Retractable Support for Pressure Transducer Diaphragm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solid-state strain gauge pressure transducers suffer from signal errors such as drift and damage due to long-term loads and pressure shocks, making them unsuitable for applications requiring accurate pressure measurement over extended periods or in environments with potential pressure fluctuations.
Innovation Solution
A pressure measurement device featuring a diaphragm with a retractable support that minimizes stress and deformation during non-operation periods, allowing the strain gauge to function accurately during operation by retracting the support to relieve load and protect the transducer from shocks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the strain gauge is left under load for extended periods, then the transducer can maintain readiness for measurement, but signal drift and measurement precision deteriorate due to creep of substrate and element materials
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is made movable between two positions: engaged position during non-operation to support the diaphragm and relieve strain gauge stress, and disengaged position during operation to allow normal pressure measurement. This dynamic repositioning resolves the contradiction by adapting the support state to operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is engaged in advance during non-operation periods to prevent creep and drift before measurement is needed. By performing protective action beforehand, the strain gauge remains ready for accurate measurement without having endured prolonged stress that would cause drift.
2Productivity
If the transducer is exposed to pressure shocks or spikes, then real-time pressure monitoring is maintained, but the transducer element may be permanently deformed or ruptured
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure provides protective cushioning during non-operation periods, positioned to prevent pressure shocks from reaching and damaging the strain gauge. This preliminary protective measure shields the transducer element from harmful pressure spikes while maintaining system readiness.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure acts as an intermediary element between the pressure environment and the strain gauge. During non-operation, it mediates by blocking harmful pressure shocks from reaching the sensitive transducer element, while allowing normal pressure transmission during operation when retracted.
3Reliability
If the retractable support is engaged during operation, then the strain gauge is protected from stress, but the diaphragm cannot deform properly to generate accurate pressure signals
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure dynamically changes position based on operational state: engaged during non-operation to provide protection, and disengaged during operation to allow proper diaphragm deformation. This temporal separation of protective and measurement functions resolves the contradiction.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure alternates between engaged and disengaged states periodically: engaged during non-operation periods for protection, disengaged during operation periods for accurate measurement. This periodic switching allows both protection and measurement precision to be achieved at appropriate times.
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 retractable support mechanism maintains the accuracy and integrity of pressure measurements by reducing stress on the strain gauge during non-operation and allowing normal function during operation, addressing the issues of drift and damage from long-term loads and shocks.
Implementation Method 1
a diaphragm adapted to deform in response to a pressure applied thereto
Implementation Method 2
A strain gauge (a device whose resistance changes depending on the amount of strain placed on it) is attached to the diaphragm such that the flexure of the diaphragm introduces a strain on the gauge
Data Source
AI summary
A pressure measurement device with protection from long-term loads and pressure shocks. The novel device includes a diaphragm adapted to deform in response to a pressure applied thereto, and a retractable support adapted to support the diaphragm during periods of non-operation. A strain gauge is attached to the diaphragm for measuring the deformation and the retractable support is designed to minimize stress on the strain gauge during periods of non-operation. The support is retracted during periods of operation to allow the diaphragm and strain gauge to function normally in response to the applied pressure. The diaphragm is disposed within a housing to form a first cavity, which is coupled to media to be measured, and a second cavity, which is set at a reference pressure. In an illustrative embodiment, the retractable support is a threaded plug inserted into the second cavity.