Optical Sensor Element Moisture Control Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical sensor elements in sample analyzing apparatuses face challenges with moisture buildup and fogging due to temperature differences, leading to complex and costly solutions like multiple sealed windows or voluminous desiccant systems that are not service-friendly.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating window heating means near the optical window and removable moisture control elements, such as desiccant capsules, within the housing to prevent condensation and facilitate easy replacement, allowing for a modular and cost-effective design that prevents moisture buildup and fogging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple sealed windows are applied to prevent moisture buildup and fogging, then the optical sensor element is protected from condensation, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The optical window assembly is segmented into a two-part structure: an outer window and an inner window separated by a spacer. This segmentation creates an insulating air gap that prevents condensation on the inner window surface by isolating it from temperature differences, while keeping the manufacturing process simple and cost-effective.
Solution Approach 2:
A spacer acts as an intermediary element between the outer and inner windows. This spacer maintains a controlled distance between the two window surfaces, creating an insulating barrier that prevents moisture condensation on the inner window while allowing for simple assembly and manufacturing.
2Reliability
If a desiccant dryer material tray is equipped in the apparatus to reduce internal moisture, then moisture buildup is prevented, but the apparatus becomes voluminous and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The moisture control function is extracted from the main apparatus body and integrated directly into the optical window assembly through the desiccant element. The desiccant is positioned in close proximity to the optical window within the compact window structure, eliminating the need for a separate large-volume desiccant tray while maintaining effective moisture control.
Solution Approach 2:
The desiccant element is nested within the compact optical window assembly structure. The desiccant capsule or element is housed within the window housing or spacer structure, allowing moisture control functionality to be integrated into the existing compact geometry without increasing overall apparatus volume.
3Reliability
If a desiccant dryer material tray is used to control moisture, then condensation is prevented, but the apparatus becomes expensive and requires disassembly for maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The optical window assembly is segmented into removable components including the outer window, inner window, spacer, and desiccant element. This segmentation allows the desiccant to be accessed and replaced independently through simple disassembly of the window assembly, making maintenance service-friendly without requiring apparatus disintegration.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical window assembly is designed with dynamic, removable connections that allow easy access to the desiccant element. The windows and spacer can be detached from the housing through simple mechanical operations, enabling users to replace the desiccant capsule without complex disassembly procedures.
4Reliability
If the whole optical sensor element is exchanged when fogging occurs, then the condensation problem is resolved, but the cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optical window assembly is segmented into replaceable components, with the desiccant element being independently replaceable. When condensation or fogging occurs, users can simply replace the small, inexpensive desiccant capsule rather than the entire optical sensor element, significantly reducing maintenance costs and simplifying service procedures.
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 solution effectively prevents condensation on the optical sensor elements, enabling uninterrupted measurements and allowing for simple, low-cost, and service-friendly maintenance by allowing users to replace desiccant capsules without disassembling the apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
the housing is equipped with window heating means arranged near the optical window
Implementation Method 2
removable moisture control elements, such as desiccant capsules
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary optical sensor element for use in an optical sample analyzing apparatus, includes a housing that includes at least one optical sensor component. A housing body and a housing lid are removably connected to the housing body so that in an assembled state, the housing body and the housing lid form a fluid-tight housing. The housing lid is equipped with replaceable moisture control elements.