Measuring Unit Segmentation for Ion Sensor Protection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing measuring devices for solution states, such as ion sensors, face issues with deterioration due to foreign matter adhesion, alteration, or scraping, leading to inaccurate measurements and the need for frequent replacements.

Innovation Solution

A measuring device with a dual-part measuring unit, where one part is in contact with the solution for measurement and the other part is isolated by a protection unit, composed of biodegradable or acid-soluble resin, allowing for extended measurement periods and reduced maintenance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Duration of action of moving object

If the measuring unit is continuously used to measure solution state, then measurement function is maintained, but the measuring unit deteriorates due to foreign matter adhesion, alteration, or scraping

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement durationVSAvoidmeasurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The measuring unit is divided into a first part (glass electrode unit and first reference electrode unit) that contacts the solution and a second part (second reference electrode unit) that is protected by the protection unit. This segmentation allows the first part to perform measurements while the second part remains isolated and maintains high reliability for extended periods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The protection unit acts as an intermediary between the second reference electrode unit and the solution. It isolates the second part from direct contact with the solution, preventing deterioration while still allowing the measurement function to be performed by the first part that is in contact with the solution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If the measuring unit is replaced frequently to maintain measurement accuracy, then measurement precision is maintained, but user convenience deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoiduser convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

By dividing the measuring unit into first and second parts with different protection levels, the system allows one part to be used while the other remains preserved. This extends the overall operational life of the measuring unit, reducing the frequency of replacements and improving user convenience while maintaining measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The protection unit is designed to be biodegradable or acid-soluble, meaning it can be discarded after use while the second reference electrode unit is recovered and can be reused for future measurements, reducing waste and improving convenience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #34Discarding and recovering

3Reliability

If the protection unit is made from durable material to prevent deterioration, then protection effectiveness is improved, but environmental compatibility deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection effectivenessVSAvoidenvironmental impact
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The protection unit is made from materials with specific properties (biodegradable or acid-soluble) that change their state over time or under specific conditions. These parameter changes allow the protection unit to provide effective protection during use while subsequently degrading in an environmentally friendly manner, eliminating the need for durable but harmful materials.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 device enables long-term measurement of solution states, such as pH concentration, with improved user convenience by extending the maintenance cycle and preventing foreign matter contamination.

Implementation Method 1

The protection plate is composed of at least one of biodegradable resin and acid-soluble resin

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBiodegradation: Decomposition (biological)

Implementation Method 2

The protection plate is composed of at least one of biodegradable resin and acid-soluble resin

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAcid dissolution: Hydrolysis

Data Source

PatentEP3859322B1Measurement device
Publication Date: 2025.04.02 YOKOGAWA ELECTRIC CORP
  • EP3859322B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3859322B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3859322B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A measuring device 1 according to the present disclosure measures a state of a solution L. The measuring device 1 includes a measuring unit 10 that outputs a measurement signal associated with the state of the solution L, a protection unit 20 attached to the measuring unit 10, and a controller 40 that obtains the information on the state of the solution L on the basis of a measurement signal output from the measuring unit 10. The measuring unit 10 has a first part P1 in a usable state that contributes to output of the measurement signal by coming into contact with the solution L, and a second part that is isolated from the solution L by the protection unit 20 and is in a standby state for measurement.