Sensor Holder Memory for Automated Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly and maintenance of sensor systems are complex, requiring precise alignment and parameterization, leading to significant downtimes and reduced profitability due to variations in sensor alignment and the need for repeated adjustments during sensor replacements.
Innovation Solution
A sensor arrangement with a memory device on the mount for storing and transmitting information, enabling communication between the sensor and holder for automated adjustment and parameterization, including alignment and parameter settings, allowing for partial or full automation of sensor installation and reducing downtimes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sensor is replaced with a new sensor, then the system can continue operation, but time-consuming adjustment and parameterization processes must be repeated
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is pre-configured with stored alignment data and parameter information before the sensor is replaced. When a new sensor is installed, this pre-stored information is automatically transferred to the new sensor, eliminating the need to repeat the time-consuming alignment and parameterization processes that would otherwise need to be performed after replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment data and parameter settings from the previous sensor configuration are copied and transferred to the new sensor through the holder's memory device. This copying process allows the new sensor to inherit the optimal settings without requiring redundant adjustment and configuration steps.
2Ease of manufacture
If the optical axis of a sensor varies due to manufacturing processes, then sensor production is simplified, but precise alignment relative to the holder becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback through the holder's memory device that stores actual alignment data from the installation process. This feedback mechanism allows the system to compensate for manufacturing variations by recording and reproducing the precise alignment configuration, ensuring consistent positioning despite variations in sensor optical axis due to manufacturing tolerances.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder stores and applies parameter information including alignment data that compensates for manufacturing variations. By changing and adjusting these parameters based on stored information, the system achieves precise alignment of the sensor optical axis relative to the holder despite variations introduced during sensor manufacturing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual alignment and parameterization is performed on site, then sensor installation is flexible, but considerable effort and specialized personnel are required
Solution Approach 1:
The holder with its integrated memory device enables the sensor installation system to serve itself by automatically transferring alignment data and parameter information to new sensors. This self-service capability eliminates the need for specialized personnel to perform manual alignment and parameterization, while maintaining installation flexibility through the automated process.
4Reliability
If wiring is performed for each newly inserted sensor, then power and data connections are established, but installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The holder integrates multiple functions including mechanical mounting, electrical power connection, data communication, and information storage in a single unified structure. By merging these functions, the system eliminates the need for separate wiring operations for power and data connections, as all connections are established through the integrated holder interface when the sensor is inserted.
Data Source
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AI summary
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a sensor device including at least one sensor and a support body capable of being detachably attached with the sensor.SOLUTION: A support body 17 is provided with a storage device for storing information. Also, it is provided with first communication means for transmitting information related to at least one sensor to the support body to store the transmitted information in the storage device. Furthermore, it is provided with second communication means for reading out information stored in the storage device and for transmitting the read out information to an evaluation device provided at the sensor or the support body. The evaluation device starts at least one adjustment function for the sensor and/or the support body on the basis of the transmitted information.