Wireless Force Sensor with Mechanical Interface for Retrofit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measurement devices are often tailored to specific machines and struggle to adapt to different tasks or environments, making it difficult and expensive to retrofit or modify them for new production chains, especially when sensors need to be placed in non-standard positions without hindering machine operation.
Innovation Solution
A compact, portable, and inexpensive measuring device with a transducer that converts applied forces into electrical signals for wireless transmission, featuring a mechanical interface with a detection portion that can be switched to apply forces to the transducer, allowing adaptation to various machine configurations and eliminating the need for external power or wires.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing measurement devices are tailored to specific machines, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a universal mounting system with multiple mounting positions and orientations on a single machine component, allowing the same sensor to be adapted to different measurement locations without requiring custom-designed devices for each position
2Adaptability or versatility
If sensors are placed in non-standard positions, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into modular components including the sensor element, mounting bracket, and connection interfaces, allowing flexible assembly and configuration for different measurement positions while maintaining simple individual component designs
3Use of energy by moving object
If wires and external power sources are used, then energy supply is improved, but safety deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is equipped with an integrated power source and signal processing electronics housed within the sensor body itself, eliminating the need for external wiring and power connections, thereby removing safety hazards associated with exposed wires in machine environments
4Ease of operation
If compact portable design is used, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The device replaces complex mechanical mounting and adjustment mechanisms with integrated positioning features and flexible mounting options, achieving compact portable design while maintaining measurement precision through advanced sensor technology rather than mechanical complexity
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 efficient data acquisition from machines without hindering their operation, allowing for flexible placement and reduced risk of machine disruption or sensor damage, while eliminating the need for batteries or wires, thus enhancing safety and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
a transducer (21) having a measuring portion (21a), the transducer (21) being configured to harvest and convert the energy associated with a force applied to the measuring portion (21a) and to convert it into an electrical signal supplied to the acquisition unit (2)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A measuring device (1) suitable for different types of machines and usable in retrofit operations comprises a transducer (21) configured to convert a force into an electrical signal. A sending unit (22) is connected to the transducer (21) and is preferably powered by the transducer (21). The sending unit (22) is configured to receive and process the electrical signal, and to transmit a wireless signal indicative of the application of force to the transducer (21). A mechanical interface (3) is associated with the acquisition unit (2), and can be switched from an inactive configuration to an active configuration upon the application of a mechanical action on a detection portion (31a). The mechanical interface (3) is configured to apply a force to the transducer (21) in the active configuration. The mechanical interface (3) preferably includes a lever (31) acting on a piston (32). Further conversion members (6) can be provided to adapt the respective physical quantities to be measured to the interface (6).