Three-Way Entry Sensor for Ajar vs Open Barrier Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security systems cannot accurately determine if an entry point barrier is ajar rather than fully open, due to the binary nature of current sensors.
Innovation Solution
The use of multi-position and multi-functionality sensors, such as three-way switches, with moveable members that can be attracted or repelled by external objects, to indicate the position of an entry point barrier.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If binary sensors are used to detect entry point status, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates because the system cannot distinguish between ajar and fully open positions
Solution Approach 1:
The detection range is segmented into multiple discrete positions (first position, second position, third position) along the path of travel. The moveable member is divided into separate conductive elements that can independently contact different conductive interfaces corresponding to different barrier positions, enabling precise position discrimination without complex continuous measurement systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical position sensing mechanisms with a simpler magnetic field-based system. External objects with magnets interact with the moveable member containing conductive elements, using magnetic attraction/repulsion forces to indicate position through circuit closure rather than requiring complex mechanical encoders or sensors.
2Measurement precision
If multi-position sensors with moveable members are used to accurately detect entry point position, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The moveable member serves multiple functions: it contains conductive elements that contact different conductive interfaces to detect various barrier positions, acts as a magnetic response element to external magnets for position indication, and provides structural support for the sensing mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each detection function.
Solution Approach 2:
External objects with magnets serve as intermediaries between the barrier position and the sensor system. These external objects are attracted to or repelled from the moveable member based on barrier position, providing a simple mechanical-magnetic coupling that translates physical position into detectable electrical signals without requiring complex direct sensing mechanisms.
3Loss of information
If binary sensors are used, then the ease of operation is maintained, but the loss of information increases because the system cannot determine whether the barrier is ajar or fully open
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system automatically detects and reports barrier position information without requiring user interpretation or additional input. The moveable member automatically contacts the appropriate conductive interface based on barrier position, and the system automatically triggers the corresponding security policy, eliminating the need for users to manually assess or report barrier status.
4Reliability
If multi-position sensors are implemented to distinguish barrier positions, then the reliability of security system policies is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system dynamically adapts its behavior based on detected barrier position. Different security policies are automatically applied depending on whether the barrier is in the first position (fully closed), second position (ajar), or third position (fully open). This dynamic policy enforcement ensures appropriate security responses without requiring complex manual configuration or intervention.
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 solution allows the security system to accurately determine the position of an entry point barrier, enabling appropriate security measures to be triggered, such as alarms or notifications.
Implementation Method 1
a moveable member that may be caused to move along a path of travel when an external object proximate to the three-way switch acts upon the moveable member
Data Source
AI summary
A three-way switch associated with an entry point barrier may provide a security system with information regarding a position of the entry point barrier as it moves along a path of travel. As the entry point barrier moves, the three-way switch may come into proximity with an external object, and the three-way switch may indicate to the security system that a circuit associated with the three-way switch has been closed. The security system may determine that the entry point barrier is in a given position, and one or more security system policies associated with the given position may be activated.