Liquid Level Detector Backlash Reduction via Outer Radius Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid level detectors experience significant backlash rattling due to clearance between engaging parts, which affects the smooth rotation of the rotator relative to the fixing member, leading to inaccurate fuel level detection.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a flange portion and engaging portion on the outer circumference side of the magnet, allowing the rotator to engage at a position relatively far from the rotation center, and communication openings to prevent foreign substances from entering the clearance, thereby reducing backlash rattling and maintaining detection accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a clearance is provided between engaging parts of the rotator and fixing member to allow smooth rotation, then the rotator can rotate smoothly relative to the fixing member, but fairly large backlash rattling occurs due to the clearance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the engaging parts from the central axis region to the outer circumference region of the rotator. This spatial relocation in a different dimension (radial direction) allows the engaging parts to be positioned where they can provide both smooth rotation through clearance and reduced backlash through larger lever arm effect, effectively resolving the contradiction by changing the dimensional location of the engaging mechanism
2Device complexity
If the engaging parts are located close to the central axis to maintain compact structure, then the device structure remains compact, but fairly large backlash rattling occurs due to clearance
Solution Approach 1:
The engaging parts are relocated from the central axis area to the outer circumference area of the rotator. This radial dimension change allows the mechanism to achieve reduced backlash while maintaining overall structural compactness, as the engaging parts utilize the outer radius space that would otherwise be unused
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 configuration effectively suppresses backlash rattling and prevents foreign substances from interfering with the detection, ensuring accurate fuel level measurement by allowing smooth rotation and preventing contamination.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic sensor covered by the supporter and configured to output a signal corresponding to a rotation of the magnet opposing the magnetic sensor via the supporter
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid level detector may comprise an arm attached to a float, a rotator fixed to the arm, a magnet fixed to the rotator, a supporter rotatably supporting the rotator. The supporter may comprise a body housing a magnetic sensor and opposing the magnet with a clearance, a supporting portion disposed along a rotation direction of the arm on an outer circumference side of the magnet and projecting from the body toward the rotator, and a flange portion projecting from the supporting portion along an outer circumference direction at a position spaced from the body in a rotational axial direction of the arm. The rotator may comprise an engaging portion slidably disposed relative to the flange portion along the rotation direction of the arm and engaging the flange portion so as to regulate a motion of the arm in the rotational axial direction.