Magnetic Float Liquid Level Monitoring for Remote Refill Alerts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for monitoring liquid levels in containers, particularly in pet water feeders, are inefficient for distant observation and often require manual intervention, especially in low-light conditions or for multiple feeders.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic proximity sensor system with a free float and attachment band containing permanent magnets, which activates an alert mechanism when the float moves into proximity with the magnets, allowing remote and customizable monitoring of liquid levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a water level indicator is used in a pet water dispenser, then the user can determine the water level, but the user still cannot observe it from afar or in low-light conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical water level indicator with a magnetic field-based sensing system. Magnetic proximity sensors detect the position of a float containing permanent magnets, converting mechanical displacement into electrical signals that can be processed and displayed remotely, thereby eliminating the need for direct visual observation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the water level (float position) and the sensing system. The float contains permanent magnets that generate a magnetic field, which is detected by magnetic proximity sensors, enabling indirect measurement of water level without requiring direct line-of-sight observation.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple water dispensers are used for multiple pets, then the pets have adequate water supply, but it becomes cumbersome for the user to track the water level of each dispenser
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal monitoring system where each water dispenser is equipped with identical magnetic sensing components. The system can universally detect water levels across multiple dispensers using the same magnetic field detection principle, and the central controller can manage multiple units through a single interface, enabling simultaneous monitoring of all dispensers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback system where magnetic proximity sensors continuously monitor float position and send signals to a central controller. The controller provides real-time feedback about water levels in all dispensers through a user interface (such as a mobile app or display panel), alerting users when refilling is needed, thereby eliminating the need for manual checking of each dispenser.
3Device complexity
If manual water level checking is performed, then the system is simple, but the user may fail to add water timely leading to pets suffering from thirst
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the water dispenser system to monitor its own water level automatically. The float mechanism moves with water level changes, triggering magnetic proximity sensors that detect the float's position and generate alerts when water needs refilling. This self-monitoring capability eliminates reliance on manual checking by the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by providing advance warning before the water dispenser runs dry. The magnetic sensing system detects low water levels early and triggers alert mechanisms (such as LEDs, buzzers, or mobile notifications) to prompt users to refill the water supply before the pets are left without water.
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
Enables remote and user-customizable liquid level monitoring, reducing manual intervention and ensuring timely refilling, especially for pet water feeders, with features like IoT integration for enhanced notification.
Implementation Method 1
a free float comprising an electric circuitry comprising: a battery; at least one magnetic proximity sensor; wherein proximity of the float to the attachment band is sensed by the at least one magnetic proximity sensor embedded within the float, when the float is in proximity with the permanent magnets embedded within the attachment band
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus for monitoring a level of a liquid in a container, comprising a container configured to contain a liquid; a free-floating float disposed within the container, the float comprising a sealed housing, an onboard electric power source, at least one magnetic proximity sensor, an actuation module operatively coupled to the magnetic proximity sensor, and an alerting device operatively coupled to the actuation module; and a magnetic reference element positioned external to the container; wherein the float is configured to move vertically with changes in a liquid level within the container; wherein the magnetic proximity sensor is configured to detect proximity of the magnetic reference element through a wall of the container; and wherein the actuation module is configured to activate the alerting device when the detected proximity corresponds to a predetermined liquid level.