Sensor Support System with Virtual Image Superimposition for Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Installing and setting photoelectric sensors in machines or equipment is challenging due to the invisibility of detection light, making it difficult to determine the correct position for optimal object detection without repeated object positioning tests.
Innovation Solution
A sensor support system that includes a terminal device capable of reading form information from a storage tag on the sensor, calculating position information, generating a virtual image of the sensor's detection direction and area, and superimposing it on the actual sensor image for visualization, facilitating efficient installation and setting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the detection light is made invisible for naked eyes, then the sensor can operate without light interference, but it becomes impossible to install the sensor while checking the detection light position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a visible indicator light as an intermediary that shares the same optical path as the invisible detection light. This mediator allows operators to see the light position without interfering with the actual detection function, resolving the contradiction between invisibility for accuracy and visibility for installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visible copy (indicator light) of the invisible detection light. This copy reproduces the light path and position information, enabling installation without repeated testing while maintaining the original detection light's invisibility and reliability.
2Measurement precision
If the sensor installation position is determined by repeatedly detecting an actual object, then accurate detection can be achieved, but installation time and operational efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary positioning of the sensor using the visible indicator light before actual object detection is performed. Operators can pre-adjust the sensor to the correct position by observing the indicator light, eliminating the need for repeated testing with actual objects and significantly reducing installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The visible indicator light serves as a mediator that provides immediate visual feedback for positioning, replacing the time-consuming trial-and-error process of actual object detection. This intermediary allows rapid and accurate positioning without requiring multiple iterations.
3Device complexity
If form information of the sensor is not visually displayed, then the system remains simple, but installation and setting operations become inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the visible indicator light as a simple intermediary that conveys form information (detection light path and position) without requiring complex display systems. This maintains system simplicity while dramatically improving installation efficiency by providing intuitive visual guidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs color or visibility changes of the indicator light to convey information about detection zones and positions. This visual differentiation provides rich form information using simple optical means, avoiding complex electronic displays while enhancing installation efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor support system includes a sensor and a terminal device configured to display form information of the sensor. The sensor includes a two-dimensional code (storage tag) which can be read from the terminal device and which is configured to store the form information of the sensor. The terminal device is configured to calculate position information of the sensor from an image of the sensor, configured to generate a virtual image of the form information of the sensor, and configured to display on a display an image in which the virtual image is superimposed on an image of the sensor taken by a camera.