Sensor-Controlled Load Activation Device with Adaptive Energy Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Devices with sensor-controlled activation of electrical loads on two-wire mains voltage connections face challenges in maintaining sensor functionality during unpredictably long switch-off periods, especially when installed in two-wire configurations like flush-mounted switch boxes, where the sensor unit's power supply is interrupted along with the load, leading to unreliable operation and adverse effects on non-ohmic light sources.
Innovation Solution
A device with a storage unit and control unit that monitors the energy storage means, activating the load circuit when the energy state falls below a threshold to recharge the storage unit, and adjusting the activation duration and current flow to ensure continuous operation, using a triac or MOSFET electronic switch and microprocessor for adaptive control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the sensor unit is looped into the load circuit for power supply, then the device can operate on a two-wire mains voltage connection, but the sensor unit cannot function during load switch-off periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by charging the energy storage means during periods when the load is active, so that sufficient energy is stored in advance to power the sensor unit during upcoming switch-off periods. The control unit monitors the energy state and ensures the storage unit is recharged before depletion occurs, preventing sensor malfunction during load deactivation.
2Reliability
If a low current flows through the series connection of sensor unit and load to keep the sensor powered, then the sensor can operate continuously, but non-ohmic light sources exhibit flickering and reduced lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power supply paths by introducing a parallel connection for the energy storage means, allowing the sensor unit to be powered independently from the load circuit. This separation enables the sensor to receive dedicated power from the storage unit without forcing continuous current through the load, thereby eliminating flickering and extending light source lifespan while maintaining continuous sensor operation.
3Reliability
If an energy storage means is assigned to the sensor unit to ensure operation during switch-off periods, then the sensor can function during load deactivation, but the buffer capacity is insufficient for unpredictably long switch-off periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by having the control unit continuously monitor the energy state of the energy storage means and adjust the charging current accordingly. When the stored energy falls below a threshold, the control unit increases the charging current or extends the charging duration to ensure sufficient energy is replenished, adapting to varying switch-off period lengths and preventing sensor operation failure.
4Reliability
If the load is activated manually always, then the sensor unit can switch off the load, but the ease of use is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the sensor unit to automatically reactivate the load after a switch-off period without requiring manual user intervention. The control unit detects when the load has been deactivated, waits for the appropriate time interval, and then automatically closes the load circuit again, allowing the system to serve itself and maintain sensor functionality while preserving user convenience.
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
Ensures permanent operational reliability of the sensor unit by maintaining a minimum charge in the energy storage means, allowing the device to self-sustain energy from the load circuit, even during extended deactivation periods, preventing flickering and extending the lifespan of non-ohmic light sources.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor unit provided in the load circuit in series with the electrical load is not only assigned a storage or buffer unit for sensor operation even when the load circuit is open in the form of the energy storage means
Implementation Method 2
via the charging unit assigned to the energy storage means according to the invention, Way carried out during the operating state and depending on a state of charge of the energy storage means of the charging operation
Implementation Method 3
using a triac or MOSFET electronic switch and microprocessor for adaptive control
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for sensor-controlled activation of an electrical load (10) at a two-wire mains voltage connection (11), comprising a sensor unit (12, 14) provided in the load circuit and designed for controlled interruption of the load circuit, and power supply means (18, 20, 22) associated with the sensor unit and supplied by the mains voltage, which have energy storage means (16) for operation of the sensor unit independent of an activation state of the electrical load, wherein the sensor unit is configured to activate the load for a minimum duration of the activation state, and wherein current divider means (18) are assigned to the load circuit such that, in the activation state of the load, a partial current (It) of the load current is applied to charge the energy storage means at a charging unit (20, 22) associated with them.and a control unit (24) associated with the energy storage means in response to a predetermined electrical state of charge, in particular reaching a state of charge threshold (L1, L2), which can extend the minimum duration of the energy storage means and/or change a current divider ratio of the current divider means to change the partial current and/or activate the load.