Gas Sensor Element Introduction Flow Path Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Gas sensor elements face challenges in ensuring a stable and efficient flow of reference gas to the reference electrode due to structural restrictions and applied pressing forces, which can deform the communication path and hinder gas detection accuracy.
Innovation Solution
The gas sensor element design includes a solid electrolyte layer with a detection electrode and a reference electrode, a first layer for introducing reference gas, and a heater layer, where the introduction flow path is formed to extend from multiple outer surfaces perpendicular to the stacking direction, reducing bending and deformation, and allowing for a larger sectional area and shorter length, thus ensuring reliable gas supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the communication path is shortened and the flow path sectional area is enlarged to improve reference gas flow efficiency, then the reference gas supply speed is improved, but the communication path becomes easily deformed under pressing forces
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the orientation of the introduction flow path from a planar configuration to a three-dimensional configuration by extending it in the stacking direction (thickness direction) of the sensor element. This dimensional change allows the flow path to achieve both short length and large sectional area while maintaining stability under pressing forces, as the path utilizes the vertical dimension rather than being constrained to the horizontal plane where deformation occurs.
2Device complexity
If the communication path is bent to navigate around structural restrictions, then the sensor element structure is maintained, but the flow path sectional area cannot be sufficiently enlarged
Solution Approach 1:
The invention resolves the conflict between structural integrity and flow path area by transitioning the flow path design from two-dimensional planar routing to three-dimensional vertical routing. The introduction flow path extends in the stacking direction through the sensor element, allowing it to achieve large sectional area without bending in the horizontal plane, thus maintaining structural simplicity while maximizing flow capacity.
3Ease of operation
If the introduction flow path opening is provided on the heater layer side, then the reference gas can be supplied, but the path length increases and flow efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies asymmetry by strategically positioning the introduction flow path opening on the side opposite to the heater layer (the side where the solid electrolyte layer is provided). This asymmetric placement optimizes the flow path geometry, allowing the opening to be positioned at the outer surface perpendicular to the stacking direction, thereby minimizing path length and maximizing flow efficiency while maintaining ease of gas supply operation.
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
This design enhances the stability and accuracy of gas detection by preventing deformation of the introduction flow path, ensuring a consistent reference gas supply to the reference electrode, even under pressing forces, thereby improving the overall performance of the gas sensor.
Implementation Method 1
a heater layer provided on a side opposite to a side where the solid electrolyte layer is provided with respect to the first layer, the heater layer including a heating portion for heating the solid electrolyte layer
Implementation Method 2
a solid electrolyte layer; a detection electrode provided on one surface of the solid electrolyte layer and exposed to a gas to be measured; a reference electrode provided on another surface of the solid electrolyte layer and exposed to a reference gas
Data Source
AI summary
A gas sensor element comprises a solid electrolyte layer; a detection electrode provided on one surface of the solid electrolyte layer; a reference electrode provided on another surface of the solid electrolyte layer; a first layer provided on a side where the other surface of the solid electrolyte layer is present, and having a reference gas flow path; and a heater layer provided on a side opposite to a side where the solid electrolyte layer is provided. In the gas sensor element, an introduction flow path is formed as a flow path for guiding the reference gas from outer surfaces of the gas sensor element to the reference gas flow path. The introduction flow path has an opening provided at an outer surface that is perpendicular to a stacking direction of the gas sensor element and is provided on a side opposite to the heater layer.