Modular Sensor Assembly Threaded Interface

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing modular sensor systems face challenges in providing reliable mechanical and electrical connections between detachable sensing modules and base modules, especially in harsh environments and handheld applications, where size constraints and operational conditions require robust yet compact solutions.

Innovation Solution

A modular sensor assembly featuring a base module with an externally mountable sensing module, utilizing a threaded spigot for mechanical attachment and slip ring conductive tracks for electrical coupling, along with environmental sealing and isolation valves to ensure secure and pressure-resistant connections.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the sensing module is mounted inside the base module, then the mechanical connection is robust and reliable, but the base unit size increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemechanical connection reliabilityVSAvoidbase unit size

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The measurement system is divided into two separate modules: a base module and a sensing module. The sensing module can be detached and replaced, allowing the base unit to remain compact while maintaining reliable connections through specialized interface mechanisms including threaded spigots and sealing elements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Volume of moving object

If the sensing module is mounted outside the base module, then the base unit size remains compact, but the mechanical and electrical connection reliability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebase unit sizeVSAvoidconnection reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

An intermediate interface structure is introduced between the base module and sensing module, comprising threaded spigots for mechanical connection, sealing elements for environmental sealing, and conductive elements for electrical connection. This intermediary structure enables reliable external mounting while maintaining compact base unit dimensions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Device complexity

If standard mounting connections are used, then the device complexity is low, but the ability to withstand high pressure and harsh environmental conditions is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection structure complexityVSAvoidpressure and environmental resistance

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple connection functions are merged into a single integrated interface structure: mechanical attachment via threaded spigots, environmental sealing via O-rings and seals, and electrical connection via conductive elements. This combination provides comprehensive protection against pressure and environmental factors without requiring multiple separate connection mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Adaptability or versatility

If modular detachable sensing modules are used, then the adaptability and versatility of the measurement system is improved, but the challenge of providing reliable mechanical and electrical connection increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement system flexibilityVSAvoidconnection provision complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The base module interface is designed with universal mounting structures that can accommodate different sensing module types. The standardized threaded spigot and sealing interface allow various sensing modules to be attached to the same base module, providing measurement system flexibility while using a consistent connection mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 reliable mechanical and electrical connections that withstand high pressures and environmental conditions, allowing for secure and efficient data and power transmission, even when modules are disconnected, thus addressing the need for flexibility and durability in various applications.

Implementation Method 1

a threaded spigot for mechanical attachment

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThreaded fastening: Screw

Implementation Method 2

slip ring conductive tracks for electrical coupling

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSlip ring conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 3

environmental sealing and isolation valves to ensure secure and pressure-resistant connections

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSealing:

Data Source

PatentEP2274581B1Modular sensor assembly

Publication Date: 2017.10.18 GENERAL ELECTRIC CO

AI summary

A modular sensor assembly for performing measurement or calibration is disclosed, comprising a sensing module [100] comprising a threaded spigot [104], a first slip ring conductive track [110], and a second slip ring conductive track [111]; a base module [202] comprising a threaded receptacle [122], a first conductor [310], and a second conductor [311]; wherein the sensing module [100] is detachably mounted to the base module [202] by threading the threaded spigot [104] into the threaded receptacle [122] thereby forming a first electrical connection between the first slip ring conductive track [110] and the first conductor [310], and a second electrical connection between the second slip ring conductive track [111] and the second conductor [311].