Sensor Assembly Single Cover Optical Diffuser Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing multisensor solutions for motion and light detection have complex designs with multiple dedicated windows, leading to increased component costs, larger dimensions, and reduced sensitivity, making them unsuitable for small devices and aesthetically unappealing.

Innovation Solution

A sensor assembly with a single common optically transparent cover and optical diffuser, allowing light to impinge on both motion and ambient light sensors, while an IR sensor is positioned to receive signals without interference, and a light guide directs LED light externally to prevent internal interference, maintaining sensitivity and reducing housing size.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple dedicated receiving windows are provided for each sensor in a multisensor assembly, then each sensor can operate with optimal sensitivity, but the housing dimensions become large and the design becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection sensitivityVSAvoidhousing dimensions
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple dedicated receiving windows into a single common receiving window that serves all sensors (motion sensor, ambient light sensor, and IR sensor). This consolidation reduces the overall housing dimensions while maintaining the detection sensitivity of each individual sensor through strategic positioning and optical design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single common receiving window performs multiple functions by serving as the entry point for light and infrared radiation for all three sensors simultaneously. This universal interface eliminates the need for separate windows, reducing complexity and size while maintaining optimal operation for each sensor type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If multiple dedicated receiving windows are provided for each sensor, then each sensor has its own optimized aperture, but the component costs and design complexity increase

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

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple separate window structures into a single integrated receiving window, significantly reducing design complexity and component costs. The unified structure eliminates the need for multiple sealing interfaces and mounting arrangements while maintaining optimal detection sensitivity for all sensors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single common receiving window serves as a universal interface for all sensors, simplifying the overall design architecture. This multi-functional element reduces the number of components, assembly steps, and sealing requirements, thereby lowering both design complexity and manufacturing costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Volume of stationary object

If the receiving window size is reduced to decrease housing dimensions, then the housing becomes more compact, but the sensitivity of the sensors degrades

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehousing dimensionsVSAvoidsensor sensitivity
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of stationary objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent addresses the sensitivity-size trade-off by utilizing three-dimensional spatial arrangement within the housing. Sensors are positioned at different depths and angles relative to the common receiving window, allowing each sensor to capture sufficient radiation through the single window without requiring the window to be enlarged, thus maintaining sensitivity while keeping the housing compact.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 solution provides a compact, versatile, and aesthetically pleasing design that maintains detection sensitivity and reduces false readings, enabling use in small devices and outdoor environments with improved design freedom.

Implementation Method 1

an optical diffuser, positioned between the cover and the ambient light sensor, such that light entering the cover traverses the optical diffuser before impinging on the ambient light sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical diffusion: Scattering

Implementation Method 2

a housing having a receiving window covered by an optically transparent cover

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight transmission: Refraction

Data Source

PatentUS11092479B2Sensor assembly and a device comprising such sensor assembly
Publication Date: 2021.08.17 SIGNIFY HOLDING BV
  • US11092479B2 patent drawing
  • US11092479B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A sensor assembly, comprising a housing having a receiving window covered by an optically transparent cover. The housing accommodates electric components, at least comprising a motion sensor and an ambient light sensor. The motion sensor and the ambient light sensor are positioned such that light entering the cover impinges on the motion sensor and the ambient light sensor. Between the cover and the ambient light sensor is an optical diffuser positioned, such that light entering the cover traverses the optical diffuser before impinging on the ambient light sensor. The sensor assembly may be used separately or incorporated in an electric or electronic device.