Ultrasonic Air Speed Sensor for Multi-Directional Measurement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Critical process environments require precise control of air quality and quantity, but existing air measurement devices lack the capability to simultaneously and accurately measure air speed in multiple directions and other parameters like temperature and humidity, especially in dynamic settings such as paint spray booths and healthcare environments.

Innovation Solution

A handheld air measuring device equipped with an ultrasonic anemometer that can detect air speed in two perpendicular directions, along with sensors for temperature and humidity, connected to a smart device for data processing and visualization, allowing for real-time monitoring and analysis in various critical environments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional air measurement devices are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but measurement precision and capability to measure multiple parameters simultaneously deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveair speed measurement precisionVSAvoiddevice structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple measurement functions (ultrasonic anemometer for air speed in two perpendicular directions, temperature sensor, and humidity sensor) into a single handheld device. This merging of previously separate measurement instruments enables simultaneous multi-parameter measurement while maintaining practical device portability and usability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The handheld device is designed as a universal measurement tool that can measure multiple air quality parameters (air speed, temperature, humidity) and provide real-time data processing. The device serves multiple measurement needs that previously required separate specialized instruments, making it adaptable to various critical process environment monitoring requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If existing air measurement devices are used, then device operation simplicity is maintained, but the ability to measure air flow in multiple directions simultaneously deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-directional measurement capabilityVSAvoiddevice operation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device integrates two ultrasonic anemometer sensors oriented in perpendicular directions within a single handheld unit, enabling simultaneous measurement of air flow in multiple directions. This combination eliminates the need for operators to manually reposition separate instruments, maintaining ease of operation while dramatically increasing measurement versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If comprehensive air quality monitoring is implemented, then air quality control improves, but data processing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveair quality control reliabilityVSAvoiddata processing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device incorporates real-time data processing and feedback mechanisms that immediately analyze measurements from the ultrasonic anemometer, temperature sensor, and humidity sensor. This continuous feedback loop enables reliable air quality control by providing instant information about environmental conditions, allowing for timely adjustments while managing data processing through integrated computational algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 device provides precise and comprehensive air quality data, enabling better control and optimization of air flow in manufacturing and healthcare settings, improving process efficiency and reducing contamination risks.

Implementation Method 1

sensor assembly (20) configured as an anemometer to detect air speed in two directions contemporaneously or substantially contemporaneously

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectUltrasonic time of flight: Time of Flight

Data Source

PatentUS12019093B2Air measuring device and methods of use
Publication Date: 2024.06.25 VIU INSIGHT INC
  • US12019093B2 patent drawing
  • US12019093B2 patent drawing
  • US12019093B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A handheld or mountable air measuring device includes a sensor assembly with sensors that measure airspeed simultaneously in two directions that are perpendicular to each other. The device includes a data protocol conversion board allowing the communication between the sensor assembly and a smart device included with or associated with the device. The smart device receives the airspeed data. The smart device includes a user interface that includes a map or layout of the environment within which the device is used. The data is displayed on the smart device on the map. The data can be processed locally or transmitted to a remote location for processing. One or more dashboards are generated from the data and accessible by the smart device or another computing device.