Submersion Detection Circuit Using Parallel Resistive Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing submersion detection systems for electrical and electronic equipment are inadequate in accurately determining the degree and position of submersion, particularly in large-scale equipment and facilities, as they rely on differential pressure sensors which may not provide precise measurements.
Innovation Solution
A submersion detection circuit and apparatus utilizing a plurality of resistors with different resistance values connected in parallel, where submersion contact terminals are electrified upon submersion, allowing for voltage measurement and analysis using an Analog to Digital Converter (ADC) to determine submersion and its position, replacing conventional sensors with a cost-effective and extendable solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If differential pressure sensors are used for submersion detection, then submersion level can be detected, but measurement precision and accuracy are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is segmented into multiple independent resistive elements (first resistive element, second resistive element, third resistive element) positioned at different heights. Each element independently detects submersion at its specific level, dividing the detection task into discrete segments that provide precise positional information without requiring complex sensor systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical/differential pressure sensors with an electrical resistive system. Conductive elements make electrical contact with the fluid, creating measurable resistance changes that indicate submersion levels. This substitution provides more precise measurements while simplifying the overall device structure.
2Measurement precision
If multiple submersion detection points are added to determine position, then detection precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple detection functions are merged into a single integrated circuit configuration. The first, second, and third resistive elements are connected in parallel between power and ground, with their intermediate nodes fed to an ADC. This unified approach enables simultaneous detection of multiple submersion levels without requiring separate complex circuits for each detection point.
Solution Approach 2:
The resistive element array serves multiple functions: detecting submersion occurrence, determining submersion level, and identifying which specific component submerged. The same parallel circuit configuration handles all these detection tasks universally, eliminating the need for separate specialized sensors or circuits.
3Reliability
If conventional sensors are used, then submersion detection is possible, but cost and installability are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses inexpensive resistive elements and standard ADC components instead of costly specialized submersion sensors. The system accepts that these simpler components may be less durable than industrial sensors but provides sufficient reliability for the application while dramatically reducing cost and simplifying installation and manufacturing.
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 detection of submersion and its position by measuring voltage changes, providing a low-cost, easily installable, and scalable solution for various equipment and facilities, including vehicles and factories.
Implementation Method 1
submersion contact terminals are formed at respective ends of the submersion measurement resistors; and a voltage measurement unit connected to the voltage measurement node and configured to measure voltage divided by the reference resistor and the submersion unit when the submersion contact terminals submerge
Implementation Method 2
measure voltage divided by the reference resistor and the submersion unit
Data Source
AI summary
A submersion detection circuit includes a power source unit, a reference resistor connected between the power source unit and a voltage measurement node, a submersion unit configured to include a plurality of submersion measurement resistors connected in parallel to the voltage measurement node. Submersion contact terminals are formed at respective ends of the submersion measurement resistors, and a voltage measurement unit connected to the voltage measurement node and configured to measure voltage divided by the reference resistor and the submersion unit when the submersion contact terminals submerge.