Rotating Base and Flange Assembly for Fluid Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid sensor assemblies for tanker trailers face challenges in installation and maintenance due to limited space and access issues, particularly with multiple components on a man-lid, requiring complex and space-consuming fastening systems for secure connections.
Innovation Solution
A fluid sensor assembly design featuring a rotatable base with articulating levers that form a fluid-tight seal and toolless wire connectors, allowing for customizable positioning and reduced space requirements, along with a swivel seal for easy access and secure locking, enabling efficient installation and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional fastening system is used to secure the base to the flange, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the installation complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The base is made rotatable relative to the flange, transforming a static fixed connection into a dynamic adjustable connection. This allows the base to be positioned at different orientations during installation and operation, simplifying the fastening system while maintaining secure connection through the rotatable mounting mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into separate components: the flange attached to the container, the rotatable base, and the sensor assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies installation by enabling modular assembly without requiring complex integrated fastening systems
2Reliability
If multiple components are mounted on a man-lid, then the sensor assembly is securely positioned, but the space requirements and access difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable base enables the sensor assembly to be positioned at optimal orientations without requiring additional space on the man-lid. The rotation capability allows the sensor to access different angles and positions while maintaining a compact footprint on the man-lid surface
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of expanding the man-lid surface area to accommodate multiple components, the solution utilizes the rotational dimension. The base can rotate to position the sensor in three-dimensional space, effectively using vertical and angular dimensions rather than horizontal space
3Reliability
If a complex fastening system is used, then the sensor assembly is securely locked, but the installation time and maintenance accessibility increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable base with articulating levers provides a quick-lock mechanism that enables rapid installation and removal. The lever-based locking system allows operators to secure the assembly with simple mechanical motions rather than time-consuming fastening operations, reducing installation time while maintaining secure connection
Solution Approach 2:
The articulating levers are designed to be manually operated without requiring additional tools or complex procedures. The self-contained locking mechanism allows installation and maintenance personnel to quickly secure or release the assembly through direct manual manipulation of the levers
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 design enhances installation efficiency, reduces space requirements, and ensures secure connections while maintaining a fluid-tight seal, improving accessibility and ease of maintenance for fluid sensor assemblies on tanker trailers.
Implementation Method 1
a swivel seal positioned between the base and the flange when the base is mounted to the flange, the swivel seal configured to form a fluid seal between the base and the flange during rotation of the base about the flange
Implementation Method 2
The cap is configured to lock on the base and form a fluid-tight seal between the cap and the base
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid sensor assembly is provided. The fluid sensor assembly includes a flange, a base, and a cap. The flange is configured to mount to a fluid container. The base is configured to receive a fluid sensor, the base rotatably mounted to the flange and configured to rotate about the flange, the base forming a plurality of receiving apertures positioned about a perimeter of the base. The cap is configured to lock on the base and form a fluid-tight seal between the cap and the base.