Electrochemical Sensor Drive Waveform for Lower Power Operation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrochemical devices face high power consumption due to constant DC voltage application, leading to inefficient operation and increased energy use.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a duty signal with a waveform that alternates between high and low voltages of the same polarity, reducing power consumption while maintaining effective electrochemical action.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If constant DC voltage is applied to the electrochemical element, then stable electrochemical action is achieved, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestability of electrochemical actionVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies periodic square wave voltage signals instead of constant DC voltage to the electrochemical element. The voltage alternates between +3V and -3V with a period of 0.1 seconds, creating periodic electrochemical reactions that maintain effective action while reducing overall power consumption through the alternating polarity that minimizes reverse reactions and maintains ion flow efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 duty signal reduces power consumption while preserving high electrochemical performance by minimizing reverse reactions during voltage transitions.

Implementation Method 1

The electrochemical element is configured to perform at least one of dehumidification, humidification, ozone generation, oxygen generation, oxygen removal, or hydrogen generation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrochemical reaction: Electrolysis

Data Source

PatentUS12553856B2Electrochemical device, sensor, and sensor system
Publication Date: 2026.02.17 KK TOSHIBA
  • US12553856B2 patent drawing
  • US12553856B2 patent drawing
  • US12553856B2 patent drawing

AI summary

According to one embodiment, an electrochemical device includes an electrochemical element, and a controller. The electrochemical element includes a first electrode, a second electrode, and a first member provided between the first electrode and the second electrode. The controller is electrically connected to the first electrode and the second electrode. The controller is configured to supply a first signal between the first electrode and the second electrode. The first signal includes a waveform repeating in a first period. The waveform includes a first duration of a first voltage of a first polarity, and a second duration of a second voltage of the first polarity. An absolute value of the second voltage is smaller than an absolute value of the first voltage.