Configurable Sensor Interface for Flexible Signal Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical sensors used for surveillance have limited configurability due to restricted connection elements in their connection modules, making it difficult to adapt to various requirements and applications.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a device connection unit with configuration jumpers and/or a configuration memory that allows for adjustable signal distribution and operating mode selection, enabling compatibility with different external units through customizable hardware configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a connection module with fixed connection elements is used, then the sensor structure is simple, but the adaptability to different requirements is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connection module is segmented into a fixed connection element and a movable connection element that can be selectively positioned. This allows the sensor to adapt to different connection requirements by changing the position of the movable element without redesigning the entire connection module structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection module incorporates a movable connection element that can be dynamically repositioned between different positions. This dynamic capability enables the sensor to adapt to various external units and application requirements while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple configuration options are provided, then the functionality is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of providing all possible configuration options simultaneously, the invention provides a base configuration with the option to add or activate additional configurations as needed. This allows enhanced functionality to be achieved through selective configuration rather than incorporating all features by default.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses configuration data that can be copied or transferred to define different operating modes and signal distributions. This allows multiple functionalities to be achieved through software/configuration copies rather than requiring separate hardware configurations for each mode.
3Ease of operation
If the signal distribution is fixed, then the manufacturing is simple, but the ease of operation for different applications is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connection module is pre-designed with multiple possible positions for the movable connection element and corresponding signal distribution configurations. This preliminary preparation allows users to easily select and switch between different signal distributions without complex manufacturing processes, as all configurations are built into the module structure.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a sensor for detecting objects in a monitoring area, comprising sensor components and an evaluation unit (9). In the evaluation unit (9), an object detection signal is generated based on sensor signals from the sensor components. The sensor has a device connection unit (10) with connection means designed for connection to a connection module (11). A configuration jumper and/or a configuration memory (17) can be attached to the device connection unit (10). This allows for the predefining of signal distribution to connection elements of the connection module (11) and/or an operating mode of the sensor.