Dual Sensor Module Voltage Switching for Energy-Saving Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor modules require complex communication interfaces and additional evaluation units to switch between active and standby sensor units, complicating their structure and energy efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A control device adjusts the supply voltage to selectively connect either a first or a second sensor unit to the control device based on output signal threshold values, using a decision unit with components like a Zener diode or comparator, eliminating the need for additional communication interfaces and evaluation units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional communication interfaces and evaluation units are used to switch between sensor units, then the sensor module can reliably switch between active and standby sensor units, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the switching control function from complex communication interfaces and evaluation units, implementing it instead through a simple voltage threshold comparison mechanism. The decision unit only needs to compare the supply voltage against a threshold value to determine which sensor unit to activate, eliminating the need for complex communication protocols and evaluation logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter from complex communication signals to a simple voltage threshold parameter. The decision unit monitors the supply voltage and switches between sensor units based on whether the voltage exceeds a predefined threshold, transforming a complex control problem into a simple parameter-based decision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional communication interfaces and evaluation units are added to control sensor unit switching, then the sensor module can manage multiple sensor units, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes energy-intensive communication interfaces and evaluation units from the system, replacing them with a passive voltage threshold comparison mechanism. The decision unit requires minimal processing power, simply comparing voltage levels to determine sensor unit activation, thereby dramatically reducing energy consumption while maintaining the ability to manage multiple sensor units.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing supply voltage as both the operating power and the control signal for switching. The voltage level itself serves as the decision criterion, eliminating the need for separate control signals and communication protocols, thereby reducing energy consumption while maintaining adaptability.
3Ease of operation
If complex communication interfaces and evaluation units are implemented, then the sensor module can precisely control sensor unit activation, but the device structure becomes more complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the control mechanism from complex communication-based precision control to simple voltage threshold-based control. The decision unit achieves precise control by monitoring whether the supply voltage exceeds a predefined threshold, maintaining accurate sensor unit activation control while dramatically simplifying the device structure.
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
This approach simplifies the sensor module's structure and enables energy-saving operation by directly controlling sensor unit activity through voltage adjustment, reducing complexity and energy consumption.
Implementation Method 1
a control device, which is designed to adjust an electrical supply voltage for the sensor units
Implementation Method 2
the decision unit comprises a Zener diode (Z-diode), a comparator, or a circuit with an operational amplifier
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor module. The sensor module includes at least two sensor units; a control device configured to adjust an electrical supply voltage for the sensor units; and a sensor signal output. The sensor units can be electrically connected to or electrically disconnected from the control device and are electrically connected to the sensor signal output. A first sensor unit, during a normal operation, provides a first output signal through the sensor signal output, and a second sensor unit, during an energy-saving operation, provides a second output signal through the sensor signal output. A decision unit is associated with the control device, and electrically connects or disconnects the first or second sensor unit to the control device depending on the adjusted electrical supply voltage. The control device is configured to, during the energy-saving operation, change the supply voltage when the output signal reaches a defined threshold value.