Liquid Level Detector Grounding Structure for Static Spark Suppression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional liquid level detectors in fuel tanks of vehicles generate sparks due to static electricity from oscillating fuel and resin components, posing a risk and complicating installation due to potential electrical discharges.
Innovation Solution
A liquid level detector design with a frame having stoppers to restrict arm rotation and embedded conductive parts that discharge static electricity to ground, maintaining a compact shape and preventing sparks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional liquid level detector structure is used, then the device can detect liquid level, but static electricity generates sparks due to oscillation of fuel and resin components
Solution Approach 1:
A conductive part is introduced as an intermediary between the arm and the ground terminal. This conductive part provides a controlled path for static electricity to discharge to ground, preventing uncontrolled spark generation between the arm and other components while maintaining the essential liquid level detection function
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful static electricity is extracted and directed to ground through the conductive part and ground terminal, separating the static charge discharge path from the detection mechanism. This removes the spark hazard while preserving the liquid level detection capability
2Reliability
If anti-spark measures are added, then spark generation is suppressed, but the device size increases and workability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive part is integrated into the existing frame structure, merging the anti-spark function with the structural component. The frame serves dual purposes: providing structural support and housing the conductive part that directs static electricity to ground, thereby avoiding additional space and complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is designed to serve multiple functions: structural support, mounting the detection part, and providing a path for static electricity discharge through the embedded conductive part. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate anti-spark components, maintaining compact size and ease of manufacture
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 design effectively suppresses spark generation while maintaining a compact size, ensuring safe operation and ease of installation by discharging static electricity, thus preventing electrical discharges.
Implementation Method 1
a conductive part having a first end portion connected to the ground terminal and a second end portion positioned so as to be contactable with respect to the arm, and that is at least partially embedded in the frame
Implementation Method 2
a holder that holds a base end side of the arm and converts displacement of the arm following an up-down movement of the float associated with a change in liquid level of the liquid, into a rotational movement
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid level detector includes: a float; an arm; a holder; a frame having a shaft; a detection part that is provided in the frame and detects a rotation angle of the holder; a ground terminal connected to the detection part; and a conductive part having a first end portion connected to the ground terminal and a second end portion positioned so as to be contactable with respect to the arm, and that is at least partially embedded in the frame, wherein the frame has a pair of first stoppers that come into contact with the distal end side of the arm from a position facing the shaft, thereby restricting a rotation range of the holder, and the second end portion is exposed toward a trajectory of the arm from each of a first stopper surface and a second stopper surface constituting the pair of first stoppers.