External Optical Fluid Level Sensing for Dispenser Bottles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid level gauges in dispensers require complex monitoring and counting mechanisms to determine when a bottle is empty, which are cumbersome and inefficient, especially in manually operated systems, and often require separate bottle sensing arrangements.
Innovation Solution
A fluid level gauging mechanism that emits and senses electromagnetic radiation to estimate the fluid level in bottles, using a path that varies with the bottle's condition, whether collapsible or rigid, allowing for accurate level determination without the need for complex counting or recognition of bottle attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If electromagnetic radiation sensing is used to determine fluid level, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical counting mechanisms and complex monitoring systems with an optical sensing system that uses electromagnetic radiation to directly measure fluid level. The emitter and sensor detect changes in radiation transmission through the bottle, automatically determining fluid level without mechanical intervention or complex electronics.
Solution Approach 2:
The bottle itself becomes part of the sensing system by utilizing its transparency properties. The bottle's material and structure work together with the electromagnetic radiation to provide measurement information, eliminating the need for separate complex monitoring devices attached to the bottle.
2Measurement precision
If separate bottle sensing arrangements are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fluid level sensing function with the existing bottle structure and dispenser housing. The emitter and sensor are integrated into the dispenser housing, and the bottle's transparency characteristics are utilized as part of the sensing mechanism, merging multiple functions into a unified system.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic radiation sensing system serves multiple functions: detecting bottle presence, determining fluid level, and identifying bottle characteristics all through a single optical measurement system, eliminating the need for separate specialized sensing arrangements.
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
Provides a simplified and accurate method for estimating fluid levels in both collapsible and rigid bottles, reducing the complexity of monitoring and improving efficiency in determining when a bottle needs to be refilled or replaced.
Implementation Method 1
an emitter of electromagnetic radiation within a range of wavelengths, and a sensor of electromagnetic radiation within the range of wavelengths, the wall of the bottle including window portions permitting electromagnetic radiation within the range of wavelengths to pass through the wall
Implementation Method 2
the sensor to receive the radiation from the emitter which is reflected from the bottle
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid level gauging mechanism external of a reservoir bottle in a dispenser which mechanism emits electromagnetic radiation and senses the electromagnetic radiation emitted which passes through the bottle or is reflected from the bottle through a wall of the bottle into the bottle at a first height and senses reflected radiation passing outwardly from the bottle at a second different height.