Utility Container Base Geometry for Ultrasonic Liquid-Level Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid containers, particularly opaque aluminum bottles, lack accurate liquid level detection, leading to inefficient inventory management and high waste generation due to manual refilling and structural limitations.
Innovation Solution
A modular utility container with a concave punt design featuring a central flat indentation for stable ultrasonic sensor coupling, combined with a handheld device and wireless communication for real-time liquid level detection and remote inventory management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If opaque aluminum bottles are used for liquid storage, then waste is reduced through reusability, but liquid level detection becomes difficult leading to inefficient inventory management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (liquid level indicator system) that mediates between the opaque container and the user's need for information. The indicator system includes floating elements with visible markers or electronic sensors that transmit liquid level data without requiring container transparency, thus preserving both the opaque container design and the visibility of liquid levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct visual mechanical observation (looking through transparent containers) with alternative detection mechanisms such as electronic level sensors, magnetic float indicators, or pressure-based detection systems that can function through opaque materials, thereby eliminating the contradiction between opacity and detectability.
2Ease of operation
If manual refilling is performed at regular intervals, then inventory management is simplified, but time and labor are wasted due to inaccurate liquid level assessment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where liquid level indicators provide continuous or periodic information about the liquid quantity in the container. This feedback enables operators to make informed refilling decisions based on actual levels rather than following fixed schedules, reducing unnecessary inspections and optimizing refilling timing to minimize time and labor waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the system to monitor and report its own liquid levels automatically through integrated sensors and display mechanisms, eliminating the need for manual inspection. The system serves itself by providing accurate level information that triggers refilling actions only when necessary, thereby reducing time and labor consumption while maintaining ease of operation.
3Reliability
If fixed-structure dispenser holders are used, then specific dispensers are securely accommodated, but replacement costs increase when dispensers need to be changed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the dispenser holder system into modular, separable components that can be easily assembled and disassembled. This segmentation allows different dispenser units to be accommodated by configuring or replacing individual holder modules without replacing the entire structure, thereby maintaining secure accommodation while reducing replacement costs through standardized interchangeable parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the dispenser holder with universal features that can accommodate multiple types and sizes of dispensers through adjustable components, standardized mounting interfaces, and scalable configurations. This multi-functionality allows a single holder system to serve various dispenser replacement needs, reducing overall replacement costs while maintaining reliable security for each specific dispenser type.
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
Enhances accuracy and efficiency in liquid level measurement, reduces waste, and optimizes inventory management by eliminating manual inspections and ensuring precise, cost-effective liquid level monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
real-time liquid level detection
Implementation Method 2
determine the level of liquid present within said container
Data Source
AI summary
A modular utility container 112 comprises a hollow body 112 for storing a liquid through an opening 116 formed at a top end of the hollow body 114. A neck 118 extends from the opening 116 and has a narrower cross-section than hollow body 114 and a tapered-shaped structure. Container 112 further comprises a base 122 supporting the hollow body 112. Base 122 is made substantially curved in an inward dome-shaped structure, configured to engage with a sensor 206 to determine the level of liquid present within utility container 112. Container 112 is configured for use with a real-time liquid-level detection system 300 to eliminate manual monitoring of utility container 112 for determining the liquid level, and details regarding the liquid level of fluid stored in utility container 112 are assessed via a remote means and an inbuilt mobile application. Base 122 has a concave punt with a central flat indentation that enhances the usability and accuracy of ultrasonic liquid level measurement in aluminum bottles. Sensor 206 is, optionally, convex and deforms in response to downward pressure from base 206 to establish contact with substantially all points of engagement. The system ensures stable and repeatable sensor positioning, eliminates air gaps and wave distortions, improves operational efficiency in hotel housekeeping, and maintains bottle strength and manufacturing feasibility.