Magnetic Float Liquid Level Detector with Reversible Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid level detectors require a new casing design when reversing the attachment direction, leading to increased part types and operational mode changes in the switch mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A liquid level detector design with a casing that uses first and second regulatory sections to restrict float movement, allowing the same casing shape to be used for both attachment positions by adjusting the distances from the virtual switching plane to these sections, enabling the switch mechanism to function consistently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the liquid level detector is installed in the upper attachment position with the cover located further in the gravity direction than the housing, then the attachment direction can be vertically reversed, but the switch mechanism changes its operating mode from switching on by descent to switching on by ascent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by making the float's bottom end section asymmetric in its interaction with the regulatory sections. The float is designed with a specific bottom end section that contacts the regulatory sections in a consistent manner regardless of attachment position. This asymmetric design ensures that the magnet body always moves in the same direction relative to the switch mechanism, maintaining consistent operating mode while allowing vertical reversal of attachment direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses inversion by reversing the attachment direction of the casing while maintaining the same internal configuration. By inverting the attachment position (upper vs lower) but keeping the float, magnet body, and switch mechanism in the same relative positions, the system achieves vertical reversal capability without changing the switch mechanism's operating mode. The distances from the virtual switching plane to both regulatory sections are designed to be longer than the magnet body length, ensuring consistent operation in either orientation.
2Ease of operation
If a new casing is manufactured to maintain consistent switch mechanism operation in the upper attachment position, then the operating mode can be maintained, but the number of part types increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single casing that can function in both upper and lower attachment positions without requiring different casing designs. The casing includes first and second regulatory sections that are positioned at specific distances from the virtual switching plane, allowing the same casing to maintain consistent switch mechanism operation regardless of attachment orientation. This universal design eliminates the need for multiple part types while ensuring operational consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes by carefully designing the distances from the virtual switching plane to the first and second regulatory sections. Both distances are set to be longer than the magnet body length, which ensures that the float can move the magnet body through the switching plane in both attachment positions. By changing these distance parameters appropriately, the system achieves consistent operation without requiring different casing designs for different attachment positions.
3Reliability
If the float movement range is restricted by the cover and housing in the lower attachment position, then the float can switch from off-state to on-state by descent, but the same restriction causes the switch mechanism to switch from off-state to on-state by ascent in the upper attachment position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by designing the float with a specific bottom end section that interacts consistently with the regulatory sections. This asymmetric float design ensures that regardless of whether the casing is in upper or lower attachment position, the float moves in the same direction relative to the magnet body, maintaining consistent switch mechanism operation mode while preserving reliable float movement restriction.
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 vertical reversal of attachment direction without changing the switch mechanism's operating mode, reducing part complexity and allowing for flexible installation while maintaining accurate liquid level detection.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet body that has a shape extending along the gravity direction and is held by the float to be displaced upward or downward in conformity with the surface of liquid
Implementation Method 2
a float that floats on the surface of liquid and has its upward and downward displacement along the gravity direction restricted
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid level detector includes a casing having a first regulatory section and a second regulatory section, a float that has its upward and downward displacement restricted by contact with the first regulatory section or the second regulatory section, a magnet body that is held by the float, and a switch mechanism that is switched between an on-state and an off-state. A first distance from a switching plane to the first regulatory section and a second distance from the switching plane to the second regulatory section are both longer than a length from one magnet end face to a bottom end section.