Rangefinder Operator Control Using Dynamic State-Dependent Press Duration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rangefinders lack simple and convenient operator control mechanisms, particularly in switching between measurement and configuration modes, and in presenting measurement results without requiring operator input.
Innovation Solution
The rangefinder incorporates a computation apparatus that distinguishes between short and long operations of the operator control element to initiate measurements and switch the display on/off, allowing activation of measurement and configuration modes, and simultaneously presents previous measurements and their sums/products on the display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the rangefinder uses a single operator control element for both measurement initiation and mode switching, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to ambiguous control responses
Solution Approach 1:
The control element's function dynamically changes based on the current operating state. When the display is off, any operation initiates a measurement. When the display is on, the system distinguishes between short operations (measurement mode) and long operations (configuration mode). This dynamic state-dependent functionality allows a single control element to provide unambiguous control responses for different operations without increasing physical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the control element based on display state. The threshold duration parameter distinguishes between measurement initiation (short press) and mode switching (long press). This parameter-based differentiation enables a single control element to serve multiple functions clearly, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and ease of operation.
2Ease of operation
If the display remains switched on continuously to show measurement results, then the ease of operation improves, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The display operates periodically rather than continuously. It switches on to present measurement results and then switches off after a predetermined time interval. This periodic operation maintains measurement result visibility when needed while dramatically reducing overall power consumption compared to continuous display operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically manages display activation and deactivation based on measurement completion and time intervals, without requiring continuous operator input. The display self-regulates its operation to balance visibility needs with energy conservation, switching off automatically after presenting results for a predetermined duration.
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 design enables inexpensive, easy-to-operate rangefinders with simplified operator control, allowing automatic display of measurement results and parameter adjustments without continuous operator input, enhancing user convenience and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
the distance measuring apparatus is provided for the purpose of transmitting a laser beam and evaluating a reflected component of the laser beam
Implementation Method 2
evaluating a reflected component of the laser beam
Data Source
AI summary
A rangefinder includes a display, an operator control element, a distance measuring apparatus, and a computation apparatus configured (i) to initiate a measurement by the distance measuring apparatus when the operator control element is operated, and (ii) to switch on at least the display when the operator control element is operated with the display switched off.