Particle Sensing Flow Path Switching for Dual PM Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional particle sensing devices require separate sensors to measure concentrations of fine particles and ultrafine particles, which increases complexity and cost, whereas a device capable of measuring both using a single sensor is needed to efficiently monitor air quality.
Innovation Solution
A particle sensing device with a flow path housing and a blower unit that guides external air through a sensing path, utilizing a flow path switching device to direct air either fully or partially in an oblique upward direction, allowing a single sensor to detect both fine and ultrafine particles by exploiting the differing physical properties of these particles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate sensors are used for fine particles and ultrafine particles, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement process into two distinct flow paths (first suction path for fine particles, second suction path for ultrafine particles) that both feed into a single sensor. This allows one sensor to perform measurements that would traditionally require two separate sensors, reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision for both particle types.
Solution Approach 2:
The single sensor is designed to universally detect both fine particles (PM10) and ultrafine particles (PM2.5) by receiving air samples from different flow paths. The sensor performs multiple measurement functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate dedicated sensors for each particle type and thereby reducing device complexity.
2Measurement precision
If all air is guided through the sensing path, then measurement accuracy is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a flow path switching device that can selectively guide either all air or only some air through the sensing path. When ultrafine particle measurement is needed, only a portion of the air is directed through the second suction path to the sensor, while the remainder bypasses the sensing path. This partial action approach maintains measurement accuracy for ultrafine particles while reducing overall energy consumption compared to directing all air through the sensing path.
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 efficient measurement of both fine and ultrafine particle concentrations using a single sensor, reducing complexity and cost while effectively capturing the distinct properties of each particle type.
Implementation Method 1
a light generator which is provided at one side of the sensing path and generates light, and a light receiver which is provided at the other side of the sensing path to face the light generator and receives the light
Data Source
AI summary
A particle sensing device and an air conditioner including a sensor has a sensing path through which air passes, a flow path housing which accommodates the sensor and guides air, and a flow path switching device to all air suctioned from the outside is guided to the sensing path, or some of the air suctioned from the outside and moving flows back in an obliquely upward direction and flows into the sensing path.