Window Handle Sensor Retrofit via Segmented Gyro and Photovoltaic Film
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window and door handle systems cannot be retrofitted with sensors and radio interfaces for monitoring movement and locking states without modifying the handle, due to space constraints in the olive housing and connecting device.
Innovation Solution
A micro-electro-mechanical system comprising a 3-axis gyro sensor, radio interface, and photovoltaic element is attached to a common adhesive carrier film, allowing for easy retrofitting to an existing handle by utilizing solar energy for operation and wireless data transmission, enabling monitoring of handle movements and locking states without altering the handle's design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a sensor system with gyro sensor, radio interface and photovoltaic element is integrated into an existing handle, then monitoring functionality is added, but the handle structure must be modified to accommodate components
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is segmented into separate functional components (gyro sensor, radio interface, photovoltaic element) that are mounted on the handle surface rather than integrated into the internal olive housing. This allows monitoring functionality to be added without modifying the internal handle structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor components are extracted from the traditional internal housing location and placed on the external handle surface. This extraction resolves the space constraint problem by utilizing the handle's external surface area instead of internal volume.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If the sensor system uses a battery for power supply, then continuous operation is ensured, but the handle design must be altered to accommodate battery housing
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic element enables the sensor system to generate its own power from ambient light. This self-service power generation eliminates the need for battery housing and wiring modifications to the handle design, while still ensuring continuous operation during daylight hours.
3Ease of manufacture
If the sensor is made compact to fit existing handle space, then retrofitting becomes possible, but the sensor may not reliably distinguish between authorized and unauthorized movements
Solution Approach 1:
The use of a flexible printed circuit board allows the sensor components to be mounted in a compact, retrofittable configuration on the handle surface. The flexible nature of the circuit board enables precise placement of the gyro sensor to optimize movement detection accuracy while maintaining a compact footprint for easy retrofitting.
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 monitoring and reporting of window or door positions and movements to home automation systems, distinguishing between authorized and unauthorized movements, while avoiding false alarms from ambient vibrations, with a compact and self-sufficient solution.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor and the radio interface being coupled to a photovoltaic element for voltage generation
Implementation Method 2
the sensor comprising a multi-axis gyro sensor. Such a sensor can be used to measure its acceleration and thus the acceleration of the component firmly connected to the sensor
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
A handle for a window (1) or door for operating a push rod fitting includes a sensor (6) with a multi-axis gyro sensor (7) which communicates wirelessly with an evaluation unit (14).