Liquid Transfer Apparatus with Buffer Reservoir and Contact-Free Level Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dosing systems for providing liquid from storage containers lack mobility, making them inflexible for use, especially when handling hazardous chemicals.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a direct installation support for the storage container, a contact-free liquid level detector, a waterproof breathable membrane in the venting line, and a sensing device for secure mounting, allowing for flexible use and preventing liquid leakage, with additional features like an air venting pump, activated carbon filter, and sensors for tilt and out-of-liquid detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dosing station is implemented with a storage container and liquid level detection system, then liquid can be provided free from air or gases and the storage container can be emptied almost completely, but the mobility of the dosing station is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is divided into separate functional modules: a removable support for mounting on storage containers, a buffer reservoir connected via flexible hoses, and a dosing device. This segmentation allows the liquid transfer system to be detached and relocated, maintaining mobility while preserving the integrity of the liquid transfer process including air removal and complete emptying capability.
Solution Approach 2:
A buffer reservoir serves as an intermediary between the storage container and the dosing device. This intermediate chamber allows for air removal and liquid degassing while enabling flexible positioning of the dosing station relative to the storage container, thus maintaining both liquid quality and mobility.
2Productivity
If an extraction probe is extended through the liquid outlet of the storage container into the interior, then the storage container can be emptied almost completely, but the risk of liquid leakage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid level detection system uses contact-free sensors (optical, capacitive, or ultrasonic) instead of mechanical probes that could puncture seals or cause leakage. This allows complete emptying detection without compromising the integrity of the storage container seal.
Solution Approach 2:
The extraction probe is positioned through the liquid outlet in a controlled manner, with the buffer reservoir acting as an intermediary chamber. This setup allows the probe to extend into the storage container for complete emptying while the buffer reservoir controls the liquid flow, preventing uncontrolled leakage.
3Reliability
If a venting line is provided to remove air and gases from the liquid, then liquid free from air or gases can be provided, but the complexity of the apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The venting function is merged with the buffer reservoir design. The buffer reservoir serves dual purposes: as a liquid holding chamber and as an air removal chamber. The venting line is integrated into the buffer reservoir structure, allowing air and gas removal without requiring separate complex venting systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The venting system is designed to automatically remove air and gases from the liquid as it enters the buffer reservoir. The contact-free liquid level detector also serves the dual function of monitoring liquid levels and triggering air removal operations, reducing the need for separate control systems.
4Volume of moving object
If a contact-free liquid level detector is used in the buffer reservoir, then space is saved and proper function is ensured, but the cost of the apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The contact-free liquid level detector is integrated into the buffer reservoir design, serving multiple functions: liquid level monitoring, air removal triggering, and transfer operation control. This multi-functionality justifies the higher component cost by eliminating the need for separate sensors and control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
Mechanical float indicators or contact-based level sensors that would require additional housing space are replaced with contact-free detection methods (optical, capacitive, or ultrasonic sensors). These sensors can be mounted on the exterior of the buffer reservoir, saving internal space while providing accurate level detection.
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 apparatus enables complete emptying of storage containers without air or gases, automatic out-of-liquid detection, and enhanced mobility, ensuring safe and flexible operation, particularly valuable for hazardous chemicals.
Implementation Method 1
contact-free liquid level detector for detecting the liquid level in the buffer reservoir
Implementation Method 2
the venting line and/or the connection of the venting line with the buffer reservoir comprise(s) a waterproof (but breathable) membrane for preventing a leakage of liquid via the venting line
Implementation Method 3
an extraction probe for extracting liquid out of the storage container
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The invention relates to apparatus (10) arranged for providing liquid from a storage container (12) to a liquid intake device, especially a dosing device. According to the invention the apparatus (10) comprises: - an extraction probe (24) for extracting liquid out of the storage container (12); - a buffer reservoir (28) connected to the extraction probe (24); - a feeding line (34) connecting the buffer reservoir (28) to a liquid outlet (36) of the apparatus (10), which liquid outlet (36) is adapted for establishing a connection to the liquid intake device; - a venting line (40) connecting the buffer reservoir (28) with an air outlet (42) of the apparatus (10); - a contact-free liquid level detector (32) for detecting the liquid level in the buffer reservoir (28); and - a support (24) for mounting the apparatus (10) on the storage container (12) in such way, that the extraction probe (24) extends through a liquid outlet (14) of the storage container (12) into the interior of said storage container (12). The invention further relates to a corresponding liquid intake system with a liquid intake device and an apparatus (10) arranged for providing liquid from a storage container (12) to the liquid intake device.