Fluid Level Sensor Validation via Floating Element Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid level sensors often provide inaccurate readings due to obstruction of the floating element, making it difficult to validate their operation, especially in environments where debris or particulate matter can interfere with the sensor's functionality.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for validating fluid level sensors by determining a validated range of fluid levels based on initial readings, and then verifying subsequent readings against this range to ensure the floating element can move unobstructed, using a processing unit and computer-readable medium to acquire and analyze sensor data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If fluid level sensors are used to monitor fluid levels in vehicles, then fuel and fluid management is improved, but the reliability of readings deteriorates when the floating element is obstructed by debris or particulate matter
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary validation by acquiring readings during a first period of operation to establish a validated range before using the sensor during subsequent operations. This preliminary characterization of the floating element's movement range enables future readings to be validated against established boundaries, ensuring reliability without requiring physical access to the sensor.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously validates readings by comparing the floating element's starting position against the pre-determined validated range. When readings fall outside this range, the system identifies potential obstruction and can trigger alerts or corrective actions, providing ongoing feedback to maintain reading accuracy throughout the sensor's operational life.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fluid level sensors operate in environments with debris or particulate matter, then the sensor can function in various harsh conditions, but the floating element becomes obstructed causing inaccurate readings
Solution Approach 1:
The system establishes a validated range during an initial period when the sensor is known to be functioning correctly. This pre-established baseline enables the system to detect deviations caused by obstruction in harsh environments, maintaining measurement precision through comparison against the validated range rather than requiring physical protection from debris.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system validates its own readings autonomously by comparing the floating element's position against the pre-determined validated range. The system self-identifies when obstruction may be occurring without requiring external inspection or intervention, enabling continuous reliable operation in harsh environments with debris or particulate matter.
3Reliability
If the validated range is determined to be outside the acceptable range, then the system can identify potential sensor issues, but the sensor may still provide inaccurate readings until physical access is obtained for maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides continuous feedback by validating each reading against the pre-established validated range. When readings fall outside this range, the system can identify potential obstruction or sensor issues and trigger alerts, enabling proactive maintenance scheduling without requiring immediate physical access to the sensor, thus improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
By establishing the validated range during an initial period, the system creates a reference framework that enables ongoing validation without requiring physical access to the sensor. This preliminary setup allows the system to autonomously identify issues and schedule maintenance at convenient times, improving ease of operation while maintaining high reliability.
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 approach allows for the validation of fluid level sensor readings, preventing inaccurate measurements by ensuring the floating element can move freely within the validated range, thus maintaining the reliability of fluid level monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
fluid level sensor having a floating element... indicative of fluid levels sensed via the floating element
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for validating a fluid level sensor having a floating element are provided. First readings are acquired from the fluid level sensor indicative of fluid levels sensed via the floating element during a first period of operation of the fluid level sensor. A validated range of fluid levels for the fluid level sensor is determined based on the first readings. At least one second reading is acquired from the fluid level sensor during a second period of operation, subsequent to the first period of operation. A starting position of the floating element for the second period of operation is determined based on the at least one second reading. When the starting position of the floating element is within the validated range, validating the at least one second reading.