Movable Reference Target Sensor Module for Fast Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor modules require lengthy and inflexible reference measurements due to the need for separate, movable reference targets, which complicates the detection process and increases measurement time, especially when integrated with movable machine parts like robot arms.
Innovation Solution
A sensor module with a movable reference target integrated into the sensor module, allowing for quick and flexible reference measurements by positioning the target between a test and rest position, ensuring continuous detection area coverage and minimizing shadowing, thus enabling efficient operation even when the sensor module is in motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate reference target is arranged externally and the sensor module is moved to align with it for reference measurement, then reference measurement can be performed, but the measurement time becomes relatively long and the process becomes inflexible
Solution Approach 1:
The reference target is integrated into the sensor module housing, merging the reference target function with the sensor module structure. This eliminates the need for separate external reference targets and allows reference measurements to be performed quickly without moving the entire sensor module, thereby reducing measurement time while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The reference target is designed to be movable relative to the sensor within the sensor module, with a drive mechanism that can position it between a test position (in the detection area) and a rest position (outside the detection area). This dynamic positioning enables fast reference measurements without requiring movement of the entire sensor module, resolving the time loss issue.
2Measurement precision
If the reference target is arranged in the detection area for reference measurement, then reference measurement can be performed, but the detection area is blocked and detection objects cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The reference target is designed to be movable between a test position (in the detection area for reference measurement) and a rest position (outside the detection area for normal operation). The drive mechanism positions the reference target in the detection area only when reference measurement is required, and moves it out of the detection area during normal detection operations, thus resolving the contradiction between reference measurement capability and detection area availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The reference target is periodically moved into the detection area for reference measurements and then moved out for normal detection operations. This periodic positioning allows the system to alternate between reference measurement mode and normal detection mode, ensuring that the detection area is available when needed while still enabling reference measurements to be performed.
3Productivity
If the reference target is integrated into the sensor module, then reference measurements can be performed quickly and flexibly, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor module is segmented into functional components: the sensor, the movable reference target, and the drive mechanism. The reference target is designed as a separate movable component within the housing, allowing it to be positioned independently by the drive mechanism. This segmentation enables fast reference measurements while organizing the complexity into manageable functional parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor module is designed with multi-functionality: it can perform both normal detection operations and reference measurements using the same sensor and housing structure. The movable reference target serves dual purposes: it acts as a reference target for measurements and can be moved out of the way during normal operations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated reference measurement devices, thereby managing device complexity.
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 solution allows for rapid and flexible reference measurements independent of the sensor module's position and environment, reducing measurement time and eliminating the need for external reference targets, enhancing detection reliability and safety standards compliance.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor (110) which is designed to detect a detection object (10) located in a detection area (106)
Implementation Method 2
the sensor can be designed as a time-of-flight sensor that determines the distance using the light-time-of-flight principle
Data Source
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AI summary
A sensor module comprises a sensor configured to detect a target located within the sensor module's detection area. The sensor module also includes a reference target, which is movable relative to the sensor between a test position and a rest position. In the test position, the reference target is at least partially positioned within an intermediate area between the sensor and the sensor module's detection area to enable the sensor to perform a reference measurement against the reference target. In the rest position, the reference target is positioned outside this intermediate area to allow the sensor to detect a target located within the sensor module's detection area. Furthermore, the reference target is mounted on the sensor module and is movably connected to it.