Hydraulic Reservoir Vent and Level Sensor Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for ventilation and level measurement in hydraulic tanks are bulky, prone to wear, and require additional openings, which can lead to contamination and reduced service life due to the use of immersion tubes and air slots.
Innovation Solution
A compact device utilizing a non-contact ultrasonic sensor for level measurement and a standardized receptacle for a ventilation filter with a bayonet connection, allowing easy retrofitting and minimizing direct contact with hydraulic oil, along with a tubular screen body for effective venting and filtration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a lance with air slots is used for level measurement and ventilation, then both functions are integrated, but the device takes up considerable space and the air slots can get dirty
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional components: a level measurement sensor (ultrasonic or radar) positioned independently from the ventilation filter. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function without compromising the other, reducing overall space requirements while preventing contamination issues that would arise from integrated air slots
Solution Approach 2:
A collar component serves as an intermediary element that facilitates both level measurement and ventilation functions. The collar with its structured geometry enables the sensor to measure liquid levels while providing attachment points for the ventilation filter, eliminating the need for direct contact between measurement pathways and potential contaminants
2Measurement precision
If an immersion tube with reed switch is used for level measurement, then level detection is achieved, but additional openings are required in the tank
Solution Approach 1:
The collar component is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mounting for the ventilation filter, supports the level measurement sensor, and facilitates signal transmission. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate openings for each function, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining precise level detection capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical immersion tube with reed switch with a non-contact sensor system (ultrasonic or radar sensor). This substitution eliminates the need for the sensor to physically penetrate the tank through additional openings, as the non-contact sensor can measure liquid levels from a distance, thereby reducing device complexity
3Duration of action of moving object
If a lance is permanently contact with hydraulic oil, then level measurement is continuous, but the lance is subject to significant wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical lance that requires permanent contact with hydraulic oil with a non-contact sensor system (ultrasonic or radar sensor). This substitution eliminates mechanical wear caused by continuous contact with hydraulic oil, significantly extending the service life of the level measurement device while maintaining continuous monitoring capability
Solution Approach 2:
The collar acts as an intermediary structure that positions the non-contact sensor optimally for measuring liquid levels without requiring the sensor to contact the hydraulic oil. This intermediary positioning enables continuous level measurement while protecting the sensor from wear, thereby extending service life
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 solution provides a compact, long-lasting solution for both ventilation and level measurement, ensuring precise and quick fill level monitoring while maintaining the existing ventilation filter and reducing wear and contamination risks.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor (4) arranged for non-contact level measurement, in particular an ultrasonic sensor (4)
Data Source
Figure 1a~2b
Figure 3a~4b
Figure 5a~5b
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for venting and level measurement of a hydraulic reservoir having an opening with a hole pattern for receiving a vent filter (5), comprising an annular base body (1) which has means for attachment to the hole pattern of the hydraulic reservoir and a receptacle for a vent filter (5), wherein a sieve body (3) projecting from the base body (1) is arranged for passage through the opening of the hydraulic reservoir and wherein a sensor for non-contact level measurement is arranged on the base body (1).