Shear Resistant Bin Level Indicator With Oscillating Paddle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bin level indicators face challenges such as damage from shear forces, false signals due to material impact, and limited placement options due to protruding components, especially when dealing with heavy or stringy materials.
Innovation Solution
A rotary-type bin level indicator with an oscillating paddle shaft and an over-travel mechanism that allows the paddle to move at an angle, reducing damage from shear forces and enabling reliable operation at any bin location, while the flexible section aligns with the paddle's center line to prevent damage from material impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the indicator probe extends significantly into the bin to engage material, then the sensing capability is improved, but the probe is damaged by shear forces from material weight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sensing function from the structural support function. The probe is made lightweight and extends fully into the bin for sensing, while a separate mounting structure outside the bin provides mechanical support and withstands shear forces. This separation allows the probe to be long enough for accurate sensing without compromising structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mounting structure that acts as a mediator between the probe and the bin wall. This mounting structure extends through the bin wall and provides a protected pathway for the probe, allowing the probe to engage material while the mounting structure absorbs and distributes shear forces away from the probe itself.
2Measurement precision
If the indicator is placed at low position in the bin for comprehensive monitoring, then the measurement coverage is improved, but the probe is damaged by shear forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sensing function from the structural support function. The probe is made lightweight and extends fully into the bin for sensing, while a separate mounting structure outside the bin provides mechanical support and withstands shear forces. This separation allows the probe to be long enough for accurate sensing without compromising structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mounting structure that acts as a mediator between the probe and the bin wall. This mounting structure extends through the bin wall and provides a protected pathway for the probe, allowing the probe to engage material while the mounting structure absorbs and distributes shear forces away from the probe itself.
3Measurement precision
If the paddle is positioned to reach material in flow conditions, then the sensing capability is improved, but false signals are generated from material impact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the paddle oscillate rather than remain stationary. This oscillating motion allows the paddle to sense material presence through resistance to its movement while preventing material from building up on the paddle surface. The dynamic motion distinguishes between actual material presence and transient impact events, reducing false signals.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for indicating a level of a bulk material in a bin. A motor imparts a swinging motion to a paddle located inside the bin. When the paddle engages the material, drag on the paddle causes a counteracting force on the motor, indicating a presence of material at the location of the device. In various embodiments, a paddle shaft, having very little exposure inside the bin, extends from a protective enclosure. The shaft is capped with a flexible section having the paddle attached to it. The paddle is at a downward angle relative to the paddle shaft and extends into the bin so as to engage the material. The paddle may move at an urging of the material so as to avoid damage to the paddle, flexible section, and shaft.