Segmented LED Optoelectronic Sensor Self-Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optoelectronic sensors lack a compact and cost-effective design for reliable operation, particularly in applications requiring spatial and temporal modulation of light sources for precise signal detection and noise reduction.
Innovation Solution
A multi-pixel light-emitting diode (LED) with individually controllable segments, connected to a control device that selects and activates specific light source segments based on signal strength and threshold criteria, ensuring optimal signal-to-noise ratio and self-alignment with the light receiver.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple separate light sources are used to cover a monitoring area, then the monitoring coverage is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The light source is segmented into multiple independently controllable light source segments within a single semiconductor crystal. Each segment can be controlled individually via correspondingly structured electrodes, allowing selective activation of specific segments to cover different areas of the monitoring space without requiring multiple separate light source devices.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple light-emitting segments are merged into a single semiconductor crystal structure, combining the functions of what would traditionally require multiple separate light sources. This integration reduces component count, simplifies the device structure, and lowers cost while maintaining the ability to provide broad monitoring coverage through selective segment activation.
2Illumination intensity
If all light source segments are activated simultaneously, then the illumination intensity is improved, but the signal-to-noise ratio deteriorates due to increased background light
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous simultaneous activation, light source segments are activated periodically and sequentially. The control device activates individual segments in a time-multiplexed manner, with each segment emitting light during its designated time slot. This periodic activation maintains adequate illumination intensity over time while significantly reducing background light noise during any specific measurement interval, thereby improving the signal-to-noise ratio.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static all-or-nothing activation mode to a dynamic selective activation mode. The control device dynamically determines which light source segments to activate based on real-time requirements, adjusting the activation pattern to optimize both illumination intensity and signal-to-noise ratio for different operational conditions.
3Ease of operation
If manual alignment of light sources and receivers is performed, then the initial setup is improved, but the adaptability to misalignment and environmental changes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-alignment through an automated setting mode. The control device sequentially activates light source segments while the light receiver detects the received signal strength. Based on this feedback, the system automatically identifies and selects the optimal light source segment that provides the strongest signal to the receiver, eliminating the need for manual alignment and providing adaptability to misalignment and environmental changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the light receiver continuously monitors the received signal strength from activated light source segments. The control device uses this feedback information to automatically adjust and select the optimal light source segment, enabling the system to adapt to misalignment and environmental changes without manual intervention.
4Device complexity
If a single light source is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to perform spatial and temporal modulation for noise reduction is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The light source is divided into multiple independently controllable segments within a single semiconductor crystal. This segmentation enables spatial modulation by selectively activating different segments to illuminate different areas, and temporal modulation by activating segments at different times. This maintains relatively simple device structure while significantly enhancing signal detection precision through modulation capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented light source enables periodic activation patterns where different segments are activated in sequence during setting mode and during operation. This periodic action provides temporal modulation that helps distinguish signals from background noise, improving detection precision without requiring a complex multi-device system.
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
Enables fast, precise, and cost-effective operation with improved signal quality and reduced noise, allowing for adaptable beam configuration and optimal light source selection for various applications, including light grids and distance measurement.
Implementation Method 1
The lighting mechanism corresponds to the physical principle of a light-emitting diode or a surface-emitting semiconductor laser
Implementation Method 2
A multi-pixel light-emitting diode (LED) with individually controllable segments
Implementation Method 3
a light receiver for detecting received signals that leave the monitoring space
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an optoelectronic sensor with a light source for emitting transmitted light through a transmitting aperture into a monitoring space, wherein the light source comprises a semiconductor crystal with a plurality of individually controllable light source segments. At least one light receiver for detecting received signals leaving the monitoring space is provided. A control unit is connected to the light receiver and the plurality of light source segments to evaluate the received signal of the light receiver and to individually control the light source segments for their operation. The control unit has a setting mode and an operating mode, wherein in setting mode the control unit controls the light source segments sequentially and evaluates the received signal for its strength in each case, and in operating mode controls those light source segments for which the received signal exhibits a desired characteristic.