Non-contact Proximity Switch Integrated Reset Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine safety systems with non-contact proximity switches lack efficient reset mechanisms, requiring operators to physically access a separate reset button, leading to increased time and effort in restarting machines after safety interventions.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a reset mechanism within the non-contact proximity switch, featuring a signal generator and detector, allowing for a dedicated reset button at the switch location, reducing the need for physical access and enhancing operational efficiency by using a modulated signal to distinguish reset states and prevent false signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate reset button is used in existing machine safety systems, then the reset function can be provided, but operator time and effort increase due to physical access requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the reset button with the proximity switch housing, integrating two previously separate components into one unified device. This merging eliminates the need for operators to physically access a separate reset button, allowing them to perform reset operations directly at the switch location, thereby reducing operator time and effort.
2Productivity
If a reset mechanism is integrated into the proximity switch, then operational efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reset mechanism is integrated into the proximity switch housing, combining safety monitoring and reset functions in a single device. This integration improves productivity by enabling quick restart operations at the switch location while managing complexity through unified design.
Solution Approach 2:
The proximity switch housing serves multiple functions: it houses the proximity sensing components for safety monitoring and simultaneously provides the structure for the integrated reset button. This multi-functionality improves operational efficiency without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Reliability
If a modulated signal is used to distinguish reset states, then false signal detection is prevented, but signal processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs modulated signals to distinguish between normal operation and reset states. By changing the signal parameters (modulation), the system achieves more reliable signal detection and prevents false positives, while the increased processing complexity is managed through standard signal processing techniques.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a non-contact proximity switch (30) having a first part (305) and a second part (310) which do not need to be in physical contact to detect proximity of the first and second parts. The first part is arranged to be connected to a reset circuit comprising an indicator light and a reset switch having a reset button. The first part comprises a reset mechanism for machine safety, and the reset mechanism comprises a signal generator (325) and a signal detector (330). The reset mechanism is arranged to, upon indication that a reset is required, generate a signal so as to switch-on said indicator light, and the reset mechanism is further arranged to detect when the state of a connected reset switch corresponds to a state where the reset button is being pressed.