Sensor Module Segmentation for Thermal Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor systems for handsets are not robust or compact enough to efficiently record and differentiate multiple physical quantities, such as steering angle and tracking data, while also being cost-effective and labor-efficient in production.
Innovation Solution
A sensor module design where two circuit boards with different sensors are plug-connected within a housing, with signals summarized and forwarded via a single data interface to a computer unit, allowing for the recording of various physical quantities and utilizing a standard data bus for transmission, along with a metallic housing for protection and a tracking sensor system with pairs of windings for magnetic field detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sensors are disposed inside a housing of a mobile robot, then the sensors are protected from external damage, but the heat generated by the sensors accumulates inside the housing causing overheating
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is divided into two separate housings: a first housing that moves with the mobile robot and contains the sensor, and a second housing that remains stationary and contains the power supply. This segmentation separates the heat-generating sensor from the power source, reducing thermal accumulation while maintaining protection.
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible cable serves as an intermediary connection between the first housing (containing the sensor) and the second housing (containing the power supply). This allows electrical connection while enabling thermal isolation, as the cable can transmit signals but limits heat transfer between the two housings.
2Temperature
If the sensor module is separated into two housings, then heat accumulation is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible cable performs multiple functions: it provides electrical connection between the two housings, allows relative movement between the housings, and serves as a thermal barrier. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional complex components.
Solution Approach 2:
The first housing is designed to move relative to the second housing during operation, with the flexible cable accommodating this dynamic movement. This dynamic design allows the sensor to be positioned optimally for heat dissipation while maintaining electrical connection.
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 the efficient recording and differentiation of multiple physical quantities with a single sensor module, reducing production complexity and costs, while providing robust protection and effective tracking capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
the second sensor has spaced-apart pairs of windings, Each pair comprises a first winding and a second winding, the winding axis of the first winding being aligned perpendicular to the winding axis of the second winding, and the second sensor being a tracking sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a sensor module for a mobile part, wherein, within a housing of the sensor module, a first circuit board (1) is plug-connected to a second circuit board (2), the first circuit board (1) having a first sensor and the second circuit board (2) having a second sensor, the sensor signals of the first sensor and of the second sensor being supplied to a computer unit which is connected to a first databus connection of the sensor module, in particular a data interface of the sensor module.