Distributed Fiber Sensor for High-Temperature Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current noncontact temperature sensing techniques, such as infrared imaging and numerical modeling, are inadequate for providing accurate two-dimensional or three-dimensional temperature distribution in high-temperature environments, necessitating an improved method for remote temperature measurement.
Innovation Solution
A sensor system comprising a waveguide with a photoacoustic generation element made of photoabsorptive material and an optical acoustic wave detector, which uses a laser to generate and detect acoustic signals, determining temperature based on the time of flight of these signals, allowing for noncontact, two-dimensional or three-dimensional temperature mapping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If indirect approaches like infrared imaging and numerical modeling are used to estimate temperature distribution, then temperature information can be obtained without direct contact, but measurement precision and accuracy are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary medium (gas or fluid) that carries acoustic waves between the measurement point and the detector. This intermediary enables direct temperature measurement through acoustic wave velocity, which has a well-defined relationship with temperature, thereby improving measurement precision and reliability compared to indirect infrared methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the optical detection system (infrared imaging) with an acoustic detection system. By using acoustic wave velocity measurement instead of infrared radiation detection, the system achieves higher temperature measurement accuracy through the direct physical relationship between acoustic velocity and temperature
2Measurement precision
If a sensing element is placed directly in high-temperature environments for measurement, then direct temperature measurement is possible, but the sensing element cannot sustain the high temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sensing element from the high-temperature environment and places it in a protected location. The acoustic wave acts as a messenger, carrying temperature information from the high-temperature zone to the protected sensing element, enabling direct temperature measurement without exposing the sensor to damaging conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The acoustic wave serves as an intermediary that transfers temperature information from the high-temperature measurement point to the protected sensing element. This intermediary enables the sensing element to measure high temperatures remotely without being physically exposed to the harsh environment
3Loss of information
If an array of sensors is used to provide two-dimensional or three-dimensional temperature information, then spatial temperature distribution can be mapped, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes a single sensing element universal by enabling it to measure temperature at multiple spatial locations through acoustic wave propagation. By adjusting the acoustic wave generation position and measuring wave velocity, one sensor can perform the function of multiple sensors, reducing system complexity while maintaining complete temperature distribution mapping capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds the dimension of acoustic wave propagation time to the measurement process. By measuring the time it takes for acoustic waves to travel between known points, the system can determine temperature at multiple locations using a single sensor, effectively using time as an additional measurement dimension to reduce spatial sensor requirements
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 real-time, continuous temperature distribution monitoring in high-temperature environments, enhancing monitoring methodologies and applicable to various applications including corrosion and material fracture detection.
Implementation Method 1
a photoabsorptive material; heating the photoabsorptive material with a laser to generate an acoustic signal
Implementation Method 2
sensing an intensity of laser light reflected by the optical acoustic wave detector to detect the acoustic signal
Implementation Method 3
determining a time of flight of the acoustic signal between the generation and the detection to determine a change in a parameter change in a medium
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, a sensor comprises a waveguide comprising a photoacoustic generation element disposed on the waveguide, the photoacoustic generation element comprising a photoabsorptive material; and a sensing element comprising an optical acoustic wave detector. In another embodiment, a sensing system comprises the sensor and a laser. In yet another embodiment, a method of sensing comprises providing the sensing system; heating the photoabsorptive material with a laser to generate an acoustic signal; sensing an intensity of laser light reflected by the optical acoustic wave detector to detect the acoustic signal; and determining a time of flight of the acoustic signal between the generation and the detection to determine a change in a parameter change in a medium between the photoabsorptive material and the optical acoustic wave detector.