Elastic Pressing Unit for Stable Sensor Installation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pressure sensing apparatuses for vehicles require a separate Printed Circuit Board (PCB) for sensor element installation, increasing assembly processes and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A pressure sensing apparatus with a sensor element that is stably installed using a housing unit, a cover unit, and an elastic pressing unit, eliminating the need for a separate PCB by electrically coupling the sensor element directly to a terminal unit within the housing unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate PCB is used to install the sensor element, then the sensor element can be electrically connected and installed, but the number of assembly processes increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the PCB mounting board function directly into the housing structure. The housing includes a mounting board with through-holes that directly receives and secures the sensor element, eliminating the need for a separate PCB. This integration reduces the number of components and assembly steps while maintaining stable electrical and mechanical connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural enclosure, mounting surface for the sensor element, electrical connection pathway, and sealing barrier. By making the housing multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for separate dedicated PCB and mounting structures, simplifying the overall device architecture.
2Reliability
If a separate PCB is used to install the sensor element, then the sensor element can be electrically connected, but the number of parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrical connection function into the housing structure itself. The mounting board within the housing provides both mechanical support and electrical connection pathways through integrated terminals or conductive elements, eliminating the need for a separate PCB and reducing the total part count.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure is designed to simultaneously provide structural support, electrical connection, and sealing functions. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, as the housing replaces what would traditionally require separate PCB, mounting bracket, and seal components.
3Ease of manufacture
If a separate PCB is used to install the sensor element, then the sensor element can be mounted, but the assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the sensor element mounting function directly into the housing structure. The mounting board with pre-formed through-holes and securing mechanisms is part of the housing, allowing the sensor element to be installed in a single step during housing assembly rather than requiring separate PCB mounting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure is pre-designed with integrated mounting features including through-holes, securing ribs, or snap-fit mechanisms that are formed during housing manufacturing. This preliminary preparation of mounting structures eliminates the need for separate PCB fabrication and assembly steps, streamlining the overall manufacturing process.
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
Simplifies the assembly process by reducing the number of production steps and ensures stable installation of the sensor element, enhancing operational reliability and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic pressing unit including a first end coupled to the cover unit, and a second end protruding toward the sensor element and pressing the sensor element, the elastic pressing unit being made of elastically deformable material
Data Source
AI summary
A pressure sensing apparatus for a vehicle may include: a sensor element configured to measure a change in air pressure by a vehicle collision; a housing unit into which the sensor element is seated, and including a terminal unit electrically coupled to the sensor element, the housing unit being fixed to a vehicle body; a cover unit removably installed on the housing unit; and an elastic pressing unit including a first end coupled to the cover unit, and a second end protruding toward the sensor element and pressing the sensor element, the elastic pressing unit being made of elastically deformable material. An area of a pressing surface of the elastic pressing unit that faces the sensor element may be equal to or less than an area of a surface of the sensor element that faces the pressing surface.