Air Flow Meter Adjustment Using Gap and Tilt Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air flow meters face productivity issues due to the need for lengthy multi-point adjustment processes, which are time-consuming and result in deviations in output from target values caused by assembly errors such as gap dimension and tilt angle errors between the sensor chip and support plate.
Innovation Solution
An air flow rate adjusting apparatus that uses measured geometric data, including gap dimensions and tilt angles, to estimate and adjust output values, reducing the need for extensive measurement at multiple points and improving accuracy by switching between linear and non-linear estimation equations based on assembly dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multi-point adjusting technique is used to adjust output at multiple air flow rates, then measurement precision is improved, but adjustment time increases and productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by measuring output values at only two specific air flow rates (first and second air flow rates) rather than at multiple points across the entire range. This partial measurement approach is sufficient to determine the correction values needed for all air flow rates, thereby improving productivity while maintaining adequate measurement precision through the use of these two strategically selected measurement points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the air flow meter to self-adjust its output by automatically calculating correction values based on the two measured output values and the relationship between air flow rates. The system performs self-correction without requiring extensive manual multi-point adjustment, thereby improving both productivity and maintaining measurement precision through automated computation of the correction characteristics.
2Manufacturing precision
If assembly dimension measurement is performed to correct output values, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms with computational methods. Instead of using mechanical means to physically adjust components for precision, the system measures assembly dimensions and uses mathematical calculations to determine correction values that compensate for dimensional variations. This substitution of mechanical adjustment with computational correction maintains manufacturing precision while reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the approach from physically adjusting mechanical parameters to modifying output parameter values through calculation. By measuring assembly dimensions and computing corresponding correction values for output readings, the system achieves manufacturing precision through parameter transformation rather than physical adjustment, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining precision.
Data Source
AI summary
An air flow rate adjusting apparatus adjusts an output of an air flow meter based on a dimension of a gap between a back surface of a sensor chip and a bottom surface of a recess of a support plate.