Airflow Sensor Housing with 3D Contorted Flow Path for Dust Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sensors, such as humidity, temperature, and flow sensors, are affected by dust, particulate matter, and other contaminants that accumulate over time, impacting their accuracy, repeatability, and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A flow sensor housing with a three-dimensional fluid channel that directs fluid flow along X, Y, and Z axes, causing acceleration and deceleration and changes in direction, which releases and collects dust and particulate matter before it reaches the sensor, thereby reducing contamination and ensuring consistent and reliable output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sensors are used in fluid channels, then they can measure fluid properties, but dust and particulate matter accumulate on them over time, degrading performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a preliminary action by creating a flow path that separates and collects particulate matter before it reaches the sensor. The flow channel includes a collection region that traps dust and contaminants upstream of the sensor, preventing their accumulation on the sensor surface and maintaining reliable performance over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a flow path configuration that acts as a mediator between the fluid stream and the sensor. The collection region serves as an intermediary zone that intercepts and removes particulate matter from the fluid flow before it can contact the sensor, thereby protecting the sensor while still allowing fluid measurement.
2Reliability
If a flow path is designed to collect particulate matter, then sensor contamination is reduced, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the flow channel structure with the particulate matter collection function by integrating the collection region directly into the flow path geometry. The flow channel walls and floor are configured to create the collection region, combining the fluid transport function with the particle separation function in a single integrated structure rather than adding separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement to create the collection region by defining it with channel walls and floor at different heights and positions. The collection region is positioned at a specific elevation within the flow channel, using vertical and horizontal spatial dimensions to create the separation zone without adding external structures.
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
The solution effectively reduces dust and other contaminants, leading to a more consistent, reliable, accurate, and stable sensor performance over time by utilizing a three-dimensional fluid path with particulate matter collection regions.
Implementation Method 1
The first fluid flow path is constructed such that it causes fluid flow to accelerate and/or decelerate as it flows through the fluid channel 12. The acceleration and/or deceleration of the fluid and/or at least one change in direction as the fluid flows along the three-dimensional flow path causes dust or other particulate matter in the fluid to be released
Implementation Method 2
The first fluid flow path is constructed such that it causes at least one change in direction as the fluid flows along the three-dimensional flow path. The acceleration and/or deceleration of the fluid and/or at least one change in direction as the fluid flows along the three-dimensional flow path causes dust or other particulate matter in the fluid to be released
Implementation Method 3
The fluid channel 12 is also constructed such that it includes one or more particle matter collection regions for collecting dust and/or other particulate matter that is released from the fluid
Data Source
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Figure 3A
AI summary
A sensor housing includes an inlet flow port, an outlet flow port, a flow sensing region, and a flow channel extending between the inlet flow port, the flow sensing region and the outlet flow port. The flow channel defines a flow path between the inlet flow port and the flow sensing region that is contorted in three-dimensions. The three-dimensional contorted flow path between the inlet flow port and a flow sensing region may include a particle collection region that is configured to decelerate a fluid and collect particles that are released from the fluid. The deceleration of the fluid flow and/or one or more changes in the direction of fluid flow along the contorted three-dimensional flow path may cause dust and/or other particulate matter to be released from the fluid prior to reaching a sensor in the sensing region.