Grey Water Valve Level Sensing for Foam-Resistant Emptying
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grey water interface valve systems face challenges in accurately detecting liquid levels and movement due to variations in liquid properties such as color, clarity, temperature, and viscosity, as well as issues with foam, residue, and uneven reservoir surfaces, which can lead to false readings and inefficient emptying processes.
Innovation Solution
A liquid level sensing system utilizing a combination of differential and absolute capacitive sensors, operating at high excitation frequencies, and incorporating sensor plate switching and frequency hopping to provide accurate and robust readings, capable of distinguishing between liquid and non-liquid states, even in the presence of foam or residue, and recalibrating during power outages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional liquid level sensors are used in the GWIV system, then the system can detect liquid levels, but the sensors produce false readings due to variations in liquid properties (color, clarity, temperature, viscosity) and environmental factors (foam, residue, uneven surfaces)
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between absolute and differential sensor modes based on operating conditions. The control unit selects absolute mode for stable conditions and differential mode when liquid movement is detected, allowing the system to adapt to changing environmental factors and maintain reliable measurements despite variations in liquid properties and foam presence
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the measurement parameter by switching between absolute capacitance measurement (relative to ground) and differential capacitance measurement (between two sensors). This parameter change allows the system to differentiate between actual liquid level changes and false readings caused by foam, residue, or liquid property variations
2Productivity
If the reservoir is completely emptied, then all grey water is removed, but vacuum noise increases and may affect the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary anti-action by stopping the vacuum evacuation process before the reservoir is completely empty. The sensors detect when only a small amount of water remains (noise buffer zone), and the control unit closes the valve to prevent the harmful vacuum noise from occurring, while still achieving effective grey water removal
3Device complexity
If sensors are placed inside the reservoir to directly contact liquid, then liquid level detection is simplified, but the sensors are exposed to harsh conditions (foam, residue, temperature variations) that reduce their reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the reservoir wall as an intermediary medium to transmit sensor signals without direct sensor-liquid contact. Capacitive sensors mounted on the external surface measure liquid level through the wall, eliminating direct exposure to harsh conditions while maintaining detection capability. The wall acts as a non-intrusive interface that preserves sensor reliability
4Object-generated harmful factors
If the valve remains closed to prevent noise, then vacuum noise is reduced, but the reservoir cannot be emptied efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic sensor monitoring to control valve operation. Sensors continuously detect liquid level and movement, and the control unit periodically opens the valve only when necessary (when sensors detect the reservoir is full or near-full) and closes it when the noise buffer zone is reached. This periodic action achieves both efficient emptying and noise control
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 system effectively detects liquid levels and movement across a wide range of conditions, ensuring accurate control of the valve for efficient emptying of the reservoir, reducing noise and maintaining system reliability and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
A liquid level sensing system utilizing a combination of differential and absolute capacitive sensors
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure generally provide a grey water interface valve liquid level sensor system. The liquid level sensor system may deliver information about the water level and the water movement that occurs in a water reservoir. A control unit may then activate a valve to open so that the water can be removed via vacuum.