Capacitive Sensor for Liquid Level Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensors vary in sensitivity, making it challenging to detect physical attributes or changes effectively and cost-effectively, particularly in applications like touch sensors for electronics.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing capacitive coupling between an input electrode and a drive electrode, with a substrate and container arranged adjacent each other, determine the level of a substance inside a container based on effective capacitance, reducing complexity by eliminating direct connections and improving accuracy across a wider range of values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If direct connections are used for sensing, then signal strength is improved, but device complexity and sensitivity variation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a capacitive coupling mechanism as an intermediary between the sensing electrode and the readout circuitry. This capacitive interface acts as a mediator that transmits sensing information without requiring direct electrical connections, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining reliable signal transmission through capacitance-based coupling
2Measurement precision
If different sensor types are used to improve sensitivity, then measurement precision is improved, but cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves improved sensitivity by changing the electrical parameters of the sensing system, specifically utilizing capacitance as the sensing parameter. By measuring changes in capacitance rather than relying on complex sensor structures, the system achieves high measurement precision while maintaining simplicity in the sensor design
3Reliability
If direct electrical connections are made for sensing, then signal transmission is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The capacitive coupling serves as an intermediary that eliminates the need for precise direct electrical connections. The capacitance-based interface is inherently more tolerant to manufacturing variations and positioning tolerances, as it does not require intimate electrical contact between components, thereby reducing manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining reliable signal transmission
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 approach enhances the accuracy and cost-effectiveness of detecting substance levels by utilizing capacitive coupling, allowing for precise detection of fluid or other substance levels without the need for direct connections, thereby improving sensitivity and reducing system complexity.
Implementation Method 1
A system and method utilize capacitive coupling between an input electrode and a drive electrode, with a substrate and container arranged adjacent each other, determine the level of a substance inside a container based on effective capacitance
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with at least one embodiment, a system for detecting a level is disclosed. The system includes a substrate having an input electrode and a drive electrode. The system further includes a container having an electrode. At least a portion of the electrode extends along a height dimension of the container. The container is arranged adjacent the substrate, such that the electrode is capacitively coupled to the input electrode or the drive electrode. The system further includes a circuit that, while the electrode is capacitively coupled to the input electrode or the drive electrode, determines a level of a substance inside the container, based on an effective capacitance between the input electrode and the drive electrode.