Angled Air Mass Sensor Pipe for Compact Calibration-Free Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air mass flow sensor pipes require calibration and have size constraints, making them difficult to install in various combustion engine systems, especially in confined spaces without compromising measurement accuracy.
Innovation Solution
The air mass sensor pipe design features a first feed-through section for air upstream of the sensor and a second feed-through section for the sensor, arranged at an angular offset, allowing for compact dimensions and eliminating the need for calibration during installation, with an air control element ensuring laminar airflow and atmospheric pressure at the sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the air mass sensor is installed in a conventional pipe design, then the measurement accuracy can be maintained, but the installation space requirement increases and calibration is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensional change by arranging the first and second feed-through sections at an angular offset (e.g., 90 degrees) relative to each other. This spatial reconfiguration allows the sensor to measure air mass flow accurately while occupying less linear space, effectively transforming the pipe's dimensional footprint without compromising measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The air mass sensor is integrated within the sensor pipe structure itself, with the sensor housing forming part of the pipe assembly. This nesting approach allows the measurement function to be embedded within the flow path without requiring separate external mounting space, reducing overall installation volume.
2Measurement precision
If the air mass sensor requires calibration during installation, then measurement accuracy can be adjusted, but the installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor pipe is designed with pre-configured feed-through sections and integrated airflow control elements that automatically establish proper measurement conditions upon installation. The angular offset design and internal flow management features work self-adjustingly, eliminating the need for manual calibration procedures and allowing the sensor to provide accurate measurements immediately after installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The airflow control elements and feed-through sections are pre-configured during manufacturing to create optimal measurement conditions. This preliminary setup ensures that when the sensor is installed, the airflow characteristics are already optimized for accurate measurement, removing the need for post-installation calibration adjustments.
3Volume of moving object
If the sensor pipe is designed for compact dimensions, then installation in confined spaces is enabled, but the airflow measurement capability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
By configuring the feed-through sections at angular offsets, the patent achieves compact linear dimensions while maintaining sufficient internal volume for accurate measurement. The angular arrangement distributes the measurement volume in three-dimensional space rather than requiring extended linear space, preserving measurement capability within a compact footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor pipe incorporates localized airflow control elements at specific positions within the compact structure. These elements create controlled flow conditions precisely where measurement occurs, ensuring accurate measurement capability is concentrated in the critical measurement zone even though the overall pipe volume is reduced.
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 design enables quick and easy installation in confined spaces without calibration, ensuring accurate air mass flow measurement while minimizing space requirements, facilitating efficient engine operation.
Implementation Method 1
an air control element for directing and controlling the air flow to the area where the air mass sensor is located
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention pertains to an air mass sensor pipe (116) for a combustion engine, comprising an inlet opening (124) for air, an outlet opening (126) for air and an air mass sensor (118) arranged inside the pipe (116) between the inlet and outlet openings (124; 126). A first feed-through section (128) for the air is arranged upstream of the air mass sensor (118), that the air mass sensor (118) is arranged in a second feed-through section (130) for the air, and that the first and second feed-through sections (128; 130) are displaced at an angle in relation to each other. The invention also pertains to a combustion engine, which comprises such an air mass sensor pipe (116).