Sensor-Controlled PCB with End-to-End Terminals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printed circuit boards for sensor-controlled illumination systems are bulky due to separate components for sensors and lighting elements, requiring independent power and placement, which complicates assembly and scalability.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a sensor module, microcontroller module, illumination circuit, and power/data circuits on a single printed circuit board with end-to-end connection terminals, allowing multiple boards to be coupled in series or parallel configurations for modular and scalable systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sensors and lighting elements are implemented on separate independent circuits with independent power requirements, then sensor functionality and lighting control are achieved, but package size increases and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sensor module, microcontroller module, illumination circuit, and power circuit onto a single printed circuit board. This integration merges previously separate components into one unified assembly, reducing the overall package size while maintaining all necessary functionalities for sensor-controlled illumination.
Solution Approach 2:
The printed circuit board serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, electrical connections, power distribution, sensor integration, microcontroller housing, and illumination circuitry. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate circuits and reduces assembly complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If sensors and lighting elements are implemented on separate independent circuits, then component availability and independence are improved, but device complexity and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging all circuit components onto a single PCB, the patent reduces the number of separate assemblies that need to be coordinated and connected. This single-board integration dramatically simplifies assembly procedures while maintaining component availability through standard PCB manufacturing processes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple printed circuit boards are coupled together in series or parallel configuration, then system capacity and scalability are increased, but connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the PCB with end-to-end connection terminals that enable modular segmentation. Multiple identical PCB units can be connected in series or parallel configurations, allowing systematic scaling of system capacity while maintaining standardized connection interfaces that reduce connection complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The end-to-end connection terminals provide universal interfacing capabilities that work across all PCB configurations. The same terminal design supports both series and parallel connections, as well as daisy-chaining multiple units, simplifying the expansion process regardless of the desired system architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
Printed circuit boards with sensor controlled illumination units and end-to-end connection capabilities. For example, a lighting element, sensor/detector, and computational control element are implemented on a printed circuit board. The printed circuit board also includes end-to-end connection terminals that allow multiple printed circuit boards to be operably coupled together in an end-to-end manner. This provides a scalable system that can be modularized to a base unit for installation in various packages, orientations, or environments.