Flexible sensor device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless sensor systems for refrigerated containers are prone to damage and difficult to repair or replace, lacking flexibility and modularity for effective monitoring of temperature-sensitive goods during transport.
Innovation Solution
A wireless sensor system featuring a flexible sensor body with sensing elements, a battery housing, and parallel mounting rails with a keyed profile on the ceiling of the container, allowing easy installation, replacement, and comprehensive monitoring of environmental parameters like temperature, humidity, and gas levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sensors are mounted in refrigerated containers using existing methods, then monitoring of environmental parameters is achieved, but sensors are prone to damage and difficult to repair or replace
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is divided into separate modular components: a sensor module with sensing elements and a battery module with power supply. These modules can be independently replaced, allowing damaged sensors to be swapped without replacing the entire system, thereby improving repair ease while maintaining reliability through modular protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system transitions from fixed rigid attachment to a dynamic removable interface using conductive adhesive pads and electrical contacts. This allows the sensor modules to be easily detached and reattached, facilitating quick replacement and repair while maintaining reliable electrical connections during operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional sensor systems are used in refrigerated containers, then environmental monitoring is provided, but the systems lack flexibility and modularity
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is segmented into independent functional modules (sensing elements, battery, housing) that can be separately configured and replaced. This modular architecture provides flexibility for different monitoring requirements while simplifying the overall system through standardized interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery housing serves multiple functions: it contains the power supply, provides structural support, and includes mounting features for attachment to container surfaces. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, achieving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A wireless sensor device for use in a refrigerated container includes a flexible sensor body including at least one sensing element to sense at least one parameter of the refrigerated container, a battery to provide power to the at least one of sensing elements, and a battery housing coupled to an end of the flexible sensor body.