EMI-Shielding Coupler for NIRS Signal Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) systems face challenges due to electromagnetic interference (EMI) affecting the quality of detection light signals, which is a common issue in signal monitoring systems.
Innovation Solution
A coupler with an EMI shielding material forms a Faraday Cage around the connection portions of the sensor assembly and interface cable, providing electrical and mechanical coupling while securing them relative to the frame, thereby shielding against EMI.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If EMI shielding is added to protect detection light signals, then signal quality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The EMI shielding frame is merged with the connector housing to form a single integrated component. The frame serves dual purposes: providing mechanical support/structural integrity and simultaneously providing EMI shielding through its conductive material construction. This integration eliminates the need for separate shielding components, thus improving signal quality while avoiding additional device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive frame is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: (1) providing mechanical support and structural framework, (2) offering EMI shielding protection, and (3) serving as part of the electrical connection path. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve better signal quality through EMI protection without adding separate components that would increase device complexity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If EMI shielding material is incorporated into the connector, then protection against electromagnetic interference is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The EMI shielding function is merged into the connector housing itself by constructing the frame from conductive material or applying conductive coating to the housing. This integration means the EMI protection is achieved through the existing structural component rather than adding separate shielding materials, thereby improving EMI protection while keeping manufacturing processes relatively simple and avoiding additional manufacturing complexity.
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 effectively reduces EMI interference, enhancing the quality of detection light signals and improving the reliability of NIRS systems and other signal monitoring systems.
Implementation Method 1
The frame is configured to provide a Faraday Cage around substantially all of the connection portion of the sensor assembly and the connection portion of the interface cable when the connection portions are in coupled configuration
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for electrically and mechanically coupling a connection portion of a sensor assembly with a connection portion of an interface cable is provided. The apparatus includes a frame having an EMI shielding material. The frame defines a first port operable to engage the connection portion of the sensor assembly and a second port operable to engage the connection portion of the interface cable. The frame includes attachment features operable to mechanically secure the connection portion of the sensor assembly and the connection portion of the interface cable relative to the frame. The frame is configured to provide a Faraday Cage around substantially all of the connection portion of the sensor assembly and the connection portion of the interface cable when the connection portions are in coupled configuration.