Vibrating Wire Piezometer Series-Parallel EMC Wiring
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vibrating wire piezometers face challenges due to the fragility of electromagnetic coils (EMCs) used, which are prone to failure and disrupt pressure sensor readings when damaged.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of EMCs wired in series and parallel configurations, allowing for a redundant signal path that enables continuous pressure sensor operation even if one coil fails, by switching to a parallel wiring configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If two EMCs are wired in series, then the signal strength is improved, but the reliability deteriorates because failure of one coil stops the entire system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic wiring system that can switch between series and parallel configurations. The system automatically transitions from series wiring (for optimal signal strength during normal operation) to parallel wiring (for system redundancy during failure conditions), allowing the electrical characteristics to change dynamically based on operational needs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical connection parameters of the EMCs from fixed series configuration to a switchable configuration that can become parallel. This parameter change allows the system to adapt its electrical characteristics - transitioning from a high signal-strength mode to a high-reliability mode when coil failure occurs
2Reliability
If two EMCs are wired in parallel, then the reliability is improved through redundancy, but the signal strength deteriorates compared to series wiring
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches wiring configurations based on operational conditions. During normal operation, series wiring provides optimal signal strength. When failure is detected or anticipated, the system transitions to parallel wiring to maintain system continuity, thus dynamically optimizing for the current operational state
Solution Approach 2:
The patent prepares the parallel wiring configuration in advance as a backup pathway. This redundant configuration is installed but not actively used during normal operation, serving as a pre-prepared cushion against future failures. When needed, the system can immediately switch to this pre-configured parallel arrangement
3Device complexity
If thin wire EMCs are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates due to difficulty in soldering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces additional electrical conductors as intermediary elements that connect to the thin EMC wires. These intermediary conductors serve as mediators between the difficult-to-solder thin EMC wires and the rest of the circuit, making the assembly process more manageable while maintaining the simple two-coil design
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
Ensures reliable pressure sensor readings by maintaining functionality even if one EMC fails, providing a stronger signal through series wiring and ensuring data integrity through parallel redundancy.
Implementation Method 1
The frequency can be sensed as digital pulses from an electromagnetic sensing coil
Implementation Method 2
When a voltage is applied to the first EMC, it plucks the vibrating wire
Data Source
AI summary
A vibrating wire piezometer pressure sensor system has (a) a vibrating wire connected to a pressure diaphragm; (b) a first electromagnetic coil (EMC) associated with the vibrating wire; (c) a second EMC associated with the vibrating wire; wherein the first EMC and the second EMC are wired in series and in parallel to a signal processor for converting an electrical signal to a pressure measurement.