Sensor well for HVAC unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing HVAC systems face issues with sensor accuracy due to wear of mounting devices, leading to positional shifts of sensors, which reduces system efficiency, and existing solutions are not universally compatible with different component sizes, exposing sensors to environmental interference.
Innovation Solution
A sensor well system featuring a mounting tube with a securement mechanism, such as a clip or fastener, that couples to HVAC components like conduits, secures sensors in place, and includes a thermally conductive gel to enhance accuracy and protect against environmental factors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing mounting devices are used for sensors, then the sensor can be installed on HVAC components, but the mounting devices incur wear leading to sensor positional shifts and inaccurate feedback
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sensor from direct contact with the HVAC component surface by introducing a mounting tube as an intermediary structure. The sensor is positioned within the tube rather than directly mounted on the component, eliminating wear between the mounting device and sensor while maintaining secure positioning through the tube's internal features.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting tube serves as an intermediary structure between the HVAC component and the sensor. It provides a stable mounting interface that protects the sensor from environmental factors while maintaining accurate positioning, thereby resolving the wear and position stability issue without requiring frequent replacement of mounting devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If universal mounting solutions are used, then device complexity is reduced, but compatibility with different component sizes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting tube incorporates adjustable parameters including different tube diameters, wall thicknesses, and material compositions to accommodate various HVAC component sizes. The tube can be adjusted or selected based on specific component dimensions while maintaining a consistent overall mounting approach, achieving versatility without proportionally increasing system complexity.
3Measurement precision
If sensors are exposed to HVAC component surfaces, then installation is simplified, but sensors are exposed to environmental interference reducing measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting tube acts as a protective intermediary between the sensor and the harsh HVAC environment. It shields the sensor from direct exposure to temperature extremes, vibration, and other environmental factors while maintaining thermal contact through conductive gel or direct wall contact, thereby preserving measurement accuracy without sacrificing protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting tube functions as a protective shell that encloses the sensor. This shell structure provides mechanical protection and environmental isolation while allowing thermal energy transfer, creating a controlled microenvironment for the sensor that maintains measurement precision despite external environmental conditions.
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 sensor well maintains sensor position and accuracy, providing reliable feedback while shielding sensors from environmental conditions, and is adaptable to various component sizes without the need for customized mounting solutions.
Implementation Method 1
a thermally conductive gel to enhance accuracy
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a sensor well system that includes a mounting tube and a clip disposed within the mounting tube and configured to engage with a sensor to secure the sensor within the mounting tube, where the clip is formed from a band of flexible material. The clip includes a curved end portion configured to receive an end portion of the sensor and at least one protrusion disposed along a length of the band outside of the curved end portion such that the at least one protrusion is configured to abut a side of the sensor when the sensor is installed within the sensor well system.