Sensor Package Matrix Channel Fluid Flow Stabilization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing odor detection systems using multiple sensors in channels face challenges in efficiently detecting odor components in fluids due to issues with fluid flow, pressure distribution, and sensor output stabilization, leading to inaccurate detection and increased system size.

Innovation Solution

A sensor package with a container having an inner channel and multiple sensors, where the sensors are positioned along the channel's length and width, with a unique electrode configuration and tapered inflow/outflow openings, and a heater to stabilize fluid flow and pressure, allowing for efficient detection of odor components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple sensors are disposed in a channel pipe to detect odor components, then detection capability is improved, but fluid flow stability and pressure distribution deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveodor detection accuracyVSAvoidfluid flow stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The channel is divided into multiple segments with sensors arranged in a matrix pattern (multiple rows and columns) rather than a single linear arrangement. This segmentation allows fluid to flow through multiple parallel paths, maintaining flow stability while enabling detection of odor components at multiple locations simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The sensor arrangement transitions from a one-dimensional linear arrangement in the channel to a two-dimensional matrix pattern. By adding the column dimension perpendicular to the flow direction, the system achieves better pressure distribution and flow stability while maintaining comprehensive odor detection capability across the channel cross-section.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Measurement precision

If multiple sensors are disposed in a channel pipe to detect odor components, then detection capability is improved, but sensor output stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveodor detection accuracyVSAvoidsensor output stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor array is segmented into multiple independent sensing elements arranged in a matrix pattern. Each sensor operates independently with stable output, and the collective arrangement provides comprehensive detection without compromising individual sensor performance or output stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each sensor in the matrix is positioned at a specific location with optimized local characteristics. The sensors are arranged to detect odor components at different positions while maintaining consistent operating conditions, ensuring stable output from each sensor and reducing variations in detection results.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Volume of moving object

If a compact sensor package is designed, then system size is reduced, but electrode configuration complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor package sizeVSAvoidelectrode group configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The electrode groups are merged with the container structure itself rather than being separate components. The container serves dual functions as both the fluid containment structure and the electrode support, integrating multiple functions into a single component to reduce overall package size while managing electrode configuration complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The container structure is designed to serve multiple functions: containing the fluid, providing structural support, and serving as the substrate for electrode groups. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, compacting the overall system while the electrodes are configured to detect signals from multiple sensors simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 solution enhances odor detection accuracy by stabilizing fluid flow and pressure distribution, reducing system size, and improving sensor responsiveness, leading to more precise detection of odor components in fluids.

Implementation Method 1

a heater to stabilize fluid flow and pressure

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal energy: Heating

Data Source

PatentUS20240116046A1Sensor package, sensor module, and sensor device
Publication Date: 2024.04.11 KYOCERA CORP
  • US20240116046A1 patent drawing
  • US20240116046A1 patent drawing
  • US20240116046A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A sensor package 10 includes a plurality of sensors 19 and a container 18. Each of the sensors 19 detects a detection target component in the fluid. The container 18 includes an inner channel 21 and a first surface os1. The plurality of sensors 19 are provided in the inner channel 21. The inner channel 21 enables the fluid to flow. An inflow opening 25 to the inner channel 21 and an outflow opening 25 from the inner channel 21 are formed on the first surface os1. An electrode group electrically connected to the plurality of sensors 19 is provided on a surface different from the first surface os1 of the container 18.