Pulsed Optoelectronic Proximity Sensing for Lower Current Draw
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optoelectronic proximity sensors consume high current due to the operation of radiation-emitting components at high intensity, which affects their sensitivity and range.
Innovation Solution
The method involves operating the radiation-emitting component with a pulsed current, reducing intensity based on the detector signal strength, allowing for lower current consumption without compromising sensitivity or range by adjusting the pulse current intensity according to the proximity of an object.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the radiation-emitting component is operated at high current intensity, then the sensitivity and range of the optoelectronic proximity sensor are improved, but the current consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The radiation-emitting component is operated with pulsed current instead of continuous current, emitting radiation only during specific measurement periods. This periodic operation reduces average current consumption while maintaining detection capability during active measurement windows
Solution Approach 2:
The pulse current intensity is dynamically adjusted based on detected object proximity. When an object is detected, the intensity is reduced; when no object is present, the intensity is increased. This dynamic adaptation optimizes the balance between sensitivity and energy consumption
2Length of stationary object
If the radiation-emitting component is operated at high current intensity, then the range of the optoelectronic proximity sensor is improved, but the current consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic pulsed operation where the radiation-emitting component is activated only during measurement periods rather than continuously. This reduces average power consumption while maintaining the ability to detect objects at extended ranges during active measurement windows
Solution Approach 2:
The pulse current intensity is dynamically adapted based on detection needs. High intensity is used when objects are far away to extend range, and reduced when objects are close or no objects are present, optimizing the trade-off between range and energy consumption
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 approach significantly reduces current consumption while maintaining sensitivity and range, with incremental adjustments in pulse current intensity based on object proximity and signal strength, optimizing energy use.
Implementation Method 1
the radiation-emitting component must be operated at a comparatively high current intensity
Implementation Method 2
the radiation-detecting component receives the radiation of the radiation-emitting component reflected by an object
Implementation Method 3
the radiation-detecting component is suitable for detecting the radiation of the radiation-emitting component which is reflected by an object
Data Source
AI summary
A method can be used for operating an optoelectronic proximity sensor. The proximity sensor includes a radiation-emitting component, a radiation-detecting component and a control unit. The radiation-emitting component is operated by means of a pulsed current. During each measurement period, the pulsed current of the radiation-emitting component has an on-time and an off-time. The pulsed current has a pulse current intensity during the on-time, and the control unit evaluates a detector signal of the radiation-detecting component and lowers the pulse current intensity for a subsequent measurement period, when the detector signal exceeds a threshold value during at least one measurement period.