Acoustic Sensor for Real-Time Electromagnetic Energy Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for sensing electromagnetic energy deposition are limited by long response times, low resolution, insufficient sensitivity, limited wavelength or frequency ranges, and inability to provide real-time data.
Innovation Solution
An acoustograph or acoustic sensor configured as a thermometer (DSAR) sensor uses the probe beam deflection technique to measure the speed of acoustic waves generated in a target medium, which changes with electromagnetic energy deposition, allowing for precise measurement of electromagnetic energy deposition in various media, including biological tissues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If thermal detectors are used to measure electromagnetic energy deposition, then temperature change can be detected, but the response time becomes long and real-time data cannot be provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance (acoustic wave) that mediates between electromagnetic energy deposition and temperature measurement. The acoustic wave propagates through the medium carrying information about energy deposition, allowing indirect but rapid measurement without waiting for thermal equilibrium, thus resolving the contradiction between temperature detection capability and response time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the direct thermal measurement system with an acoustic wave-based measurement system. Instead of measuring temperature directly (which is slow), the system uses acoustic wave propagation characteristics that respond rapidly to electromagnetic energy deposition, substituting a faster physical mechanism for the slower thermal process
2Measurement precision
If conventional EM detectors are used, then electromagnetic energy can be detected, but the resolution and sensitivity are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from direct electromagnetic field detection to acoustic wave propagation parameter measurement. By measuring changes in acoustic wave speed, attenuation, or other parameters caused by electromagnetic energy deposition, the system achieves higher resolution and sensitivity through the amplification of physical effects in the intermediary medium
3Measurement precision
If photoconductive or photovoltaic detectors are used, then electromagnetic radiation can be detected, but the device complexity and material requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the detection function from complex semiconductor detector structures and transfers it to a simpler acoustic wave measurement system. The intermediary medium performs the transduction function, allowing the use of simpler, less complex detection apparatus while maintaining or improving measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal measurement system where the acoustic wave-based intermediary can detect electromagnetic energy deposition across different frequencies and media types. This multi-functional approach replaces multiple specialized detectors with a single versatile system, reducing overall device complexity
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 method provides enhanced resolution and sensitivity for measuring electromagnetic energy deposition, enabling real-time data acquisition and overcoming the limitations of existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
The acoustograph uses the probe beam deflection technique configured as a chronograph to measure the speed of an acoustic wave generated in the target medium
Implementation Method 2
the speed of the acoustic waves traveling through the medium changes appropriately with electromagnetic energy deposition
Data Source
AI summary
Certain embodiments are directed to an acoustograph or acoustic sensor configured as a thermometer or direct specific absorption rate (DSAR) sensor for the measurement of electromagnetic energy.