Nested Spherical Sensor System with Fluid Suspension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional single-axis or dual-axis gimbal assemblies for directional sensors on unmanned vehicles and drones limit the field of view (FOV) and require mechanical adjustments of the platform, constraining sensor movement and data collection capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A multi-axis self-contained sensor system with an inner spherical housing nested within an outer spherical housing, utilizing a suspending fluid layer to allow the inner housing to move freely along three degrees of freedom, coupled with wireless energy and control systems for unconstrained motion and sensor operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If traditional single-axis or dual-axis gimbal assemblies are used for directional sensors, then the sensor can be mounted on the platform, but the field of view is limited and mechanical adjustments of the platform are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested spherical structure where an inner spherical housing containing the sensor system is positioned within an outer spherical housing. This nesting arrangement allows the inner sphere to rotate freely within the outer sphere, providing multi-axis movement capability without requiring external mechanical adjustment mechanisms, thereby expanding the field of view while simplifying operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical gimbal assemblies with a fluid-based suspension system. The inner spherical housing is suspended in a viscous fluid within the outer spherical housing, allowing it to rotate freely in multiple axes without mechanical linkages or drive mechanisms. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical adjustments while maximizing the field of view.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional gimbal assemblies are used, then the sensor system can be installed, but mechanical constraints limit sensor movement and data collection capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes a viscous fluid (such as silicone oil) as a suspension medium within the outer spherical housing. The inner spherical housing containing the sensor system floats and rotates within this fluid, allowing for smooth, multi-axis movement without mechanical constraints. The fluid provides damping and support while enabling complete rotational freedom, greatly enhancing sensor movement capability and data collection versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the suspension medium to achieve the desired movement characteristics. By selecting a fluid with appropriate viscosity and density characteristics, the system enables the inner sphere to rotate freely in multiple axes while maintaining stable positioning. This parameter optimization allows unrestricted sensor movement without requiring complex mechanical guidance systems.
3Area of moving object
If the inner spherical housing is allowed to move freely in suspension fluid, then wider FOV and flexible positioning are achieved, but the system requires wireless energy transmission and control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical connections for power and control transmission with wireless electromagnetic field-based systems. Inductive coupling coils are positioned between the inner and outer spherical housings to transmit electrical energy and control signals wirelessly across the fluid gap. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical shafts or penetrations through the spherical housings, maintaining the integrity of the sealed, freely-moving sensor system while enabling power delivery and control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions into integrated components. The wireless power transmission and control signal transmission are achieved through the same inductive coupling mechanism, merging power delivery and data communication functions into a single interface. Additionally, the outer spherical housing serves both as a protective enclosure and as a component of the wireless energy transmission system, reducing overall system complexity despite the addition of wireless capabilities.
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 a wider FOV and flexible sensor positioning without mechanical constraints, enhancing data collection capabilities and durability by allowing the inner spherical housing to float within the outer protective sphere, thus overcoming the limitations of traditional gimbal assemblies.
Implementation Method 1
The inner spherical housing is configured to float in the suspension fluid so as to move according to three degrees of freedom with respect to the outer spherical housing
Implementation Method 2
coupling a plurality of receiving inductors and a plurality of steering receptors to the inner spherical housing. The method further includes wirelessly transmitting a control signal from an external source located remotely from the outer spherical housing to the plurality of receiving inductors and the plurality of steering receptors such that the plurality of receiving inductors and the plurality of steering receptors are energized
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-axis self-contained sensor system includes an outer spherical housing and an inner spherical housing. The outer spherical housing has a transparent spherical shell that surrounds a first cavity and having a first refractive index (RI). The inner spherical housing is in the first cavity and is completely surrounded by the outer spherical housing. The inner spherical housing has a first average density and includes a spherical wall that surrounds a second cavity. A sensor system is contained in the second cavity, and a suspending fluid layer is interposed between the outer spherical housing and the inner spherical housing. The suspending fluid layer is composed of a fluid having a second RI.