Modulating makeup fluid control systems and methods for same

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems fail to maintain a consistent boiling rate of fluids in reservoirs due to imprecise measurement of fluid levels, leading to unacceptable variations in humidity levels when steam is produced for environments like rooms or buildings.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that uses a sensor array to measure the turbulated fluid level by determining multiple heights and times of fluid presence, allowing for precise determination of fluid levels and introducing input fluid in a graduated manner to maintain the boiling rate.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If water is introduced into the tank to maintain water level, then the water level is maintained, but the boiling rate diminishes due to temperature decrease

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewater levelVSAvoidboiling rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts the valve operation based on real-time sensor feedback. Instead of a fixed on/off control, the valve is modulated to open for specific durations and at specific intervals, creating a dynamic balance between water replenishment and maintaining boiling temperature. The controller adapts the valve opening time and frequency based on the sensor signals that monitor both water level and boiling status.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs feedback control through sensors that continuously monitor the water level and boiling conditions in the tank. When the sensor detects that water level is low or boiling has stopped, it sends signals to the controller, which then activates the valve to add water. After the desired water level is restored, the controller closes the valve. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures that water is added only when necessary, minimizing temperature disruption to the boiling process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Quantity of substance

If a float valve or water level sensor is used to control water introduction, then water level control is achieved, but the measurement precision is insufficient due to turbulated fluid

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewater level controlVSAvoidfluid level measurement
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system introduces an intermediary sensor mechanism that indirectly measures water level by detecting the presence or absence of water at specific heights rather than directly measuring the turbulent surface. The sensor acts as a mediator that translates the complex turbulent fluid state into simple binary detection signals that the controller can use to make precise control decisions about when to add water.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 approach enhances the accuracy and precision of fluid level measurement, ensuring a stable boiling rate and consistent humidity levels by accurately controlling the introduction of fluid into the reservoir.

Implementation Method 1

A fluid level (e.g., an actual fluid level) of a turbulated base fluid is determined in a reservoir by measuring at least one first height and at least one second height of the turbulated base fluid above and below a first sensor, respectively

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluid level detection:

Implementation Method 2

As the heat source heats—and ultimately boils—the water inside of the tank, steam escapes the tank through a steam discharge

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBoiling: Boiling

Implementation Method 3

graduating the introduction of an input fluid into the reservoir with a control valve

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluid flow control:

Data Source

PatentUS12352465B2Modulating makeup fluid control systems and methods for same
Publication Date: 2025.07.08 PURE HUMIDIFIER CO
  • US12352465B2 patent drawing
  • US12352465B2 patent drawing
  • US12352465B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for maintaining a boiling rate of a base fluid can include a determination of a fluid level of a turbulated base fluid in a reservoir. The fluid level can be determined by measuring at least one first height of the turbulated base fluid above the fluid level with at least a first sensor. The fluid level can be determined by measuring at least one second height of the turbulated base fluid below the fluid level with the first sensor. The method can include the establishment of the fluid level of the turbulated base fluid. The fluid level can be established according to the measured at least one first and second heights. The method can include the graduated introduction of an input fluid into the reservoir. A control valve can gradually introduce the input fluid in proportion to the established fluid level of the turbulated base fluid.