Single Sensing Element for Dual Linear Displacement Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sensing apparatuses for multiple linear displacements often suffer from variability in sensing accuracy due to differences in sensing element accuracy and require complex assembly and wiring for multiple sensing elements.
Innovation Solution
A sensing apparatus that uses a movable part capable of orthogonal turns about two straight lines, with a single sensing element to detect linear displacements by analyzing the direction of a turning member, allowing for easy separation of displacement components and accurate sensing of two linear displacements with a single sensing element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two sensing elements are used to sense separate linear displacements, then the sensing apparatus can measure multiple displacements, but the sensing accuracy is affected by variety in the accuracy of each sensing element and the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate sensing elements into a single sensing element that can detect both linear displacements simultaneously. The movable part integrates two input units (first and second input units) that respond to forces in different directions, and a single sensing element detects the composite turning motion to identify both displacement components, thereby eliminating the need for separate sensing elements and their associated wiring
Solution Approach 2:
The single sensing element is designed to perform multiple functions by detecting the direction of the turning member which reflects both linear displacements. The movable part serves as a multi-functional component that converts two linear displacement inputs into a detectable turning motion, allowing one sensing element to replace what would traditionally require two separate sensing elements
2Adaptability or versatility
If two sensing elements are used to sense separate linear displacements, then the sensing apparatus can measure multiple displacements, but the wiring and attachment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the wiring requirements for two sensing elements into a single wiring path. The single sensing element requires only one connection to the external circuit, eliminating the need for separate wiring for multiple sensing elements. The movable part integrates the signal transmission path so that both displacement measurements are conveyed through the single sensing element's output
Data Source
AI summary
A sensing apparatus according to the present invention includes a movable part rotatably supported by a base, a first input unit that is part or all of a first member formed integrally with or secured to the movable part, a second input unit that is part or all of a second member formed integrally with or secured to the movable part, a turning member turning together with the movable part, and a sensing element that is secured to a reference position of the base, senses a direction of the turning member relative to the reference position, and outputs a signal determined on the basis of the detected direction to identify a first linear displacement and a second linear displacement.