Interchangeable Sensor Mast with Low Dielectric Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor mast systems face challenges in accurately positioning field sensors with minimal distortion, as they are often made from materials with high dielectric constants, leading to reflections and require labor-intensive assembly, which complicates measurements in standardized tests.
Innovation Solution
A sensor mast system comprising a base and interchangeable mast elements of fixed heights, made from low dielectric materials, allowing easy assembly and positioning of sensors at predefined heights with reduced reflections, and featuring adjustable components for precise alignment and horizontal displacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional sensor masts are made from strong materials with high dielectric constants, then the structural strength is improved, but reflections occur that influence the measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the dielectric parameter of the mast material from high to low dielectric constant. The mast is constructed from non-conductive materials such as plastic or foam with low dielectric constants, which significantly reduces electromagnetic reflections while maintaining sufficient structural strength for sensor support.
2Ease of manufacture
If a single sensor is used for measurements, then costs are reduced and comparability is increased, but positioning accuracy becomes more critical and difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The mast is segmented into multiple adjustable sections that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows for precise height adjustment of the sensor by combining different mast sections, achieving accurate positioning without requiring complex manufacturing of a single monolithic structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The mast incorporates dynamic adjustment mechanisms allowing the sensor height to be varied during setup and measurement processes. This dynamic adjustability compensates for positioning tolerances and enables precise sensor placement at required heights.
3Device complexity
If manual positioning and height adjustment are used, then device complexity is reduced, but time consumption and labor intensity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mast sections are pre-manufactured with standardized connection interfaces and marked height indicators. This preliminary preparation allows for rapid assembly and positioning without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms during the measurement setup, reducing both time and operational complexity.
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
Enables accurate, efficient, and low-distortion positioning of field sensors, reducing assembly errors and reflections, thereby enhancing measurement accuracy and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
at least one mast element or all mast elements and/or the base consist of a nonmetallic material, especially of a material of low dielectric constant
Data Source
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AI summary
A Sensor mast system for positioning a sensor (30), especially a microwave sensor, in predefined positions in a test setup comprises a base (74), a sensor (30) and at least two mast elements (65,71). A sensor mast is comprised of the base (74), at least one of the mast elements (71) and the sensor (30). All but one mast element (71) are of fixed height. The mast elements (65,71) are interchangeably connectable to the base (74) and to each other. The sensor (30) is interchangeably connectable to the top of any of the mast elements (65,71).