Memory Metal Antenna for Building Sensor Wireless Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building environmental control systems lack efficient and integrated solutions for sensing and controlling various environmental conditions within a structure, such as lighting, temperature, and humidity, which can lead to suboptimal energy usage and limited centralized control capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A smart sensor system incorporating a memory metal antenna-based transceiver that extends into the structure, allowing for improved wireless communication and integration with a central controller, enabling comprehensive environmental control through a network of sensors and actuators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional antenna is used in building control sensor units, then the device structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the wireless communication quality is poor due to obstructions from the ceiling structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by using a memory metal antenna that can dynamically change its configuration. The antenna transitions from a compact stored state during installation to an extended deployed state when mounted on the ceiling, allowing it to extend through the ceiling structure and achieve line-of-sight communication without requiring complex rigid mechanical extension mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing the shape memory properties of the memory metal material. The antenna's physical parameters (shape, length, configuration) are changed from a compact form factor suitable for packaging and installation to an extended form factor that protrudes through the ceiling for optimal wireless signal transmission, thereby improving communication reliability without permanent structural complexity.
2Reliability
If the antenna is extended to protrude through the ceiling for better communication, then the line-of-sight communication is achieved, but the antenna occupies more space and is harder to package and install
Solution Approach 1:
The memory metal antenna provides a dynamic solution that transitions between compact and extended states. During manufacturing and packaging, the antenna remains in a compact configuration that is easy to handle and install. Once mounted on the ceiling, it dynamically extends to the required length for optimal communication, eliminating the need for permanently extended antennas that would be difficult to package and install.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna employs a nesting principle where the extended portions of the antenna are capable of being retracted or folded back into a compact configuration that fits within the sensor unit housing during installation and storage. This allows the antenna to occupy minimal space during packaging while providing full extension capability when deployed for communication.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sensors and actuators are controlled through a central controller, then centralized control capability is achieved, but the system complexity and wiring requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical wiring system with a wireless communication system. Each sensor unit is equipped with a transceiver and memory metal antenna that enables wireless communication with the central controller and other sensor units. This substitution eliminates the need for complex wiring infrastructure while maintaining centralized control capability, thereby reducing system complexity and installation burden.
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
Enhances energy efficiency by optimizing lighting and environmental conditions through direct line-of-sight communication, reducing obstructions and improving communication quality, while allowing for centralized control of multiple sensors and actuators within a structure.
Implementation Method 1
the extended antenna includes a strand of memory metal
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, method and apparatuses of a building control sensor unit are disclosed. One apparatus includes a building control sensor unit that includes one or more sensors operative to sense an environmental condition of a structure, and a transceiver, wherein the transceiver includes an extended antenna, wherein the extended antenna includes a strand of memory metal. The apparatus further includes a controller, wherein the controller is operative to receive information from other building control sensor units or a central controller, and transmit information to the other building control sensor units or the central controller, wherein the building control sensor unit is configured such that when placed on or within a ceiling of the structure, the extended antenna extends into the structure.