Flow-Channel Sensor Capsule With Shape-Memory Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluidic systems face challenges in achieving flexible and multifunctional monitoring and control due to bulky inspection devices adapted for specific pipeline cross-sections, which limit their adaptability and increase maintenance efforts, while demanding high accuracy and reliability with conflicting requirements of measuring multiple variables efficiently.
Innovation Solution
An encapsulated sensor device with a deformable holding unit made of shape memory alloy, designed for aerodynamic efficiency and wireless communication, allowing distributed placement in fluid paths to monitor various physical quantities without significantly affecting fluid flow, featuring a compact design and self-sufficient energy supply for reduced system design and maintenance efforts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If bulky inspection devices adapted for specific pipeline cross-sections are used, then pipeline monitoring and repair functions are achieved, but adaptability to different fluidic systems is reduced and maintenance efforts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor device is designed with a universal sensor body and deformable holding unit that can adapt to different flow channel cross-sections and geometries. The holding unit can be configured in various states (expanded, contracted, partially expanded) to suit different application requirements, making the device versatile for both pipeline inspection and general fluidic system monitoring without requiring application-specific customization.
2Measurement precision
If a large number of sensors are used to measure multiple physical variables, then measurement accuracy and system control quality are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sensors for detecting different physical variables (temperature, pressure, flow rate, etc.) are integrated into a single encapsulated sensor body. The sensors are arranged on a common support structure within the flow channel, allowing simultaneous measurement of multiple parameters without requiring separate devices or complex mounting arrangements, thus maintaining measurement accuracy while reducing overall system complexity.
3Reliability
If inspection devices are designed for specific pipeline cross-sections, then reliable fixation and monitoring are achieved, but ease of installation and adaptability to different systems are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The holding unit is designed to be deformable and adaptable rather than rigid and fixed. It can transition between different states (expanded, contracted, partially expanded) to accommodate various flow channel geometries and cross-sections. This dynamic capability allows the device to be easily installed in different systems while maintaining reliable fixation through passive holding forces generated by the deformable structure.
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 flexible and multifunctional monitoring and control of fluidic systems with reduced effort, enhancing system performance through detailed diagnostics and predictive maintenance, while maintaining system accuracy and adaptability across various fluidic applications.
Implementation Method 1
the holding unit has at least one holding element made of a shape memory alloy
Data Source
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AI summary
The disclosure relates to an encapsulated sensor device (10) for monitoring a fluid flow in a fluid path (122, 128, 130, 136), comprising a sensor body (12) that can be placed within a flow channel (52) and has a longitudinal extension, an energy storage unit (42), a sensor unit (22) with at least one sensor (30, 32, 34) for detecting a physical quantity, and at least one communication module (40) for wireless communication, wherein the sensor body (12) is designed to be aerodynamically efficient, and wherein the sensor body (12) carries a deformable holding unit (56, 156, 256) that can be operated in an expanded state and a contracted state to fix the sensor device (10) in the flow channel (52). The disclosure further relates to a use of such sensor devices (10) and to a fluidic system (100) with at least one such sensor device (10).