Wellbore Fluid Level Sensor with Bellows and Visual Indicator
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for monitoring fluid levels in wellbores fail to reliably indicate when a predetermined fluid level threshold has been reached or exceeded, and they lack the ability to provide multiple types of signals for notification.
Innovation Solution
A fluid level sensor system that includes a bellows, a movable element with a magnet, and a reed switch or Hall Effect Sensor to detect changes in fluid levels, providing both electrical and visual signals when the fluid level reaches a predetermined threshold, using a transparent indicator to visually signify the threshold level.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single signal type (electronic or visual) is used for fluid level detection, then the system is simpler, but the reliability of detection is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dual-signal system where a single fluid level sensor system provides both electronic signals (to controllers for pump control) and visual signals (for direct observation). This multi-functionality approach allows the same sensing mechanism to serve multiple notification purposes, improving reliability through redundancy without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a transparent indicator as an intermediary element that visually represents the fluid level threshold. This transparent indicator acts as a mediator between the internal sensing mechanism and the external observer, providing direct visual feedback while the electronic sensor provides automated detection, thereby enhancing overall system reliability
2Ease of operation
If no visual indicator is provided, then the device is simpler, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a transparent indicator that can be visually observed to indicate fluid level status. While not explicitly using color changes, the transparent/visible nature of the indicator provides visual feedback that enhances ease of operation by allowing direct observation of fluid level thresholds without requiring complex electronic displays or additional components
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent indicator provides self-service visual notification of fluid levels. The system automatically provides visual feedback through the transparent indicator without requiring additional power sources, electronic displays, or complex mechanisms, thereby improving ease of operation with minimal added 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 effectively provides dual signals for reliable detection of fluid level changes, allowing for timely maintenance actions and reducing the risk of pump failure due to fluid level misinterpretation, with optional ratiometric sensing for advanced warning of rising fluid levels.
Implementation Method 1
A bellows may be disposed within the main body and in communication with the internal chamber of the inlet housing
Implementation Method 2
A magnet may be carried at one end of the shaft, and a stationary sensor may be configured to sense a changing magnetic flux generated by the magnet
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid level sensor system is disclosed for sensing a fluid level in a well. The system has a main body and an inlet housing coupled to the main body. The inlet housing has an internal chamber in communication with an ambient environment within the well. A bellows within the main body communicates with the internal chamber of the inlet housing. A movable element is responsive to movement of the bellows. A sensor detects when the movable element moves from a first position, indicating a first fluid level in the well, to a second position indicating a second fluid level within the well. An indicator is operably associated with the movable element and moves into a position to be viewable when the sensing element is moved to the second position, to provide a visual indication that the second fluid level has been reached.