Chemical Solution Reservoir with Integrated Level Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing chemical solution supply apparatuses face challenges in simultaneously operating a heating member and a sensor for level detection due to material limitations, leading to potential deformation of the chemical solution when exposed, and require separate viewing windows or tubes, which compromise space efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A chemical solution accommodation assembly using a nonconductive reservoir body and a reservoir cover with a higher melting point material, incorporating a heating member and a level sensor unit, allowing simultaneous operation without external exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a metal-based material is used for the reservoir to enable efficient heat transfer and safe heater operation, then heating efficiency and safety are improved, but the ability to attach level sensors is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The reservoir is divided into two distinct parts: a metal-based heating portion for efficient heat transfer and a nonconductive accommodation portion for sensor attachment. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The reservoir combines metal-based material and nonconductive material in a single integrated structure. The metal portion provides thermal conductivity for heating, while the nonconductive portion enables sensor attachment, creating a composite structure that resolves the contradiction.
2Measurement precision
If a separate viewing window or additional tube is provided for checking chemical solution level, then level detection is enabled, but the chemical solution becomes exposed to the outside causing deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The level sensor is nested within the sealed reservoir structure, with the sensor detection portion positioned inside the chemical solution accommodation portion. This allows level detection without creating external exposure pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The nonconductive material acts as an intermediary that allows sensor integration while maintaining the sealed environment. The sensor can detect levels through or within the nonconductive portion without compromising the seal.
3Measurement precision
If external viewing windows or tubes are added for level checking, then level measurement is possible, but space efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The level sensor is merged with the reservoir body structure itself, integrating the measurement function into the existing accommodation portions rather than adding separate external components. This maintains compact space utilization.
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
Enables efficient heating and level detection within a single assembly, preventing solution deformation and enhancing space utilization while ensuring reliable chemical solution supply.
Implementation Method 1
a heating member configured to heat the chemical solution in the reservoir body through the reservoir cover
Data Source
AI summary
A chemical solution accommodation assembly includes a reservoir body configured to receive a chemical solution therein, and formed of a nonconductive material, wherein a top of the reservoir body is at least partially open, a reservoir cover covering the partially opened top of the reservoir body to seal inside of the reservoir body and formed of a material having a melting point higher than a heating temperature of the chemical solution, a heating member configured to heat the chemical solution in the reservoir body through the reservoir cover and a level sensor unit installed on a side wall of the reservoir body, and configured to measure at least one levels of the chemical solution in the reservoir body.