Filter pan detection and fluid sensor system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing controlled cooking systems, such as deep fryers, face challenges with multiple sensors for fluid detection and filter pan positioning, which can be hindered by debris, viscosity issues, and maintenance difficulties, leading to inaccurate fluid level readings and potential system malfunctions.
Innovation Solution
A dual-purpose capacitive sensor system that detects both the presence and correct placement of a filter pan and the fluid level within it, using capacitance measurements to ensure reliable operation across various fluid viscosities, integrated with a microcontroller for fluid management control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are used for filter pan detection and fluid level sensing, then detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity and maintenance difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines filter pan detection and fluid level sensing into a single capacitive sensor. The sensor has a first portion that detects filter pan presence and a second portion that detects fluid level, merging two separate sensing functions into one integrated device, thereby reducing complexity while maintaining detection accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The capacitive sensor is designed with multi-functionality to perform both filter pan detection and fluid level sensing. By making the sensor universal for both purposes, the system eliminates the need for separate sensors, reducing the overall number of components and simplifying the device architecture
2Measurement precision
If float-based level sensors are used, then fluid level detection is achieved, but reliability deteriorates due to debris and viscosity issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical float-based sensing system with a capacitive sensing system. This substitution eliminates mechanical moving parts that are susceptible to debris interference and viscosity-related sticking, thereby significantly improving reliability while maintaining accurate fluid level detection through electrical field measurements
3Measurement precision
If capillary sensors are used, then fluid level sensing is achieved, but adaptability deteriorates due to viscosity variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces capillary-based mechanical sensing with capacitive electrical field sensing. This substitution allows the sensor to detect fluid level through electrical properties rather than relying on capillary action, making the sensor adaptable to fluids with varying viscosities including thick, viscous cooking oils that would not work with capillary mechanisms
4Measurement precision
If contact sensor pads are used for filter pan detection, then detection accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to cleaning and maintenance difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces contact-based mechanical sensor pads with a capacitive sensing system. The capacitive sensor detects filter pan presence through electrical field changes without requiring physical contact, eliminating the need for cleaning and maintenance of contact surfaces while maintaining accurate detection capability
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 capacitive sensor system provides a reliable and sanitary solution for fluid level detection and filter pan positioning, ensuring accurate fluid management and preventing system malfunctions by distinguishing between fluid and air, and handling a range of viscosities, thereby enhancing the operational efficiency and safety of controlled cooking systems.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor may be configured and disposed to sense the capacitance of fluid in which the sensor is disposed, e.g. between the sensor and a wall of the filter pan, and thereby determine the relative capacitance of the fluid (and presence or absence of same) surrounding the sensor in the filter pan
Data Source
AI summary
A capacitive sensor and control system is configured to detect the presence (or absence) of a filter pan and of fluid within a filter pan. Configured in a filter pan of a deep fryer, the sensor determines when a level of liquid within the filter pan is at or above the level of the. The sensor is in communication with the control system and the sensor sends a signal to the control system representative of the presence of liquid within the filter pan and at the level of the sensor. The controller receives the signal from the sensor, and allows operation of a fluid management system and its associated plumbing to completely and safely move oil into and out of the filter pan.