Integrated Valve Sensor Assembly for Fluid Level Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid sensor assemblies in valve systems are prone to issues such as residual fluid remaining in the flow path, increased system weight and complexity due to external wye fittings, and inability to detect non-conductive fluids, which can lead to damage or inefficiencies in fluid management, especially in applications like aircraft where vibrations are common.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating fluid level sensors directly into the movable valve member, such as a ball valve, allowing the sensors to deform and generate electrical signals in response to fluid pressure or mass, thereby eliminating the need for external wye fittings and improving sensor proximity to the valve.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external wye fittings and separate sensor assemblies are used, then the valve system can detect fluid levels, but the system weight and structural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fluid level sensor assembly with the movable valve member into a single integrated unit. The sensor assembly is mounted directly on the ball valve's movable member, eliminating the need for separate external wye fittings and standalone sensor assemblies. This merging reduces structural complexity while maintaining fluid level detection capability.
2Reliability
If external wye fittings are used for sensor placement, then fluid level sensing is enabled, but residual fluid remains in the flow path causing potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor assembly is positioned on the movable valve member to detect fluid levels before the valve closes completely. This preliminary detection allows the valve to open in advance, preventing residual fluid from remaining in the flow path and causing potential damage. The sensor's proximity to the valve ensures timely detection and response.
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
This solution reduces residual fluid, minimizes system weight and complexity, and enables detection of non-conductive fluids, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of fluid management systems by ensuring accurate valve operation and reducing the risk of damage from residual fluids in harsh environments.
Implementation Method 1
one or more fluid level tensometer sensors mounted to the moveable valve member and configured to deform to generate an electrical signal in response to a predetermined mass or pressure of fluid acting on the one or more sensors
Data Source
AI summary
A valve assembly includes a valve body having an inlet end and an outlet end and a fluid flow path extending from the inlet end to the outlet end. The assembly also includes: a moveable valve member located in the fluid flow path intermediate the inlet end and the outlet end, the moveable valve member being movable relative to the valve body between an open position to allow fluid flow from the inlet end to the outlet end along the fluid flow path through the open moveable valve member and a closed position to prevent fluid flow from the inlet end to the outlet end along the fluid flow path; and one or more fluid level tensometer sensors mounted to the moveable valve member and configured to deform to generate an electrical signal in response to a predetermined mass or pressure of fluid acting on the one or more sensors.