Thermal Shielding Region for Gas Sensor During Disinfection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measurement apparatuses for incubators, particularly those used in biology and biotechnology, face challenges during disinfection as they are often damaged by high temperatures required for disinfection, and existing solutions do not effectively prevent condensation or provide reliable operation during disinfection processes.
Innovation Solution
A measurement apparatus with a housing made of low thermal conductivity materials, featuring a thermal shielding region that allows light to pass while minimizing heat transfer to the light sensor, and a gas-tight window to prevent moisture entry, enabling the apparatus to remain connected during high-temperature disinfection without damaging the sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the measurement apparatus remains connected during disinfection, then continuous operation and measurement are enabled, but the sensor may be damaged by high temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement apparatus is divided into two spatially separated parts: a first part (light source and measurement region) that remains in the chamber and a second part (light sensor and evaluation unit) that is positioned outside the chamber. This segmentation allows the sensitive sensor to be isolated from the harsh thermal environment while still enabling continuous measurement through the optical coupling across the chamber wall.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary structure (such as an optical window or transparent barrier) is introduced between the measurement region in the chamber and the light sensor outside the chamber. This intermediary allows optical signals to pass through while providing thermal isolation, protecting the sensor from direct exposure to high temperatures during disinfection processes.
2Temperature
If a housing with high thermal conductivity is used, then heat dissipation is improved, but the light sensor becomes vulnerable to heat damage
Solution Approach 1:
Different parts of the housing have different thermal conductivity properties. The housing structure is designed with low thermal conductivity materials in regions close to the light sensor to provide thermal protection, while other regions may have different thermal properties for structural integrity or heat dissipation from the light source. This localized differentiation of thermal properties protects the sensor without compromising overall system function.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the measurement apparatus is removed before disinfection, then the sensor is protected from heat damage, but continuous operation is interrupted and measurement time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the measurement apparatus into parts that can remain in the chamber and parts that can be protected outside, the system eliminates the need to remove the entire apparatus before disinfection. The segmented design allows the sensitive components to be isolated while maintaining continuous measurement capability throughout the disinfection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement apparatus is designed to maintain continuous operation during disinfection processes. The light source continues to emit light through the chamber wall, the optical signals continue to be transmitted through the intermediary structure, and the evaluation unit continues to process measurements outside the chamber, ensuring uninterrupted measurement throughout the disinfection cycle.
4Reliability
If sophisticated and expensive measurement apparatuses are used that can withstand high temperatures, then continuous operation during disinfection is enabled, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of designing a single monolithic apparatus that can withstand high temperatures throughout, the system segments the measurement function into two parts: a simple, inexpensive first part that can remain in the chamber and a second part with the sensitive sensor that is protected outside. This segmentation allows the use of cost-effective components while achieving the reliability of continuous operation during disinfection.
Solution Approach 2:
The first part of the measurement apparatus (light source and measurement region) can be designed as a simpler, more affordable component that does not require high-temperature resistance. By placing the sensitive and expensive sensor part outside the chamber in the second part, the system can use cheaper components in the high-temperature environment while maintaining overall reliability through the protected sensor configuration.
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 solution allows for reliable measurement of gaseous substance concentrations during disinfection, preventing damage to the apparatus and minimizing condensation, ensuring continuous operation and accurate readings.
Implementation Method 1
the light source is configured to emit light with a spectral distribution such that said light is absorbed at least partially and dependent on the concentration of said gaseous substance in said gaseous content
Implementation Method 2
the first housing member comprises a thermal shielding region facing or forming a part of said measurement region on its one side and facing said light sensor on its other side
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a measurement apparatus for measuring the concentration of a gaseous substance. The apparatus comprises a light source, a light sensor, and a housing comprising at least one first housing member having a low thermal conductivity. A light path is formed from said light source to said light sensor, wherein the light path passes through a measurement region within said housing. The light source is configured to emit light with a spectral distribution such that said light is absorbed by said gaseous substance. Said light sensor is configured to receive the light emitted by the light source after it has passed through the measurement region. The first housing member comprises a thermal shielding region facing said measurement region on its one side and said light sensor on its other side, and is configured to permit the passage of light.