Rotating Sensor Occupancy Detection Dynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Infrared sensors fail to detect stationary individuals in a space, as they rely on motion to determine occupancy.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising two sensors with overlapping fields of view and an occupant count module that determines the total number of occupants by analyzing sensor data from both sensors, even when individuals are stationary, using thermal detection and spatial knowledge to accurately count and locate occupants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If infrared sensors are used to detect occupancy, then motion detection capability is provided, but stationary occupants cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by rotating the sensor assembly to dynamically scan the field of view across different areas. Instead of using a stationary sensor that only detects motion within a fixed view, the sensor assembly rotates to continuously sweep through multiple zones, allowing detection of stationary occupants as the sensor passes over their positions. This dynamic scanning approach transforms a static detection limitation into a solution where motion of the sensor itself enables detection of stationary targets.
2Reliability
If multiple sensors are deployed to improve detection coverage, then occupancy detection accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple sensing functions into a single rotating sensor assembly. Rather than deploying multiple fixed sensors simultaneously, the invention combines thermal detection, motion detection, and rotational scanning capabilities into one integrated unit. This single assembly performs the work of multiple stationary sensors by rotating to cover different fields of view, thereby maintaining detection accuracy while reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamic rotation of a single sensor assembly to replace what would otherwise require multiple static sensors. The rotational motion allows one sensor to sequentially occupy the positions of multiple fixed sensors, achieving comprehensive coverage with fewer physical components. This dynamic approach reduces device complexity while maintaining the reliability benefits of multi-zone detection.
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 system effectively detects and counts stationary occupants, providing accurate occupancy information without the need for a chopper, which enhances detection accuracy and reduces noise.
Implementation Method 1
A system may be provided that detects occupants... determine a first number of occupants detected by a first sensor based on sensor data generated during the rotation of the field of view of the first sensor... determine a second number of occupants detected by a second sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A system to detect occupants is provided. The system may rotate the field of views of multiple sensors in order to scan an area. The system may scan the area multiple times. The system may determine the number of occupants in the area based on a comparison of a scan of the area with a scan of the area when the area is determined to be unoccupied. The system may determine the number of occupants in the area based on a maximum number of occupants detected by any of the sensors. The system may also determine a location of an object or an occupant from scans of the area obtained from multiple sensors.