Compact Float Sensor for Low Liquid Level Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing low liquid level detecting devices are bulky and unable to effectively detect very low levels of liquid due to their size and magnetic induction principles, leading to inefficient consumption rates of consumable materials.
Innovation Solution
A low liquid level detecting device with a float sensor and casing design that includes a top and bottom chamber system with specific fluid connections and a drain hole, allowing the float sensor to detect very low levels by controlling the liquid flow and using a magnetic switch to signal low levels, thereby increasing the detection accuracy and reducing residual liquid.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If float sensor is used for detecting liquid level, then liquid level can be detected, but the device becomes bulky and cannot effectively detect very low liquid levels
Solution Approach 1:
The float sensor is nested inside the casing structure, and the magnetic switch is integrated within the float body. This nesting arrangement allows the detection components to occupy minimal space while maintaining full functionality, directly resolving the contradiction between detection precision and device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional bulky mechanical level detection mechanisms with a magnetic field-based detection system. The magnetic ring and magnetic switch enable contactless detection, eliminating the need for large mechanical components and allowing precise detection at very low liquid levels within a compact form factor.
2Reliability
If float body with high weight is used, then magnetic switch can be reliably activated, but the lowest liquid level for detection is relatively high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the magnetic parameters by using a magnetic ring with optimized magnetic strength and a magnetic switch with enhanced sensitivity. This allows the use of a lighter float body that can descend to very low liquid levels while still reliably activating the magnetic switch, resolving the contradiction between activation reliability and detection precision.
3Productivity
If traditional float sensor is used, then liquid level detection is possible, but consumption rate of consumable material cannot be increased
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic field-based detection system replaces traditional mechanical sensors, enabling the float body to respond to extremely low liquid levels including residual liquid. This substitution allows the system to detect when virtually no liquid remains, maximizing the consumption rate by enabling complete utilization of the consumable material.
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 device effectively detects very low liquid levels, reducing residual liquid and enhancing the consumption rate of consumable materials by integrating the float sensor and casing to respond to minimal liquid quantities.
Implementation Method 1
a float body moves up and down with the liquid surface
Implementation Method 2
the magnetic ring, falling together with the float body, initiates a magnetic switch by magnetic induction
Data Source
AI summary
The invention discloses a low liquid level detecting device comprising a float sensor and a casing. The casing has first to third chambers formed between an upper wall and a bottom wall. The top portion of the first chamber is formed with a top opening. The bottom portion of the first chamber is fluid communicated with the bottom portion of the second chamber. The top portion of the second chamber is fluid communicated with the top portion of the third chamber. The bottom portion of the third chamber is formed with a bottom opening. A float sensor is mounted inside the third chamber. A drain hole is formed through the bottom part of a chamber wall surrounding the third chamber. A method for detecting a low liquid level using the above low liquid level detecting device is also disclosed.