Magnet-Activated Sensor Interface to Prevent Potential Equalization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensors suffer from longer settling times and potential shifts due to current flows caused by evaluation electronics equalizing potentials at the sensor element and reference electrode when not in operation.
Innovation Solution
A sensor design that separates the evaluation electronics from the sensor element and reference electrode, using a reed switch activated by a magnetic field to prevent potential equalization, with a mechanical and electrical connection via an inductive interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the evaluation electronics are electrically connected to the sensor element and reference electrode, then the sensor can function properly during operation, but potential equalization occurs when the sensor is not in operation, leading to longer settling times and potential shifts
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection between the evaluation electronics and the sensor element/reference electrode is made dynamic through a reed switch that can change its state (open/closed) based on the presence of a magnetic field. During operation, the reed switch closes to enable proper sensor function, while during storage or non-operation, it remains open to prevent potential equalization, thus resolving the contradiction between maintaining functionality and avoiding settling time delays.
2Loss of information
If the evaluation electronics are electrically connected to the sensor element, then data can be processed, but current flows are caused that shift the measuring potential
Solution Approach 1:
The reed switch enables dynamic control of the electrical connection, allowing current flow only when needed for data processing during operation. When the magnetic field is absent (sensor not in use), the reed switch opens the circuit, preventing current flow and potential shifts, thus maintaining measurement precision while preserving data processing capability.
3Loss of time
If a reed switch is introduced to prevent potential equalization, then settling time is reduced and measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reed switch acts as an intermediary component that automatically controls the electrical connection based on magnetic field presence. This mediator simplifies the overall control structure by using a passive magnetic field-triggered mechanism rather than requiring active electronic control circuits, thus reducing the complexity increase while achieving the desired settling time reduction and measurement precision improvement.
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
Reduces settling time and prevents potential shifts, while providing protection against piracy and enabling improved measurement performance.
Implementation Method 1
the cable unit further comprises a permanent magnet on the side, facing the medium during operation, on the outside of the housing of the cable unit or on the inside of the housing of the cable unit, which permanent magnet is designed to generate a magnetic field
Implementation Method 2
the reed switch is designed to assume the electrically conductive state in the presence of the magnetic field of the permanent magnet and to assume the electrically non-conductive state as soon as the magnetic field strength at the reed switch falls below a threshold value
Implementation Method 3
the electrical connection is an inductive connection mediated by a changing magnetic field between the first inductance and the second inductance when the first and second connection units are mechanically connected to each other
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor includes a sensor unit including a sensor element, a reference electrode, evaluation electronics, an electrical connection to connect the evaluation electronics to the sensor element and to the reference electrode, and a first connection unit. The sensor unit is configured to detect a potential difference between the sensor element and the reference electrode. The sensor further includes a cable unit having a second connection unit and further having a permanent magnet on the medium-facing side of the cable unit. The sensor unit and the cable unit are designed to be electrically and mechanically connected to one another via an interface. The electrical connection comprises a reed switch that is designed to assume an electrically conductive state in the presence of the permanent magnet and an electrically non-conductive state when the magnetic field strength at the reed switch falls below a threshold value.