Fluid Level Gauge with Prism and Window for Splash-Lubricated Environments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sight glasses in splash-lubricated environments, such as gearboxes, face challenges in accurately detecting fluid levels due to splashing actions that obscure visual indicators and require replacement with sensors, which may not provide a comprehensive solution for both visual and electronic fluid level monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A fluid level gauge with a housing containing a window and an optical sensor comprising a prism, light transmitter, and light receiver, which defines a fluid chamber and provides both visual and electronic indication of fluid levels through light reflection and transmission, allowing unobstructed viewing and accurate level detection even in splash-lubricated conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sight glass is used for visual fluid level indication, then the operator can observe fluid level, but in splash-lubricated environments the visual indicator becomes obscured by splashing actions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a fluid chamber as an intermediary space between the sight glass and the main fluid reservoir. This chamber contains the fluid sample that contacts the sight glass, isolating the visual indication mechanism from direct exposure to splashing in the main reservoir, thereby maintaining clear visual observation while preserving fluid level detection accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the fluid monitoring system into separate functional zones: the main fluid reservoir where splashing occurs, and a isolated fluid chamber where visual indication happens. This segmentation allows the sight glass to operate in a controlled environment free from splashing interference while still monitoring the overall fluid level in the reservoir
2Measurement precision
If a sensor replaces the sight glass for fluid level detection, then electronic detection is achieved, but the ability for direct visual observation is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dual-function fluid level gauge that simultaneously provides both visual indication through the sight glass and electronic detection through the sensor. The sight glass allows direct visual observation of fluid level in the chamber, while the sensor provides electronic signals for automated monitoring, enabling the system to perform multiple functions with a single integrated device
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
Enables reliable and accurate detection of fluid levels both visually and electronically, ensuring proper fluid presence in splash-lubricated environments like gearboxes, with the optical sensor effectively sensing fluid levels even when splashing occurs, and the window providing a clear visual indication.
Implementation Method 1
The window at least partially reflects light when the fluid chamber is empty
Implementation Method 2
light at least partially passes through the window when fluid is in contact with the window
Implementation Method 3
an optical sensor including a prism, a light transmitter, and a light receiver disposed in the housing
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid level gauge includes a housing having a first end and a second end, and a window disposed in the housing, proximate to the first end. The fluid level gauge further includes an optical sensor disposed in the housing, proximate to the second end. A prism is disposed in the housing, between the optical sensor and the window, such that the prism and the window define a fluid chamber therebetween. The housing further includes a plurality of through holes that provides a fluid path from outside the housing to the fluid chamber.