Fill-Level Sensor Activation for Battery-Powered Mobile Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measuring devices for detecting filling or limit levels in containers require a stationary energy supply, limiting their use with mobile containers and lacking energy efficiency, especially during filling or emptying processes, and often require manual connection to control systems for automated operation.
Innovation Solution
A measuring device with a sensor, energy supply unit, and activation unit that switches from an inactive to an operating mode when connected to a filling or emptying device, using a needs-based energy supply and enabling automated, energy self-sufficient operation, with features like battery power and various actuation methods for efficient energy management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a stationary energy supply device is used to power the measuring device, then the measuring device can operate continuously, but the measuring device is strongly tied to its location and cannot be used with mobile containers
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring device is equipped with a battery as an autonomous energy supply, enabling it to power itself without external connections. This self-service energy supply allows the device to be used with mobile containers and in locations without stationary power sources, directly resolving the contradiction between mobility and energy independence
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor operates in different operational modes (active and inactive) that can be dynamically switched based on whether a container is present. This dynamic operation allows the device to conserve energy when not in use while maintaining full functionality when needed, supporting mobile applications
2Reliability
If the sensor operates continuously in active mode, then the filling level can be detected at all times, but energy consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor alternates between active and inactive operational modes in periodic cycles. During active mode, filling level detection is performed; during inactive mode, energy is conserved. This periodic operation significantly reduces energy consumption while maintaining the ability to detect filling levels when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor's operational state is dynamically adjusted based on environmental conditions and presence of containers. The system transitions between different operational modes to optimize the balance between detection reliability and energy consumption, rather than operating continuously at fixed performance levels
3Extent of automation
If manual connection to control system is required, then device complexity is reduced, but automation capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring device automatically detects the presence of a container through actuating means and activates itself without requiring manual intervention or connection to external control systems. This self-service automation capability enables the device to operate independently while maintaining full functional automation
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses feedback from actuating means (such as mechanical contacts or sensors detecting container presence) to automatically control its operational state. This feedback mechanism enables automated activation and deactivation based on environmental conditions, increasing automation without requiring complex external control systems
Data Source
AI summary
A measuring apparatus for detecting a fill level or limit level of a filling material in a container, wherein the measuring apparatus is designed to be situated on the container and comprises a sensor for determining the fill or limit level, a power supply unit which is electrically connected to the sensor and is designed and configured to supply the sensor with electrical power, an activation unit which is connected at least to the power supply unit for signal communication and an associated method of use.