Hot Water Boiler Fill Level Measurement via Pressure Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring the filling height of a hot water boiler in shower toilets are prone to errors due to water quality issues, such as pollution, calcification, and chemical effects, and are also disrupted by elements like foam and heat within the container.
Innovation Solution
A procedure and device utilizing a pressure sensor to measure the static pressure of the water column, which is proportional to the filling height, allowing for accurate determination of the fill level regardless of water quality. The pressure sensor is preferably located in the lower area of the boiler and can measure pressure quickly enough to track changes in water volume without delay.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If float switches are used for level measurement, then the structure is simple, but the measurement reliability deteriorates due to dirt, limescale buildup, and other factors impairing the float's function
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical float switch system with a pressure sensor that measures the static pressure of the water column. This substitution eliminates the mechanical components (float, switch) that are susceptible to dirt and limescale accumulation, thereby maintaining structural simplicity while significantly improving measurement reliability in harsh water environments
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure sensor acts as an intermediary element that indirectly measures the water level by detecting the pressure exerted by the water column. This indirect measurement approach avoids direct contact between the sensing element and the water, preventing contamination and maintaining reliable operation
2Measurement precision
If sensor electrodes are used to measure conductivity and capacitance, then measurement capability is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to different water qualities and chemical influences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from electrical properties (conductivity, capacitance) to mechanical pressure. By measuring the static pressure of the water column, which is proportional to the fill level, the system achieves reliable measurements that are independent of water quality, chemical composition, and conductivity variations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces electrical measurement methods (conductivity, capacitance sensors) with a mechanical pressure-based measurement system. This substitution eliminates the sensitivity to water quality issues while maintaining the ability to detect different fill levels through pressure variations
3Ease of operation
If ultrasonic sensors are used for fill level measurement, then non-contact measurement is achieved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to interference from elements inside the container and foam on the water surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the pressure measurement function from the water column and measures it at a specific location (lower section of the boiler). By positioning the pressure sensor in the lower section, the system obtains accurate fill level information without being affected by surface conditions like foam or internal elements, while still achieving non-contact measurement with the water surface
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
This solution enables continuous, accurate monitoring of the filling height, independent of water quality, and allows for the determination of different limit values using a single sensor, ensuring reliable control of the filling and heating processes.
Implementation Method 1
the fill level of the water boiler is determined by means of the static pressure of the water column, which is proportional to the fill level
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 2
AI summary
Method for measuring the fill level of a hot water boiler (1) for the shower function of a shower toilet, characterized in that the pressure of the water column in the lower area of the hot water boiler (1) is measured by means of a waterproof pressure sensor (2).