Modular Gradient Sensor Probe for Marine Sediment Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing underwater gradient measurement systems, such as heat flow probes, suffer from inadequate resolution, handling difficulties, insufficient real-time data communication, imprecise position and orientation sensing, and inappropriate probe designs, limiting their ability to accurately measure physical gradients in marine sediments.
Innovation Solution
A modular gradient sensing probe system with a high-resolution sensor array, a tilt orientation system, and real-time underwater communication capabilities, featuring a digital interface that reduces signal noise and allows for on-the-fly programmability and easy component swapping, enabling precise measurement of physical gradients in marine sediments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are incorporated into the probe to improve gradient sensing resolution, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases due to complex electrical bulkhead connections
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is divided into modular segments (sensing segment with bow string, housing with electronics package, power source module) that can be independently assembled and configured. This segmentation allows multiple sensors to be distributed across modules without requiring complex centralized electrical bulkhead connections, as each module has its own simplified electrical interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connection system is made dynamic and reconfigurable through modular interfaces that allow different numbers and types of sensors to be connected depending on the specific measurement requirements. The system can adapt its electrical architecture rather than being fixed to a complex bulkhead design.
2Measurement precision
If more sensors are added to improve data accuracy, then measurement precision improves, but the number of connections increases making the system more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The modular electrical interface is designed to be universal, accommodating multiple sensor types and configurations through a standardized connection protocol. This allows the same interface architecture to support varying numbers of sensors without requiring proportional increases in connection complexity.
3Productivity
If the probe design is made robust for multiple penetrations to improve productivity, then productivity improves, but adaptability decreases for different target mediums
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is segmented into interchangeable modules including sensing segments of different lengths that can be quickly swapped on deck. This allows the system to maintain a robust base design while adapting to different penetration depth requirements by simply changing the sensing segment module.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe configuration is made dynamic through modular components that can be reconfigured between deployments. The sensing segment length, sensor types, and electronic configurations can be adjusted to match specific target medium characteristics while maintaining the same core probe structure.
4Loss of information
If real-time data communication capabilities are added to improve information transfer, then loss of information decreases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The communication system is merged with the existing modular electronic architecture, integrating real-time data transmission capabilities into the same interface framework that handles sensor data. This allows communication functionality to be added without creating separate complex subsystems.
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 system provides high-resolution, real-time data on physical gradients with improved accuracy and modularity, allowing for flexible operation and reduced downtime due to its modular design and advanced communication capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
measuring the dissipation of that heat over time
Data Source
AI summary
A gradient sensing probe system, and method of using same, including a sensing segment which includes a plurality of sensors, a support structure, and an electrical interface having first and second faces. The system further includes a housing, a power source, and an electronics package including a controller and disposed within the housing. The sensing segment is configured to measure external gradients and to exchange data with the controller. The power source is connected energetically to provide power to the sensing segment and the electronics package, and is controlled by the controller.