FDC1004: Can FDC1004 used to sense solid particle level in plastic container?

Hao Wang14

Part Number: FDC1004
Other Parts Discussed in Thread: TIDA-00317, , TDC1000

Hi Team,

TIDA-00317 shows that FDC1004 can sense liquid level in the plastic container, now we have a similar application like this: the container is plastic, but the difference is that the things inside the container is unknown and may be liquid or solid particle such as seed or fruit(the diameter is within 10mm), so my questions are:

1. Can the solid particle level be sensed?

2. If the answer for item 1 is yes, how to calculate the level resolution?

Thanks and Best Regards!

Hao

over 5 years ago

0 Arjun_Prakash over 5 years ago

TI__Expert 7599 points

Hi Hao,

It's an interesting application. The FDC1004 is typically meant to measure liquids and the operation is such that between the sensors the liquid level changes the capacitance and the change in the capacitance is measured. It isn't meant for object detection or cant distinguish multiple objects.

If the intent is for object detection I highly recommend either an ultrasonic technology or an optical technology.

0 Hao Wang14 over 5 years ago in reply to Arjun_Prakash

TI__Expert 4415 points

Hi Arjun,

The object in the container depends on end users, most of the cases it should be the liquid, but sometimes it may be others such as plant seeds. Is there any use case for solid material stack height detection according to your experience?

Thanks and Best Regards!

Hao

0 Arjun_Prakash over 5 years ago in reply to Hao Wang14

TI__Expert 7599 points

Hi Hao,

The FDC1004 is mainly meant for liquid level sensing. Have you considered using Ultrasonic technology ? Take a look at our Ultrasonic portfolio. TDC1000 and the new released TUSS440 parts.

0 Hao Wang14 over 5 years ago in reply to Arjun_Prakash

TI__Expert 4415 points

Hi Arjun,

The ultrasonic may be affected by many other factors such as very loud noise, so it's not that useful for our application.

Best Regards!

Hao

0 Arjun_Prakash over 5 years ago in reply to Hao Wang14

TI__Expert 7599 points

Hi Hao,

The ultrasonic operates outside of the audible range. I dont expect audible noise issues to be a concern. http://www.ti.com/product/TUSS4470

Let me know if you have any questions.

Arjun

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FDC1004: Can FDC1004 used to sense solid particle level in plastic container?