Detachable Liquid Sensor Interface for Low-Noise Signal Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid analysis devices require replacement of both the sensor and conversion portions when the sensor deteriorates, increasing running costs, and are susceptible to electromagnetic noise affecting measurement accuracy, particularly for pH sensors.
Innovation Solution
The sensor and conversion portions are designed to be attachable and detachable, with a metal shield at the connection point to reduce electromagnetic noise, and a coupling mechanism for easy handling and calibration of multiple sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a liquid analysis device is constructed by connecting a large number of modules, then the device can perform multiple types of analysis, but the number of connections between modules increases and the device becomes more difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into independent sensor units, each capable of performing specific analysis functions. Each sensor unit is a self-contained module with its own processing capabilities, allowing the system to be segmented into functional units that can operate independently or in combination.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple sensor units are connected in parallel to a single evaluation unit, merging their capabilities into a unified analysis system. This consolidation reduces the number of inter-module connections compared to a fully connected architecture, as all sensor units communicate through a single evaluation unit rather than requiring direct connections between each other.
2Productivity
If sensor units are connected in parallel to an evaluation unit, then analysis capability is improved, but transmission cables between sensor units and evaluation unit must be kept short to avoid interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/electrical signal transmission through cables with optical signal transmission using optical fibers. This substitution eliminates the interference problems associated with electrical cables, allowing for greater flexibility in cable length and routing without compromising signal integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
Optical fibers serve as an intermediary medium between sensor units and the evaluation unit, converting electrical signals to optical signals for transmission. This intermediary approach isolates the sensor units from electrical interference in the transmission medium while maintaining signal fidelity over longer distances.
3Reliability
If optical fibers are used for signal transmission, then interference is avoided, but the cost of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
Optical fiber transmission is applied selectively only to the critical signal transmission paths between sensor units and the evaluation unit, rather than throughout the entire device. This localized application provides interference-free transmission where most needed while minimizing the overall cost impact of using optical technology.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention reduces a running cost in a liquid analysis device and reduces electromagnetic noise superimposed on an analog signal. The present invention includes a sensor portion 21 configured to contact a liquid and output an analog signal corresponding to a predetermined measurement target item, a conversion portion 22 configured to convert the analog signal obtained by the sensor portion 21 into a digital signal, and a device body 3 to which the conversion portion 22 is connected by a wire or wirelessly, the device body 3 being configured to acquire the digital signal from the conversion portion 22. The sensor portion 21 and the conversion portion 22 are attachable to and detachable from each other, the sensor portion 21 includes a connection plug 212 that electrically connects to the conversion portion 22, and a metal shield 5 is provided at a connection portion between the connection plug 212 and a wire of the sensor portion 21.