Hybrid Shock Sensor with Active and Passive Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shock sensors for electronic devices either require power to operate, making them inoperable during device failure, or are non-resettable and require disassembly for analysis, lacking both active and passive detection capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A shock sensor system that combines active and passive attributes, using shock detection circuitry with movable components or conductive fluids to provide electrical signals for external analysis without disassembly, and allows for reset functionality to reuse the sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If passive shock sensors are used, then power consumption is eliminated and device failure does not affect operation, but the sensor cannot be reset and requires disassembly for analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines active and passive shock sensor attributes into a single hybrid sensor system. The sensor includes both a passive indicator mechanism (ink capsule or similar visible indicator) and an active electronic detection system with a microcontroller that can be read through the device interface, merging the reliability of passive sensors with the reset capability of active sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid shock sensor serves multiple functions: it provides passive visual indication for technicians, active electronic data retrieval through standard device interfaces, and reset functionality through the same interface. This multi-functionality allows a single sensor to replace both traditional passive and active sensor approaches.
2Ease of operation
If active shock sensors are used, then the sensor can be read without disassembling the device, but the sensor requires power to operate and may be rendered inoperable by severe damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines active and passive shock sensor attributes into a single hybrid sensor system. The sensor includes both a passive indicator mechanism (ink capsule or similar visible indicator) and an active electronic detection system with a microcontroller that can be read through the device interface, merging the reliability of passive sensors with the reset capability of active sensors.
3Reliability
If passive shock sensors are used, then no power is required to operate, but there is no method for observing the shock sensor from the outside of the electronic device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines active and passive shock sensor attributes into a single hybrid sensor system. The sensor includes both a passive indicator mechanism (ink capsule or similar visible indicator) and an active electronic detection system with a microcontroller that can be read through the device interface, merging the reliability of passive sensors with the reset capability of active sensors.
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 analysis of shock events without disassembling the device, even when it has failed, and allows for reset and reuse of the sensor, overcoming the limitations of both active and passive shock sensors.
Implementation Method 1
A reservoir (e.g., similar to an ink capsule) containing a conductive fluid can be enclosed within the chamber. When a shock event exceeds the impact threshold level, the reservoir may rupture and release the conductive fluid in the chamber.
Implementation Method 2
The conductive fluid may then short the shock detection contacts extending into the chamber. Detection circuitry may provide an electrical signal in response to the short circuit.
Data Source
AI summary
This application is directed to a shock sensor mounted in an electronic device. The shock sensor includes both active and passive shock detection methods that allow a technician to determine whether the electronic device was subjected to a shock event that exceeded an impact threshold level. The shock sensor may include shock detection contacts that form an electrical circuit that remains open in the absence of a shock event that exceeds an impact threshold level. In response to a significant shock event, a movable component or substance of the shock sensor may move from a first position to a second position, thereby closing the electrical circuit formed by the shock detection contacts. The change in circuit may be detected and used to provide active indication of whether the electronic device has been subjected to a substantial shock event. In addition, the shock sensor may be observed to passively determine whether the electronic device has been subjected to a substantial shock event.