Abstract A photoelectric switch is adapted for use as either a transmission type or a reflection type switch. To provide an integrated circuit for the photoelectric switch and to minimize input/output pins, multiple functions are assigned to each input/output pin. Such functions are provided via first to fourth integrated circuit input/output pins, i.e., the first pin serves functions in the supply of a detection output and a self-diagnosing output; the second pin supports a circuit for driving a projection type LED and a circuit for turning the LED off; the third pin supports a circuit for reversing a stable indication output and an operation indicating output; and the fourth pin supports a circuit for amplifying a received photo-signal and for controlling the mode of combination of photoelectric signals from a pair of photo-diodes. The photoelectric switch includes a support circuit external of the integrated circuit for supporting the various functions provided via the first to fourth pins and two additional pins used in providing operating power.
In a photoelectric switch including an integrated circuit arranged to cooperate with a support circuit via a limited number of input/output pins, a multi-function stable indicator circuit comprising: (A) an integrated circuit portion including: first means for receiving a stable indication signal representative of operation with detected photoelectric signals within reference levels; first semiconductor means, coupled to said first means, for coupling said stable indication signal to an input/output pin; and operation control means, coupled to said input/output pin, for providing a control signal responsive to a change in voltage externally applied to said input/output pin, said control signal being useful for controlling operation as between light transmission and light injection modes of operation; and (B) a support circuit portion including: illumination means, coupled to said input/output pin, for providing a visual indication of stable operation in response to said stable indication signal from said first semiconductor means; and switch means, coupled to said input/output pin, for causing a change in voltage externally applied to said pin to distinguish between light transmission and light reflection modes of operation of said photoelectric switch.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
182 words
In a photoelectric switch including an integrated circuit arranged to cooperate with a support circuit via a limited number of input/output pins, a multi-function stable indicator circuit comprising: (A) an integrated circuit portion including: first means for receiving a stable indication signal representative of operation with detected photoelectric signals within reference levels; first semiconductor means, coupled to said first means, for coupling said stable indication signal to an input/output pin; and operation control means, coupled to said input/output pin, for providing a control signal responsive to a change in voltage externally applied to said input/output pin, said control signal being useful for controlling operation as between light transmission and light injection modes of operation; and (B) a support circuit portion including: illumination means, coupled to said input/output pin, for providing a visual indication of stable operation in response to said stable indication signal from said first semiconductor means; and switch means, coupled to said input/output pin, for causing a change in voltage externally applied to said pin to distinguish between light transmission and light reflection modes of operation of said photoelectric switch.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
38 words
A stable indicator circuit for a photoelectric switch as described in claim 1, wherein said switching means causes a change in voltage externally applied to said pin by shorting out a diode in series with said illumination means.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
29 words
A stable indicator circuit for a photoelectric switch as described in claim 1, wherein the integrated circuit portion further comprises a constant current supply to an integrated injection logic.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
22 words
A stable indicator circuit for a photoelectric switch as described in claim 1, wherein said illumination means is a light emitting diode.