Sensing Assembly Fabrication via Sleeve Deformation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing temperature sensing assemblies lack ease of fabrication and high mechanical performance, particularly in multipoint probes, which are crucial for robust and reliable temperature measurement in industrial environments.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the positioning of elongated members, such as temperature probes, within a sleeve member filled with pre-formed ceramic fittings, where the fittings are shattered upon deformation of the sleeve member to create a secure mechanical connection, allowing for a multipoint temperature measurement assembly with enhanced robustness and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional temperature sensing assemblies are used, then temperature measurement is achieved, but fabrication is complex and mechanical performance is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing assembly is divided into modular components: a sleeve member, multiple pre-formed fittings (each potentially containing elongated members), and end caps. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using optimized processes, then assembled together, simplifying fabrication while maintaining high mechanical performance through precise modular connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly combines dissimilar materials with complementary properties: the sleeve member provides structural strength and protection, ceramic pre-formed fittings provide thermal insulation and electrical isolation, and elongated members (thermocouples, RTDs) provide sensing capability. This composite structure achieves both ease of manufacture through material specialization and high mechanical performance through synergistic material properties.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple temperature probes are used in a multipoint probe, then comprehensive temperature measurement is achieved, but reliability decreases if one probe fails
Solution Approach 1:
Each temperature probe (elongated member) is housed in its own dedicated pre-formed fitting within the sleeve member, creating independent measurement channels. This segmentation ensures that failure of one probe or its fitting does not affect the operation of other probes, maintaining system reliability while enabling comprehensive multipoint temperature measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The design anticipates potential probe failures by providing redundant measurement points through multiple independent probes. If one probe fails, the system continues to function with remaining probes, providing beforehand cushioning against measurement failure and maintaining reliability in critical temperature monitoring applications.
3Strength
If elongated members are mechanically connected to fittings, then secure connection is achieved, but fabrication complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pre-formed fittings are prepared in advance with integrated connection features (such as embedded threads, interference fit geometries, or bonding surfaces) that simplify the subsequent assembly process. The elongated members are positioned and mechanically connected to these pre-prepared fittings, achieving secure connections without requiring complex fabrication steps during final assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical connection design allows components to self-align and self-secure during assembly. The pre-formed fittings are configured to automatically guide and retain the elongated members through features like interference fits, snap-in mechanisms, or threaded engagements, eliminating the need for complex external fastening operations or specialized assembly equipment.
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 method enables the creation of a sensing assembly that is easy to fabricate, offers high mechanical performance, and allows for independent operation of multiple temperature probes, ensuring reliability even if one probe fails, with a double barrier providing protection against process medium abrasion and mechanical shocks.
Implementation Method 1
deforming the sleeve member (20), thereby shattering the fitting (71, 72, 73, 74)
Implementation Method 2
shattering the fitting (71, 72, 73, 74) arranged in said sleeve member (20) by deforming the sleeve member (20)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
A method for fabricating a sensing assembly (10), preferably for sensing temperature, comprising: positioning, e.g. inserting, at least one elongated member (11, 12, 13, 14), e.g. a temperature probe, a cable or a wire, preferably for determining a temperature, and at least one pre-formed fitting (71, 72, 73, 74), e.g. ceramic block, into an inner cavity of a sleeve member (20), e. g. a tube.