Inline Sensor Assembly for Fluid Parameter Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing chemical sensing systems for fluid systems, such as pool and spa systems, are complex, require significant space, expertise, and time for installation and maintenance, making them unsuitable for non-commercial settings due to high costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A sensor assembly with a chassis and control system that allows for inline installation, using a diverter to direct fluid through a self-contained sensing chamber with sensors for pH, ORP, and other parameters, eliminating the need for separate conduits and reducing turbulence, thereby simplifying installation and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional chemical sensing systems are implemented, then chemical concentration measurement capability is achieved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensing functions (pH, ORP, and other chemical parameter sensing) into a single integrated sensor assembly that can be installed inline with the fluid system. This merging of multiple sensing capabilities into one device reduces overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive chemical monitoring capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor assembly is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously - measuring various chemical parameters (pH, ORP, and other concentrations) while also serving as part of the fluid flow path. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate sensing devices and complex plumbing arrangements.
2Measurement precision
If traditional chemical sensing systems are implemented, then chemical concentration measurement capability is achieved, but installation space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor assembly is designed with a compact structure where the sensing chamber is nested within the fluid flow path. The inline installation allows the sensor to be positioned within existing pipeline space rather than requiring separate mounting locations and additional equipment space.
3Measurement precision
If traditional chemical sensing systems are implemented, then chemical concentration measurement capability is achieved, but installation time and expertise requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor assembly is pre-configured with all necessary sensing components and fluid path integrations during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation allows for simple plug-and-play installation where the device is ready to be installed inline without requiring complex assembly or calibration procedures on-site.
4Measurement precision
If diverter is used to direct fluid through sensing chamber, then sensor accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The diverter structure is merged with the sensor housing itself, creating an integrated design where the fluid diversion function and sensor containment function are combined in a single component. This eliminates the need for separate diverter devices and reduces overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor assembly may include a chassis, cover, first sensor, second sensor, and a control system. The chassis may include a first housing that defines a chamber with the cover and includes a partition within the chamber. A second housing of the chassis may define first and second ports in fluid communication with the chamber. A central wall may extend from an inner surface of the second housing and a protruding wall may extend over the central wall. Both the partition and the central wall may extend from locations along a longitudinal axis of the sensor assembly that are between the first port and the second port. In some examples the protruding wall and the partition direct a portion of fluid flowing within the second housing into and out of the chamber, and the first and second sensors detect values for respective fluid parameters for the portion of fluid.