Window And Door Position Sensing With Magnetic Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window and door detection systems using reed switches can only determine if a door or window is open or closed, but not the extent of its opening, lacking the ability to monitor the position or status of the latch mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a magnetic field generator and sensor, with a processor to determine the position of a moveable element, allowing for the detection of the window or door's position in multiple predetermined positions, including open, closed, and secured states, using a calibration mode to establish reference values for accurate positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a reed switch and magnet system is used to detect door/window status, then the system can detect whether the door/window is open or closed, but it cannot detect how far the leaf has been opened or the position of the latch mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical reed switch system with a magnetic field-based detection system using a three-axis magnetometer. This allows detection of the moveable element's position in three-dimensional space, enabling precise measurement of both opening angle and latch mechanism status without requiring multiple separate sensors or complex mechanical linkages.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-axis detection (reed switch detecting only closed/open states) to three-axis detection (magnetometer detecting position in X, Y, Z dimensions). This dimensional expansion enables the system to distinguish between different opening angles and detect the specific position of the latch mechanism, providing comprehensive position information from a single sensor.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a simple reed switch system is used, then the device complexity is low, but the system lacks the ability to monitor multiple attributes including position and security features
Solution Approach 1:
The three-axis magnetometer serves multiple functions: detecting the opening angle of the door/window, monitoring the position of the latch mechanism, and determining security status. This single sensor replaces what would otherwise require multiple specialized sensors, achieving multi-functionality without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes a calibration mode that performs preliminary action by establishing reference values for the magnetometer readings at known positions. This calibration process enables the system to accurately interpret subsequent measurements without requiring complex real-time calculations, simplifying the normal operation mode.
3Measurement precision
If a three-axis magnetometer is used to detect position in three coordinate axes, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical position sensing mechanisms with a magnetic field-based three-axis magnetometer. This substitution achieves three-dimensional position detection using a single electronic sensor rather than multiple mechanical sensors or linkages, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
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 precise detection of the window or door's position and latch mechanism status, improving security features by monitoring the position and security state, preventing tampering, and providing a user interface for calibration and status indication.
Implementation Method 1
at least one magnetic field generator; at least one sensor for sensing a magnetic field
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for detecting the position of at least one moveable element of a window or door, the system comprising: at least one sensor for sensing a magnetic field, the at least one sensor being configured such that the magnetic field sensed changes as the at least one moveable element moves; and processor means configured to receive output signals associated with the sensed magnetic field from the sensor and to determine the position of the at least one moveable element; wherein the system is configured to operate in a calibration mode and a normal mode, wherein in the calibration mode the system is configured to register at least an output value from the at least one sensor when the at least one moveable element is at a first predetermined position as a corresponding first reference value and wherein in the normal mode the processor means is configured to use at least the first reference value in determining the position of the at least one moveable element.