Cryogenic Level Sensor Connector for Sealed Sensor Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cryogenic liquid storage apparatuses face challenges in maintenance and repair due to the cumbersome process of replacing level sensors, which are typically welded, leading to degradation of thermal insulation and sealability, and compromising safety and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A cryogenic liquid storage apparatus with a level sensor that is selectively separably fastened to the storage container using a connector part, allowing for easy attachment and detachment without welding, and featuring a sealing part to minimize deformation and ensure thermal insulation and sealability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the level sensor is fixed to the storage container by welding, then the connection is strong and reliable, but it becomes very cumbersome and inconvenient to repair and replace the level sensor when damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the connection system into separate components: a connector body fixed to the storage container and a level sensor that can be independently attached and detached. This segmentation allows the sensor to be replaced without affecting the container structure, resolving the contradiction between reliable connection and ease of repair.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a connector as an intermediary component between the storage container and the level sensor. This connector serves as a mediator that provides both secure attachment (through threading or bayonet coupling) and easy detachment, eliminating the need for welding while ensuring reliable connection during operation.
2Ease of repair
If the welded portion of the level sensor is cut to replace the sensor, then the sensor can be replaced, but the storage container's thermal insulation performance and sealability are degraded
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the connection system into a removable connector and a separable sensor, the patent eliminates the need to cut the container structure. The connector is designed to be attached and detached without compromising the container's integrity, thus maintaining thermal insulation and sealability while enabling sensor replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector acts as an intermediary that interfaces with the container through a dedicated connection port rather than direct welding. This intermediary component absorbs the replacement function, protecting the container structure from damage and preserving its thermal insulation and sealing properties.
3Ease of repair
If a connector part is used to selectively separably fasten the level sensor to the connection port, then maintenance and repair become easy, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connection function into a standardized connector body and a matching interface on the sensor. This segmentation, while adding a component, simplifies the overall system by using modular, pre-fabricated parts rather than complex welding procedures or custom-fit solutions, ultimately reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed with universal features such as standardized threading or bayonet coupling mechanisms that can accommodate different sensor types. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized connection methods for each sensor model, balancing the added structural element with operational simplicity and versatility.
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 design simplifies the maintenance and repair process, enhances the stability and reliability of the storage apparatus by minimizing damage to the container and maintaining thermal insulation and sealability during sensor replacement.
Implementation Method 1
a level sensor configured to detect a liquid level of the cryogenic liquid on the basis of capacitance
Data Source
AI summary
A cryogenic liquid storage apparatus includes a storage container configured to accommodate a cryogenic liquid and having a connection port, a level sensor configured to detect a liquid level of the cryogenic liquid on the basis of capacitance, and a connector part configured to selectively separably fasten the level sensor to the connection port, thereby obtaining an advantageous effect of providing ease of maintenance and repair and improving stability and reliability.