Proximity Switch with Homogeneous Transparent Areas
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing proximity switches often have complex designs with unnecessary interfaces for signaling multiple states, which can be a hindrance in applications requiring only a few signaling states, and lack optimal visibility from all spatial directions.
Innovation Solution
A proximity switch design featuring optically homogeneous transparent areas at both ends of the housing sleeve, allowing for clear signaling in two directions with a single color illumination, and the use of different colored light-emitting diodes to encode various states, reducing the number of lighting components and enhancing visibility by forming circumferential transparent areas without separating surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources are used to signal different states, then the number of signaling states increases, but the device complexity and number of lighting components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses differently colored light-emitting diodes (red, yellow, green) to signal different operating and switching states. Each color represents a specific state, allowing multiple states to be indicated with a limited number of components. The control and evaluation unit is configured to drive these different-colored LEDs to provide clear visual feedback for various sensor states.
2Illumination intensity
If transparent areas are divided into segments, then visibility from multiple directions improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transparent areas at the measuring end and connection end are divided into multiple transparent segments arranged circumferentially around the housing axis. Each segment can be independently illuminated by light-emitting diodes, enabling optical signaling in multiple spatial directions simultaneously. This segmentation provides comprehensive visibility without requiring complex internal structures within each segment.
Solution Approach 2:
Different transparent segments can be illuminated with different colors to indicate different local states or information. Each segment serves a specific signaling function, allowing localized optical feedback while maintaining overall system simplicity. The circumferential arrangement ensures that at least one transparent segment is visible from any viewing direction.
3Ease of manufacture
If transparent areas with separating surfaces are used, then manufacturing is easier, but optical homogeneity and visibility quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Each transparent area is designed as an optically homogeneous structure without internal separating surfaces or interfaces that would scatter or block light. This homogeneous design ensures uniform light transmission and optimal visibility of the optical signaling. The transparent material extends continuously from the housing surface, eliminating optical disruptions while maintaining manufacturability through standard molding techniques.
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 design provides simple and effective optical signaling of switching and operating states, particularly suited for applications where visibility is needed on both sides of a wall, with reduced lighting components and improved EMC properties, while maintaining robustness in high-voltage tests and harsh environments.
Implementation Method 1
differently colored light-emitting diodes for signaling operating and/or switching states are arranged on the printed circuit board
Implementation Method 2
the transparent areas are formed optically homogeneously
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a proximity switch for detecting objects, comprising a housing sleeve with a transducer unit that is situated on one measuring end of the housing sleeve and has a receptacle containing a transducer element for detecting a physical measured variable and comprising a connecting piece located on one connecting end of the housing sleeve. The switch also comprises an electronic assembly that is held in the housing sleeve and is located on a printed circuit board and a control and evaluation unit, designed to control the transducer element, to evaluate signals that have been measured by the transducer element and to emit switching signals to the exterior. The measuring end and connecting end of the printed circuit board hold light-emitting diodes of different colours for indicating operating and/or switching states, the transducer receptacle having a transparent region running around a housing axis and/or a transparent region on the end face. The proximity switch is characterised in that the connecting piece has a transparent region running around said piece, the transparent regions on the measuring end and connecting end are optically uniform, each transparent region comprising the light-emitting diodes can be illuminated with one colour and the control and evaluation unit is designed to control different coloured light-emitting diodes for indicating different operating and/or switching states.