Fluid Level Sensor Assembly With Anti-Rotation Valve Insert
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Solution Overview
Problem
Designers of fluid management systems face challenges in accurately sensing and controlling fluid levels due to disruptions and contamination issues with traditional level sensors mounted in pipes, which affect the operation of motorized valves.
Innovation Solution
A fluid level sensor assembly featuring a wye fitting with a nozzle and insert to secure the sensor against rotation and contamination, including a clamshell connector and nozzles with filters to direct fluid flow and prevent debris ingress, ensuring accurate and reliable operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a level sensor is located in the pipe through which fluid flows, then the sensor can detect fluid level, but the sensor disrupts fluid flow and becomes contaminated by particles and debris
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary structure (the sensor assembly mounted on the valve body or pipe exterior) that mediates between the need for fluid level detection and the need to avoid contamination. The sensor detects fluid level through the pipe wall or via a sealed interface without being directly exposed to the flowing fluid, thus eliminating contamination while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor is extracted from the direct fluid flow path and positioned on the exterior of the pipe or valve body. This extraction allows the sensor to detect fluid level indirectly (through the pipe wall or sealed interface) without being exposed to contaminants, particles, and debris in the flowing fluid
2Ease of manufacture
If the pipe component is freely connected to the valve inlet, then assembly is simple, but the pipe component rotates relative to the valve inlet causing misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The connection interface between the pipe component and valve inlet employs asymmetric features (such as keyed connections, offset positioning, or non-circular engagement surfaces) that prevent rotation while maintaining relatively simple assembly. The asymmetric design provides a unique orientation that eliminates rotational freedom without requiring complex fastening mechanisms
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional sensor mounting is used in the flow line, then installation is straightforward, but the sensor becomes contaminated and flow is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe component serves as an intermediary structure that allows sensor mounting without direct insertion into the flow path. The sensor is mounted on the exterior surface or in a sealed chamber of the pipe component, using the pipe structure itself as a mediator between the sensor and the fluid environment, thus maintaining reliability while keeping installation simple
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid level sensor assembly includes a first pipe component defining a flow path for the fluid and configured to be attached to a valve to control flow of the fluid from the first pipe component, and a fluid level sensor arranged in or on the first pipe component to detect a level of fluid in the first pipe component and to generate a command signal for operation of the valve according to the level detected. The assembly also includes an insert fitted to an end of the first pipe component and extending axially from the end to be fitted to an inlet of the valve, in use, wherein the insert is configured to secure the first pipe component against rotation relative to the valve inlet when the insert is fitted to the inlet.