Dispensing System Acoustic Sensor Level Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing systems lack reliable methods to determine the remaining material level in containers, often leading to unnecessary energy consumption and ineffective operation when containers are depleted, and they fail to differentiate between various container types and products, resulting in inefficient dispensing.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing system equipped with a sensor that detects sound waves at the external discharge orifice to determine the container's material level, differentiate between full and empty states, and identify authorized containers, using preprogrammed frequency characteristics to optimize dispensing operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a sensor detects sound waves at the external discharge orifice to determine container status, then measurement precision of material level is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical level sensing mechanisms with acoustic wave detection. A sensor detects sound waves generated by fluid flow through the conduit, and a controller analyzes these acoustic signals to determine container status (full, empty, or intermediate levels) without mechanical contact or complex moving parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces acoustic waves as an intermediary medium to transfer information about container status. The flowing fluid generates characteristic sound waves that serve as a mediator between the material level state and the detection system, enabling non-intrusive measurement.
2Loss of substance
If the dispensing system operates without container status detection, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of substance increases due to continued operation on empty containers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the sensor continuously monitors acoustic signals from the conduit, and the controller adjusts dispensing operations based on detected material levels. When the container is empty or low on material, the system automatically stops or reduces dispensing, preventing waste of volatile substances.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispensing system performs self-monitoring through acoustic detection, automatically determining its own operational status without external intervention. The system serves itself by detecting its material level and making autonomous decisions about continued operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional dispensing systems use uniform dispensing methodologies for all containers, then device complexity is minimized, but adaptability to different container types and products is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses changes in acoustic wave parameters (frequency, amplitude, timing) caused by different container types, products, or material levels as distinguishing features. The controller analyzes these parameter variations to identify container status and adapt dispensing methodology accordingly, enabling versatility without complex mechanical reconfiguration.
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 provides reliable and efficient dispensing by accurately determining container status and optimizing operations based on detected sound waves, preventing unauthorized use and ensuring optimal product distribution.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor is provided for detecting a sound at the external discharge orifice
Data Source
AI summary
A dispensing system includes a conduit having a volumetric capacity between an internal discharge orifice for receipt of a flow of pressurized fluid from a valving assembly and an external discharge orifice. The dispensing system further includes a volume of pressurized fluid and a sensor. The fluid has a volumetric flow rate of about 0.05 ml/ms to about 15 ml/ms when released into the conduit from the internal discharge orifice. The sensor detects a sound at the external discharge orifice.