Proximity Sensor Illumination for Key Duplicating Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of key duplicating machines often have their hands engaged, making it difficult to activate and deactivate the illuminating lamp, which is typically located on the side of the machine and requires manual operation, leading to challenges in positioning keys and tools under adequate lighting.
Innovation Solution
A motorized key duplicating machine with a proximity sensor and adjustable delay circuit that activates the LED light source when an operator's hand is detected in the operative area, eliminating the need for manual switch activation and ensuring continuous illumination during key duplication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a manual switch is provided on the side of the machine for activating the lamp, then the lamp can be controlled, but the operator cannot easily locate or operate the switch when hands are engaged
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects the operator's presence and activates the lamp without manual intervention. The proximity sensor detects when hands enter the operative area and triggers the lamp activation, making the system self-serving and eliminating the need for manual switch operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical switch system is replaced with an automatic sensor-based control system. The proximity sensor and control circuitry substitute for the manual mechanical switch, enabling automatic lamp activation based on detected hand presence in the operative area.
2Illumination intensity
If the lamp is continuously on to provide illumination, then visibility is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lamp's operational state transitions from static (continuously on or off) to dynamic (automatically adjusting based on detected need). The proximity-based control system dynamically activates the lamp only when hands are present in the operative area, optimizing both illumination and energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The lamp operates periodically based on detected hand presence rather than continuously. The system activates illumination only during periods when the operative area needs lighting (when hands are present), and deactivates it during periods when no hands are detected, creating an on-demand periodic operation pattern.
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 operational comfort and precision by providing consistent lighting without manual intervention, simplifies machine construction by removing switches, and reduces energy consumption by activating the light only when needed.
Implementation Method 1
a proximity sensor (30) acting within an electrical power circuit for the light source to activate it when sensitized
Implementation Method 2
a light source consisting for example of a pair of LED rows
Implementation Method 3
a light source consisting for example of a pair of LED rows
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
An improved key duplicating machine provided with an illumination lamp, comprising: - at least one proximity sensor (30) positioned within the machine operative area, - an electrical power circuit for said lamp, activatable by said sensor when an operator's hand enters said operative area. - means for deactivating said power circuit a predetermined time after said sensor (30) has ceased to sense the presence of said hand.