Hybrid Connection Device for Simultaneous Liquid and Power Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensors for liquid property measurement face challenges in designing a single device that simultaneously provides liquid contact and electrical power connection without risking short circuits or operator error, which can lead to contamination and equipment damage.
Innovation Solution
A connection device comprising a first and second part that detachably connect via liquid conduits and inductive coils, allowing for simultaneous liquid transport and electrical power transmission without electrical contacts, using inductive coupling to prevent corrosion and short circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electrical contacts are used to supply power to the sensor, then electrical connection is established, but liquid can come into contact with the electrical contacts causing short circuits and corrosion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary coupling mechanism (magnetic coupling or inductive coupling) between the first connection element and the second connection element. This intermediary field allows electrical energy to be transferred without direct physical contact, preventing liquid from bridging the electrical contacts while maintaining power supply functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical electrical contact system with a non-contact electrical connection system based on magnetic coupling or inductive coupling. This substitution eliminates the need for physical electrical contacts that could be exposed to liquid, thereby preventing short circuits and corrosion while maintaining reliable power transmission.
2Productivity
If liquid connection and electrical connection are established simultaneously, then connection efficiency is improved, but the risk of liquid contacting electrical contacts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses magnetic coupling or inductive coupling as an intermediary mechanism that allows both liquid connection and electrical connection to be established simultaneously through the same coupling structure. The intermediary field enables electrical energy transfer without direct contact, so liquid can flow through the connection while electrical power is transmitted safely without short circuit risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical connection for liquid flow, enables magnetic coupling for electrical power transmission, and maintains electrical isolation to prevent short circuits. This multi-functionality allows simultaneous establishment of both liquid and electrical connections with improved efficiency and reduced risk.
3Ease of operation
If operator must remember to connect liquid connection portion, then operational flexibility is maintained, but operator error can lead to contamination and equipment damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the liquid connection function and electrical connection function into a single integrated coupling mechanism. The first connection element and second connection element are designed to couple together in one action, simultaneously establishing both liquid flow path and electrical power transmission through the coupled structure, eliminating the need for separate connection steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling structure is designed as a universal interface that handles both liquid transport and electrical power transmission through a single connection action. This multi-functional design ensures that when the operator connects the two elements, both liquid and electrical connections are established simultaneously, preventing operator errors while maintaining operational flexibility.
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 reliable and safe simultaneous transport of liquids and electrical power, reducing the risk of contamination and equipment damage by eliminating the need for physical electrical contacts, thus enhancing user safety and device reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a primary coil comprised in the first part inductively couples to a secondary coil comprised in the second part
Data Source
AI summary
A connection device for providing both a connection for liquid transport and a connection for the transport of electrical energy is disclosed. The connection device comprises a first part and a second part, which detachably connect to one another such that a first liquid conduit comprised in the first part connects with a second liquid conduit comprised in the second part, and a primary coil comprised in the first part inductively couples to a secondary coil comprised in the second part, wherein the first part further comprises a first electronic circuit electrically connected to the primary coil, and the second part further comprises a second electronic circuit electrically connected to the secondary coil.