Wireless Pressure Sensor Module for Fluid Line Monitoring

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing pressure measurement devices in fluid lines, such as hydraulic systems, are complex to use, exposed to external influences that affect accuracy, and require significant installation space and mechanical connections for data recording.

Innovation Solution

A device with a permanently connected housing part and sensor module for wireless pressure measurement, using a passive transponder for energy supply and data transmission, eliminating the need for mechanical connections and allowing for easy repairs and installation, with optional temperature measurement capabilities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If measuring devices are permanently installed in fluid lines, then pressure measurement is continuous and simple, but the devices are exposed to external influences that impair measuring accuracy and require considerable installation space

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The device is segmented into two separate components: a permanently installed sensor module that remains protected in the fluid line, and a portable reading device that is only temporarily connected for measurement. This segmentation allows the sensor to stay protected while enabling simple measurement operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A coupling device acts as an intermediary between the sensor module and the reading device. It provides a protected interface that allows the reading device to connect to the sensor without exposing the sensor itself to external influences, thus maintaining measurement accuracy while enabling simple operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If measuring devices are permanently installed in fluid lines, then pressure measurement is continuous, but considerable installation space is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor module is nested within the existing fluid line infrastructure through the coupling device, which integrates into the fluid line without requiring separate mounting space. The reading device is a compact portable unit that can be stored when not in use, minimizing installation space requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Area of stationary object

If measuring devices are permanently installed, then installation space is reduced, but complex mechanical connections are required for data recording

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device replaces complex mechanical connections for data recording with wireless communication. The sensor module transmits measurement data wirelessly to the reading device, eliminating the need for mechanical data connection mechanisms while maintaining compact installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling device serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical connection to the fluid line, protects the sensor module, enables data transmission, and allows portable reading device connection. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity despite the compact design.

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

4Area of stationary object

If portable measuring devices are used, then installation space is reduced, but complex connection procedures are required before measurement

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor module is pre-installed and permanently connected to the fluid line through the coupling device before any measurement is needed. This preliminary installation eliminates the need for complex connection procedures during actual measurement operations, as the sensor is already in position and ready to receive the portable reading device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 simple, accurate, and space-efficient pressure measurement in fluid lines with reduced exposure to external influences, facilitating easy data transmission and component replacement.

Implementation Method 1

The electric field generated by the reader indicates an electric current in the passive transponder that the sensor module is supplied with the required energy.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP2784464B1Pressure-sensing device in a fluid line
Publication Date: 2016.07.27
  • EP2784464B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2784464B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The device (1) comprises a housing part (2), which is connected to a fluid line and has a measurement channel (23), into which a sensor module (3) for pressure measurement is introduced. The sensor module is connected to a transmission module for wireless transfer of the measurement data detected by the sensor module. The device is designed for external wireless power supply of the sensor module. A closure cap (7) is made of plastic, particularly an elastomer plastic.