18321456. Electronic Devices With Multi-Function Environmental Sensors simplified abstract (Apple Inc.)
Electronic Devices With Multi-Function Environmental Sensors
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
Michael J Glickman of Mountain View CA (US)
David Macneil of San Mateo CA (US)
John P Bergen of San Jose CA (US)
Electronic Devices With Multi-Function Environmental Sensors - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18321456 titled 'Electronic Devices With Multi-Function Environmental Sensors
Simplified Explanation
The electronic device described in the patent application includes an environmental sensor that can function as an anemometer, thermometer, bolometer, and heat flux sensor. The sensor consists of a metal layer that can be heated to measure air speed, detect solar radiation, and measure heat flux.
- The sensor can operate as an anemometer by heating the metal layer and calculating air speed based on the temperature decay.
- To function as a bolometer, the metal layer has different optical properties in different portions, allowing for the measurement of solar radiation based on heating/cooling differences.
- As a heat flux sensor, the device uses different metals to measure Seebeck voltages between them, providing information on heat transfer.
Potential Applications
The technology can be used in weather stations, environmental monitoring systems, and solar energy systems.
Problems Solved
This innovation solves the problem of accurately measuring environmental conditions such as air speed, solar radiation, and heat flux in a compact and efficient manner.
Benefits
The device offers precise measurements of various environmental parameters, contributing to better decision-making in various fields such as meteorology, energy management, and environmental science.
Potential Commercial Applications
- Improving weather forecasting accuracy
- Enhancing solar energy system efficiency
- Optimizing HVAC systems in buildings
Original Abstract Submitted
An electronic device may include an environmental sensor. In particular, the sensor may include a layer of metal and be operable as an anemometer, a thermometer, a bolometer, and/or a heat flux sensor. To operate as an anemometer or thermometer, circuitry may heat the layer of metal and calculate an air speed based on a decay of the metal temperature. To operate as a bolometer, a first portion of the metal may have a first optical absorption/insulation (e.g., be insulated), while a second portion may have a second optical absorption/insulation (e.g., be uncoated). Differences in heating/cooling of the first and second portions may be used to measure solar radiation. To operate as a heat flux sensor, different metals may be used, and Seebeck voltages between the different metals may be measured. The metal may be deposited on the housing or may be incorporated into a mesh on the device.
