Value Document Sensor Self-Test and Modified Operating Mode
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor systems for checking documents of value face inefficiencies due to the need for test media, which can lead to confusion and operational interruptions when malfunctioning, requiring manual intervention and increasing operational effort.
Innovation Solution
The sensor performs self-tests to detect malfunctions and switches to a modified operating mode, using alternative measured values to continue functioning and reduce the number of operational failures, allowing it to continue checking documents of value without interruption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a test medium is introduced into the sensor's detection range to verify sensor functionality, then the sensor's functionality can be checked, but the examination of valuables must be interrupted and manual intervention is required
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor performs self-tests autonomously using integrated test elements, eliminating the need for external test media and manual intervention. The control unit automatically initiates and evaluates self-tests, allowing the sensor to verify its own functionality without interrupting the valuables verification process.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor performs self-tests in advance or during idle periods between valuables verification, ensuring functionality is verified before actual measurement. This preliminary verification prevents interruptions during critical verification processes while maintaining continuous monitoring of sensor health.
2Device complexity
If the sensor uses a single operating mode for document verification, then the verification process is simple, but any malfunction causes complete sensor failure and operational interruption
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor dynamically switches between a first operating mode for standard document verification and a second operating mode for malfunction conditions. The control unit monitors sensor functionality and automatically transitions between modes based on detected malfunctions, maintaining operational continuity without requiring complex manual reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor changes operational parameters by switching between different operating modes when malfunctions are detected. This allows the sensor to adapt its measurement and evaluation parameters to compensate for detected issues, maintaining verification capability despite component failures.
3Device complexity
If minimum threshold values are used to determine sensor functionality, then the evaluation is simple, but any measured value below the threshold results in sensor failure requiring manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit continuously monitors measured values and compares them against threshold criteria, providing real-time feedback on sensor functionality. When values approach or fall below thresholds, the system automatically triggers diagnostic routines and mode switching, eliminating the need for manual intervention while maintaining simple evaluation logic.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a sensor for verifying value documents, said sensor performing a self-test to check the operability thereof. In said self-test, the sensor reacts to at least one malfunction that has been identified during the self-test and would affect the verification process of the value documents, by automatically using a modified operating mode instead of the originally planned operating mode for verifying the value documents. In said modified operating mode, at least one measured sensor value that differs from the measured sensor value used in the originally planned operating mode for verifying the value documents is used to verify the value documents. Unlike in the prior art where the sensor used to be down after such a malfunction, the sensor of the invention can continue to be used to verify the value documents in spite of the malfunction.