Electrostatic Particle Concentrator for Compact Imaging Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing measuring devices for particles in fluids, such as fine dust in gases, are spatially extensive and inefficient in sensing particles effectively.

Innovation Solution

A miniaturized measuring arrangement using an electrostatic concentrator with a field electrode to direct particles toward a surface, combined with an imaging sensor for detection, optimizing space utilization and enabling high-resolution particle sensing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional measuring devices are used to detect particles in fluids, then particle detection is achieved, but the device occupies large spatial area and is complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveparticle detection capabilityVSAvoidspatial extent of measuring arrangement

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the electrostatic concentrator and imaging sensor into an integrated measuring arrangement where the concentrator directs particles onto the sensor surface. This merging of particle concentration function and detection function into a single compact unit reduces the overall spatial extent while maintaining effective particle detection capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The imaging sensor is positioned within or adjacent to the electrostatic concentrator structure, with the concentrator's electric field region containing the detection zone. This nested arrangement allows the detection component to be housed within the spatial envelope of the concentration mechanism, minimizing the total device footprint.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Measurement precision

If conventional measuring devices are used to detect particles in fluids, then particle detection is achieved, but the device structure is complex and costly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveparticle detection capabilityVSAvoidstructural complexity of measuring arrangement

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple functions (particle concentration, particle detection, and signal processing) into a single integrated system. The electrostatic concentrator and imaging sensor form a unified measuring arrangement that eliminates the need for separate complex subsystems, thereby reducing overall device complexity and manufacturing cost.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The imaging sensor serves multiple functions: detecting particles directed by the electrostatic concentrator, providing spatial information about particle positions, and enabling particle characterization. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, simplifying the overall device structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If particles are directed toward a surface using electrostatic field, then particle concentration and detection efficiency are improved, but space utilization must be optimized

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveparticle detection efficiencyVSAvoidspace occupation of measuring arrangement

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The electrostatic concentrator generates a localized inhomogeneous electric field in the region adjacent to the imaging sensor surface. This localized field concentration directs particles efficiently onto the detection area without requiring a large-volume electrostatic system, optimizing the balance between detection efficiency and space utilization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from volumetric particle analysis to surface-based detection by directing particles onto the two-dimensional imaging sensor surface. This dimensional change allows efficient particle concentration and detection in a compact footprint, as the detection occurs on the surface plane rather than requiring a large three-dimensional measurement volume.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 solution allows for low-cost, space-saving, and efficient detection of particles, including differentiation by size, using an integrated electrostatic concentrator and imaging sensor setup, enhancing particle detection and classification capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

a field electrode which is arranged in the surface or on the surface or adjacently to the surface and is configured to generate an inhomogeneous electrostatic field so as to direct the particles to be verified toward the surface

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrostatic field: Electric Field

Implementation Method 2

particles within an electric field undergo charge separation, which leads to a polarization of the particles

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrostatic induction: Electrostatic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10656067B2Measuring arrangement and method of directing and detecting particles

Publication Date: 2020.05.19 FRAUNHOFER GESELLSCHAFT ZUR FORDERUNG DER ANGEWANDTEN FORSCHUNG EV

AI summary

A measuring arrangement includes an electrostatic concentrator, a surface and an imaging sensor which are configured to detect particles.