Proximity Switch With Continuous Control Circuit Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional switches lack contactless operation capabilities and often require additional wiring or frequent maintenance, as they either rely on mechanical mechanisms or electronic circuits that are not powered when the load is off, limiting their functionality and usability.
Innovation Solution
A proximity switch with a bistable electromagnetic relay, infrared detector, and a power supply network that uses current and voltage transformers to maintain continuous power to the control circuit, allowing contactless operation without additional cables, and featuring a microcontroller for optimal state changes and energy efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If TRIAC-based electronic switches are used to enable contactless operation, then contactless operation is achieved, but the control circuit cannot be powered when the load is switched off, preventing detection of user's hand
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by charging a capacitor during the ON state of the switch, storing energy in advance. This stored energy in the capacitor then powers the control circuit during the OFF state, enabling the infrared detector to sense the user's hand before the switch is activated. The capacitor is charged through a rectifying element and current transformer when the load is ON, preparing the system for contactless operation when OFF.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a capacitor as an intermediary energy storage element between the power supply and the control circuit. The capacitor mediates the power transfer by storing energy when the switch is ON and releasing it when OFF, allowing the control circuit to remain powered independently of the load state. This intermediary enables the decoupling of the control circuit's power supply from the load's operational state.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional mechanical switches are used, then no additional power supply is needed, but contactless operation and detection capabilities are not available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by designing a system where the switch draws power from the load itself through a current transformer. The current transformer extracts energy from the load current to power the control circuit and capacitor, making the system self-sufficient without requiring external power sources or additional wiring. The load's own current serves the dual purpose of powering both the load and the control electronics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves multi-functionality by making the existing two-wire connection serve multiple purposes: it powers the load, powers the control circuit through the current transformer, and charges the capacitor. The same wiring infrastructure that controls the load also provides power for the electronic components and contactless detection, eliminating the need for separate power wiring.
3Ease of operation
If infrared switches with permanent power supply are used to achieve contactless operation, then contactless operation is enabled, but additional cables must be added to the wiring system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by designing a system where the switch draws power from the load itself through a current transformer. The current transformer extracts energy from the load current to power the control circuit and capacitor, making the system self-sufficient without requiring external power sources or additional wiring. The load's own current serves the dual purpose of powering both the load and the control electronics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves multi-functionality by making the existing two-wire connection serve multiple purposes: it powers the load, powers the control circuit through the current transformer, and charges the capacitor. The same wiring infrastructure that controls the load also provides power for the electronic components and contactless detection, eliminating the need for separate power wiring.
4Device complexity
If rechargeable batteries are used to power contactless switches, then additional wiring is avoided, but frequent maintenance to replace batteries is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by designing a system where the switch draws power from the load itself through a current transformer. The current transformer extracts energy from the load current to power the control circuit and capacitor, making the system self-sufficient without requiring external power sources or additional wiring. The load's own current serves the dual purpose of powering both the load and the control electronics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuous operation by using the capacitor to store energy during the ON state and discharge it during the OFF state, maintaining uninterrupted power supply to the control circuit. This continuous energy availability eliminates the need for periodic battery replacements, providing indefinite reliability as long as the load periodically switches ON to recharge the capacitor.
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 contactless operation of lamps and other loads without additional wiring, reduces maintenance needs, and ensures cleanliness and reliability, making it suitable for sensitive environments like clinics and hospitals, while expanding the power range of controlled devices.
Implementation Method 1
said voltage regulator is preferably connected to a current transformer, powering the voltage regulator when the relay is in the ON state
Implementation Method 2
said voltage regulator is preferably connected to a voltage transformer, powering the voltage regulator when the relay is in the OFF state
Implementation Method 3
a contactless detector detecting the presence of an object close to it for sending a signal to the relay
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The present invention relates to a proximity switch comprising a relay (3) which can be in an ON state and an OFF state; control means (2) connected with said relay (3); and a contactless detector (1) detecting the presence of an object close to it for sending a signal to the relay (3) through the control means (2) for switching the relay (3) from the OFF state to the ON state, or vice versa; and characterized in that the relay (3), control means (2) and detector (1) are electrically powered by means of a power supply network when the relay (3) is in the ON state and when it is in the OFF state. The invention allows assuring cleanliness and eliminates the risk of fouling or contamination and allows use thereof with wet or dirty hands, since the electronic circuit can be hermetically isolated without jeopardizing operation.