Contactless Sensor Connection System for On-Site Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
In harsh industrial environments, such as chemical processing plants, process operating personnel face challenges in intervening at remote measuring points for fault detection or calibration, especially for electrochemical sensors like pH probes, due to the lack of direct access and diagnostic capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A plug-in connection system for contactless data and energy signal transmission with integrated input units for sensor commands, optical diagnostic displays, and wireless communication interfaces, enabling on-site intervention and visualization of sensor status and calibration processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If contactless transmission is used for data and energy supply signals, then galvanic isolation and safety in explosive areas are improved, but direct intervention capability and diagnostic access are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary connection system with coupling elements that provide both galvanic isolation through contactless transmission and intervention capability through integrated input units. The input units act as mediators that allow personnel to enter commands (calibration, test routines) without breaking the galvanic isolation, while the optical display units provide feedback without direct electrical connection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If sensor devices are placed far from control rooms, then measurement coverage in large-scale plants is improved, but accessibility for on-site intervention is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the remote sensor device to serve itself through integrated input units that allow calibration and diagnostic functions to be performed directly at the measuring point. The connection system with optical displays provides self-contained diagnostic capability, eliminating the need for personnel to travel to the control room for basic interventions while maintaining extended measurement coverage.
3Adaptability or versatility
If plug-in connection systems are used for sensor connectivity, then flexibility and adaptability are improved, but complexity of the connection system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing connection elements that perform multiple functions: electrical connection, galvanic isolation through contactless transmission, diagnostic display, and command input. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function, thereby managing complexity while maintaining flexibility and adaptability for different sensor types and intervention needs.
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
Facilitates direct on-site intervention and calibration of sensors, provides real-time diagnostic feedback, and ensures secure and efficient data transmission, enhancing operational reliability and safety in explosive environments.
Implementation Method 1
a first coupling element (14) for a contactless transmission path (15) for data and energy supply signals inductive character
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A connecting system for preferably contactless transmission of data signals and power supply signals between a sensor device and a base unit in a measurement and transmission system comprises a sensor-end connecting element (1) and a base-end connecting element (4). An input unit (32) is provided on at least one of the connecting elements (4) for inputting sensor-related commands.