Magnetostrictive Wire Matrix for Micrometric Stress Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mechanical stress detection technologies face challenges in accurately measuring pressure variations at the micrometric or submicrometric scale, particularly when a fluid is in contact with a surface, which hinders the optimization of solid surface geometry.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical stress detection device comprising a matrix with magnetostrictive wires and a measurement assembly that detects the magnetic state of each wire, using a computer processing unit to calculate mechanical stress based on a pre-calibrated relationship between magnetic states and mechanical stresses, allowing for precise mapping of stress fields.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional mechanical stress detection methods are used, then measurement capability is provided, but measurement precision at micrometric or submicrometric scale is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor divides the measurement area into multiple discrete measurement points using an array of magnetostrictive wires embedded in the matrix. Each wire acts as an independent sensing element, allowing localized stress measurement at micrometric scale. This segmentation enables precise mapping of stress fields across the surface being measured.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetostrictive wires as an intermediary medium between the mechanical stress field and the measurement system. These wires convert mechanical stress into magnetic state changes, which can then be detected by the measurement assembly. This intermediary conversion enables precise indirect measurement of mechanical stress at the micrometric scale.
2Measurement precision
If magnetostrictive wires are used for detection, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetostrictive wires serve multiple functions: they act as both the sensing element that detects stress and the transducer that converts mechanical stress to magnetic signals. The matrix structure provides both mechanical support and a framework for organizing the wire array. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing device complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct mechanical measurement mechanisms with a magnetic field-based detection system. Instead of using mechanical gauges or contact-based sensors, the system uses magnetostrictive wires whose magnetic states are read by a non-contact measurement assembly. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical linkages and reduces overall device complexity while enhancing measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If calibration is performed to establish relationship between magnetic state and mechanical stress, then measurement accuracy is improved, but calibration time and process complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs calibration in advance to establish the relationship between magnetic states and mechanical stresses for each wire in the array. This preliminary calibration data is stored and reused during subsequent measurements, eliminating the need for repeated calibration procedures. The pre-established lookup tables or calibration curves enable rapid, accurate stress measurements without time-consuming real-time calibration.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration process uses the sensor itself as the calibration object, applying known mechanical stresses directly to the sensor array and recording the corresponding magnetic states. This self-calibration approach eliminates the need for separate calibration equipment or external reference standards, reducing calibration time and complexity while maintaining measurement accuracy.
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
Enables precise measurement and mapping of mechanical stress fields applied to objects, improving the understanding and optimization of surface geometry in contact with fluids like air, water, or gases.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of bundles of magnetostrictive wires, each wire being of transverse dimension less than 1 micrometer, and each extending through the matrix
Implementation Method 2
the wires are magnetoresistive, and the measurement assembly is suitable for detecting a magnetic state of each bundle by measuring an electrical resistivity of the bundle
Implementation Method 3
the matrix is piezoelectric, and the calibration assembly is suitable for applying a determined variable electric field to the matrix
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for detecting mechanical stresses, that includes: a matrix (11); bundles (20) of magneto-resistive wires with a size less than 1 micrometer; a measuring assembly (13) for detecting a magnetic state of each bundle; a calculator for calculating a mechanical stress applied to each bundle from the magnetic state detected for said bundle and from a predetermined relation.