Switchable Optical Protective Fields for Continuous Object Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical sensors used for protecting hazardous areas lack flexibility in adapting to different applications and security requirements, as they are limited by fixed protective field configurations and dimensions, which do not account for varying object sizes and types, and do not allow for simultaneous activation of multiple fields.
Innovation Solution
The optical sensor is equipped with switching means that enable the selection and activation of different protective field configurations, which can specify object sizes, types, and start-up behaviors, allowing for flexible adaptation to various applications and security needs, including the simultaneous activation of multiple fields.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed protective field configurations are used in optical sensors, then the device structure remains simple, but the adaptability to different applications and security requirements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic configurability of protective fields through switching means that allow selection between different protective field configurations (first, second, third configurations) with varying dimensions, orientations, and activation conditions. This enables the optical sensor to adapt its monitoring behavior dynamically based on application requirements while maintaining a unified device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical sensor is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating switching means that enable a single device to perform multiple protective field configurations. The sensor can simultaneously or alternatively activate different protective fields (first protective field, second protective field, third protective field) with different object size specifications and detection parameters, making one device serve multiple application purposes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple protective field configurations are implemented with switching means, then the adaptability to different applications improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protective field monitoring function is segmented into distinct configurations (first, second, third protective field configurations) that can be independently activated. Each configuration has specific parameters (dimensions, orientations, object size thresholds) that are separately defined and controlled through switching means, allowing modular adaptation without redesigning the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes to achieve different protective field configurations by modifying key parameters such as field dimensions, orientations, and minimum object size detection thresholds. The switching means activate different parameter sets corresponding to different application scenarios, enabling flexible adaptation through parameter variation rather than structural redesign.
3Measurement precision
If protective fields are activated and deactivated based on object detection, then the detection precision for safety-critical objects improves, but the risk of monitoring gaps deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The optical sensor performs preliminary detection of objects entering the monitoring area before activating specific protective field configurations. The switching means are triggered by preliminary object detection events, allowing the system to prepare and activate appropriate protective fields in advance, ensuring continuous monitoring without gaps while maintaining detection precision for safety-critical objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuity of monitoring by designing the protective field activation/deactivation mechanism to operate seamlessly. When objects are detected, the switching means activate appropriate protective fields without interruption, and the system maintains continuous surveillance by transitioning between configurations without monitoring gaps, preserving both detection precision and reliability.
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 flexibility enhances the sensor's adaptability and availability by ensuring continuous object monitoring without gaps, as the switching signal remains valid, and allows for precise detection of safety-critical objects, improving safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
comprising at least one transmitter (3) emitting light beams (2), at least one receiver (5) receiving light beams (4)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
AI summary
The invention relates to an optical sensor (1) for detecting objects (12) in a detection area (13), with at least one transmitter (3) emitting transmitted light beams (2), at least one receiver (5) receiving received light beams (4), and an evaluation unit (15) for evaluating received signals generated in the receiver (5). An object detection signal is generated in the evaluation unit (15) when an object (12) is detected within an activated protective field (14). Switching means are also provided, by means of which a protective field (14) from a number of protective fields (14) with different protective field configurations can be activated, different protective field configurations being defined by different properties of objects (12) to be detected and/or by different control variables.