Support Connector Current Sensing for Roller Shade Obstacle Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing roller shade systems lack effective obstacle detection mechanisms, particularly when multiple shade tubes are connected by a support connector, leading to potential damage from obstacles during operation.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating sensors within the support connector that detect changes in current flow through a conductive layer of the shade tube, allowing the system to identify when the shade impacts an obstacle by monitoring current variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If multiple shade tubes are connected by a support connector to share a single motor, then device complexity and cost are reduced, but obstacle detection capability is lost because the motor cannot directly sense individual tube obstacles
Solution Approach 1:
A support connector is introduced as an intermediary component between the motor and multiple shade tubes. The support connector incorporates sensors that directly contact the shade tube and detect obstacles, serving as a mediator that enables obstacle detection without requiring individual motors for each tube.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct mechanical motor-to-tube connection with a sensor-based detection system. Instead of using motor current or mechanical feedback to detect obstacles, the support connector uses dedicated sensors to detect obstacles mechanically or electrically, substituting the traditional motor-based detection method.
2Reliability
If sensors are added to the support connector to enable obstacle detection, then obstacle detection capability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support connector is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides mechanical support for multiple shade tubes and integrates obstacle detection sensors. This universal component performs both structural and sensing functions, reducing the need for separate dedicated obstacle detection mechanisms for each tube.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the obstacle detection function with the support connector structure. Instead of adding separate detection systems to each shade tube or motor, the sensors are integrated into the support connector that already exists as a mechanical component, combining multiple functions into a single element.
3Measurement precision
If sensors are integrated into the support connector, then obstacle detection precision is improved, but manufacturing cost and ease of manufacture decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The sensors are pre-integrated into the support connector during manufacturing, allowing the complete assembly to be produced as a single unit. This preliminary integration of sensors into the support connector structure enables precise obstacle detection while simplifying the overall manufacturing process by reducing the number of separate assembly steps.
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
Enables reliable detection of obstacles, preventing damage to the shade tubes and ensuring smooth operation by adjusting motor control based on current changes, thereby enhancing system safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
at least a portion of the inner portion includes a conductive layer having current traveling through the conductive layer
Data Source
AI summary
The window shade system may comprise a shade tube having an inner portion, wherein at least a portion of the inner portion includes a conductive layer having current traveling through the conductive layer; a shade wound around the shade tube; a support connector received within the shade tube, wherein the support connector includes one or more sensors, wherein the one or more sensors of the support connector detect a current, in response to the shade pulling on the shade tube due to impacts of gravity on the shade, and wherein the one or more sensors of the support connector detect a change in current, in response to the shade impacting an obstacle.