section serves multiple functions simultaneously: it directs light from the emitter to the target, reflects light back to the detector, and prevents direct light leakage between emitter and detector. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate optical components, thereby reducing device complexity

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

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

This configuration allows for reliable detection of external objects at close proximity, reducing blind spots and maintaining a low noise margin, thereby improving the sensor's accuracy and effectiveness.

Implementation Method 1

The internal channeling section has a first height dimension extending from the bottom end to a top end of the internal channeling section. The internal channeling section is configured to direct light between a first aperture and a second aperture of the optical structure when an external object presents at close proximity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS8946620B2Proximity sensor device with internal channeling section
Publication Date: 2015.02.03 AVAGO TECHNOLOGIES INTERNATIONAL SALES PTE LTD
  • US8946620B2 patent drawing
  • US8946620B2 patent drawing
  • US8946620B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A proximity sensor device, which may detect the presence of external objects at close proximity is disclosed. The proximity sensor device may comprise an emitter, a detector, a separation wall and an internal channeling section. In one embodiment, the internal channeling section may be configured to direct light from the emitter to the detector when the external object is present at close proximity. In other embodiments, a proximity sensor assembly, an optical structure and an electronic device having similar internal channeling section are disclosed.