Spring-Clamped Measuring Cell for Fast Precise Sensor Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measuring devices with disposable flow-through cells require precise manual assembly under clean-room conditions, which is time-consuming and challenging with protective gear, and lack efficient clamping mechanisms for stable sensor positioning.
Innovation Solution
A measuring cell with an integrated spring system that allows for easy clamping and stable positioning within a receptacle, enabling tool-free assembly and robust positioning under various conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual assembly with stud bolts is used to connect housing halves and measuring cell, then reliable connection is achieved, but assembly time increases and operation becomes difficult with protective gear
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the complex multi-bolt connection system and replaces it with a single lever actuator that engages with a latch mechanism. This simplifies the assembly operation to a single motion while maintaining reliable connection through the latch's positive engagement and spring-loaded holding force.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the manual multi-bolt mechanical assembly system with a lever-based mechanical advantage system. The lever provides mechanical advantage to engage the latch mechanism, reducing the effort and complexity required for assembly while maintaining secure connection.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple stud bolts are used to connect housing halves, then stable connection is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functions of multiple stud bolts into a single integrated latch mechanism. The latch combines positioning, securing, and alignment functions that were previously distributed across multiple bolts, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining connection stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded latch mechanism provides self-service by automatically maintaining connection force and compensating for tolerances. The spring ensures continuous contact and secure engagement without requiring precise manual adjustment, reducing the need for complex alignment features.
3Measurement precision
If precision assembly under clean-room conditions is required, then measurement precision is maintained, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The lever actuator is pre-positioned and spring-loaded to automatically engage the latch mechanism when activated. This preliminary positioning ensures that the measuring cell is correctly aligned and secured in a single motion, eliminating the need for multiple adjustment steps and maintaining precision while improving throughput.
Solution Approach 2:
The self-latching mechanism automatically maintains precise positioning once engaged, compensating for minor variations in assembly tolerances. This eliminates the need for manual fine-adjustment steps that would reduce productivity, while the spring-loaded design ensures consistent positioning precision.
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
Facilitates simple, cost-effective handling and replacement of disposable cells, ensuring precise and stable sensor alignment despite environmental variations.
Implementation Method 1
a spring system with which the measuring cell can be clamped in a measuring cell receptacle
Data Source
AI summary
A measuring device includes: a measuring cell, which can be manufactured cost-effectively and is easy to handle, insert and/or replace; a measuring cell receptacle for receiving the measuring cell, which is or can be clamped in the measuring cell receptacle; and a sensor for measuring for measuring at least one measured variable for a medium located in the measurement chamber or flowing through the measurement chamber of the measuring cell. The measuring cell includes a measurement chamber through which the medium can flow or which can be filled with a medium and a spring system with which the measuring cell can be clamped in the measuring cell receptacle in at least one clamping direction relating to a measurement chamber axis of the measurement chamber.