Fluidic Casing Cover for Clean Sensor Detection Surfaces

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Solution Overview

Problem

The detection accuracy of sensors attached to fluidic devices is impaired due to the accumulation of dirt and dust on the detection target surfaces, which are exposed for long periods before sensor attachment.

Innovation Solution

A detachable cover member is provided on the casing to protect the detection target surface, preventing dirt and dust accumulation by covering it except during sensor contact.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the detection target surface is exposed to the environment for a long period before sensor attachment, then the device structure remains simple and easy to manufacture, but dirt and dust accumulate on the detection target surface, impairing sensor detection accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor detection accuracyVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device is segmented into functional components: the casing with detection target surface, the sensor, and the protective cover. The cover can be detached to allow sensor attachment and reattached to protect the surface. This segmentation allows the detection surface to be protected when not in use while maintaining simple manufacturing of individual components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A protective cover member is introduced as an intermediary element between the detection target surface and the environment. This cover prevents direct contact between dirt/dust and the detection surface while allowing easy access when sensor attachment is needed. The cover acts as a mediator that preserves detection accuracy without requiring complex integrated protection mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If the detection target surface is covered to prevent dirt and dust accumulation, then sensor detection accuracy is maintained, but the device structure becomes more complex and manufacturing becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor detection accuracyVSAvoidmanufacturing ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The protective cover is designed as a separate, detachable component rather than an integrated part of the casing. This allows the cover to be manufactured independently using standard manufacturing processes, and then assembled to the casing. The segmentation simplifies the manufacturing of each individual part while providing the necessary protection function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The protective cover is designed as a simple, easily replaceable component that can be manufactured at low cost. Rather than designing a complex permanent protection mechanism, a simple cover that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed is used, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Measurement precision

If the cover member is permanently attached to protect the detection target surface, then dirt and dust accumulation is prevented, but the sensor cannot be attached or removed for maintenance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor detection accuracyVSAvoidsensor attachment/removal capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The protective cover is designed with dynamic attachment and detachment capabilities rather than being permanently fixed. It can be attached to protect the detection surface during normal operation and easily detached when sensor attachment, replacement, or maintenance is required. This dynamic design maintains both protection and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The device is segmented into the casing, the protective cover, and the sensor as separate components. The cover can be detached from the casing to allow sensor attachment, and the sensor can be attached to the casing. This segmentation provides the versatility needed for different operational states while maintaining protection when the cover is attached.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Ease of operation

If no protective cover is provided and the detection target surface is left exposed, then the device structure remains simple and operation is easy, but dirt and dust accumulate on the surface, degrading sensor detection accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation easeVSAvoidsensor detection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

A protective cover member is introduced as an intermediary element that can be easily attached and detached. This cover prevents direct contact between environmental contaminants and the detection surface. The cover design maintains ease of operation by allowing simple attachment/detachment actions without complex mechanisms, while effectively preventing dirt and dust accumulation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The protective cover is provided in advance as part of the device structure, ready to protect the detection target surface before any contamination can occur. This preliminary protection measure is always in place except during sensor attachment operations, preventing dirt and dust accumulation without requiring complex operational procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11644120B2Fluidic device with cover for detection target surface
Publication Date: 2023.05.09 TLV CO LTD
  • US11644120B2 patent drawing
  • US11644120B2 patent drawing
  • US11644120B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A fluidic device includes a casing in which a fluid passage is disposed and which has an outer surface including a detection target surface (bottom surface) that is to contact a detection part of a sensor so that at least one of a temperature and a vibration of the fluidic device is detected; and a plug detachably disposed on the casing and configured to cover the detection target surface (bottom surface).