Battery water level detector for a battery operated device
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Battery-operated devices, such as floor scrubbers, require intermittent maintenance to maintain proper water levels in lead-acid batteries to prevent damage from low water levels, which is inefficient and can lead to operational issues if not monitored effectively.
Innovation Solution
A battery water level detector system comprising a control unit with an electronic sensor that provides a signal indicative of the water level, triggering alerts or controlling device operations when the water level falls below a predetermined limit, thereby preventing damage and ensuring timely refilling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual water level checking is performed, then battery maintenance can be done, but it is inefficient and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The battery water level detector enables the system to automatically monitor its own water level status without requiring manual intervention. The electronic sensor continuously detects water level and the control unit automatically processes this information, allowing the battery system to self-monitor its maintenance needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with an electronic sensing system. The electronic sensor detects water level electrically rather than requiring mechanical opening of the battery and visual checking, substituting a mechanical/manual process with an automated electronic detection system.
2Reliability
If water level is not monitored, then device operation continues, but battery damage occurs from low water levels
Solution Approach 1:
The system establishes a feedback loop where the electronic sensor continuously monitors water level and provides information to the control unit, which then provides feedback to the user through visual or audible alerts when water level is low, enabling timely maintenance before damage occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of low water levels before actual battery damage occurs. By monitoring continuously and providing advance warning through the control unit, the system enables preventive maintenance action before the low water condition causes harm to the battery.
3Reliability
If continuous monitoring is implemented, then battery damage is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs electronic sensing components that provide continuous monitoring capability. The electronic sensor and control unit work together to continuously detect and assess water level conditions, replacing what would otherwise require constant manual attention while adding only minimal system 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
The system automatically detects low water levels, preventing device malfunction and ensuring safe operation by alerting users and controlling device functionality, thus eliminating the need for manual checks and potential battery damage.
Implementation Method 1
The electronic sensor is operative to provide a signal indicative of the water level within the battery
Data Source
AI summary
A battery water level detector assembly for a battery operated device comprising a control unit configured for use with a battery of the device, with the control unit including an electronic sensor operative to provide a signal indicative of the water level within the battery and with the control unit being operative to provide a control signal in response thereto. The electronic sensor is operative to detect when a visual indicator operably connected to the battery provides a display that the water level within the battery has decreased below a desired level. The control signal in turn may be used to generate an alert, including a remotely transmitted alert, and/or alter operational functionality of the battery operated device.