Data Logger Protective Sleeve for Flexible Probe Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Data loggers with flexible probes are prone to breakage due to external forces and torsional stress, leading to mechanical fragility and reliability issues, particularly in high-temperature and high-pressure environments.
Innovation Solution
A data logger design incorporating a protective sleeve with a hollow cylindrical shape around the interface area of the flexible probe, featuring a deformation at one end to prevent rotation and breakage, made from stainless steel and fixed at the interface point to enhance stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a flexible probe is used in the data logger, then the ease of operation and handling is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to mechanical fragility and breakage risks
Solution Approach 1:
The protective sleeve is divided into distinct functional segments: a first end with a deformation for preventing rotation, and a second end with a flap for additional mechanical protection. This segmentation allows each part to address specific vulnerability points of the flexible probe independently, improving overall reliability while preserving flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective sleeve is installed beforehand to cushion and absorb mechanical stresses, torsional forces, and rubbing actions that could damage the flexible probe. The deformation at the first end and the flap at the second end provide preemptive protection against breakage, allowing the probe to withstand harsh conditions without failing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the flexible probe is exposed to external forces and torsional stress, then the adaptability to different positions is improved, but the strength deteriorates due to increased breakage risk
Solution Approach 1:
The protective sleeve incorporates an asymmetric deformation at its first end, creating an uneven structure that prevents rotation of the flexible probe. This asymmetric feature maintains the probe's adaptability to various positions while providing targeted strength enhancement at the vulnerable interface area where the probe exits the fixation assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective sleeve provides local quality enhancement by concentrating mechanical protection at specific vulnerable points: the first end with deformation to prevent rotation, and the second end with a flap to protect against rubbing and external forces. This localized strengthening allows the probe to maintain flexibility and adaptability while resisting breakage at critical locations.
3Ease of manufacture
If the flexible probe passes through the tube, then the ease of installation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to rubbing and mechanical wear
Solution Approach 1:
The protective sleeve acts as an intermediary element between the flexible probe and the tube. It covers the interface area where the probe passes through the tube, preventing direct contact and rubbing between the probe and tube surfaces. This intermediary protection maintains the ease of installation while eliminating mechanical wear and improving reliability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention is related to a data logger (1, 1'), comprising a base (20) surmonted by a cover (21) so as to form a main body (2), and a fixation assembly configured to allow connection from outside of said main body (2) to a processing unit (27) housed in said main body (2), said fixation assembly comprising at least one tube (22) connected to said cover (21) through a circular connecting piece (23), said data logger (1) further comprising a flexible probe (3) having a first end prolonged by at least one head (4), and a second end opposite to said first end and connected to said processing unit (27), said flexible probe (3) passing through said tube (22) so as to exit from said fixation assembly at a first interface area (A), characterized in that said data logger (1) further comprises means for protecting said first interface area (A), in the form of a protective sleeve (5, 5') having a hollow cylindrical shaped wall extending around an outer surface of at least one part of each of said tube (22) and said flexible probe (3) so as to externally cover said first interface area (A), said protective sleeve (5) being fixed onto said tube (22) in least one point at said first interface area (A), said protective sleeve (5) having at least one deformation at a point facing said flexible probe (3).