Liquid Level Sensor Cable Reduction via Voltage Reference Sharing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid amount detecting devices face challenges in accurately measuring the total liquid amount in multiple storage parts due to the increased complexity and number of connecting cables required, which can lead to reduced sealing performance and increased parts needed for the fuel tank.
Innovation Solution
A liquid amount detecting device configuration using magnetic sensors in each storage part, where the output voltage from one detector serves as a reference voltage for another, reducing the number of connecting cables needed by utilizing a single cable for both output and reference voltage transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a magnetic detector is provided in each of a plurality of storage parts to detect liquid amount, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for multiple connecting cables
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single connecting cable. The first connecting cable connects the first detector's output terminal to the second detector's reference terminal, serving dual purposes: transmitting the first detector's output signal and providing reference voltage to the second detector. This merging approach reduces the total cable count while maintaining detection precision
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting cable is designed with multi-functionality, acting as both an output signal transmission path from the first detector and a reference voltage supply path to the second detector. This universal use of the same cable for multiple electrical functions eliminates the need for separate cables, reducing system complexity
2Reliability
If multiple connecting cables are used to connect detectors in multiple storage parts, then reliability of signal transmission is improved, but sealing performance deteriorates due to increased cable penetration points
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the output signal transmission and reference voltage supply functions into a single connecting cable, the number of cable penetration points through the fuel tank is reduced. This maintains reliable electrical connections while minimizing damage to the tank's sealing structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the reference voltage supply function from a separate cable connection and integrates it into the existing output signal cable path. This eliminates the need for an additional cable penetration point, preserving the fuel tank's sealing performance
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 allows for accurate detection of the total liquid amount in multiple storage parts while minimizing the number of connecting cables, enhancing the sealing performance of the fuel tank and eliminating the need for external correction of integrated voltage values.
Implementation Method 1
a first magnetic sensor configured to generate a first analogue signal corresponding to the rotational movement of the first arm
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid amount detecting device may be provided with a first detector disposed in a first storage part; a second detector disposed in a second storage part; and a connecting cable. The first detector may include: a first float; a first arm; a first magnetic sensor which generates a first analog signal corresponding to the movement of the first arm; and a first output terminal which outputs a first output voltage value corresponding to the first analog signal. The second detector may include: a second float; a second arm; a second magnetic sensor which generates a second analog signal corresponding to the movement of the second arm; a reference terminal; and a second output terminal which outputs a second output voltage value corresponding to an integrated voltage value in which a voltage value indicated by the second analog signal and the first output voltage value are integrated.