Liquid Level Measuring Device Using Position Coded Signals

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing liquid level measurement technologies are costly and inefficient, particularly in monitoring water levels in rivers and flooded areas, and lack adaptability to different scales and environments.

Innovation Solution

A liquid level measuring device using inner-tube and outer-tube coils with a control unit that applies position-coded signals for electromagnetic induction, allowing for real-time monitoring and modular design to accommodate various scales and environments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If existing liquid level measurement technologies are used, then measurement capability is provided, but cost is high and efficiency is low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveliquid level measurement capabilityVSAvoidcost and efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems with electromagnetic induction principles. The inner-tube coil and outer-tube coils generate electromagnetic fields that interact to measure liquid level, eliminating the need for complex mechanical sensors, transmitters, and receivers, thereby reducing cost and improving efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces electromagnetic fields as an intermediary between the measurement system and the liquid level. The electromagnetic induction interaction between the inner-tube coil and outer-tube coils serves as a mediator to detect liquid level changes without direct mechanical contact, simplifying the overall system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If existing liquid level measurement technologies are used, then measurement capability is provided, but adaptability to different scales and environments is lacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveliquid level measurement capabilityVSAvoidadaptability to different scales and environments
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the measurement system with universal outer-tube coils that can be configured for different measurement scales and environments. The same basic electromagnetic induction principle applies across various applications, from small containers to large reservoirs, providing multi-functionality and broad adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the measurement system into modular components, particularly the outer-tube coils that can be independently configured and positioned. This segmentation allows the system to be adapted to different measurement requirements by adjusting the number, size, and arrangement of outer-tube coils without redesigning the entire system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 low-cost, efficient, and adaptable liquid level monitoring, enabling real-time tracking and easy deployment in diverse applications, with the ability to adjust to different scales and replace components as needed.

Implementation Method 1

the at least one inner-tube coil generating an induced signal through electromagnetic induction with the outer-tube coils corresponding to a liquid level where the inner tube is at

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS9470571B2Liquid level measuring device
Publication Date: 2016.10.18 NATIONAL APPLIED RESEARCH LABORATORIES
  • US9470571B2 patent drawing
  • US9470571B2 patent drawing
  • US9470571B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A liquid level measuring device comprises an inner-tube unit having an inner tube and at least one inner-tube coil surrounding the inner tube; an outer-tube unit having a plurality of outer tubes, each outer tube having a plurality of outer-tube coils disposed thereon, the outer tubes being stacked, the inner tube being arranged inside the outer tubes and being risen and fallen as a level of a liquid in the outer tubes varies; and a control unit electrically connecting to the respective outer-tube coils, the control unit transmitting a set of position coded signals to the outer-tube coils disposed on an individual outer tube, the control unit determining the liquid level according to an induced signal generated by the inner-tube coil. Said device has many advantages including low cost and modular design, and such a device is easily to be deployed.