Slim Wireless Sensor Assembly for Concealed Door-Window Retrofitting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless alarm systems for building entrances, such as windows and doors, often require invasive installation methods that compromise aesthetics and insulation, and may void manufacturer warranties, while also being visible to intruders and occupants.
Innovation Solution
A slim, elongated sensor assembly with a microprocessor, sensor switch, antenna system, and wireless transmitter, integrated into a compact form factor of less than 5 mm, allowing for non-invasive retrofitting within the voids and cavities of doors and windows without visible installation, using ultrathin components and adhesive mounting for easy installation and concealment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a wireless sensor assembly is retrofitted into a hollow interior of a window or door frame, then the sensor assembly is hidden from intruders and occupants, but it requires 1 inch diameter bore holes in the door/window and frame, compromising insulation and aesthetics
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor assembly is extracted from the traditional concealed installation method (requiring bore holes) and repositioned to mount on the exterior surface of the door or window frame. This allows the sensor to remain visible to occupants for maintenance purposes while being positioned above the intruder zone (typically above 4 feet), thereby hiding it from intruders without compromising insulation through invasive drilling.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor assembly transitions from a three-dimensional concealed installation (embedded within the frame hollow) to a two-dimensional surface mounting solution. By mounting on the exterior surface and utilizing vertical positioning (above 4 feet), the system achieves concealment from intruders without requiring penetration of the door or window structure, thus preserving insulation properties.
2Reliability
If a long wire antenna is extended from the sensor assembly, then wireless transmission is achieved, but the assembly becomes more visible and aesthetically displeasing
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional long wire antenna is replaced with a flexible printed circuit board (FPC) antenna that can be integrated into the thin profile of the sensor assembly. This flexible antenna maintains wireless transmission capability while conforming to the compact housing, eliminating the need for external wire extensions that would increase visibility and aesthetic impact.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna is merged with the sensor assembly housing through integration of a flexible printed circuit board antenna within the same structural envelope. This combines the wireless transmission function with the aesthetic requirements, as the antenna becomes an internal component rather than an external extension, maintaining the sleek appearance necessary for concealed installation above 4 feet.
3Ease of operation
If the sensor assembly is mounted visibly on the door frame, then installation is simple, but it is visible to intruders and compromises aesthetics
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor assembly is pre-configured with all necessary mounting components and wiring during manufacturing, allowing for simple adhesive or screw mounting on the exterior surface. This preliminary preparation maintains installation simplicity while enabling the assembly to be positioned above 4 feet on the door or window frame, achieving concealment from intruders without complex installation procedures.
4Length of stationary object
If the sensor assembly height is reduced to less than 5 mm, then it can be concealed in narrow voids, but component integration becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Components are nested within each other to achieve the thin profile. The flexible printed circuit board antenna is integrated into the housing structure, the sensor switch is mounted on the circuit board surface, and the battery is positioned in a recessed cavity. This nested arrangement allows all components to fit within a thickness of less than 5 mm while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The component layout transitions from a three-dimensional stacked arrangement to a two-dimensional planar distribution on the flexible printed circuit board. This allows components to be arranged side-by-side rather than stacked vertically, achieving the required thin profile while maintaining all necessary functions through careful PCB layout and routing.
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
The solution provides a discreet, easy-to-install, and aesthetically pleasing wireless alarm system that effectively detects changes in door or window states without compromising insulation or warranties, offering enhanced security while being invisible to intruders and occupants.
Implementation Method 1
an antenna system, a wireless transmitter configured to receive a signal from the microprocessor identifying a change of the state of the at least one sensor switch and transmit said signal by means of the antenna system
Implementation Method 2
at least one sensor switch configured to detect a given state and a change of state between the given state and at least one other state
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a sensor assembly for detecting a change of state comprising: at least one sensor switch configured to detect a given state and a change of state between the given state and at least one other state, a microprocessor configured to detect the change of state of said at least one sensor switch, an antenna system, a wireless transmitter configured to receive a signal from the microprocessor identifying a change of the state of the at least one sensor switch and transmit said signal by means of the antenna system, and a power source for providing electric power to the microprocessor, the at least one sensor switch, and the wireless transmitter. The present disclosure further relates to an alarm kit and a wireless alarm system.