Liquid Level Sensor Positioning Bracket for Sagging Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Liquid level sensors in liquid pass-through devices face unreliable readings due to improper installation, sagging tubing, and incorrect positioning, which can lead to device damage when operated without liquid, necessitating a solution to maintain a fixed distance and orientation between the sensor and the outlet tube.
Innovation Solution
A positioning apparatus comprising a horizontal platform with arms to securely hold the liquid level sensor and outlet tube, featuring a removably attachable socket to the device outlet that prevents rotation and sagging, ensuring the sensor remains at a fixed distance and orientation relative to the outlet tube.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the sensor is placed close to the tubing for easy installation, then the installation is simpler, but the sensor readings become unreliable due to improper positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket serves as an intermediary component between the sensor and the tubing. It provides a standardized mounting structure that positions the sensor at the correct distance from the tubing while allowing for easy installation. The bracket's aperture receives the tubing and the sensor mounts to the bracket, ensuring proper spacing without requiring direct attachment of the sensor to the tubing.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning system is divided into separate functional components: the bracket body, the aperture for receiving tubing, and the mounting aperture for the sensor. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the bracket provides structural support and positioning, while the sensor can be easily mounted and removed without affecting the tubing attachment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the tubing is allowed to sag freely, then the installation is more flexible, but the distance between the tubing and sensor changes resulting in faulty readings
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is pre-configured with an aperture that receives and secures the tubing at the correct position before the sensor is installed. This preliminary positioning of the tubing ensures that when the sensor is mounted to the bracket, it maintains the proper distance from the tubing throughout operation, preventing sagging-induced positioning changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket acts as a rigid intermediary structure that supports the tubing at a fixed position. By securing the tubing in the bracket's aperture, the system eliminates the sagging problem while maintaining installation flexibility. The bracket's structural integrity prevents the tubing from moving or sagging, thereby maintaining consistent sensor readings.
3Ease of operation
If the sensor is moved farther upstream from the device, then the sensor is easier to access, but the sensor may be placed in liquid-containing sections even when the device does not contain liquid
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is positioned and attached to the device outlet in a predetermined location that ensures proper sensor-tubing spacing. This preliminary positioning prevents the sensor from being inadvertently placed in upstream sections that may contain liquid regardless of device operation status. The fixed mounting structure maintains the sensor at the correct relative position to the outlet tube.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket serves as an intermediary that maintains the correct spatial relationship between the sensor and the outlet tube. By securing both the tubing and sensor to the bracket in specific positions, the system ensures the sensor remains at the proper distance from the outlet tube, preventing incorrect placement in upstream liquid-containing sections.
Data Source
AI summary
A positioning apparatus for a liquid level sensor includes a liquid level sensor support, such as a generally horizontal platform, having an aperture for receiving at least a portion of the liquid level sensor. An arm extends from the support and has an aperture for receiving a liquid outlet tube extending from an outlet of a liquid pass-through device. A hollow socket is spaced apart from the arm and removably attachable to the outlet of the liquid pass-through device. The apparatus maintains the relative position and orientation of the liquid level sensor to the liquid outlet tube extending from the outlet of the liquid pass-through device.