Propane Tank Weight Sensor for Predictive Refill Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing propane level monitoring systems for refillable tanks in grills are inaccurate and require manual inspection, leading to unexpected depletion of propane.
Innovation Solution
A product demand sensor that periodically measures the weight of the propane tank, transmitting data to an analytics engine for real-time propane level prediction and automatic replenishment, integrated with a facility hub, server, and portable computing device for remote monitoring and automated reordering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual inspection techniques or basic mechanical gauges are used to monitor propane levels, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces basic mechanical gauges with electronic load sensors that provide precise weight-based measurements of propane levels. The load sensor converts mechanical weight into electrical signals for digital processing, achieving high measurement precision while maintaining relatively simple device complexity through electronic substitution of mechanical indication systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring system automatically performs measurements and calculations without requiring manual intervention. The load sensor continuously monitors weight, the processor automatically calculates propane levels from weight data, and the system self-regulates to provide accurate readings without user involvement in the measurement process.
2Measurement precision
If weight-based measurement systems with load sensors and electronic processors are implemented, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the load sensor, processor, and communication interfaces into an integrated monitoring unit. By merging these components into a single cohesive system rather than separate elements, the patent reduces overall device complexity while maintaining high measurement precision through the coordinated operation of integrated components.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring system performs multiple functions including weight measurement, propane level calculation, data storage, wireless communication, and user interface presentation. By designing a universal system that handles all these functions within a single integrated device, the patent avoids the complexity of multiple separate systems while achieving precise measurement capabilities.
3Loss of information
If continuous monitoring with periodic weight measurements is implemented, then loss of information is reduced, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs weight measurements at periodic intervals rather than continuously, reducing energy consumption while still maintaining accurate tracking of propane consumption. The periodic measurement cycle captures sufficient data to calculate consumption rates and predict depletion without requiring constant monitoring that would drain battery power.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from periodic weight measurements to calculate consumption rates and update predictions of propane depletion. This feedback mechanism allows the system to maintain accurate information about propane levels and consumption patterns while using energy efficiently by only processing measurements when changes occur rather than continuously.
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 accurate, real-time propane level monitoring and consumption tracking, enabling users to preemptively restock and distributors to manage inventory efficiently.
Implementation Method 1
a load sensor coupled with the hook, the load sensor being configured to sense a weight of the object supported by the hook
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a product demand sensor for weighing an object. The product demand sensor comprises a housing having a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side. The product demand sensor comprises a hook coupled with the fourth side. The product demand sensor comprises a load sensor coupled with the hook, the load sensor being configured to sense a weight of the object supported by the hook. The product demand sensor may be configured to periodically collect weight measurements and support a liquid propane canister for use with a gas grill.