Sensor Mounting Device with Threaded Adjustment Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sensor mounting devices lack the ability to perform fine adjustments, requiring the device to be loosened and remounted if the sensor is positioned incorrectly or at an inappropriate distance from the detection area.

Innovation Solution

A mounting device with a base body and a movably arranged holding element, featuring an adjustment element that allows the sensor to be rotated and adjusted radially, enabling precise positioning without tools, and utilizing a spring mechanism for secure holding.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If the mounting device uses a simple fastening mechanism with through-holes, then the device structure remains simple and easy to manufacture, but fine adjustment of the sensor position becomes impossible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor positioning precisionVSAvoidmounting device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The holding element is designed to be movable between different positions (first position for insertion, second position for holding, adjustment position for fine-tuning). This dynamic capability allows the device to transition between simple insertion and precise adjustment modes, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and positioning precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The adjustment element acts as an intermediary component between the holding element and the sensor. It provides the fine adjustment function without requiring complete redesign of the fastening mechanism, thus adding precision capability while maintaining relative structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If the sensor is positioned incorrectly or at inappropriate distance, then the mounting device must be loosened and remounted, but this increases installation time and complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor adjustment easeVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The device allows preliminary insertion of the sensor through aligned through-holes in the first position, followed by adjustment in the adjustment position before final securing in the second position. This preliminary action enables easy repositioning without complete removal, reducing installation time and improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The movable holding element enables dynamic adjustment of the sensor position after initial insertion. This dynamic capability eliminates the need to loosen and remove the entire mounting device for adjustments, significantly reducing installation time and improving operational ease.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If the holding element continuously presses the sensor against the base body, then secure retention is achieved, but fine adjustment becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor retention securityVSAvoidsensor adjustability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The holding element can be moved between different positions: in the adjustment position, it allows the sensor to be rotated and adjusted with reduced pressing force; in the holding position, it presses the sensor firmly against the base body for secure retention. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction between reliability and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The pressing force is applied locally through the holding element only when needed for secure retention. During adjustment, the holding element is positioned to minimize interference, allowing easy rotation and positioning of the sensor. This localized application of force maintains reliability while preserving adjustability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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

Enables easy, tool-free rotation and fine adjustment of the sensor, ensuring accurate positioning and secure retention in the operating position, while preventing accidental displacement.

Implementation Method 1

The fixation slider can be moved to the second position by the spring force of a spring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring force: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS11150116B2Mounting device for holding a sensor, and method for mounting and adjusting a sensor
Publication Date: 2021.10.19 SICK AG
  • US11150116B2 patent drawing
  • US11150116B2 patent drawing
  • US11150116B2 patent drawing

AI summary

To enable fine adjustment of a sensor in a mounting device, a mounting device is provided for holding the sensor in an operating position. The mounting device comprises a base body having a first through-hole, a holding member having a second through-hole. The sensor is held in these through-holes by displacement of the holding member versus the base body and shifting the through-holes out of alignment. The holding member comprises an adjustment element, in particular a thread, which engages with an outer surface of the sensor in such a way that, when the sensor is rotated about a sensor central axis, the adjustment element causes the sensor to move along the central axis.