Portable Ultrasonic Sensor for Keg Liquid Level Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ultrasonic liquid level measurement systems are not adaptable for use with different-sized vessels and cannot be easily moved between vessels, particularly in the beverage industry, such as for measuring beer in kegs, leading to inaccuracies and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A portable ultrasonic liquid level measuring system that includes a removably coupled assembly with a mount body and ultrasonic sensor, using high-powered magnets for secure attachment to kegs of varying sizes, and a control module for calculating liquid levels based on ping times, which can be wirelessly connected to user devices for data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ultrasonic sensors are permanently attached to a particular vessel, then measurement reliability is improved, but adaptability to different vessel sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ultrasonic sensor assembly is designed with a universal mounting interface that can be attached to various vessel sizes through magnetic coupling. The assembly includes adjustable positioning mechanisms that allow it to adapt to different keg diameters and heights, enabling a single sensor design to serve multiple vessel configurations while maintaining measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor assembly incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable components that allow dynamic adaptation to different vessel sizes. The magnetic mounting system enables easy attachment and detachment, while adjustable positioning elements allow the sensor to be reconfigured for optimal measurement angles and distances across various keg sizes
2Measurement precision
If ultrasonic sensors are built into a vessel, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system is divided into a separate, portable sensor assembly that can be independently handled and moved between vessels. This segmented design allows the sensor to be detached from any vessel and transferred to another, maintaining measurement precision through consistent sensor positioning while dramatically improving ease of operation between different kegs
3Adaptability or versatility
If a portable ultrasonic sensor assembly is used, then adaptability to different vessels is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex mechanical positioning and alignment mechanisms with magnetic coupling and electronic calibration. The magnetic attachment provides consistent, repeatable positioning without complex mechanical adjustment, while electronic calibration routines compensate for variations in vessel geometry, maintaining precision across different keg sizes
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 accurate and efficient measurement of liquid levels in kegs and other vessels of different sizes, providing reliable data for inventory management and reducing errors associated with traditional systems.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasonic sensor assembly configured to be removably coupled to a bottom of a vessel from which a level of a liquid in the vessel can be determined
Implementation Method 2
control module configured to determine a liquid level based on ping times
Implementation Method 3
The system can include, but is not limited to, a liquid level measuring assembly, a user device, and a vessel
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for determining a liquid level in a vessel is described. Embodiments of the system can include a liquid level measuring assembly, a user device, and a vessel. The liquid level measuring assembly can include an ultrasonic sensor assembly, a control module, and a mount body configured to place the ultrasonic sensor assembly proximate a bottom of a vessel. Typically, the system can be implemented with a vessel having a substantially cylindrical shape and including a chime. The mount body can be adapted to removably couple to the inside of the chime of the vessel.