Fluid level sensor with capacitive touch function field configurator

Abstract

Systems, devices, and methods are provided for a fluid level sensor that includes a fluid level sensing panel, a touch sensing panel, and a control unit. The fluid level sensing plate includes a plate of conductive material. The touch sensing plate includes a conductive material plate. A control unit is coupled to the fluid level sensing plate and the touch sensing plate. The control unit is configured to determine a fluid presence based on fluid level data from the fluid level sensing plate and to determine a touch input based on touch data from the touch sensing plate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates throughout to systems, apparatus, and methods for fluid level sensing. In particular, embodiments of this disclosure relate to systems, apparatus, and methods for fluid level sensors having a capacitive touch functional field configurator. Background Technology

[0002] Capacitive sensing is a common technique for detecting liquids in containers (e.g., tanks, pipes, or other containers). Capacitive sensors typically monitor the electric field generated by a level sensor and a corresponding reference electrode. Because the dielectric constant of the fluid in the container differs from that of the gas (i.e., the space above the fluid but still within the container), the level of the fluid affects this electric field. As the fluid level changes, the rates of change of both the fluid's and the gas's dielectric constants also alter the capacitance established by the level sensor. These capacitive sensors are available in both continuous and single-point types.

[0003] The need to proactively identify the presence of liquids in containers is crucial for many process control applications, including but not limited to: medical devices, food and beverage processing, pharmaceutical production, water treatment plants, semiconductor processing equipment, 3D printing, and agricultural applications.

[0004] When the sensor is considered non-contact (i.e., mounted on the outside of the container wall), it is often desirable to field-configure the device to adapt to changing physical conditions. A common approach to doing this outside of dedicated communication protocols is to include a "teaching function" line in the sensor's wiring harness. However, implementing such a teaching function incurs additional costs, additional power consumption, and additional design complexity. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Advantageously, some of the specific embodiments discussed herein provide a convenient touch feature on the fluid level sensor, which can be used to enable a field-configurable mode without requiring a "teach function line" or providing external power to said line. In some embodiments, the touch feature is a capacitive touch sensor, but it could also be a button, inserting and removing a conductive rod into a recess, or any other form.

[0006] As will be described in more detail below, in some specific embodiments discussed herein, systems, apparatus, and methods are provided for a fluid level sensor comprising: a fluid level sensing plate, a touch sensing plate, and a control unit. The fluid level sensing plate includes a conductive material plate. The touch sensing plate includes a conductive material plate. The control unit is coupled to the fluid level sensing plate and the touch sensing plate. The control unit is configured to determine the presence of fluid based on fluid level data from the fluid level sensing plate, and to determine touch input based on touch data from the touch sensing plate.

[0007] In one example, a method includes positioning a fluid level sensor on the outside of a container. In this example, the fluid level in the container is adjusted to a first fluid level. A touch-sensitive panel via the level sensor can sense user touch input. In response to sensing user touch input, the fluid level sensor can be driven from an operating mode to a configuration mode. In response to sensing user touch input and in response to sensing the first fluid level, the fluid level sensor can be reprogrammed to accept the first fluid level condition.

[0008] In another example, a fluid level sensor includes a housing, a fluid level sensing plate, a touch device, and a control unit. The fluid level sensing plate includes a conductive material plate. The fluid level sensing plate and the touch device are located within the housing. The control unit is coupled to the fluid level sensing plate and the touch device. The control unit is configured to determine the presence of fluid based on fluid level data from the fluid level sensing plate, and to determine touch input based on touch data from the touch device.

[0009] The present invention is provided to introduce a series of concepts in a simplified form, which are further described in the detailed embodiments below. The above-described invention and the detailed embodiments described below will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The present invention is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to help determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. Attached Figure Description

[0010] The foregoing and other features and advantages will be discussed in detail in the following non-limiting description of specific embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0011] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a fluid level sensor according to an example of the present disclosure is shown;

[0012] Figure 2 A cross-sectional side view of a fluid level sensor according to an example of this disclosure is illustrated;

[0013] Figure 3This is a flowchart illustrating an example method for reprogramming a fluid level sensor according to an example of this disclosure;

[0014] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustration of another example method for reprogramming a fluid level sensor according to the examples of this disclosure;

[0015] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustration of another example method for reprogramming a fluid level sensor according to the examples of this disclosure;

[0016] Figure 6 This is an example flowchart illustrating another example method for reprogramming a fluid level sensor according to this disclosure;

[0017] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating a computer program product according to an example of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating an example fluid transport apparatus according to an example of this disclosure; and

[0019] Figure 9 This is a block diagram illustrating a hardware device including a semiconductor package according to an example of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0020] As will be described in more detail below, in some specific implementations discussed herein, instead of powering the teach line in a specific sequence to force the fluid level sensor into a configuration mode, the user can drive the fluid level sensor into a configuration mode by placing their finger or other suitable conductive surface on a touch sensor pad or other touch device in a predetermined sequence (e.g., a specific number of touches within a specific time period). Thus, the user physically creates a "dry" sensor condition and then "teaches" the fluid level sensor to accept the new condition by placing their finger back on the touch sensor pad or other touch device for a predetermined time (or some other predetermined sequence). The user then physically places the fluid level sensor in a "wet" condition and "teaches" it to accept the new condition by placing their finger back on the touch sensor pad or other touch device for a predetermined time (or some other predetermined sequence). Finally, the user waits for an indication from the fluid level sensor (such as a specific pattern of flashing LEDs) as confirmation that the new configuration has been successfully accepted by the fluid level sensor. This process can be repeated as needed.

[0021] Figure 1A schematic diagram of a fluid level sensor 100 according to an example of the present disclosure is illustrated. As will be discussed in more detail below, the fluid level sensor 100 includes a fluid level sensing plate 102, a touch device 104, and a control unit 106.

[0022] The fluid level sensing plate 102 includes a conductive material (e.g., copper, etc.) plate paired with a corresponding reference electrode. The fluid level sensing plate 102 monitors the electric field generated by the conductive material plate and the corresponding reference electrode. In some embodiments, the fluid level sensing plate 102 is a continuous sensing plate for measuring various fluid levels. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the fluid level sensing plate 102 is a point sensing plate for measuring the presence or absence of fluid.

[0023] The touch device 104 can be implemented as a touch sensing plate comprising a conductive material (e.g., copper) plate paired with a corresponding reference electrode. The touch device 104 monitors the electric field generated by the conductive material plate and the corresponding reference electrode. Alternatively, the touch device 104 can be implemented as a button, inserting and removing a conductive rod from a cartridge, or any other form.

[0024] For example, the button implementation will utilize a momentary normally open switch and a pull-up resistor connected to one of the I / O pins of the control unit 106. Therefore, instead of using a finger to activate the conductive material plate, the user's touch will close the open switch to activate the touch device 104.

[0025] In another example, the conductive rod implementation will function similarly to a touch sensing panel that includes a conductive material plate. However, instead of using a finger to activate the conductive material plate, a conductive rod in a dark chamber will be used to activate the conductive material plate in response to a user pressing the conductive rod. The dark chamber includes a hole for holding the conductive rod. This hole is formed in the housing of the fluid level sensor 100 (see, for example, below regarding...). Figure 2 In the described housing 200, the hole does not completely penetrate the fluid level sensor 100, or in other words, the hole is a closed end hole. In this case, the conductive rod is inserted into the dark box, in which the conductive rod will not directly contact any conductive terminal (such as a conductive material plate). The conductive rod in close proximity to the conductive material plate will cause a change in capacitance and will be detected as a switch closure.

[0026] Control unit 106 is coupled to fluid level sensing plate 102 and touch device 104. For example, control unit 106 may be coupled to fluid level sensing plate 102 and touch device 104 via capacitive sensor unit 112. Control unit 106 is configured to determine the presence of fluid based on fluid level data from fluid level sensing plate 102, and to determine touch input based on touch data from touch sensing plate 104.

[0027] The capacitive sensor unit 112 converts the output from the fluid level sensing plate 102 into fluid level data and the output from the touch device 104 into touch data for use by the control unit 106. For example, the capacitive sensor unit 112 can be a commercially available capacitive sensor (e.g., from Texas Instruments). TM Part number FDC1004).

[0028] The input / output unit 114 is coupled to the control unit 106. The input / output unit 114 includes a linear regulator to maintain a stable output voltage of the fluid level sensor 100.

[0029] Connection unit 116 is coupled to input / output unit 114. Connection unit 116 provides power connection, grounding connection and data output connection for fluid level sensor 100.

[0030] The control unit 106 is also coupled to a light-emitting device. As shown, the control unit 106 is coupled to a first light-emitting diode (LED) 110 (exemplified here as a red LED, but another color and / or another type of light-emitting device may be used) to indicate that the fluid level sensor 100 is energized and to indicate the reprogramming status of the fluid level sensor 100; and is coupled to a second LED 108 (exemplified here as a green LED, but another color and / or another type of light-emitting device may be used) to indicate when the output of the fluid level sensor 100 is valid.

[0031] In operation, the fluid level sensor 100 is positioned on the outside of the container. In such an example, the fluid level in the container is adjusted to a first fluid level (e.g., a dry fluid level in an embodiment where the fluid level sensing plate 102 is a point sensing plate, or a low fluid level in an embodiment where the fluid level sensing plate 102 is a continuous sensing plate). A touch device 104 can be used to sense user touch input via the fluid level sensor 100. In response to sensing user touch input via the touch device 104, the fluid level sensor 100 can be driven from an operating mode to a configuration mode. In response to sensing user touch input and in response to sensing a first fluid level, the fluid level sensor 100 can be reprogrammed to accept a first fluid level condition (e.g., a dry condition in an embodiment where the fluid level sensing plate 102 is a point sensing plate, or a low fluid level condition in an embodiment where the fluid level sensing plate 102 is a continuous sensing plate). Subsequently, the fluid level in the container can be adjusted to a second fluid level (e.g., a wet fluid level in an embodiment where the fluid level sensing plate 102 is a point sensing plate, or a high fluid level in an embodiment where the fluid level sensing plate 102 is a continuous sensing plate). Then, in response to sensing a user's touch input via the touch device 104 and in response to sensing the second fluid level, the fluid level sensor 100 can be reprogrammed to accept the second fluid level condition (e.g., a wet condition in an embodiment where the fluid level sensing plate 102 is a point sensing plate, or a high fluid level condition in an embodiment where the fluid level sensing plate 102 is a continuous sensing plate). After reprogramming to accept both the first and second fluid level conditions, a visual indication of reprogramming completion can be output via LED 110.

[0032] Figure 2 A cross-sectional side view of a fluid level sensor 100 according to an example of this disclosure is illustrated. As will be discussed in more detail below, the fluid level sensor 100 can be attached to a container 202 containing liquid 204.

[0033] The fluid level sensor 100 includes a housing 200 having a container sidewall 206 and an outer sidewall 208 positioned opposite the container sidewall 206. As shown, the outer sidewall 208 may have a dome shape, but other shapes may be used. As shown, the container sidewall 206 may have a flat shape or a curved shape suitable for the shape of the container 202, but other shapes may also be used.

[0034] The fluid level sensing plate 102 is located inside the housing 200 and coupled to the container sidewall 206. Similarly, the touch device 104 is located inside the housing 200 and coupled to the outer wall 208.

[0035] In some embodiments, the housing 200 is sealed to prevent the ingress of water and dust. In some examples, the housing 200 is at least one of transparent or translucent. Therefore, the light-emitting devices 108 and / or 110 located within the housing 200... Figure 1 (As illustrated in the example) can illuminate the housing 200.

[0036] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of method 300 for reprogramming a fluid level sensor. Method 300 can typically be implemented in a device, such as, for example, the fluid level sensor 100 already discussed. Figure 1 ) and / or fluid level sensor 100 ( Figure 2 ).

[0037] The illustrated processing block 302 is used to position the fluid level sensor. For example, the fluid level sensor can be positioned on the outside of the container.

[0038] The illustrated processing block 304 is used to adjust the fluid level in the container. For example, adjusting the fluid level in the container to a first fluid level.

[0039] In some specific embodiments, where the fluid level sensing plate is a point sensing plate used to measure the presence or absence of fluid, the first fluid level condition is a dry condition or a wet condition. Alternatively, in a specific embodiment where the fluid level sensing plate is a continuous sensing plate suitable for measuring various fluid levels, the first fluid level condition is a low fluid level condition or a high fluid level condition.

[0040] The illustrated processing block 306 is used to sense user touch input. For example, a touch sensor panel via a fluid level sensor can sense user touch input.

[0041] The illustrated processing block 308 is used to drive the fluid level sensor from an operating mode to a configuration mode. For example, in response to sensing a user's touch input, the fluid level sensor can be driven from an operating mode to a configuration mode.

[0042] The illustrated processing block 310 is used to reprogram the fluid level sensor. For example, in response to sensing a user's touch input and in response to sensing a first fluid level, the fluid level sensor can be reprogrammed to accept a first fluid level condition.

[0043] The following text is about Figures 4 to 6 Additional or alternative details of method 300 are described.

[0044] Figure 4This is a flowchart of another example of method 400 for reprogramming a fluid level sensor, based on the example. Method 600 can typically be implemented in a device, such as, for example, the fluid level sensor 100 already discussed. Figure 1 ) and / or fluid level sensor 100 ( Figure 2 ).

[0045] The illustrated processing block 402 is used to adjust the fluid level in the container. For example, the fluid level in the container can be adjusted to a second fluid level.

[0046] In some specific embodiments, where the fluid level sensing plate is a point sensing plate used to measure the presence or absence of fluid, the first fluid level condition is a dry condition, and the second fluid level condition is a wet condition (or vice versa). Alternatively, in a specific embodiment where the fluid level sensing plate is a continuous sensing plate suitable for measuring various fluid levels, the first fluid level condition is a low fluid level condition, and the second fluid level condition is a high fluid level condition (or vice versa).

[0047] The illustrated processing block 404 is used to reprogram the fluid level sensor. For example, in response to sensing a user's touch input and in response to sensing a second fluid level, the fluid level sensor can be reprogrammed to accept a second fluid level condition.

[0048] The illustrated processing block 406 is used to output a visual indication that the reprogramming is complete. For example, after the reprogramming accepts a first fluid level condition and a second fluid level condition, a visual indication that the reprogramming is complete can be output.

[0049] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of another example of a method 500 for reprogramming a fluid level sensor, based on the example. Method 500 can typically be implemented in a device, such as, for example, the fluid level sensor 100 already discussed. Figure 1 ) and / or fluid level sensor 100 ( Figure 2 ).

[0050] In the example, method 500 (and method 600) may be implemented as computer-readable instructions (e.g., software), configurable computer-readable instructions (e.g., firmware), fixed-function computer-readable instructions (e.g., hardware), or any combination thereof.

[0051] It should be understood that some or all of the operations in method 500 (and method 600) described using a "pull" architecture (e.g., polling for new information and then providing a corresponding response) can be implemented using a "push" architecture (e.g., sending such information when there is new information to report) and vice versa.

[0052] The illustrated processing blocks 502 to 554 illustrate a specific implementation of a point sensing plate for measuring the presence and absence of fluid, programming dry and wet conditions. The time periods used in the various operations are merely examples, and other time periods can be used. Similarly, the various flashing patterns in the various operations are merely examples, and other flashing patterns can be used.

[0053] The illustrated processing block 502 is for normal operating conditions. At block 504, it is confirmed that a switch (e.g., a touch device) has been pressed for a period of time (e.g., more than three seconds). At block 506, a red LED (in some embodiments, a different colored LED may be used) repeatedly indicates a signal to be set to the drying state (e.g., a single flash).

[0054] At box 508, a determination is made regarding whether the switch has been released. At box 510, if the switch has been released, the system will be set to a dry state. At box 512, a determination is made that the switch has been pressed for a period of time (e.g., more than three seconds). At box 514, the red LED repeatedly indicates the signal to be set to a wet state (e.g., double flash). At box 516, the system will be set to a wet state.

[0055] At box 518, it is determined that the switch has been pressed for a period of time (e.g., more than three seconds). At box 520, a new calibration is calculated based on the newly set dry and wet conditions (e.g., the settings are considered to be thresholds for wet and dry conditions).

[0056] At box 522, a determination is made as to whether the value from the new calibration is valid (e.g., whether the value is meaningful). For example, a determination is made as to whether there is sufficient dynamic range (e.g., exceeding a threshold) between dry and wet conditions, and that an error will occur if the dry and wet values ​​are too close to each other. If not, at box 524, the red LED repeatedly indicates an invalid value (e.g., flashes rapidly for six seconds), and the system returns to normal operation. If the value is valid, at box 526, the device (e.g., a fluid level sensor) is updated with the new calibration. At box 528, the red LED repeatedly indicates that the device has been updated with the new calibration (e.g., flashes slowly for six seconds), and the system returns to normal operation.

[0057] At box 530, if the switch has not been released at box 508, method 500 continues to box 530, where a determination is made that the switch has been pressed for more than six seconds. In response, at box 532, a red LED repeatedly indicates the signal of the current output configuration mode. For example, one slow flash and one fast flash can indicate a valid sinking output configuration (e.g., the device provides a ground path to the load when it determines that fluid is present), one slow flash and two fast flashes can indicate a valid drying sinking output configuration (e.g., the device provides a ground path to the load when it determines that no fluid is present), one slow flash and three fast flashes can indicate a valid sourcing configuration (e.g., the device supplies power to the load when it determines that fluid is present), and one slow flash and four fast flashes can indicate a valid drying source output configuration (e.g., the device supplies power to the load when it determines that no fluid is present). For example, in industry, "sinking" means providing the low side of the load or ground, while "sourcing" means providing power to the load. Therefore, sinking provides ground, while sourcing provides power.

[0058] At box 534, a determination is made regarding whether the switch has been released. If the switch has not been released at box 534, method 500 proceeds to box 536, where a determination is made that the switch has been pressed for more than fifteen seconds. When this occurs, at box 538, a red LED repeatedly indicates an error signal (e.g., rapid flashing for six seconds). At box 540, a determination is made that a switch error has been detected, and the switch will be deactivated until the next power cycle, and the system returns to normal operation.

[0059] If the switch has been released at box 534, method 500 proceeds to box 542, where it is determined that the output configuration is valid. At box 544, it is determined whether the switch has been pressed for one to two seconds. If the switch has been pressed for one to two seconds at box 544, method 500 proceeds to box 546, where the next output configuration is selected (e.g., alternating between an effective humidified leak output configuration, an effective dry leak output configuration, an effective humidified source output configuration, and an effective dry source output configuration, as described above). At box 548, the red LED repeatedly indicates the signal of the selected output configuration mode (e.g., one slow flash and one fast flash, one slow flash and two fast flashes, one slow flash and three fast flashes, or one slow flash and four fast flashes).

[0060] If the switch at box 544 has not been pressed for one to two seconds, method 500 proceeds to box 550, where a determination is made as to whether the switch has been pressed for more than six seconds. If so, method 500 proceeds to box 552, where the device is updated with the selected configuration (e.g., effective humidification leak-type output configuration, effective drying leak-type output configuration, effective humidification source-type output configuration, or effective drying source-type output configuration). At box 528, the red LED repeatedly indicates the signal updated with the newly selected configuration (e.g., slow flashing for six seconds), and the system returns to normal operation.

[0061] Additionally, during the operation of method 500, whenever the switch is in an active operating state, the green LED (in some specific implementations, LEDs of different colors may be used) will flash.

[0062] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of another example of a method 600 for reprogramming a fluid level sensor, based on the example. Method 600 can typically be implemented in a device, such as, for example, the fluid level sensor 100 already discussed. Figure 1 ) and / or fluid level sensor 100 ( Figure 2 ).

[0063] The illustrated processing blocks 602 to 642 illustrate a specific implementation of a continuous sensing plate for measuring various fluid levels, programming dry and wet conditions. The time periods used in the various operations are merely examples, and other time periods can be used. Similarly, the various flashing patterns in the various operations are merely examples, and other flashing patterns can be used.

[0064] The illustrated processing block 602 is for normal operating conditions. At block 604, it is confirmed that a switch (e.g., a touch device) has been pressed for a period of time (e.g., more than three seconds). At block 606, a red LED (in some embodiments, a different colored LED may be used) repeatedly indicates the signal to begin the calibration process (e.g., a single flash).

[0065] At box 608, a determination is made regarding whether the switch has been released. If not, method 600 continues to box 606. If yes, method 600 continues to box 610, where a determination is made to begin the calibration process.

[0066] At box 612, confirmation is made that a switch (e.g., a touch device) has been pressed for a period of time (e.g., more than three seconds). At box 614, a red LED repeatedly indicates a signal to be set to a low fluid level condition (e.g., rapid flashing).

[0067] At box 616, a determination is made as to whether the switch has been released. If not, method 600 continues to box 614. If yes, method 600 proceeds to box 618, where there is a three-second delay. At box 620, the low fluid level condition is sampled. At box 622, a red LED repeatedly indicates that the low fluid level condition has been set (e.g., double flash).

[0068] At box 624, confirmation is made that a switch (e.g., a touch device) has been pressed for a period of time (e.g., more than three seconds). At box 626, a red LED repeatedly indicates a signal to be set to a high fluid level condition (e.g., rapidly flashing).

[0069] At box 628, a determination is made as to whether the switch has been released. If not, method 600 continues to box 626. If yes, method 600 proceeds to box 630, where there is a three-second delay at box 618. At box 632, the high-level fluid condition is sampled. At box 634, the level scale is calculated based on the set low-level fluid condition (e.g., set to 0% full) and the set high-level fluid condition (e.g., set to 100% full).

[0070] At box 636, a determination is made regarding the validity of the value from the calculated level scale (e.g., whether the value is meaningful). For example, a determination is made regarding whether there is sufficient dynamic range (e.g., exceeding a threshold) between low and high level fluid conditions, and an error occurs if the low and high level fluid values ​​are too close to each other. If yes, at box 640, the fluid level sensor is updated. At box 640, a red LED repeatedly indicates that the fluid level sensor has been updated (e.g., a slow flash for six seconds), and the system returns to normal operation. If no, at box 642, a red LED repeatedly indicates that some error has occurred (e.g., a rapid flash for six seconds), and the system returns to normal operation.

[0071] Additionally, during the operation of method 600, the green LED (in some specific implementations, a different colored LED may be used) will flash whenever the switch is active.

[0072] Figure 7 A block diagram of example computer program product 700 is shown. In some examples, such as... Figure 7As shown, the computer program product 700 includes a machine-readable storage device 702, which may further include computer-readable instructions 704. In some embodiments, the machine-readable storage device 702 may be implemented as a non-transitory machine-readable storage device. In some embodiments, the computer-readable instructions 704 may, for example, be implemented as software. In the example, the computer-readable instructions 704, when executed by the processor 706, implement the method 300 already discussed. Figure 3 Method 400 Figure 4 Method 500 Figure 5 ) and / or method 600 ( Figure 6 One or more aspects of ).

[0073] Figure 8 An exemplary example of device 800 is shown. In the illustrated example, device 800 may include processor 802 and memory 804 communicatively coupled to processor 802. Memory 804 may include computer-readable instructions 806, which may be implemented as software, for example. In the example, computer-readable instructions 806, when executed by processor 802, implement the method 300 already discussed. Figure 3 Method 400 Figure 4 Method 500 Figure 5 ) and / or method 600 ( Figure 6 One or more aspects of ).

[0074] In some specific implementations, processor 802 may include a general-purpose controller, a special-purpose controller, a memory controller, a memory manager, a memory controller, a microcontroller, a general-purpose processor, a special-purpose processor, a central processing unit (CPU), and / or combinations thereof.

[0075] Furthermore, specific implementations may include distributed processing, component / object distributed processing, parallel processing, and / or combinations thereof. For example, a virtual computer system may implement one or more of the methods or functions described herein, and the processor 802 described herein may be used to support such virtual processing.

[0076] In some examples, memory 804 is an example of a computer-readable storage medium. For example, memory 804 can be any memory accessible to processor 802, including but not limited to RAM memory, registers and register files, and / or combinations thereof. The reference to “computer memory” or “memory” should be understood as potentially including multiple memories. A memory can be, for example, multiple memories within the same computer system. A memory can also be multiple memories distributed across multiple computer systems or computing devices.

[0077] Figure 9An exemplary semiconductor device 900 (e.g., a chip and / or package) is illustrated. The illustrated device 900 includes one or more substrates 902 (e.g., silicon, sapphire, or gallium arsenide) and computer-readable instructions 904 coupled to the substrates 902 (such as configurable computer-readable instructions (e.g., firmware) and / or computer-readable instructions with fixed functions (e.g., hardware)). In this example, the computer-readable instructions 904 implement the method 300 already discussed. Figure 3 Method 400 Figure 4 Method 500 Figure 5 ) and / or method 600 ( Figure 6 One or more aspects of ).

[0078] In some implementations, the computer-readable instructions 904 may include transistor arrays and / or other integrated circuit (IC) components. For example, configurable firmware logic and / or fixed-function hardware logic implementations of the computer-readable instructions 904 may include: configurable computer-readable instructions, such as, for example, programmable logic arrays (PLAs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs); or fixed-function computer-readable instructions (e.g., hardware) that use circuit technologies such as, for example, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) or transistor-transistor logic (TTL) technologies; and / or combinations thereof.

[0079] Additional notes and examples:

[0080] Clause 1 is a fluid level sensor comprising: a fluid level sensing plate including a conductive material plate; a touch sensing plate including a conductive material plate; and a control unit coupled to the fluid level sensing plate and the touch sensing plate, the control unit being configured to: determine the presence of fluid based on fluid level data from the fluid level sensing plate; and determine touch input based on touch data from the touch sensing plate.

[0081] Clause 2 includes the fluid level sensor according to Clause 1, further comprising: a housing having a container sidewall and an outer sidewall positioned opposite to the container sidewall; wherein the fluid level sensing plate is located within the housing and coupled to the container sidewall; and wherein the touch sensing plate is located within the housing and coupled to the outer sidewall.

[0082] Clause 3 includes the fluid level sensor described in Clause 2, wherein the housing is sealed to prevent the intrusion of water and dust.

[0083] Clause 4 includes a fluid level sensor according to any one of Clauses 2 to 3, wherein the housing is at least one of transparent or translucent.

[0084] Clause 5 includes a fluid level sensor according to any one of Clauses 2 to 4, and further includes a light-emitting device output section coupled to the control unit to illuminate the housing.

[0085] Clause 6 includes the fluid level sensor as described in Clause 5, wherein the light-emitting device includes a first light-emitting diode (LED) and a second LED, the first LED being used to convey that the fluid level sensor is energized and to convey the reprogramming status of the fluid level sensor, and the second LED being used to indicate when the output of the fluid level sensor is valid.

[0086] Clause 7 includes a fluid level sensor according to any one of Clauses 1 to 6, wherein the fluid level sensor further includes a capacitive sensor unit for converting the output from the fluid level sensing plate into fluid level data and the output from the touch sensing plate into touch data, wherein the control unit is coupled to the fluid level sensing plate and the touch sensing plate via the capacitive sensor unit; an input / output unit coupled to the control unit, the input / output unit including a linear regulator to maintain a stable output voltage of the fluid level sensor; and a connection unit coupled to the input / output unit, the connection unit providing a power connection, a ground connection and a data output connection for the fluid level sensor.

[0087] Clause 8 includes a fluid level sensor according to any one of Clauses 1 to 7, wherein the fluid level sensing plate is a continuous sensing plate for measuring various fluid levels.

[0088] Clause 9 includes a fluid level sensor according to any one of Clauses 1 to 7, wherein the fluid level sensing plate is a point sensing plate for measuring the presence and absence of fluid.

[0089] Clause 10 includes a fluid level sensor according to any one of Clauses 1 to 9, wherein the fluid level sensing plate and the touch sensing plate are made of copper.

[0090] Item 11 is a method comprising: positioning a fluid level sensor on the outside of a container; adjusting the fluid level in the container to a first fluid level; sensing touch input from a user via a touch sensor panel of the fluid level sensor; driving the fluid level sensor from an operating mode to a configuration mode in response to sensing the touch input from the user; and reprogramming the fluid level sensor to accept a first fluid level condition in response to sensing the touch input from the user and in response to sensing the first fluid level.

[0091] Clause 12 includes the method described in Clause 11, further comprising: adjusting the fluid level in the container to a second fluid level; and reprogramming the fluid level sensor to accept the second fluid level condition in response to sensing the user's touch input and in response to sensing the second fluid level.

[0092] Clause 13 includes the method described in accordance with Clause 12, wherein the first fluid level condition is a dry condition and the second fluid level condition is a wet condition.

[0093] Clause 14 includes the method described in accordance with Clause 12, wherein the first fluid level condition is a low fluid level condition and the second fluid level condition is a high fluid level condition.

[0094] Clause 15 includes the method according to any one of Clauses 11 to 14, further comprising: after reprogramming to accept the first liquid level condition and the second liquid level condition, outputting a visual indication that the reprogramming is complete.

[0095] Clause 16 is a fluid level sensor comprising: a housing sealed to prevent water and dust ingress; a fluid level sensing plate including a conductive material plate, wherein the fluid level sensing plate is located within the housing; a touch device located within the housing; and a control unit coupled to the fluid level sensing plate and the touch device, the control unit being configured to: determine the presence of fluid based on fluid level data from the fluid level sensing plate; and determine touch input based on touch data from the touch device.

[0096] Clause 17 includes the fluid level sensor described in Clause 16, wherein the housing is at least one of transparent or translucent.

[0097] Clause 18 includes the fluid level sensor as described in Clause 17, and further includes a light-emitting device output coupled to the control unit to illuminate the housing, wherein the light-emitting device includes a first light-emitting diode (LED) and a second LED, the first LED being used to convey that the fluid level sensor is energized and to convey the reprogramming status of the fluid level sensor, and the second LED being used to indicate when the output of the fluid level sensor is valid.

[0098] Clause 19 includes a fluid level sensor according to any one of Clauses 16 to 18, wherein the fluid level sensing plate is a continuous sensing plate for measuring various levels of a fluid.

[0099] Clause 20 includes a fluid level sensor according to any one of Clauses 16 to 18, wherein the fluid level sensing plate is a point sensing plate for measuring the presence and absence of fluid.

[0100] Clause 21 includes a machine-readable storage device comprising machine-readable instructions that, when executed, implement the method described in accordance with any of the preceding clauses or implement the device described in accordance with any of the preceding clauses.

[0101] Clause 22 includes an apparatus comprising components for performing the functions described in any of the preceding clauses.

[0102] All definitions defined and used herein should be understood to take precedence over dictionary definitions, definitions in incorporated documents by reference, and / or the general meaning of the defined terms.

[0103] Furthermore, for ease of understanding, some functional boxes may be depicted as separate boxes; however, these separately depicted boxes should not be construed as being in the order in which they are discussed or otherwise presented herein. For example, some boxes may be able to be executed in an alternative order, simultaneously, etc.

[0104] As used herein, phrases substantially similar to "at least one of A, B, or C" are intended to be interpreted as disjunctive terms, requiring A or B or C, or any combination thereof, unless the context otherwise indicates or implies. Furthermore, phrases substantially similar to "at least one of A, B, and C" are intended to be interpreted as conjunctions, requiring at least one of A, at least one of B, and at least one of C, unless the context otherwise indicates or implies. Moreover, the term "substantially" or similar terms requiring subjective comparison are intended to mean "within manufacturing tolerances," unless the context otherwise indicates or implies.

[0105] As used herein, the terms “coupled,” “attached,” “connected,” or “operably connected” may refer to any type of direct or indirect relationship between the components under discussion. For example, the terms “coupled,” “attached,” “connected,” or “operably connected” may refer to at least a functional relationship between two elements and may cover configurations in which two elements are directly connected to each other (i.e., without any intermediary element) or indirectly connected to each other (i.e., with an intermediary element). Additionally, the terms “first,” “second,” etc., are used herein for convenience only and do not have a specific temporal or chronological meaning unless otherwise indicated. The term “cause” means to directly or indirectly direct, force, induce, guide, command, instruct, and / or enable an event or action to occur or at least be in a state in which such an event or action can occur.

[0106] While several illustrative examples have been described herein, it should be understood that those skilled in the art can devise many other modifications and examples that fall within the spirit and scope of the principles of the foregoing disclosure. More specifically, reasonable variations and modifications in the components and / or arrangements of the subject matter arrangement are possible without departing from the spirit of the foregoing disclosure, the drawings, and the appended claims. Alternative uses, in addition to variations and modifications in the components and / or arrangements, will also be apparent to those skilled in the art. These examples may be combined to form additional examples.

Claims

1. A fluid level sensor, comprising: A fluid level sensing plate, the fluid level sensing plate comprising a conductive material plate; A touch sensing panel, the touch sensing panel comprising a conductive material plate; and A control unit, coupled to the fluid level sensing plate and the touch sensing plate, is configured to: The presence of fluid is determined based on fluid level data from the fluid level sensing plate; and Touch input is determined based on touch data from the touch sensor.

2. The fluid level sensor according to claim 1, further comprising: A housing having a container sidewall and an outer sidewall positioned opposite to the container sidewall; The fluid level sensing plate is located inside the housing and coupled to the side wall of the container; and The touch sensing panel is located inside the housing and coupled to the outer wall.

3. The fluid level sensor according to claim 2, wherein the housing is sealed to prevent water and dust intrusion.

4. The fluid level sensor according to claim 2, wherein the housing is at least one of transparent or translucent.

5. The fluid level sensor according to claim 2 further includes a light-emitting device output section, the light-emitting device output section being coupled to the control unit to illuminate the housing.

6. The fluid level sensor of claim 5, wherein the light-emitting device comprises a first light-emitting diode (LED) and a second LED, the first LED being used to convey that the fluid level sensor is energized and to convey the reprogramming status of the fluid level sensor, and the second LED being used to indicate when the output of the fluid level sensor is valid.

7. The fluid level sensor according to claim 1, wherein the fluid level sensor further comprises: A capacitive sensor unit is used to convert the output from the fluid level sensing plate into fluid level data and the output from the touch sensing plate into touch data, wherein the control unit is coupled to the fluid level sensing plate and the touch sensing plate via the capacitive sensor unit; An input / output unit coupled to the control unit, the input / output unit including a linear regulator to maintain a stable output voltage of the fluid level sensor; as well as A connection unit is coupled to the input / output unit, and the connection unit provides power connection, grounding connection and data output connection for the fluid level sensor.

8. The fluid level sensor according to claim 1, wherein the fluid level sensing plate is a continuous sensing plate for measuring various fluid levels.

9. The fluid level sensor according to claim 1, wherein the fluid level sensing plate is a point sensing plate for measuring the presence and absence of fluid.

10. The fluid level sensor according to claim 1, wherein the fluid level sensing plate and the touch sensing plate are made of copper.

11. A method comprising: Position the fluid level sensor on the outside of the container; Adjust the fluid level in the container to the first fluid level; The user's touch input is sensed via the touch sensor panel of the fluid level sensor; In response to sensing the user's touch input, the fluid level sensor is driven from the operating mode to the configuration mode; as well as In response to sensing the user's touch input and in response to sensing the first fluid level, the fluid level sensor is reprogrammed to accept the first fluid level condition.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising: Adjust the fluid level in the container to the second fluid level; as well as In response to sensing the user's touch input and in response to sensing the second fluid level, the fluid level sensor is reprogrammed to accept the second fluid level condition.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the first fluid level condition is a dry condition and the second fluid level condition is a wet condition.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein the first fluid level condition is a low fluid level condition and the second fluid level condition is a high fluid level condition.

15. The method of claim 11, further comprising: After reprogramming to accept the first fluid level status and the second fluid level status, a visual indication that the reprogramming is complete is output.

16. A fluid level sensor, comprising: The housing is sealed to prevent water and dust from entering; A fluid level sensing plate, the fluid level sensing plate including a conductive material plate, wherein the fluid level sensing plate is located inside the housing; A touch device, wherein the touch device is located within the housing; and A control unit, coupled to the fluid level sensing plate and the touch device, is used for: The presence of fluid is determined based on fluid level data from the fluid level sensing plate; and Touch input is determined based on touch data from the touch device.

17. The fluid level sensor of claim 16, wherein the housing is at least one of transparent or translucent.

18. The fluid level sensor of claim 17 further includes a light-emitting device output section coupled to the control unit to illuminate the housing, wherein the light-emitting device includes a first light-emitting diode (LED) and a second LED, the first LED being used to convey that the fluid level sensor is energized and to convey the reprogramming status of the fluid level sensor, and the second LED being used to indicate when the output of the fluid level sensor is valid.

19. The fluid level sensor of claim 16, wherein the fluid level sensing plate is a continuous sensing plate for measuring various fluid levels.

20. The fluid level sensor according to claim 16, wherein, The fluid level sensing plate is a point sensing plate used to measure the presence or absence of fluid.

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