Level Measurement System for Conductive Liquids Using Resistor Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing level measurement systems for conductive liquids, such as water in storage containers, lack precision and complexity in determining multiple liquid levels, often requiring multiple sensors and voltage measurements.
Innovation Solution
A level measurement system utilizing three electrodes and a network of resistor elements connected in series, with additional resistor elements in parallel for increased precision, allows for the detection of multiple liquid levels using a single voltage measurement, and includes an analogue-digital converter for processing, enabling the determination of liquid levels and hardness grades.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sensors and voltage measurements are used to determine multiple liquid levels, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple level detection functions into a single sensor assembly with multiple electrodes. Instead of using separate sensors for each level, the invention integrates multiple electrodes (first electrode, second electrode, third electrode) and resistor elements into one unified measurement system that determines multiple liquid levels through a single voltage measurement, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The single sensor assembly serves multiple functions by detecting different liquid levels simultaneously. The electrode arrangement and resistor network enable the system to determine not only liquid level positions but also liquid conductivity and hardness, making the sensor universal for multiple measurement tasks without requiring separate dedicated sensors for each parameter.
2Measurement precision
If multiple electrodes and resistor elements are arranged in series to detect multiple levels, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement function into distinct electrochemical zones by positioning multiple electrodes (first, second, and third electrodes) at different vertical positions within the liquid. Each electrode interacts with the liquid at its specific level, creating distinct measurement zones that enable precise level detection. The resistor elements are segmented into series connections between these electrodes, with each resistor pair corresponding to a specific level interval.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional single-point level detection to multi-dimensional level detection by arranging electrodes vertically at different heights. This vertical dimensionality allows the system to measure multiple liquid levels simultaneously through voltage measurements across the resistor network, converting a one-dimensional measurement problem into a multi-dimensional solution that enhances precision without proportionally increasing complexity.
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 system achieves precise measurement of multiple liquid levels and hardness grades with low complexity, using a single analogue-digital converter channel, and prevents polarization effects by using alternating current, enhancing operational efficiency and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
The lower ends of the at least three electrodes are arranged at different levels. The upper ends of adjacent electrodes are connected via a resistor element in each case, so that the resistor elements are connected in series. The series is connected to one terminal of a voltage source via a voltage divider.
Implementation Method 2
The network comprises two resistor elements connected in series between the input terminals, wherein at least two electrodes arranged above the lower electrode are connected to the junction of the resistor elements of said series via a further resistor element in each case.
Implementation Method 3
If the liquid level is above both electrodes, then an electric circuit is closed and said liquid level above an upper electrode is detected. If the liquid level is below the upper electrode, then the electric circuit is open and said liquid level below the upper electrode is detected.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a level measurement system for conductive liquids including a liquid container (10) and at least three electrodes (18, 20, 22) arranged inside the liquid container (10) at different levels. The electrodes (18, 20, 22) are connected to a network comprising a plurality of resistor elements (R, R1, R2, R3, RP1, RP2, RR1, RR2). The network comprises at least two input terminals (V+, GND) for applying an external voltage. The network comprises at least two output terminals providing a voltage depending on the level of the conductive liquid in the liquid container (10). The level measurement system is provided for detecting at least three different levels of conductive liquids in the liquid container (10) and indicating said levels by one voltage value. In particular, the present invention relates to a level measurement system for water in a storage container. Further, the present invention relates to a domestic appliance comprising at least one liquid container for supplying said domestic appliance with liquid.