Sensor device for detecting the presence of an electrically conductive substance in a space region, and applications thereof
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor technologies are not cost-effective and reliable for detecting electrically conductive bodies or substances in various applications, lacking a simple and efficient method to determine the presence of conductive materials.
Innovation Solution
A sensor device comprising detecting circuit means with two foils of electrically conductive material, where a control circuit applies a radiofrequency signal to one foil and receives an induced signal on the other, generating an information signal indicative of the presence of conductive substances, which can be used in multiple applications such as wetness sensors or fluid level sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing sensor technologies are used to detect electrically conductive substances, then detection capability is provided, but cost-effectiveness and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor device is segmented into two separate foils (first and second foils) that can be manufactured independently and then assembled. This segmentation allows for simpler, more cost-effective manufacturing of individual components while maintaining high detection reliability through their coordinated operation in the detecting circuit means.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor device is designed with universal applicability across multiple technical applications including wetness sensors for cook surfaces, water flow sensors in washing machines, fluid level sensors in containers, and beverage level sensors in beverage preparation machines. This multi-functionality achieves cost-effectiveness by using the same basic sensor structure for diverse applications while maintaining reliable detection performance.
2Measurement precision
If complex sensor technologies are used to ensure reliable detection, then detection precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and isolates the essential detection function into a simple configuration of two foils and associated circuit means, removing unnecessary complex components. The detecting circuit means with first and second foils captures the core detection capability while eliminating extraneous elements that would increase device complexity and manufacturing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor operates by detecting changes in radiofrequency signal parameters (strength, frequency, or phase) when a conductive substance is present. By focusing measurement precision on signal parameter variations rather than complex structural arrangements, the invention achieves accurate detection with minimal device complexity.
3Ease of operation
If traditional detection methods are used, then existing functionality is maintained, but simplicity and cost-effectiveness are not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the detection function into a compact integrated structure where the first and second foils are positioned in close proximity within the detecting circuit means. This merging of detection elements into a single integrated sensor unit achieves operational simplicity while facilitating straightforward manufacturing and assembly processes.
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 sensor device provides reliable and cost-effective detection of electrically conductive substances, enabling its use in various applications like cook surfaces, washing machines, and beverage preparation machines by effectively indicating the presence of conductive materials through varying signal strength.
Implementation Method 1
control circuit means coupled to said detecting circuit means and having an output connected to the first foil to apply, in the operation of such first foil, a first electric radiofrequency signal and an input connected to the other or second foil to receive a second induced radiofrequency signal on said second foil
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor device for detecting the presence of an electrically conductive substance in a space region, and applications thereof. The sensor device includes a detecting circuit, including at least first and second foils or sheets of an electrically conductive material; and a control circuit coupled with said detecting circuit and having an output connected with one of the foils for applying a first electric radiofrequency signal thereto and an input connected to other one of the foils for receiving a second radiofrequency signal induced in said other foil. The control circuit generates an information signal indicative of the strength of the second signal, which varies as a function of the presence of a body or a substance on or at said other foil.