Modular Measurement Apparatus for Sensor Data Collection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional measurement apparatuses that collect data from multiple sensors, such as NOx sensors, require replacement of the entire system when a single sensor malfunctions, reducing user convenience and flexibility.

Innovation Solution

A modular measurement apparatus with removably accommodated measurement modules, each with a circuit for outputting sensor data, and a main body for data collection, storage, and output, allowing individual module replacement and flexible installation, including direct-insertion-type sensors for exhaust gas detection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the measurement apparatus uses a integrated design where data collection and processing functions are incorporated in advance, then the measurement capability is comprehensive, but when a sensor malfunctions the entire apparatus must be replaced which reduces ease of repair

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement capabilityVSAvoidease of repair
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The measurement apparatus is divided into independent measurement modules, each containing a sensor and its associated data collection and processing circuit. This segmentation allows individual modules to be replaced without affecting the entire apparatus, improving ease of repair while maintaining comprehensive measurement capability through the modular architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The measurement modules are designed with universal interfaces and standardized connection mechanisms that allow them to be interchangeably connected to the main body portion. This universality enables flexible replacement and reconfiguration of modules while preserving the overall system functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Stability of the object's composition

If the measurement apparatus uses a fixed integrated structure, then the system is stable, but it lacks installation flexibility

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem stabilityVSAvoidinstallation flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the apparatus into a main body portion and separate measurement modules with standardized interfaces, the system achieves both stability through consistent connection protocols and flexibility through the ability to reconfigure and replace modules as needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The measurement modules are designed to be detachably connected rather than permanently fixed, allowing the system to dynamically adapt to different measurement requirements while maintaining stable operation during use through secure connection mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3021116B1Modular measurement apparatus
Publication Date: 2020.06.17 NITERRA CO LTD
  • EP3021116B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3021116B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3021116B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

[Object] To improve the convenience of a measurement apparatus which collects data from a plurality of sensors. [Means for Solution] A measurement apparatus 1 includes a plurality of modules 3 and a main unit 2 for collecting measurement data output from the modules. The housing of the main unit 2 can be carried by a user of the measurement apparatus 1, and the plurality of modules 3 are removably accommodated in the housing. A CAN I/F circuit 73 of the main unit 2 collects the measurement data output from the module 3 accommodated in the housing. A main CPU 76 of the main unit 2 outputs the collected measurement data to, for example, a personal computer 8 connected to the main unit 2. An internal memory 74 and a USB memory connected to a USB memory module 91 store the collected measurement data.