Pressure Transducer Segmented Measurement Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pressure transducers have limited operational ranges and variable accuracy over subranges, as well as stability issues over the life of the sensor.
Innovation Solution
The use of multiple pressure measurement assemblies, such as microelectromechanical pressure sensors and capacitance diaphragm gauges, with control circuitry to select the appropriate assembly based on pressure range and error factors, ensuring extended range measurement with low error and high stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single pressure measurement assembly is used, then the device complexity is low, but the operational range is limited and measurement precision varies over subranges
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure measurement system is segmented into multiple specialized measurement assemblies, each optimized for specific pressure ranges. The system divides the overall measurement task across multiple components (e.g., capacitive diaphragm gauge for low pressure, piezoresistive sensor for medium pressure, strain gauge for high pressure), allowing each segment to operate within its optimal range and thereby improving overall measurement precision across the full spectrum.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure transducer system achieves multi-functionality by integrating multiple types of pressure measurement assemblies within a single device. Each assembly can be selectively activated based on the pressure range being measured, allowing the system to function as different specialized sensors depending on operating conditions, thus improving precision without requiring separate devices for each pressure range.
2Reliability
If multiple pressure measurement assemblies are used, then the operational range is extended and stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically selects which pressure measurement assembly to use based on real-time pressure conditions and error factor analysis. The control circuitry continuously monitors operating parameters and switches between measurement assemblies optimally, allowing the system to adapt to changing conditions and maintain high stability and reliability across the full operational range while managing complexity through intelligent control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by selecting different measurement assemblies based on pressure range and error characteristics. Each assembly has optimized parameters for its specific range, and the system transitions between assemblies to maintain optimal parameter settings throughout the full pressure spectrum, thereby improving reliability without permanently increasing physical complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pressure measurement assemblies are used, then the operational range is extended, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system is segmented into multiple specialized assemblies, each designed for specific pressure ranges and measurement requirements. This segmentation allows the system to cover a broad operational range by activating only the appropriate assembly for current conditions, extending versatility while managing complexity through functional division rather than requiring all components to operate simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts its configuration by selecting which measurement assembly to activate based on real-time pressure conditions. This dynamic selection allows the system to maintain a simple operational state at any given moment while providing access to multiple specialized measurement capabilities across the full pressure spectrum, thereby extending operational range without permanently increasing active complexity.
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
This approach provides a large operational range with low error and high stability, allowing for accurate pressure measurement across a wide range of pressures while minimizing drift and instability issues.
Implementation Method 1
a first pressure measurement assembly of a first type (e.g., a microelectromechanical pressure sensor)
Implementation Method 2
a second pressure measurement assembly of a second type (e.g., a capacitance diaphragm gauge)
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed example pressure transducers include: a pressure housing comprising a first cavity; a fluid input line configured to provide a fluid to the first cavity; a first pressure measurement assembly having a first type and configured to output a first measurement signal based on a pressure of the fluid in the first cavity; a second pressure measurement assembly having a second type and configured to output a second measurement signal based on the pressure of the fluid in the first cavity; and a controller configured to determine the pressure of the fluid in the first cavity based on the first measurement signal when the pressure is within a first range and determine the pressure of the fluid in the first cavity based on the second measurement signal when the pressure is within a second range.