Stroke Sensor Module Structure for Low-Particle Smooth Movement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing stroke sensor modules face issues with fine particle generation due to the sliding contact between moving elements and the housing, which can lead to reduced accuracy and smooth movement over time.

Innovation Solution

The stroke sensor module incorporates moving elements and magnetic field generators with protrusions at different angular positions, guided by corresponding guide portions in the housing, to limit the contact area and prevent fine particle accumulation, ensuring stable and accurate movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the moving element slides on the main body of the housing, then the moving element can move smoothly in the housing, but fine particles are generated and accumulate, preventing smooth movement over time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesmooth movementVSAvoidfine particle generation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The moving element is segmented with multiple protrusions (first protrusions and second protrusions) that engage with corresponding guide portions in the housing. This segmentation limits the contact area to specific points rather than a continuous sliding surface, reducing fine particle generation while maintaining smooth movement through the guided protrusions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Duration of action of moving object

If the moving element slides on the main body, then movement is enabled, but contact area is large causing particle accumulation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemovement durabilityVSAvoidmovement smoothness
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the contact interface into discrete protrusions and guide portions, the patent reduces the contact area from a continuous surface to localized points. This segmentation prevents fine particle accumulation that would occur with continuous sliding, thereby maintaining movement smoothness and reliability over extended operational periods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The guide portions in the housing act as intermediaries that guide the protrusions of the moving element. This intermediary structure constrains the movement path and limits contact to specific regions, preventing the generation and accumulation of fine particles that would otherwise occur during continuous sliding contact.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

This design enhances the accuracy and longevity of the stroke sensor module by reducing fine particle generation and maintaining smooth movement, while allowing for precise calibration and integration with minimal installation errors.

Implementation Method 1

a magnetic field generator that is moved in the first direction together with the moving element; a magnetic field detecting element that detects movement of the magnetic field generator

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field generation: Electromagnet

Data Source

PatentUS11879754B2Stroke sensor module, structure and method for mounting stroke sensor module
Publication Date: 2024.01.23 TDK CORP
  • US11879754B2 patent drawing
  • US11879754B2 patent drawing
  • US11879754B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A stroke sensor module is provided in which the contact area where the moving element slides on the main body is limited.A stroke sensor module has: a moving element that is moved in a first direction; a magnetic field generator that is moved in the first direction together with the moving element; a magnetic field detecting element that detects movement of the magnetic field generator; and a housing that houses a part of the moving element and the magnetic field generator. At least either the moving element or the magnetic field generator has a plurality of protrusions that are provided at different angular positions, as viewed in the first direction, and the housing has guide portions that guide the protrusions.