Patent ID: 8230729
Filing Date: 2012-07-31
Classification: F01M,G01F,G01K

Abstract:
1. A fluid condition and level sensor for a fluid-containing reservoir, comprising: a solenoid body configured for mounting to the reservoir; a coil connected with the solenoid body; an armature surrounded by the coil; wherein the solenoid body defines an armature chamber in which the armature is movable in response to energizing of the coil; a pole piece; wherein the armature chamber is between the armature and the pole piece; wherein at least a first portion of the solenoid body extends into a cavity defined by the reservoir when the solenoid body is mounted to the reservoir; a biasing device biasing the armature away from the pole piece and toward the first portion of the solenoid body, the biasing device and coil being configured to cycle the armature in the armature chamber as the coil is cyclically energized; wherein the first portion of the solenoid body within the cavity defines an opening permitting fluid communication between the cavity and the armature chamber, such that fluid enters and is displaced from the armature chamber through the opening as the armature moves, such that fluid level within the armature chamber corresponds with the level of fluid in the reservoir, movement of the armature within the armature chamber thereby being affected by fluid level in the reservoir.