Detachable Sensor Module for Adaptive Air Treatment Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Air treatment devices lack flexibility in operation modes and are not easily adaptable to varying technical needs over their lifetime, with more advanced models being expensive and less user-friendly.
Innovation Solution
A detachable sensor module with mating means for air treatment devices, equipped with sensors for particulate and gaseous matter detection, and circuitry for real-time data transmission, allowing for automatic operational control and modular design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If air treatment devices provide automatic operational modes with sensors, then the flexibility and adaptability of the device is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor module is separated from the air treatment device into an independent detachable component. This segmentation allows the device to offer advanced automatic operation capabilities when needed while keeping the base unit simple and affordable. Users can attach the sensor module only when they require automatic operational modes, thus gaining flexibility without permanently increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The detachable sensor module can be used with multiple different air treatment devices through standardized mating means. This universal design allows a single sensor module to enhance the functionality of various device models, providing automatic operational capabilities across different product lines without requiring each device to have built-in sensors.
2Adaptability or versatility
If air treatment devices provide automatic operational modes with sensors, then the adaptability to varying air quality needs is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the sensor module as a separate detachable component, manufacturers can produce simple air treatment devices at lower costs and add the expensive sensor functionality only when customers purchase the optional module. This reduces the baseline manufacturing cost while still providing adaptability to customers who need it.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor module is designed as an affordable, replaceable component that can be produced at lower costs than integrated solutions. Users can attach or remove the module based on their needs, and if damage or unauthorized removal occurs, the module can be easily replaced without affecting the main device, reducing overall system cost risk.
3Ease of operation
If the sensor module is placed outside the device, then the ease of access for maintenance is improved, but the risk of unauthorized removal and damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor module is designed to nest within a recess of the air treatment device when attached. This nesting provides physical protection for the sensors and connector while still allowing easy insertion and removal by users. The recess acts as a protective housing that shields the delicate components during normal operation but doesn't prevent authorized access for maintenance.
4Ease of repair
If a detachable sensor module is used, then the ease of repair and replacement is improved, but the reliability of data connection may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The connector and recess are designed with preliminary alignment features such as guide rails, positioning pins, or keyed interfaces that ensure correct orientation and secure mating before data transmission begins. This preliminary action prevents misconnection and ensures reliable data connection while maintaining easy replaceability through a straightforward plug-and-play interface.
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
Increases the flexibility of air treatment devices by enabling automatic operation based on real-time measurement data, reducing the risk of unauthorized removal and damage, and providing a cost-effective solution for varying air quality needs.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensor arranged in the recess and adapted to detect particulate matter
Implementation Method 2
a second sensor arranged in the recess and adapted to detect gaseous matter
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 2
AI summary
The present specification relates to an air treatment device (200) and a detachable sensor module (100). The air treatment device comprises a user interface configured to display, for selection by a user, at least one static or open-loop operational mode to be executed by a controller; and a wall comprising one or more pervious sections towards an ambient volume. One side of the wall comprises a connector for mating with a corresponding connector of the detachable sensor module (100), and the connector, when the sensor module is present, enables a data connection from the sensor module to the controller. When the data connection is enabled, the user interface is configured to display at least one closed-loop operational mode, in which the controller controls the air treatment section in response to measurement data relating to the ambient volume received from the sensor module.