Human Sensor Detection Distance Adjustment Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming devices lack the ability to adjust the detection distance of human sensors, which can lead to inefficient power management and user convenience issues, as the detection range is fixed and may not suit varying user preferences or environments.
Innovation Solution
An image forming device equipped with a human sensor and an adjustment mechanism that allows users to manually adjust the detection distance through a slider and support system, integrated with a sensor cover panel that exposes the operator element for easy access and visibility, enabling the detection distance to be set to close, normal, or long ranges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the detection distance of the human sensor is fixed, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to different user preferences and environments is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a movable sensor unit that can be adjusted between multiple detection distance positions (close, normal, long). The sensor unit is mounted on a movable support structure with positioning mechanisms, allowing dynamic reconfiguration of the detection range to adapt to different user preferences and environmental conditions while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter (detection distance) by physically relocating the sensor unit to different positions along its support structure. This parameter adjustment is achieved through movable mounting mechanisms that allow the sensor to be repositioned between predetermined detection ranges, enabling flexibility without complex electronic controls
2Ease of operation
If the operator element is fully exposed for easy adjustment, then the ease of operation is improved, but the risk of accidental detection distance changes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different visibility and accessibility characteristics to different parts of the operator element. The operator element is positioned to be visible from both the front and lateral sides of the device, allowing users to see and adjust it easily, while the sensor unit itself remains partially enclosed in the housing to prevent accidental contact and unauthorized changes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a movable support structure as an intermediary between the operator element and the sensor unit. This support structure includes positioning mechanisms that mediate the adjustment process, allowing intentional user adjustments while preventing accidental changes through mechanical constraints and predetermined positioning stops
3Reliability
If the sensor is fully covered for protection, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation for adjustment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the housing structure into distinct regions: a sensor unit housing that protects the sensor, and an operator element region that is accessible and visible. The operator element is positioned in a separate accessible location on the housing, allowing users to adjust the detection distance without needing to access or expose the protected sensor unit, thus maintaining both protection and ease of operation
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming device according to an embodiment includes a human sensor configured to detect a person in front of the device and an adjustment mechanism configured to move the human sensor to adjust a detection distance. A sensor cover panel is provided for an exterior of the device and is configured to cover the human sensor and the adjustment mechanism. The adjustment mechanism includes an operator element that is manually operable by a user to adjust the detection distance. The human sensor and adjustment mechanism are disposed behind the sensor cover panel. The sensor cover panel has a detection window through which a detection wave for the human sensor can pass. The sensor cover panel has an opening through which the operator element is exposed so as to be seen by a user from both the front side and a lateral side of the device.