Magnetic Sensor Arrangement for Mechanical Loading Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional strain gauges require a long time for installation, which is costly and not suitable for applications that do not need high precision, and there is a need for a more cost-effective solution for measuring mechanical loading.
Innovation Solution
A sensor arrangement comprising a first member, a first sensor component, a printed circuit board (PCB), and a second sensor component, where the distance between the components changes with mechanical loading, allowing for simplified installation and lower-cost measurement using magnetic or inductive sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional strain gauges are used to measure mechanical loading, then measurement precision is improved, but installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical adhesive bonding system with a magnetic field-based sensing system. Instead of using adhesive to attach strain gauges mechanically, the invention uses magnetic fields to detect displacement, eliminating the need for manual adhesive application and curing time. The magnetic sensor detects changes in magnetic flux caused by mechanical displacement, providing both speed and measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the mechanical structure and the sensing system. A magnetic element is attached to the structure, and a magnetic sensor detects its position changes. This magnetic intermediary allows for rapid attachment without adhesive while maintaining measurement precision through field-based detection rather than direct mechanical contact.
2Measurement precision
If conventional strain gauges are used to measure mechanical loading, then measurement precision is improved, but installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the costly mechanical adhesive bonding process with a magnetic field-based system. The magnetic element can be attached using simple mechanical fasteners or even adhesiveless mounting methods, while the magnetic sensor provides precise measurement. This substitution eliminates expensive adhesive materials and the labor-intensive application process, reducing overall installation cost while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
By introducing the magnetic field as an intermediary, the patent creates a measurement system that separates the sensing function from the attachment method. The magnetic element serves as a simple, inexpensive intermediary that can be attached cheaply while the magnetic sensor provides precise measurement, thereby reducing total installation cost without sacrificing measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If high precision measurement is implemented, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical strain gauge systems with a simpler magnetic field-based system. Instead of using intricate foil patterns, adhesive layers, and protective coatings, the invention uses a magnetic element and magnetic sensor that can be attached and configured more simply. The magnetic field detection provides high precision measurement with fewer mechanical components, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining or improving measurement accuracy.
4Loss of time
If magnetic sensors are used instead of strain gauges, then installation time is reduced, but measurement precision may decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a magnetic field as an intermediary to bridge the gap between rapid installation and precise measurement. The magnetic element attached to the structure and the magnetic sensor create a field-based measurement system that requires no adhesive curing time for installation, yet provides accurate displacement measurement through magnetic flux detection, simultaneously achieving both rapid installation and measurement precision.
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
The sensor arrangement significantly reduces installation time and costs while providing accurate measurement of mechanical loading, suitable for applications with lower precision requirements, and can be integrated into devices to enhance load management and stability.
Implementation Method 1
the first sensor component (3) includes a magnetic material. For instance, a portion of the first member (2) may comprise a magnetized area. Further, the first sensor component (3) may be a magnet that is fixed to the first member (2). The second sensor component (5) can be configured to sense a magnetic field strength of the first sensor component (3)
Implementation Method 2
The second sensor component (5) may comprise an inductive sensor, a hall sensor or a magnetoresistive sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor arrangement for measuring a mechanical loading, comprising a first member to be mechanically loaded; a first sensor component arranged on the first member; a printed circuit board (PCB); a second sensor component arranged on the PCB and spaced from the first sensor component, wherein an output signal of the second sensor component is indicative of the distance between the first and second sensor components; and an electronic component arranged on the PCB and configured to receive the output signal of the second sensor component, wherein the sensor arrangement is configured such that the distance between the first and second sensor components depends on the mechanical loading applied to the first member.