Distributed Temperature Sensor Probe for Hydrological Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for monitoring subsurface temperatures in agricultural and hydrological applications are hindered by the fragility of existing temperature sensors, which are prone to damage from high velocities and debris, and require cumbersome data retrieval processes, limiting their effectiveness and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A distributed temperature sensor probe with multiple, self-contained sensors and internal storage and batteries, housed in a sturdy, low-profile PVC pipe, allowing for continuous data collection and retrieval without removing the probe, and enabling deployment in various environments, including flowing water, with options for wireless data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If temperature sensors are attached to a cable and hung inside a pipe, then temperature measurement is enabled, but the exposed pipe is highly susceptible to damage from high velocities and debris
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple temperature sensors with data storage and processing capabilities into a single integrated probe unit. This merging eliminates the need for exposed cables and external housing, protecting the sensors from debris damage while enabling continuous operation in high-velocity flow conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The probe incorporates self-contained data storage and processing capabilities, allowing it to autonomously record and store temperature data without requiring external equipment. This self-service feature eliminates the need for frequent manual retrieval and reduces vulnerability to external damage
2Ease of operation
If sensors are removed for data retrieval, then data can be accessed, but the experiment is disrupted and sensors may shift causing errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the data storage and processing functions from external equipment and embeds them directly within the probe. This allows data to be retrieved by simply removing the probe itself rather than disconnecting sensors mid-experiment, preventing sensor shift and maintaining measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The probe performs preliminary data storage and processing functions internally before retrieval. Temperature data is continuously recorded and stored within the probe during the experiment, so when the probe is removed for data retrieval, no sensor repositioning is needed and measurement integrity is preserved
3Reliability
If thermistor wires are used with external insulated housing, then temperature measurement is possible, but the system is expensive and requires frequent maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the temperature sensing, data logging, storage, and processing functions into a single integrated probe unit. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate thermistor wires, external insulated housing, batteries, and reference thermistors, reducing system complexity while maintaining continuous operation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The probe is designed as a multi-functional device that performs temperature measurement, data recording, storage, and processing all within one unit. This universal design replaces multiple separate components (sensors, housing, power supply, data logger) with a single versatile instrument
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
The probe provides reliable, continuous temperature data from multiple depths, reducing errors and extending deployment periods, while minimizing damage and maintenance needs, and enabling accurate estimation of seepage and fluid flux in diverse hydrological conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The probe includes a plurality of temperature sensors connected in series inside a sensor housing. The temperature sensors are distributed at various points along the length of the sensor housing.
Data Source
AI summary
A distributed temperature sensor probe for measuring temperature at multiple depths. The probe includes a plurality of temperature sensors connected in series inside a sensor housing. The temperature sensors are distributed at various points along the length of the sensor housing. Each temperature sensor has an internal storage and an internal battery. A probe head is connected to a top of the sensor housing, and a probe tip is connected to a bottom of the sensor housing.