Product level detection apparatuses and systems for fluid dispensers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fluid dispensers, such as skincare product dispensers, face challenges in determining the remaining fluid level accurately due to deformable reservoirs and environmental factors like humidity and temperature, leading to inefficient replacement and user dissatisfaction.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a product level detection system using one or more sensors to monitor fluid levels within the dispenser, specifically positioning sensors near the reservoir's bottom and nozzle to detect changes in capacitance levels, enabling timely replacement and minimizing waste.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual confirmation through a dispenser window is used to determine fluid level, then the structure remains simple, but measurement precision deteriorates due to reservoir deformation and environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visual/mechanical level detection with capacitive sensing. The capacitive sensor detects fluid level by measuring capacitance changes caused by the dielectric properties of the fluid versus air, eliminating the need for visual confirmation through windows and providing accurate measurement despite reservoir deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a capacitive sensor as an intermediary between the fluid and the detection system. The sensor measures capacitance changes that correlate with fluid level, serving as an indirect but reliable indicator that overcomes the limitations of direct visual observation.
2Loss of substance
If cartridges are replaced based on visual estimation, then operation simplicity is maintained, but loss of substance increases due to premature replacement of non-empty cartridges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where capacitive sensors continuously monitor fluid level and provide real-time data to the controller. The system notifies users when fluid level reaches thresholds, enabling replacement only when necessary and preventing premature disposal of cartridges with remaining fluid.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary detection of fluid level using capacitive sensors before replacement is needed. By monitoring levels continuously and providing advance notification when thresholds are approached, the system allows planning of replacement timing to minimize fluid waste.
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are positioned at different locations in the reservoir, then measurement precision improves for detecting threshold levels, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the reservoir monitoring into multiple capacitive sensors positioned at different vertical locations. Each sensor monitors a specific zone, and by comparing readings from multiple sensors, the system accurately determines when fluid reaches predefined thresholds, providing segmented monitoring coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent places capacitive sensors at specific strategic locations within the reservoir (e.g., near the bottom and at intermediate heights) where they can most effectively detect threshold levels. Each sensor is positioned to monitor a particular region, optimizing local detection quality for that zone.
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 system accurately determines when to replace cartridges, reducing waste and user dissatisfaction by providing real-time notifications and adjustments to maintain optimal fluid levels.
Implementation Method 1
a fluid detection sensor positioned within the dispenser housing proximate the reservoir and configured to detect a capacitance level within the reservoir
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid dispenser, such as a skincare product dispenser, comprises a dispenser housing configured to hold a reservoir of fluid for dispensing and a drive assembly for interacting with the reservoir and causing dispensing of the fluid. A fluid detection sensor is positioned within the dispenser housing proximate the reservoir and configured to detect a capacitance level therein. A controller is configured to determine, based on data from the fluid detection sensor, a change in the fluid level across a dispense. The controller is also configured to determine, based on the determined change, that the fluid level in the reservoir reaches a threshold level and cause an action, such as providing an alert, sending information to a remote server, or modifying an operating parameter.