Multi Optical Axis Sensor Elastic Sealing Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing photoelectric sensors face issues with liquid penetration due to gaps between pressing members, leading to adhesive tape deterioration and compromised sealing over time, requiring adjustments in member lengths and potential displacement during assembly.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an elastic member between the pressing member and the light-transmitting plate, supported by a supporting part, to prevent liquid ingress and maintain sealing by ensuring proper adhesion and assembly without excessive force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the lengths of the first pressing member and the second pressing member are changed in accordance with the length of the photoelectric sensor, then the pressing members can be adapted to different sensor sizes, but unevenness in dimensions occurs and gaps form between the pressing members
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing member is divided into a first pressing member and a second pressing member that can be assembled separately. This segmentation allows each pressing member to maintain consistent dimensional standards while adapting to different sensor lengths through configuration rather than custom manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing members are designed with universal dimensional standards that allow them to be used across different sensor lengths. The modular design enables the same pressing member components to serve multiple sensor sizes without requiring custom dimensions for each application.
2Ease of operation
If the pressing members are assembled without precise positioning, then assembly is simplified, but insertion position displacement occurs and gaps form between pressing members
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing member is segmented into multiple parts that can be assembled in a standardized sequence. This segmentation with standardized interfaces simplifies the assembly process while ensuring precise positioning through the modular connection system.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing members are designed with pre-formed positioning features and standardized dimensions that ensure correct insertion positions before assembly. This preliminary preparation of dimensional standards prevents position displacement during the actual assembly process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If gaps occur between the pressing members or at mounting holes, then assembly is more tolerant of variations, but liquid penetration occurs and adhesive tape deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
An elastic member is introduced as a flexible sealing element between the pressing member and the end member. This elastic member fills potential gaps and provides continuous sealing, preventing liquid penetration while maintaining assembly tolerance for dimensional variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member serves as a pre-prepared sealing barrier that compensates for potential gaps before liquid penetration can occur. This beforehand cushioning against liquid ingress protects the adhesive tape and internal components from deterioration.
4Ease of operation
If the second pressing member includes a mounting hole for attachment, then mounting is facilitated, but liquid penetration occurs through the mounting hole
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic member is positioned to seal around the mounting hole area, creating a flexible barrier that prevents liquid penetration through the mounting opening while allowing the mounting hole to remain accessible for attachment operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member acts as an intermediary sealing element between the mounting hole and the internal components. It allows the mounting hole to serve its attachment function while simultaneously blocking liquid penetration paths.
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 elastic member ensures stable sealing over a long period by preventing liquid penetration through gaps and improving assembly workability, maintaining the integrity of the adhesive tape and housing sealing.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member being provided between the pressing member and a portion of the light-transmitting plate which portion is supported by the supporting part
Implementation Method 2
an adhesive member causing the light-transmitting plate to adhere to the outer case
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention maintains sealing of the housing over a long period of time. A multiple-optical-axis photoelectric sensor (100) includes a light projector (110) and a light receiver (120) whose external forms are each formed by a housing (1) including an outer case (10) constituted by a main body case (11) and a first cap member (12), a light-transmitting plate (15), a first pressing member (20A), second pressing members (20B), a first adhesive tape (17A), and second adhesive tapes (17B). The first cap member (12) has a supporting part (12a) provided on its inner side, and an elastic member (18) is provided between the second pressing member (20B) and a portion of the light-transmitting plate (15) supported by the supporting part (12a). The light-transmitting plate (15) is pressed toward the first cap member (12) via the elastic member (18).