PCB-Integrated Pressure Sensor for Pneumatic Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pneumatic control and measuring devices for dynamic seat comfort systems are costly and require significant installation space due to the use of discrete electronic pressure sensors and elastomer material adapters.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a printed-circuit-board-integrated capacitive pressure sensor within the pneumatic control and measuring device, eliminating the need for discrete pressure sensors and elastomer adapters, thereby reducing production costs and space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a discrete pressure sensor and elastomer adapter are used, then the device can perform pressure measurement and air supply connection, but the device complexity and installation space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the pressure sensor directly into the printed circuit board, merging previously separate components (discrete pressure sensor and elastomer adapter) into a unified structure. This integration eliminates the need for separate mounting of these components, reducing assembly steps and overall device complexity while maintaining pressure measurement functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The printed circuit board is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides electrical connections for the valve actuator and simultaneously integrates the pressure sensor for measurement. The output connection structure also serves both as a mechanical interface and as a housing for the pressure sensor, reducing the need for separate specialized components.
2Reliability
If a discrete pressure sensor and elastomer adapter are used, then the device can perform pressure measurement and air supply connection, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the pressure sensor into the printed circuit board, the patent eliminates the need to purchase and mount separate discrete pressure sensors and elastomer adapters. This consolidation reduces the total component count and assembly operations, leading to lower manufacturing costs through reduced parts procurement and simplified production processes.
3Reliability
If a discrete pressure sensor is used, then pressure measurement can be performed, but the installation space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure sensor is integrated directly into the printed circuit board, utilizing the existing board area rather than requiring separate mounting space. This integration approach eliminates the need for additional installation space that would be required for discrete pressure sensor mounting, connection adapters, and associated wiring harnesses.
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 results in a more cost-effective and compact pneumatic control and measuring device, minimizing construction effort and installation space while maintaining effective pressure measurement and control functionality.
Implementation Method 1
the pressure sensor is a printed-circuit-board-integrated pressure sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A pneumatic control and measuring device and seat comfort system with such a device. The pneumatic control and measuring device includes a valve and a pressure sensor, wherein the valve includes an input channel, a pressure channel, an output channel and a sealing element switched or switchable by an actuator. The sealing element is configured to connect the input channel with the pressure channel in that a supply pressure provided in the compressed air supply channel is or can be provided at an output connection of the valve fluidically communicating with the pressure channel. A pressure sensor for capturing a pressure present at the output connection is a printed-circuit-board-integrated pressure sensor.