Scanning-Signal Detection Device with Electrical State Testing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing detection devices struggle to reliably and efficiently monitor the functional state of components exposed to scanning signals, particularly in harsh conditions, leading to potential functional impairment and safety risks due to uncontrolled emission of scanning signals.

Innovation Solution

A detection device with at least two electrically conductive test elements arranged non-conductively, allowing electrical interaction to determine an actual state variable, which is compared to a reference variable to generate a warning signal if deviation occurs, thereby controlling the device's functions to prevent uncontrolled emission.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional testing methods are used to monitor component functional state, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability of detection are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection precisionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces test elements as intermediary components that mediate between the component to be tested and the testing device. These test elements convert the functional state of the component into measurable electrical properties, enabling precise detection without requiring complex direct measurement systems. The test elements act as a bridge that translates mechanical or functional states into electrical signals that can be easily measured and evaluated.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical or optical testing methods with electrical measurement methods. Instead of using complex mechanical gauges or optical sensors to detect component state, the invention uses electrical test signals and measures electrical properties (such as capacitance or resistance changes) of the test elements. This substitution simplifies the measurement system while improving precision, as electrical measurements can be performed with high accuracy using standard electronic components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If no testing device is implemented, then device complexity is minimized, but safety risks increase due to uncontrolled emission of scanning signals

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesafetyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The testing device is designed to be self-contained and autonomous, continuously monitoring the functional state of components without requiring external intervention. The test elements are integrated into the detection device itself, and the evaluation means automatically assesses the electrical properties and generates warning signals when deviations are detected. This self-service capability ensures continuous safety monitoring while maintaining relatively simple device architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the testing device continuously monitors component functional state and provides immediate feedback through warning signals when deviations from reference values are detected. The evaluation means compares measured electrical properties against predetermined reference values and triggers alerts or shutdowns when anomalies are found. This closed-loop feedback system ensures high reliability by immediately responding to potential failures, preventing uncontrolled emission of scanning signals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Reliability

If continuous monitoring is implemented, then reliability is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemonitoring reliabilityVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The testing device implements periodic monitoring rather than truly continuous monitoring. Test signals are applied at regular intervals to the test elements, and measurements are taken at these discrete moments. This periodic approach maintains reliable monitoring capability while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous real-time monitoring. The evaluation means can be designed to operate in low-power mode between measurement cycles, further reducing overall energy usage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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

Enhances the reliability and safety of detection devices by allowing real-time monitoring and immediate response to component damage, preventing uncontrolled emission of scanning signals and ensuring eye safety.

Implementation Method 1

at least one actual state variable, which characterizes an actual functional state of the at least one component to be tested, can be determined from at least one electrical interaction between the at least two test elements

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical interaction: Electric Field

Data Source

PatentEP4288798B1Detection device for monitoring at least one monitoring region, vehicle comprising at least one detection device, and method for operating a testing device of a detection device
Publication Date: 2025.10.15 VALEO SCHALTER & SENSOREN GMBH
  • EP4288798B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4288798B1 patent drawingFigure 3~7

AI summary

The invention relates to a detection device (12) for monitoring at least one monitoring region (14) using scanning signals (38, 40). The detection device (12) comprises a transmission device (24) for transmitting scanning signals (38) and a testing device (30) for testing the functional state of a component (22) to be tested of the detection device (12), said component being exposed to scanning signals (38, 40) during the operation of the detection device (12). The testing device (30) has two electrically conductive testing elements (32), between which the component (22) to be tested is arranged. The two testing elements (32) are connected together in a non-electrically conductive manner, and each of the two testing elements (32) is electrically connected to a test analysis means (34), by means of which an electric test signal can be applied to the two testing elements (32) and an actual state variable characterizing the actual functional state of the component (22) to be tested can be ascertained from an electric interaction between the two testing elements (32). In the event of a deviation of an actual state variable from a reference state variable, a warning signal can be generated.