Multi-Electrode Capacitance Sensor for Compressor Oil Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional oil level sensors in compressors are limited to specific locations, requiring multiple installations to accurately detect oil levels, leading to inefficient oil recovery operations and potential compressor damage.
Innovation Solution
A sensor system utilizing a cap with facing electrodes and pins, capable of detecting oil concentration, height, and amount within a compressor using self-capacitance methods, without size limitations, and incorporating various sensing modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single oil level sensor is disposed at a certain location inside the compressor, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision of oil amount is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is divided into multiple electrodes (first electrode, second electrode, third electrode) arranged at different locations and orientations within the compressor. Each electrode detects oil level at its specific position, and the controller integrates these segmented measurements to determine the total oil amount, resolving the contradiction between simple device structure and precise measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor detection transitions from a single-point measurement to a multi-dimensional measurement system. Electrocdes are arranged in three-dimensional space with different positions, orientations, and heights, enabling comprehensive oil amount detection throughout the compressor volume rather than at a single location.
2Measurement precision
If multiple oil level sensors are installed at various locations inside the compressor to accurately detect oil amount, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple electrodes (first, second, and third electrodes) are merged into a single integrated sensor assembly that can be installed at one location. The electrodes work together as a unified detection system, combining the measurement capabilities of multiple sensors while maintaining the simplicity of a single sensor installation point.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor assembly performs multiple functions through its multi-electrode structure: detecting oil level at different positions, determining oil concentration distribution, and calculating total oil amount. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate sensors at various locations.
3Ease of operation
If conventional oil level sensors are used, then the ease of operation is maintained, but the productivity of oil recovery operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is segmented into multiple electrodes with different orientations and positions, each contributing to comprehensive oil detection. This segmentation enables accurate oil amount measurement without requiring multiple separate sensor installations, thereby maintaining ease of operation while improving oil recovery productivity through more accurate and timely 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
Accurately detects oil concentration, height, and amount within the compressor, optimizing oil recovery operations and enhancing energy efficiency and compressor reliability.
Implementation Method 1
capable of detecting oil concentration, height, and amount within a compressor using self-capacitance methods
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a sensor. The sensor of the present disclosure may include: a cap; electrodes facing the cap and spaced apart from each other; and pins penetrating the cap and electrically connected to the electrodes, wherein the electrodes includes: an upper electrode in a shape of a horizontal plate; a lower electrode located below the upper electrode; and a shield electrode disposed between the upper electrode and the lower electrode.