Sensor Calibration via Parameter Download
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor systems face significant errors in measurement due to sensor variations, requiring manual calibration that increases installation time and reduces flexibility and lifespan, especially in applications like aircraft engines where cabling must be maintained.
Innovation Solution
A self-calibration system that includes a clearance sensor with a memory for specific sensor information and an electronics interface with its own memory for calibration data, using circuitry to match and output calibrated signals for clearance measurement between stationary and rotating components, allowing for automated calibration without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual calibration is performed, then measurement accuracy is improved, but installation time increases and personnel training requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-calibration by automatically downloading sensor-specific calibration data from the sensor memory to the electronics interface memory, eliminating the need for manual calibration operations while maintaining measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
Calibration data is pre-stored in the sensor memory during sensor manufacturing, so that when the sensor is installed, the calibration information is already available and can be automatically transferred without requiring on-site manual calibration procedures
2Measurement precision
If a new electronics interface is installed with the new sensor, then calibration accuracy is improved, but inventory management flexibility is reduced and system lifespan is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The electronics interface is designed to work with multiple sensor types by storing calibration data for different sensors in its memory, allowing a single electronics interface to be universally applied to various sensors without requiring replacement
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of replacing the entire electronics interface, the system creates a virtual copy of the sensor's calibration characteristics by downloading sensor-specific calibration data into the electronics interface memory, allowing the same hardware to function with different sensors
3Measurement precision
If sensor and electronics interface are replaced simultaneously, then calibration accuracy is improved, but installation complexity increases and cabling is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration process is segmented into two independent parts: sensor-specific calibration data stored in sensor memory and generic electronics interface with calibration data storage capability, allowing the sensor to be replaced independently while maintaining calibration accuracy through automated data transfer
Data Source
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AI summary
A sensor system (30) for measuring a clearance (32) between a stationary component (22) and a rotating component (16) of a rotating machine (10) is provided. The system includes a clearance sensor (24) to output a clearance measurement signal. A sensor memory (98) is attached to the sensor (24) for storing a first sensor information. A second sensor information is stored in a electronics interface memory (94). The first and the second sensor information are read and the clearance sensor is matched with a respective plurality of calibration data by an electronic interface (92) based on the first and the second sensor information.