Nonlinear Sensor State Detection by Multi-Amplitude Impedance Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measurement systems face challenges in determining the state of sensors located in difficult-to-access, dangerous, or corrosive environments, particularly when the medium is conductive, as conventional RFID and acoustic interrogation methods are unreliable and require active circuits or batteries, which are impractical in such conditions.
Innovation Solution
A method using an electromechanical transducer to apply electrical signals at different amplitudes to determine the state of a sensor with nonlinear mechanical behavior, measuring impedance deviations to remotely assess the sensor's state without characterizing the propagation channel, utilizing air gaps for precise measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If RFID technology is used for remote sensor interrogation, then data retrieval is enabled in difficult-to-access environments, but it does not work when the support is conductive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an acoustic wave as an intermediary medium to transfer information through the conductive support. Instead of using electromagnetic waves (RFID) that are blocked by conductive materials, the system converts electrical signals to acoustic waves that can propagate through the support structure, enabling communication in previously inaccessible environments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electromagnetic field-based RFID system with an acoustic wave-based system. By substituting the physical mechanism from electromagnetic to acoustic, the system overcomes the limitation of conductive supports blocking electromagnetic signals while maintaining the ability to remotely interrogate sensors
2Adaptability or versatility
If acoustic waves are used for interrogation through the medium, then propagation through conductive supports is enabled, but the medium interacts strongly with the signal causing uncontrolled echoes and deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies excessive action by using a signal amplitude that is sufficiently high to overcome the deformations and echoes caused by medium interaction. By exceeding the threshold of signal degradation, the system ensures that the sensor response remains detectable and measurable despite the harsh propagation conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameters of the acoustic signal (frequency, amplitude, duration) to optimize propagation through the specific medium. By adjusting these parameters, the system adapts to the medium's characteristics and minimizes the harmful effects of interaction while maintaining signal integrity
3Reliability
If active sensors with batteries are used in difficult-to-access environments, then sensor functionality is maintained, but regular charging or battery replacement is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by making the sensor passive, eliminating the need for batteries or external power sources. The sensor harvests energy from the acoustic interrogation signals themselves, allowing it to function indefinitely without maintenance in difficult-to-access environments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses periodic acoustic interrogation signals to both power and read the sensor. The periodic nature of the acoustic waves allows the sensor to be activated only when needed, converting the interrogation process itself into the power source and eliminating continuous power requirements
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 flexible and simple determination of sensor state through impedance measurements, allowing remote assessment of sensors in conductive environments without active circuits or batteries, providing accurate and reliable data retrieval.
Implementation Method 1
an electromechanical transducer to apply electrical signals at different amplitudes
Implementation Method 2
measuring impedance deviations to remotely assess the sensor's state
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining the state of at least one sensor whose mechanical behaviour is nonlinear as a function of the amplitude of the pressure exerted against the sensor, the sensor and an electromechanical transducer being able to be coupled to a support, the method comprising the steps of: applying an electrical signal at a first amplitude to the terminals of the first electromechanical transducer, and determining a first set of values of a parameter characteristic of the electrical impedance of the first electromechanical transducer in response to the application of the electrical signal; applying the electrical signal at a second amplitude to the terminals of the first electromechanical transducer, and determining a second set of values of the parameter characteristic of the impedance; measuring a deviation between the first set of values and the second set of values; determining a state of the sensor as a function of the deviation between the first set of values and the second set of values.