Movable Signal Shield for Ultrasonic Sensor Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Beverage dispensers face challenges in accurately dispensing liquids due to interference from nearby objects, which affects the accuracy of ultrasonic sensors used for container detection, especially when accommodating a wide variety of container shapes and sizes.
Innovation Solution
A beverage-dispensing appliance with a movable signal shield that can be positioned to block or permit access to the dispenser recess, reducing signal interference from adjacent objects, and a liquid level sensor to ensure precise dispensing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a movable signal shield is introduced to block signal interference, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The signal shield is designed as a movable component that can be positioned in different locations. The shield moves between a first position that blocks signals from objects at a first location and a second position that blocks signals from objects at a second location. This dynamic positioning allows the system to adapt to different container configurations without requiring multiple fixed shields, thereby improving measurement precision while controlling the increase in device complexity through a single movable component rather than multiple static ones.
Solution Approach 2:
The signal shield acts as an intermediary element between the ultrasonic sensor and potential interfering objects. By strategically positioning the shield, the system blocks harmful signal reflections from objects that are not the target container, while still allowing the sensor to accurately detect the intended container. This intermediary approach resolves the contradiction by introducing a simple blocking mechanism that protects measurement accuracy without requiring complex signal processing or multiple sensors.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the appliance accommodates a wide variety of container shapes and sizes, then adaptability is improved, but signal interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable signal shield enables the system to adapt its signal blocking configuration based on the specific container being measured. When a container of a particular shape or size is detected, the shield can be repositioned to block signals from objects at the appropriate location, preventing interference while maintaining accurate measurement. This dynamic adjustment allows the appliance to accommodate various container types without suffering from increased signal interference, as the shield adapts its position to the specific measurement scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the spatial parameter of the signal shield's position to address different interference scenarios. By moving the shield between distinct positions, the system can block signals from objects at different locations relative to the sensor. This parameter change approach allows the appliance to maintain high adaptability to various container shapes and sizes while controlling signal interference by adjusting the shield's spatial configuration to match the specific measurement requirements.
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 appliance effectively minimizes signal interference, allowing for accurate and precise dispensing of beverages into various container sizes and shapes, enhancing the reliability of the dispensing process.
Implementation Method 1
Some such systems have been referred to as 'auto-fill' dispensers or dispensing assemblies and may rely on, for example one or more ultrasonic sensors
Implementation Method 2
The signal shield may be movable between a blocking position and a permissive position. The blocking position may laterally bound at least a portion of the dispenser recess
Data Source
AI summary
A beverage-dispensing appliance may include a cabinet, a liquid line, a liquid level sensor, and a signal shield. The cabinet may define a mutually-orthogonal vertical direction, lateral direction, and transverse direction. The cabinet may define a dispenser recess. The liquid line may be mounted to the cabinet and define a liquid outlet above the dispenser recess. The liquid level sensor may be mounted to the cabinet and directed at the dispenser recess. The signal shield may be movably mounted to the cabinet. The signal shield may be movable between a blocking position and a permissive position. The blocking position may laterally bound at least a portion of the dispenser recess. The permissive position may be transversely spaced apart from the dispenser recess to permit lateral access thereto.