Sensor Filter for Mirror False Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
In environments where sensors and reflective panels, such as mirrors, are aligned, the reflection of sensor signals from the mirror can lead to false detection of object presence, causing unnecessary activation of fixtures like sinks and toilets, especially in confined spaces like lavatories on aircraft or trains where mirror repositioning is not feasible.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that incorporates a filter associated with the reflective panel to attenuate specific wavelengths of signals, allowing visible light to pass while reducing the reflection of infrared or near-infrared signals back to the sensor, thereby preventing false object detection without requiring mirror repositioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a mirror is positioned across from a sensor in a lavatory, then the mirror can be placed in a convenient location for users, but the sensor may incorrectly detect the reflection of its own signals from the mirror as an object presence
Solution Approach 1:
A filter is introduced as an intermediary component between the sensor and the mirror. The filter selectively transmits visible light while blocking infrared signals, allowing the mirror to remain in its convenient position while preventing the sensor from detecting false reflections. This mediator resolves the contradiction by enabling both convenient mirror placement and reliable object detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter changes the optical parameters of the environment by selectively transmitting certain wavelengths (visible light) while blocking others (infrared). This parameter change allows the mirror to function normally for visible light reflection while preventing infrared signal reflection that would cause false detections, thus maintaining both convenience and reliability.
2Reliability
If the mirror is repositioned or angled to avoid reflecting signals back to the sensor, then false object detection is prevented, but the mirror cannot be optimally positioned in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The filter serves as a mediator that allows the mirror to maintain its optimal position in confined spaces without causing false detections. By blocking infrared signals while transmitting visible light, the filter enables the mirror to be placed in locations that would otherwise be incompatible with reliable sensor operation, thus improving both reliability and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter modifies the infrared transmission parameter of the mirror-sensor system, allowing the mirror to be positioned in various locations without affecting sensor reliability. This parameter change grants greater placement flexibility in confined spaces while maintaining accurate object detection.
3Reliability
If a filter is added to attenuate infrared signals reflected from the mirror, then false object detection is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter is a relatively simple intermediary component that can be integrated into the existing sensor or mirror assembly. Despite adding one component, the overall system complexity remains low because the filter is a passive element that requires no power, control, or maintenance, thus achieving improved reliability with minimal complexity increase.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter can be implemented as a simple, inexpensive component such as a colored gel, ink layer, or thin-film coating that is easy to manufacture and replace if needed. This approach minimizes the complexity and cost impact of adding the filter while effectively preventing false detections.
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
This solution ensures reliable detection of object presence by reducing false triggers in sensors, allowing for the co-location of sensors and mirrors in constrained spaces while maintaining hands-free operation of fixtures, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing water or energy wastage.
Implementation Method 1
The filter is configured to attenuate at least signals having a predefined wavelength
Implementation Method 2
the signals emitted by the sensor impinge upon the mirror and are reflected in such a manner as to be captured by the sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A system, method and mirror are provided in order to more reliably detect the presence of an object, such as a person. In the context of a system, the system includes a sensor configured to emit signals having a predefined wavelength and to detect a reflection of the signals having the predefined wavelength. The system also includes a reflective panel positioned relative to the sensor such that the signals emitted by the sensor are directed toward the reflected panel. The system further includes a filter associated with the reflective panel and positioned relative to the sensor such that the signals emitted by the sensor are also directed toward the filter. The filter is configured to attenuate at least signals having the predefined wavelength.