Dispenser Fluid Level Gauge Using Electromagnetic Radiation Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid level gauges in dispensers require complex monitoring and counting mechanisms to determine when a bottle is empty, which is cumbersome and inefficient, especially in manually operated systems, and often necessitates separate bottle sensing arrangements.
Innovation Solution
A fluid level gauging mechanism that emits and senses electromagnetic radiation, such as infrared, to estimate the fluid level by comparing radiation values at different heights and identifying significant changes, allowing for accurate level determination in both collapsible and rigid bottles without the need for complex counting systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If electromagnetic radiation sensing is used to determine fluid level, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity is reduced compared to counting mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical counting mechanisms and complex monitoring systems with an optical sensing system that uses electromagnetic radiation (infrared) to directly measure fluid level. The emitter and sensor detect changes in radiation transmission through the bottle wall and fluid, providing precise level measurement without mechanical components or complex electronics.
Solution Approach 2:
The system measures changes in electromagnetic radiation parameters (intensity, transmission) as the fluid level changes. By monitoring the radiation that passes through the bottle wall and fluid versus radiation reflected from the bottle, the system translates physical fluid level into measurable optical parameter changes.
2Measurement precision
If separate bottle sensing arrangements are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines bottle detection and fluid level measurement into a single integrated optical sensing system. The same emitter and sensor that detect fluid level also detect the presence and characteristics of the bottle by analyzing radiation reflection patterns, eliminating the need for separate sensing arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical sensing system performs multiple functions simultaneously: it detects bottle presence, determines fluid level, and can identify bottle characteristics all through the same electromagnetic radiation measurement process, making the system universal and multi-functional.
3Measurement precision
If radiation path passes through fluid and air, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The bottle wall acts as an intermediary medium that allows electromagnetic radiation to pass through while providing a reflection surface. The radiation path is configured to pass through the translucent bottle wall and fluid, with some radiation reflecting off the bottle wall and some transmitting through the fluid, creating distinguishable signals for level detection.
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 solution simplifies the estimation of fluid levels by using electromagnetic radiation to determine the level of fluid in bottles, providing accurate readings without the need for complex monitoring or bottle recognition, and is applicable to both collapsible and non-collapsible containers.
Implementation Method 1
emits electromagnetic radiation and senses the electromagnetic radiation emitted which passes through the bottle
Implementation Method 2
senses the electromagnetic radiation emitted which passes through the bottle or is reflected from the bottle
Implementation Method 3
senses the electromagnetic radiation emitted which passes through the bottle or is reflected from the bottle through a wall of the bottle
Data Source
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AI summary
A fluid level gauging mechanism external of a reservoir bottle in a dispenser which mechanism emits electromagnetic radiation and senses the electromagnetic radiation emitted which passes through the bottle or is reflected from the bottle through a wall of the bottle into the bottle at a first height and senses reflected radiation passing outwardly from the bottle at a second different height.