Adjustable liquid level autofill pitcher for an appliance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional autofill dispensing systems have fixed liquid fill levels, limiting user adjustability and often require unnecessary float mechanisms or unreliable sensors, occupying space and providing inconsistent filling.
Innovation Solution
An autofill system utilizing a proximity sensor in conjunction with an adjustable spring mechanism, allowing users to set a desired liquid fill level by rotating a spring adjuster, which compresses based on the liquid's weight, enabling precise control over the filling process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a float mechanism is used to determine liquid fill level, then the liquid fill level can be detected, but the liquid fill level cannot be adjusted and space within the container is occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the float mechanism from inside the container and replaces it with an external sensor system. The proximity sensor is mounted on the exterior of the container, detecting the position of a magnetic ring on the plunger without requiring internal floating components. This extraction eliminates space occupation while enabling adjustable fill levels through the spring-plunger mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical float mechanism with a magnetic field-based detection system. Instead of using a physical float that rises with liquid level, the system uses a proximity sensor to detect the position of a magnetic ring attached to a spring-loaded plunger. This substitution enables adjustable fill levels while eliminating the need for internal floating components.
2Measurement precision
If liquid flow rate sensors and time sensors are used to measure liquid amount, then liquid fill level can be sensed, but the system becomes unreliable and requires additional sensors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces unreliable flow rate and time sensors with a direct mechanical position sensing system. The spring-loaded plunger with magnetic ring provides direct mechanical correlation between liquid weight and plunger position, which is detected by the proximity sensor. This mechanical substitution eliminates the need for complex sensor combinations and improves reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic ring as an intermediary between the liquid and the sensor system. The magnetic ring is attached to the plunger and interacts with the proximity sensor through magnetic field coupling, enabling non-contact detection of plunger position. This intermediary enables reliable position sensing without requiring direct contact between the sensor and liquid.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a proximity sensor with spring mechanism is used, then liquid fill level becomes adjustable, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded plunger mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical force to counterbalance liquid weight, enables adjustable fill levels through spring tension modification, and acts as a mechanical transducer converting weight to position. The proximity sensor simultaneously detects plunger position and triggers dispensing control. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic ring serves as a magnetic intermediary that couples the mechanical plunger system with the electronic sensor system without requiring direct physical or electrical contact. This magnetic coupling simplifies the interface between mechanical and electronic subsystems, reducing overall device 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 user-selectable liquid fill levels, reducing space occupation and sensor reliance, providing consistent and adjustable liquid dispensing within a container, enhancing user convenience and system efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The spring is compressed by an amount depending upon a weight of the liquid in the container
Implementation Method 2
The base unit further includes a spring oriented substantially along the vertical direction and has a top end and a bottom end
Implementation Method 3
a proximity element is integral with or positioned on the container and is detectable by the sensor such that when the proximity element is at or within the proximity range R1 of the sensor
Data Source
AI summary
An autofill system for a container where the liquid fill level is adjustable. A proximity sensor is used in conjunction with an adjustable displacement caused by the weight of the liquid to provide for an autofill system with a user selectable liquid fill level.