Touchless Push Button Replacement Using Proximity Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing push buttons in public spaces pose challenges for universal access, particularly for individuals with disabilities, as they require precise physical engagement and can facilitate disease transmission through frequent contact.
Innovation Solution
A touchless button system that replaces traditional push buttons without modifying existing housing, using proximity sensors and integrated electrical components to initiate actions with intuitive feedback, compatible with various power sources and adaptable to different button sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a traditional push button is used, then the button can be easily manufactured and installed, but it requires physical contact which facilitates disease transmission and reduces accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical push button system with an optical sensing system. The touchless button uses an optical sensor to detect the presence or approach of a user, eliminating the need for mechanical contact. This substitution resolves the contradiction by maintaining ease of operation through intuitive gesture-based interaction while eliminating disease transmission risks associated with physical contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical field as an intermediary between the user and the button function. Instead of direct mechanical contact, the optical sensor detects user presence or gestures through the optical field, serving as a mediator that enables operation without physical touch. This intermediary approach maintains accessibility while preventing disease transmission.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a touchless button system is implemented, then disease transmission is reduced and accessibility is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional sensors and electrical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the touchless button to perform multiple functions within a single integrated unit. The button combines optical sensing, signal processing, and output control in one component that can replace traditional push buttons. This multi-functionality approach reduces device complexity by consolidating what would otherwise require separate components into a single universal replacement unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The touchless button system is designed to be self-contained with all necessary sensing, processing, and control components integrated into the button itself. The system serves itself by automatically detecting user presence or gestures and initiating the appropriate action without requiring external control units, processors, or complex wiring infrastructure. This self-service design minimizes the complexity burden on the installation system.
3Ease of manufacture
If the button housing is not modified, then installation is simplified and existing structures are preserved, but the replacement button must fit precise dimensional constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes to accommodate different housing sizes. The touchless button system includes adjustable mounting parameters and can be configured to fit various orifice diameters. By making the button dimensions and mounting characteristics adjustable rather than fixed, the system achieves ease of installation across different applications while maintaining the precision required for non-modified housing integration.
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 easy replacement of push buttons with a direct size fit, reducing disease transmission and increasing accessibility by allowing activation without physical contact, while extending the life of buttons through reduced wear and tear.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor detects the proximity of a solid object to the button top, switching components to activate a signal or device associated with the button
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for providing a replacement touchless button for initiating an action upon proximate detection of a solid object near the top of the touchless button. The action is triggered by determining that the solid object is within a predetermined distance from the top of the button. The action is accomplished by the closing of an electrical circuit within the touchless button, the button being configured to replace a push button without modification of a panel housing the push button. The button contains and supports, within its structure, all electrical and physical components needed to operate a device that can be triggered via a push button. The button serves as a direct replacement for a push button with no modifications to existing systems or controls regularly triggered by a push button.