Ion Concentration Probe Shielding Against Interference

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional ion measurement systems face challenges in achieving accurate measurements due to weak voltage signals from glass-based pH electrodes, which are compounded by high impedance and susceptibility to electromagnetic interference, particularly in combined sensing-reference electrodes with conductive reference solutions.

Innovation Solution

The design incorporates an electro-magnetic shield positioned between the outer and inner bodies of the probe, extending above the reference solution's top surface, electrically coupled to the ground conductor, and in contact with the reference solution, enhancing shielding effectiveness and manufacturability by reducing the need for internal wires.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If conventional shielding with conductive material wrapped around the electrode body is used, then electromagnetic interference is reduced, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectromagnetic interferenceVSAvoidelectrode design complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The reference solution itself serves as the shielding medium. The conductive reference solution naturally provides electromagnetic shielding without requiring additional conductive materials or complex wiring structures. The system uses its own operational fluid (reference solution) to perform the shielding function, eliminating the need for separate shielding components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The shielding function is extracted from the traditional conductive material wrapping and reassign it to the reference solution. By removing the need for external conductive shielding layers and their associated wiring, the design simplifies the overall structure while maintaining electromagnetic interference protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If conventional shielding with conductive material is used, then electromagnetic interference is reduced, but manufacturing difficulty increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectromagnetic interferenceVSAvoidprobe manufacturing
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The reference solution automatically provides shielding functionality as part of its normal operation. No separate manufacturing steps for applying conductive materials, assembling shielding structures, or connecting shielding wires are required. The shielding effect is inherent to the reference solution's properties and its positioning within the probe.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The reference solution performs multiple functions: it maintains the reference electrode potential, provides ionic conductivity, and simultaneously serves as the electromagnetic shielding medium. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate shielding components and simplifies the manufacturing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If the shield extends above the reference solution top surface, then shielding effectiveness is improved, but the shield must remain electrically isolated from the reference electrode

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectromagnetic interference shielding effectivenessVSAvoidshield positioning and isolation
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The space within the outer body is segmented into functional zones: the reference solution occupies the lower portion for electrochemical function, while the shield extends into the upper portion above the reference solution level. This spatial segmentation allows the shield to provide enhanced electromagnetic protection without interfering with the reference electrode's operation in the reference solution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The shield is maintained at ground potential while the reference electrode maintains its reference potential. By establishing these different equipotential regions in space, the shield can extend above the reference solution without creating electrical interference, as long as proper electrical isolation is maintained between the shield and reference electrode structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #12Equipotentiality

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 configuration improves the accuracy of ion concentration measurements by effectively shielding against electromagnetic interference while maintaining the existing shielding provided by the reference solution, enhancing the overall performance and manufacturability of the probe.

Implementation Method 1

the shield is positioned between the outer surface of the inner body and the inner surface of the outer body, and is configured to be in contact with the second solution... effectively shielding against electromagnetic interference

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic shielding: Faraday Cage

Data Source

PatentUS20220404306A1Ion concentration probe with enhanced shielding
Publication Date: 2022.12.22 THERMO ORION INC
  • US20220404306A1 patent drawing
  • US20220404306A1 patent drawing
  • US20220404306A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A probe for measuring a sample solution includes an outer body configured to receive an operational amount of a reference solution, and a sensor assembly including an inner body at least a portion of which is located inside the outer body. A shield is positioned between the outer surface of the inner body and the inner surface of the outer body. The shield is configured to be in contact with the reference solution and extends above the top surface of the reference solution when the probe is filled with an operational amount of the reference solution.