Remote Dielectric Detector Using Analog Matching Filter

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current technologies face challenges in detecting dielectric materials, particularly energetic materials, in field environments due to limitations in sensitivity, portability, and specificity, as they often require optical observability, large power sources, or rely on canines, which are restricted by physical endurance and proximity.

Innovation Solution

The method involves detecting dielectrokinesis (DEP) force using a remote detector with a center beam, collectors, and an analog matching filter to sense and amplify the DEP force, allowing for the detection of dielectric materials through pressure, stress, and acceleration, with multiple analytical techniques confirming the presence.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If current detection technologies are used, then detection can be performed, but sensitivity and specificity are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection sensitivityVSAvoiddetection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an analog matching filter as an intermediary component that replicates the dipole field characteristics of target dielectric materials. This filter mediates between the electromagnetic field and the detector, enhancing the detection signal by creating a reference pattern that improves sensitivity and specificity without requiring complex signal processing systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the detection parameter from direct electromagnetic field measurement to measurement of DEP force-induced mechanical displacement. By converting the detection parameter to a mechanical domain signal that can be amplified by the center beam and collector assembly, the system achieves higher sensitivity while maintaining relatively simple device architecture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Length of moving object

If remote detection is implemented, then proximity restrictions are eliminated, but detection accuracy may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection rangeVSAvoiddetection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs mechanical vibration and resonance principles through the center beam and collector assembly. The DEP force induces vibrational motion in the center beam that can be detected even at remote distances. This mechanical amplification mechanism preserves detection accuracy by converting weak electromagnetic forces into measurable mechanical displacements that maintain signal integrity over distance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #18Mechanical vibration

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces direct electromagnetic field measurement with a mechanical transduction system. The analog matching filter and center beam assembly convert electromagnetic interactions into mechanical forces and displacements, which can be measured with high precision at remote distances, thereby eliminating proximity restrictions while maintaining detection accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If dielectric materials are detected through electric field measurement, then detection is possible, but target differentiation from non-targets is difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetarget identification reliabilityVSAvoidtarget differentiation difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The analog matching filter serves as a discriminatory intermediary that is tuned to match the specific dipole field characteristics of target dielectric materials. This filter creates a unique resonance pattern or signal signature that distinguishes targets from non-targets, improving identification reliability by filtering out background electromagnetic noise and non-target signals

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs signal signature differentiation analogous to color changes. The analog matching filter produces a unique detection signature or pattern when exposed to target materials, similar to how different colors distinguish different objects. This signature-based detection enables reliable target differentiation by identifying characteristic signal patterns rather than relying on generic presence detection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

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 enables the remote and accurate detection of dielectric materials, including energetic ones, by converting electric field charges into DEP forces, providing a unique detection signature that distinguishes targets from non-targets, enhancing detection capabilities beyond existing limitations.

Implementation Method 1

Dielectrokinesis (phoresis) (DEP) describes the force upon and mechanical behavior of initially charge-neutral matter that is dielectric polarization charged via induction by external spatially non-uniform electric fields

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDielectrokinesis (DEP): Dielectric

Implementation Method 2

The DEP force depends upon the spatial gradient of the square (second power) of the target's local electric field distribution at a point in space and time where a detector is located. The spatial gradient of the square of the local electric field is measured by the DEP force produced by the induced polarization charge on the detector

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical induction: Electrostatic Induction

Implementation Method 3

The analog matching filter may include a selective permittivity that generates an opposite polarization pattern on the center beam via the circuit and thereby enables a unique electric field stored charge to be converted to a DEP force on the center beam

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDielectric polarization: Polarisation

Data Source

PatentUS11333627B2Remote detector for dielectric material
Publication Date: 2022.05.17 DKL INTERNATIONAL INC
  • US11333627B2 patent drawing
  • US11333627B2 patent drawing
  • US11333627B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A remote detector detects the presence of dielectric materials, including energetic materials. The remote detector includes a center beam secured in a pivot mount, at least one collector secured to the center beam at a proximal end via the pivot mount, and an analog matching filter coupled with the center beam via a circuit. The analog matching filter contains a replicate matching material configured to match a dipole field of a target material. In the presence of a target material, the replicate matching material causes displacement of the center beam via a dielectrokinesis (phoresis) force.