Embeddable Passive Sensor Modules for Low-Interference Multi-Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensing solutions are bulky, expensive, and difficult to integrate into edge/intermediate points of systems for concurrent measurement of multiple parameters, leading to cross-sensor interference and complex data acquisition.
Innovation Solution
Modular sensor designs with embeddable passive sensor modules integrated into products using polymeric materials and externally powered detachable reading modules for wireless data transmission, allowing easy integration and concurrent sensing of multiple parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional sensing solutions are integrated into plastic parts, then sensing capability is provided, but the device becomes bulky and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is divided into two separate modules: a passive sensor module that can be embedded in plastic parts and an external reader module. This segmentation allows the sensing function to be integrated without adding bulk to the final device, as the active electronics are separated into a dedicated external unit.
Solution Approach 2:
A passive sensor module acts as an intermediary between the plastic part and the external reader. This intermediate element enables sensing capability to be provided while keeping the embedded component minimal and the bulkiness in a separate, manageable external module.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sensing devices are installed at edge points, then concurrent measurement of multiple parameters is achieved, but cross-sensor interference and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The external reader module is designed as a universal device that can read multiple different passive sensor modules. This multi-functionality allows concurrent measurement of multiple parameters using a single reader, eliminating the need for multiple active sensing devices and thereby reducing cross-sensor interference.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having multiple active sensing devices that may interfere with each other, the system uses multiple passive sensor 'copies' that can be read by a single active reader. This approach provides concurrent measurement capability without the harmful effects of multiple active sensors interfering with each other.
3Ease of manufacture
If passive sensor modules are used with external powering, then integration cost is reduced, but wireless power and data transmission capability is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces traditional wired electrical connections with wireless electromagnetic coupling for both power and data transmission. This substitution eliminates the need for physical connectors and wiring, simplifying integration into plastic parts while providing the necessary power and communication capabilities through field-based interaction.
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
Enables low-cost, reliable, and versatile sensing of physical, electrical, and chemical parameters with minimal interference, supporting high-performance data acquisition and processing.
Implementation Method 1
circuitry for generating measurement data/signals indicative of the at least one property or condition and for wirelessly transmitting the generated measurement data/signals to the external device
Data Source
AI summary
Modular sensor configurations are provided utilizing embeddable sensor module configured for integration into a product or device, or a technical element thereof, for in situ sensing therein at least one property or condition associated with the product or device, or its technical element, or with a substance contained, processed or streamed therethrough. The embeddable sensor module comprises one or more sensor elements configured for sensing the at least one property or condition, and circuitry for generating measurement data/signals indicative of the at least one property or condition, and for transmitting the generated measurement data/signals to an external device. The embeddable sensor module can be configured to be powered and activated by signals received from an external device.