Wireless Liquid Level Detection Module for Shower Tray Discharge

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing liquid discharge systems for containers, such as shower trays, are not flexible enough for various applications and require complex wired connections and infrastructure modifications, limiting their installation and maintenance.

Innovation Solution

A self-contained liquid level detection module that uses an independent, wireless signal transmission system to activate a suction pump, eliminating the need for wired connections and allowing for flexible placement and easy maintenance, with a built-in filter to prevent contamination and protect internal components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If wired connections are used to connect the detection module to the pump, then reliable signal transmission is achieved, but installation complexity and infrastructure modification requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal transmission reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces wired mechanical/electrical connections with wireless communication technology. The detection module transmits signals wirelessly to the pump control unit, eliminating the need for physical cable connections and infrastructure modifications while maintaining reliable signal transmission.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a wireless communication intermediary (radio frequency signal) to transmit control signals between the detection module and pump control unit. This intermediary enables communication without direct physical connection, simplifying installation while ensuring reliable signal transmission.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If the detection module is integrated into the container infrastructure, then sealing and structural integrity are improved, but flexibility of installation and maintenance are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesealing integrityVSAvoidinstallation flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the liquid discharge system into separate functional modules: a detection module that can be independently installed in the container, and a pump control unit that remains external. This segmentation allows the detection module to be easily installed and removed without affecting the overall infrastructure, maintaining both sealing integrity and installation flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The detection module is designed as a self-contained unit with integrated wireless communication capabilities, requiring no external wiring or complex integration. It can be independently installed in the container and automatically communicates with the pump control unit, enabling easy installation and maintenance while ensuring proper sealing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If the pump is located close to the container, then liquid evacuation efficiency is improved, but space constraints and installation difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveliquid evacuation efficiencyVSAvoidinstallation difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses wireless communication as an intermediary to enable remote control of the pump. The detection module can trigger the pump to operate even when located at a distance, allowing the pump to be positioned in locations with better space availability while maintaining efficient liquid evacuation capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 flexible installation and maintenance of liquid discharge systems without modifying the container infrastructure, ensuring reliable operation and reducing installation complexity while preventing contamination and external interference.

Implementation Method 1

a float (12) comprising at least one permanent magnet (14) and which is capable of being in contact with the liquid and of rising when the level of liquid rises in the module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic interaction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a wireless signal transmission unit (20) of an electromagnetic signal which is connected to the electrical circuit and which is capable of transmitting such a signal remotely

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic signal transmission: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP3040489B1Device for discharging a liquid from a container and associated detection module
Publication Date: 2023.05.03 SOC FR DASSAINISSEMENT SFA
  • EP3040489B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3040489B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3040489B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

The invention relates to a liquid level detection module (10), characterized in that it comprises: - a float (12) comprising at least one magnet (14) which is able to be in contact with the liquid and to rise when the liquid level rises in the module, - a non-contact sensing element (18) which is able, on the one hand, to cooperate electromagnetically with said at least one magnet of the float when the latter has risen to a predetermined level and, on the other hand, to establish a contact in an electrical circuit (22) in order to allow the passage of a current in the circuit, the non-contact sensing element being separated from the float by a sealed partition, - a wireless electromagnetic signal transmission unit (20) which is connected to the electrical circuit and which is able to transmit such a signal at a distance depending on the establishment of a contact in the electrical circuit.The signal is, for example, a warning signal in the case of an overfilling or a lack of liquid.