Internal Clip Membrane Protector for Sensor Diameter Constraint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing membrane protectors for sensors either increase the outer diameter of the sensor tip, making them difficult to install or remove, or are permanently attached and cannot be replaced if damaged, and often require laborious removal processes.
Innovation Solution
A membrane protection system that uses a clip system for internal fastening to the sensor, allowing for easy installation and removal without increasing the sensor's outer diameter, and is designed with a central opening or multiple openings for improved protection and reduced friction, featuring a heat-resistant material and surface coating for enhanced performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a metallic grid membrane protector is screwed onto an external thread of a sensor tip, then the membrane is protected from damage, but the outer diameter of the sensor tip increases
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane protector is nested inside the sensor tip's front area, utilizing the internal groove structure. The protector fits within the sensor's outer diameter by engaging with the groove 6 formed in the front area 8, eliminating the need to increase the external diameter while still providing protective coverage for the membrane 2.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of attaching the membrane protector to the external thread as in conventional designs, the invention inverts the attachment approach by using an internal thread 20 and internal groove 6 structure. The protector is fastened from the inside of the sensor tip, reversing the traditional external attachment method and enabling compact integration without diameter increase.
2Reliability
If a membrane protector is permanently attached to the sensor, then it provides continuous protection, but it cannot be replaced if damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane protection system is segmented into separable components: the sensor tip 100, the membrane protector 103, and the clip system 105. This segmentation allows the protector to be independently removed and replaced by manipulating the clip system, while maintaining continuous protection during normal operation. The separable design enables repair without replacing the entire sensor assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system transitions from a static permanent bond to a dynamic reversible connection. The clip system 105 with elastic teeth 107 provides a flexible attachment that can be engaged for protection and disengaged for replacement. This dynamic system adapts between the protected state during operation and the replaceable state for maintenance.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a membrane protector is designed to fit tightly in a bore, then it provides stable installation, but it requires laborious removal processes
Solution Approach 1:
The removal process is simplified through segmentation of the attachment mechanism. The clip system 105 with its modular elastic teeth 107 allows incremental disengagement. Instead of requiring forceful removal of a monolithic attachment, the segmented clip system can be released step-by-step by applying minimal force to individual clips, making the removal process straightforward while maintaining tight installation during operation.
4Ease of operation
If a clip system is used for internal fastening of the membrane protector, then easy installation and removal are enabled, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The clip system 105 serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical fastening of the membrane protector 103 to the sensor tip 100, enables easy installation through snap-fit engagement, allows tool-free removal through elastic deformation, and maintains secure positioning during operation. This multi-functionality consolidates several requirements into a single integrated structure, reducing overall system complexity despite the added fastening capability.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention describes membrane protection for a sensor having a membrane, which membrane protection does not increase the external diameter of a sensor and can be easily removed from a hole in which the sensor is installed. The idea on which the invention is based is that the membrane protection can be fastened to an inner surface of a front part of a sensor using a clip system and thus forms a unit with the sensor. The invention describes membrane protection (3) for a sensor (1) which can be screwed into a hole (9) of an installation part (10) and is provided with a membrane (2) in the front region (8), said membrane protection having a clip system (7) in order to be internally fastened in the front region (8) of such a sensor (1). The invention also describes such a sensor (1) having membrane protection (3) which is internally fitted to the front region (8) of the sensor (1) using a clip system (7).