Sensor Assembly Thermal Management via Periodic Heating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor arrangements face challenges in operating sensors at different temperature phases, where sensors designed for higher operating temperatures can inadvertently impair the accuracy of sensors intended for ambient temperatures, leading to incorrect measurements due to temperature gradients and uneven thermal equilibrium.
Innovation Solution
A method and sensor arrangement that alternates the operation of first sensors (operating above ambient temperature) and second sensors (operating at ambient temperature) in distinct phases, with controlled heating and cooling to maintain the second sensor within safe temperature limits, allowing for continuous measurement while ensuring the second sensor's accuracy and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the first sensor is heated to operating temperature continuously, then the first sensor can perform measurements accurately, but the second sensor is exposed to temperatures above its maximum limit causing measurement errors or malfunction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by alternating between a first phase where the first sensor is heated and measurements are taken, and a second phase where heating is reduced or switched off and the second sensor is used for measurements. This periodic switching allows both sensors to function within their optimal temperature ranges, resolving the contradiction between maintaining first sensor measurement accuracy and protecting the second sensor from excessive heat exposure.
2Productivity
If both sensors operate simultaneously at different temperatures, then continuous measurement coverage is achieved, but temperature gradients cause measurement errors and functional impairment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by dividing operation into alternating phases: first phase for first sensor measurements with heating active, and second phase for second sensor measurements with heating reduced or off. This temporal separation maintains measurement productivity while eliminating temperature gradient interference that would otherwise degrade the second sensor's measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses preliminary action by performing measurements with the first sensor during the first phase before transitioning to the second phase where the second sensor takes measurements. This sequential approach ensures that measurements are continuously captured by appropriate sensors based on temperature conditions, maintaining productivity while protecting measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If heating power is increased to maintain first sensor temperature, then measurement accuracy of first sensor is improved, but the second sensor exceeds its maximum temperature limit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by switching between heating modes: during the first phase, high heating power is applied to the first sensor for accurate measurements; during the second phase, heating power is reduced or switched off to allow the second sensor to operate within its temperature limits. This periodic control of heating power simultaneously improves first sensor measurement precision and maintains second sensor reliability.
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 second sensor to operate accurately despite higher temperatures, maintaining its functionality and improving measurement precision by accounting for temperature variations, thus allowing both types of sensors to be used in a common housing, reducing costs and enhancing measurement accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensor (3) and a second sensor (4) are arranged on a carrier (1), wherein the first sensor (3) is designed to be operated above ambient temperature and the second sensor (4) is designed to be operated at ambient temperature
Implementation Method 2
this elevated temperature is taken into account when evaluating the measurement from the second sensor. Thus, the second sensor can also be operated with sufficient accuracy
Data Source
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Figure 3~4
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AI summary
The invention relates to a sensor assembly and a method for operating a sensor assembly comprising a first sensor and a second sensor, wherein the second sensor is designed to be operated at an ambient temperature, wherein the first sensor is a heated sensor that is designed to be operated at an operating temperature that lies above the ambient temperature, wherein the first sensor and the second sensor are connected to each other by means of a carrier, wherein the carrier causes thermal coupling between the first sensor and the second sensor, wherein the first sensor is heated to the operating temperature during a first phase, wherein a measurement is performed by means of the first sensor during the first phase, wherein the heating is switched off or at least reduced in a second phase, wherein a measurement is performed by means of the second sensor during the second phase, and wherein an elevated temperature of the second sensor caused by the heating during the first phase is taken into account in an evaluation of the measurement of the second sensor.