Sensor, method for controlling the evacuation of a storage space of an input point, and

Abstract

A sensor for observing the presence, position and / or movement of an object, such as a waste material (W), in the space of a material conveying pipe (100) or in a temporary storage space (3) of a pneumatic material conveying system, said sensor (S1, S2, S3) comprising means for processing measurement signals of said sensor (S1, S2, S3), such as measuring electronics, and means for transmitting the measurements and / or data relating to the measurements for further processing. The sensors (S1, S2, S3) are radar-based sensors, such as frequency modulated continuous wave MIMO radar-based sensors, configured to detect objects in a monitored space and to detect the presence, position and / or movement of objects in the monitored space. The invention also relates to a method and a pneumatic waste transport system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to pneumatic material conveying systems, such as partial vacuum conveying systems, and more particularly to the collection and conveying of materials, such as industrial materials or domestic waste or recyclable materials. Background Art

[0002] Systems are known in which solid materials (such as solid waste) can be transported in conveying pipes using suction and / or a transport air flow. In such systems, materials can be pneumatically transported over long distances in the conveying pipes using suction and / or a pressure differential, typically in conjunction with the transport air. Such systems are used to transport materials in various facilities, including domestic waste and other waste. Typically, a partial vacuum system is used to provide the pressure differential required for material transport. In such a partial vacuum system, a partial vacuum generator (such as a partial vacuum pump or ejector device) is used to provide negative pressure into the conveying pipe. The conveying pipe typically contains at least one valve member that controls the flow of replacement air into the pipe by opening and closing the valve member. This results in an air flow being provided into the conveying pipe, which can be used to transport the materials. Furthermore, systems are known in which the pressure differential and / or transport air flow in the conveying pipe is provided, for example, by a positive pressure generator (i.e., a blower). One convenient solution for new construction projects is waste management running on pipe transport systems. This means that sorted waste or recyclable materials are pumped through underground pipes to a waste management station shared by the entire area. This system is a clean, odorless, and noiseless solution, and is more environmentally friendly and safer for the surrounding area than traditional waste management. On the other hand, some waste often cannot be transported satisfactorily in long pipes due to its size or other qualities.

[0003] In current waste or recyclable material collection systems having a space for temporary storage of incoming material and one or more valves for controlling the emptying of the temporary storage space, the emptying operation of the temporary storage space is usually controlled by controlling the valve opening state using a predetermined time. In this control of the emptying of the temporary storage at the inlet (i.e., input point), the fixed time is defined under the assumption that the temporary space at the input point is always full of material. However, the temporary storage space at the input point may often not be full of material, which means that it may not be necessary to empty these partially filled temporary storage spaces. By operating a pressure generator (i.e., a positive pressure generator or a partial vacuum generator) to obtain a pressure difference for conveying material in the conveying pipe, unnecessary emptying processes consume energy.

[0004] During continued system operation, the initially defined and set discharge valve opening time will sometimes become non-optimal and must therefore be adjusted to maintain effective emptying and thereby optimize system operation.

[0005] High set times for the emptying of the temporary storage would result in long operating times and increased energy consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to a first aspect, a sensor for observing the presence, position and / or movement of objects such as waste material in the space of a material conveying pipe or in a temporary storage space of a pneumatic material conveying system is provided, the sensor comprising means for processing measurement signals of the sensor, such as measuring electronics, and means for transmitting measurement results and / or data related to the measurement results for further processing.

[0007] According to an embodiment, the sensor is a radar based sensor, such as a frequency modulated continuous wave MIMO radar based sensor, configured to detect objects in the monitored space and detect presence, position and / or movement of objects in the monitored space.

[0008] A technical effect of one or more embodiments is that the radar-based sensor can observe the movement and distance of objects within a pipe, conduit, or container, representing a monitored space, with good accuracy. This enables detection of the fill level of temporary storage space at an input point. This also enables detection of material movement within the monitored space or within a monitored portion of the space. For example, FMCW (Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave) technology can be used for the radar.

[0009] The sensor is characterized by what is stated in the independent claim.

[0010] Some further embodiments are characterized by what is stated in the other claims.

[0011] Embodiments of the invention are also disclosed in the description and drawings of the present patent application. The inventive content of the present patent application may also be defined in a manner different from that defined in the following claims. The content of the invention may also be formed by several separate inventions, in particular if the invention is examined in the light of expressed or implicit subtasks or in view of the benefits or groups of benefits obtained. In view of separate inventive concepts, some of the definitions contained in the following claims may be unnecessary. Within the scope of the basic inventive idea, the features of different embodiments of the invention may be applied to other embodiments.

[0012] In one embodiment, the sensor can be configured to detect the presence and / or movement of objects such as waste materials in a transverse direction of a material conveying pipe or temporary storage space. Advantageously, the sensor having the capability of detecting the presence and / or movement of waste materials can be placed on the pipe even if there are no dirt-gathering structures within the monitored space or its inner walls.

[0013] In one embodiment, the sensor can be configured to detect the presence and / or movement of material in the axial direction of a material conveying pipe or a temporary storage space such as a feed-in container of an input point of a pneumatic material conveying system. This has the advantage that the sensor can monitor the presence and / or movement of material in the conveying pipe or temporary storage space over a considerable distance.

[0014] In one embodiment, the sensor can be configured to use the material conveying pipe or the storage space of the material conveying system as a waveguide. This has the advantage that the axis of the monitored space can have a curved or other shape that deviates from a straight axis, and the sensor can detect the presence and / or movement of waste material in the conveying space of the material conveying pipe and / or in the temporary storage space.

[0015] In one embodiment, the radar-based sensor may include a lens configured to adjust the beam of the radar-based sensor. The lens may be configured to narrow the beam of the radar-based sensor. A narrower beam may allow for deeper viewing into a pipe.

[0016] According to a second aspect, a method for controlling the emptying of a storage space of an input point of a pneumatic material conveying system is provided.

[0017] According to one embodiment, a sensor detects the presence, position and / or movement of objects in a monitored space of a material conveying pipe and / or in a temporary storage space of a material conveying system, and based on the information / signals received from the sensor controls one or more of the following: at least one discharge valve, and / or at least one replacement air valve and / or at least one replacement air valve of at least one input point, and / or at least one section valve of the conveying pipe, and / or at least one partial vacuum generator.

[0018] In one embodiment, the sensor may be a radar-based sensor, such as a frequency modulated continuous wave MIMO radar-based sensor, configured to detect objects in the monitored space and to detect the presence, location, and / or movement of objects in the monitored space. An advantage of this is that the radar-based sensor can be arranged to detect a number of factors that may be relevant to the effective control of the pneumatic material conveying system.

[0019] In one embodiment, the method may include detecting the filling level of a temporary storage space and / or a storage space of an input point of the material conveying system by means of sensors.

[0020] In one embodiment, the method may include detecting the emptying of a temporary storage space of the material conveying system by means of a sensor.

[0021] In one embodiment, the method may include using a material conveying pipe, duct, channel, or container as a waveguide for the radio waves transmitted by the sensor. This has the advantage that the method can monitor the presence and / or movement of material in a conveying pipe or temporary storage space over considerable distances. Another advantage is that the axis of the monitored space can have a curved or other shape that deviates from a straight axis, and the method can detect the presence and / or movement of waste material in the conveying space of a material conveying pipe and / or in a temporary storage space.

[0022] In one embodiment of the method, the sensor may be arranged to detect the monitored space in the axial direction of a material conveying pipe, duct, channel, or storage space such as a container. Arranging the sensor to detect in the axial direction allows for a relatively long operating range of the sensor while simultaneously achieving good detection results. Furthermore, arranging the sensor to detect in the axial direction allows the conveying pipe to be used as a waveguide.

[0023] In an embodiment of the method, it may be included that the monitored space is detected in an axial direction when the monitored space and / or the temporary storage space of the material conveying pipe may be arranged to include a curved portion within the confines of the monitored space.

[0024] In an embodiment of the method, the radar-based sensor may include a lens configured to adjust the beam of the radar-based sensor. The lens may be configured to narrow the beam of the radar-based sensor. A narrower beam may allow for deeper viewing into the pipe.

[0025] According to a third aspect, a pneumatic waste material conveying system is provided, comprising an input point having a temporary storage space connectable to a material conveying pipe, and a device for achieving a pressure difference, which is used to convey the material from the input point via the material conveying pipe to a separator / container device arranged on the outlet end of the waste material conveying system.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the system may include a sensor according to any one of the embodiments alone or in combination with other one or more embodiments mentioned above and / or below.

[0027] In one embodiment of the system, the sensor can be configured to detect the filling level of a temporary storage space and / or a storage space of an input point of the material conveying system.

[0028] In an embodiment of the system, the sensor may be configured to detect emptying of a temporary storage space of the material conveying system.

[0029] In one embodiment of the system, the sensors may be arranged to detect the monitored space in an axial direction of a material conveying pipe, duct, channel or storage space such as a container.

[0030] In one embodiment, the system may include a control device configured to control one or more of the following based on information / signals received from the sensor: at least one exhaust valve, and / or at least one replacement air valve and / or at least one replacement air valve of at least one input point, and / or at least one sectioning valve of the delivery pipe, and / or at least one partial vacuum generator. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present invention and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the present invention and together with the description help explain the principles of the present invention. In the drawings:

[0032] Figure 1 is a simplified diagram of an example system having a sensor arrangement,

[0033] Figure 1a yes Figure 1 A simplified view of the details of A,

[0034] Figure 1b yes Figure 1 A simplified view of the details of B,

[0035] Figure 1c yes Figure 1 A simplified view of the details of C,

[0036] Figure 1d yes Figure 1 A simplified view of the details of D,

[0037] Figure 2 is a simplified illustration of an exemplary embodiment of an input point arranged in a branch conveying pipe and provided with fill level monitoring and emptying monitoring,

[0038] Figure 3 is a simplified illustration of an exemplary embodiment of an input point arranged in a branch conveying pipe and provided with emptying monitoring,

[0039] Figure 4a is a simplified illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a cross section of a material conveying pipe with a sensor,

[0040] Figure 4b is a simplified illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a longitudinal cross-section of a material conveying pipe with a sensor,

[0041] Figure 4c An exemplary embodiment of a material conveying pipe having a sensor along Figure 4b Simplified view of the arrow C direction,

[0042] Figure 5 is a simplified diagram of an example embodiment of an input point with a sensor,

[0043] Figure 6a is a simplified view of example measurements from the sensor in the first case,

[0044] Figure 6b is a simplified view of example measurements from the sensor in the second case,

[0045] Figure 6c is a simplified view of example measurements from the sensor in the third case,

[0046] Figure 6d is a simplified view of example measurements from the sensor for the fourth case,

[0047] Figure 6e is a simplified view of example measurements from the sensor for the fifth case,

[0048] Figure 6f is a simplified view of an example measurement result of the sensor in the sixth case,

[0049] Figure 7a is a simplified view of an example timeline of a prior art standard time drain,

[0050] Figure 7b is a simplified view of an example timeline of real-time draining.

[0051] Figure 8 is a simplified illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a waste chute with a sensor and a displacement air valve.

[0052] Figure 9ais a simplified illustration of an example embodiment of an arrangement including a sensor and a displacement air valve arranged in an end of a pipe, tube, chute, or storage space, with the displacement air valve closed, and

[0053] Figure 9b is a simplified illustration of an example embodiment of an arrangement including a sensor and a replacement air valve arranged in the end of a pipe, tube, chute, or storage space, with the replacement air valve open.

[0054] In the accompanying drawings, some embodiments are simplified for clarity. In the drawings, similar components are represented by the same reference numerals. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] Figure 1 An embodiment of a pneumatic material conveying system is shown in the form of a simplified diagram. According to one embodiment, an embodiment of a pneumatic material conveying system can be a waste material or recyclable material collection and conveying system. In the pneumatic material conveying system, the material can be conveyed from the input point 1 in the material conveying pipe 100 to the outlet end of the material conveying system by means of the pressure difference in the conveying air flow. At the outlet end, the conveyed material can be separated from the conveying air flow in the separator device 90A, 90B. The separator device can be, for example, a separator container. The pressure difference and conveying air flow required when conveying the material can be provided, for example, by a partial vacuum generator 121. In one embodiment, the suction side of the partial vacuum generator can be connected to act in the material conveying pipe 100. At the same time, replacement air can be directed to the material conveying pipe.

[0056] Figure 1 A material conveying pipe 100 is shown. Along the material conveying pipe 100, at least one (usually several) branch conveying pipes 103 may be arranged. The material conveying pipe 100 may be divided into several conveying pipe sections 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E, 100F, for example, by a valve member 101. In one embodiment, the material conveying pipe 100 may include one or more pipe sections connected to the branch conveying pipe 103. According to one embodiment, the material conveying pipe 100 may therefore be formed by several conveying pipe sections 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E, 100F. These conveying pipe sections may include further conveying pipe sections branching out from the conveying pipe 100. In Figure 1In an embodiment, the material conveying pipe 100 includes two branches. The first branch of the material conveying pipe may include one or more pipe sections 100A, 100C. The second branch of the material conveying pipe may include one or more pipe sections 100B, 100D. The material input point 1 can be arranged in the material conveying pipe and / or along a branch of the material conveying pipe. The input point 1 can be a feed container for material (particularly solid waste material or recyclable material), from which the material is supplied to the conveying system. In one embodiment, the input point can be a waste chute, from which the transported material (particularly waste material such as household waste) is supplied to the conveying system. The system may include several input points 1, from which the transported material is supplied to the conveying pipe. At the input point 1, there may be a feed container 3 that can be connected to the branch conveying pipe 103. Material can be supplied to the feed container from the input hole 2 of the input point 1. In one embodiment, the feed container can be a temporary storage space for the material. The input aperture 2 of the input point 1 may comprise an openable and closable hatch 2'. Figure 5 As shown, there can be a valve member 4 between the feed container 3 and the branch conveying pipe 103 of the input point. By opening and closing the valve member 4, the material can be conveyed from the input point to the conveying pipe. The input point 1 can therefore be connected to the branch conveying pipe 103 and further connected to the material conveying pipe 100. In one embodiment, one or more input points 1 can be connected to the branch conveying pipe 103. The conveying pipe section and / or the branch conveying pipe section and / or the input point of the material conveying pipe can be provided with a device for allowing and preventing replacement air from entering the material conveying pipe. According to one embodiment, the device for allowing and preventing replacement air from entering may include a replacement air connector 106 or a hole, which can be provided with a replacement air valve 105, through which the replacement air valve can be adjusted to allow replacement air to enter the conveying pipe.

[0057] The replacement air required when emptying the feed container of the input point 1 can be introduced through the input point. According to one embodiment, a separate replacement air connection provided with a replacement air valve 5 can be provided in association with the input point 1. In one embodiment, the emptying of the input point 1 and / or its feed container 3 can be carried out in the following order, wherein the feed container of the input point that is closer to the outlet end (i.e., the separator device 90A, 90B) in the material conveying direction is emptied first, and the feed container of the next input point closest to the material conveying direction is emptied next, and so on, until the desired feed container of the input point has been emptied. The corresponding emptying order can also be applied to the feed containers of the branch conveying pipe, whereby the feed container in the branch conveying pipe 103 that is closer to the main conveying pipe 100 in the material conveying direction is emptied first, and the next feed container that is closest to the material conveying direction is emptied next, and so on, until the desired feed container of the input point has been emptied. The material supplied from the input point 1 to the branch conveying pipe 103 is conveyed to the pipe section of the material conveying pipe 100 and along the pipe section toward the outlet end to the separator device / container, in which the material is separated from the conveying air.

[0058] In one embodiment, the system may include several input points 1 with input holes 2 for feeding the material to be collected and conveyed. The input point 1 may include a displacement air valve 5, i.e., a make-up air valve, which is configured to connect the input point to atmospheric pressure in its open position and allow the entry of displacement air, and to close the connection to atmospheric pressure outside the input point in its closed position. The input point 1 may be provided with a displacement air valve 5. When a lower pressure is reached from the conveying pipe side, i.e., when the suction side of the partial vacuum generator 121 is connected to act on the branch conveying pipe 103 via the material conveying pipe 100, the input point 1 and its temporary storage space 3 can be evacuated by opening the displacement air valve 5.

[0059] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment of the invention, there may be a displacement air connector 106 in the conveying pipe, which may be provided with a displacement air valve 105 for controlling the entry of displacement air and for providing a conveying air flow in the conveying pipe together with the suction provided by the partial vacuum generator 121. The conveying system may include one or more containers and / or material separators 90A, 90B, to which the conveyed material is guided by a pressure difference and / or a conveying air flow in the conveying pipe. Figure 1In one embodiment, a separator container 90A, 90B can be arranged at the outlet end of the material conveying pipe 100, in which the conveyed material is separated from the conveying air and retained in the container of the separator device. The conveying pipe can be provided with one or more valve members 111, the position of which can be controlled to open a connection 112A, 112B from the conveying pipe to the separator container 90A, 90B. According to one embodiment, the valve member 111 can be a multi-way valve or a plurality of valve arrangements, through which a connection from the conveying pipe 100 to the desired separator container 90A, 90B can be achieved. From the suction side of the partial vacuum generator 121, connectors 119, 118, 117, 116, 115A, 115B, 114A, 114B can be provided to the separator container 90A, 90B and further to the conveying pipe 100.

[0060] In one embodiment, the sensors may be arranged to monitor the presence or movement of material (i.e., objects) in the system. In one embodiment, the sensor S2 may be configured to monitor the filling level of the temporary storage space 3 of the input point 1. In one embodiment, the sensor may be configured to monitor the presence and / or movement of objects in the monitored space. In one embodiment, the sensor may be configured to monitor the emptying of an input point. In one embodiment, the sensor may be configured to monitor the emptying of a temporary storage space at an input point. In one embodiment, the sensor may be configured to monitor the emptying of multiple input points or the emptying of multiple temporary storage spaces at an input point.

[0061] In an embodiment, sensors S1, S2, S3 can be radar-based sensors that can detect the presence and movement of an object. In one embodiment, the monitored object can be, for example, a solid material W, such as waste material or recyclable material. In one embodiment, sensors S1, S2, S3 can be installed on and / or near the surface of a space to be monitored that the object can enter, the space to be monitored being a pipe, a channel and / or a container. In one embodiment, the sensors can be installed on or near the wall of a pipe, a wall of a channel, a wall of a container intended for conveying and / or temporarily storing materials (such as waste material or recyclable material). In one embodiment, sensors S1, S2, S3 can be arranged on the side wall or end of a pipe, channel or container, or near the end of a pipe, channel or container. In one embodiment, the end of the pipe, channel or container can be an open end, or be provided with an opening, such as a through hole.

[0062] In one embodiment, the tube, pipe, channel or container may act as a waveguide for the radio waves transmitted by the sensor.

[0063] In one embodiment, the system may include at least one sensor and may also include measurement electronics for generating sensor observations via the sensor, a processor configured to process the sensor observations, and / or a central unit including a memory, such as a data processing device. In one embodiment, the central unit of the system may include the necessary software and information about the characteristic properties of the detected signals, for example, in order to implement the above-mentioned functions. Typically, the measurement electronics and / or the central unit may infer information from the signals received via the sensors. The system may have a central unit that may manage one or more sensors or sensor groups. In one embodiment, a sensor group may include, for example, sensors in the same part of the system, for example, sensors arranged to detect input points of the same branch duct.

[0064] In an embodiment of the solution according to the invention, the sensor can detect solid material in the monitored space and measure and detect the presence, movement and / or amount of monitored objects / materials in the monitored space. In one embodiment of the invention, the sensor can be configured to observe the object / material based on signal strength and / or by filtering out possible erroneous measurements.

[0065] In one embodiment, the sensor can be mounted on a surface, such as the wall of a pipe, duct, channel, and / or container, and / or in the vicinity of such a wall and / or in the vicinity of a monitored space where objects may enter. In one embodiment of the present invention, one or more sensors can be mounted on a side wall or in an end wall of the monitored space. In one embodiment, the sensor can be arranged to detect the interior of the pipe, channel, or container. In one embodiment, the sensor can include, for example, a millimeter wave (MMW) radar, which can operate, for example, using the MIMO radar principle. In one exemplary embodiment, there can be, for example, three transmitting antennas and four receiving antennas. In this example, this forms a 12-element virtual antenna. Using the disclosed sensor, the movement and distance of objects in a pipe, duct, or container serving as the monitored space can be observed with good accuracy. This enables detection of the fill level of temporary storage space at an entry point. It also enables detection of material movement within the monitored space or within a monitored portion of the space. For example, FMCW (Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave) technology can be used for the radar. In one embodiment, the structure of the monitored space can be configured to operate as a waveguide for the waves transmitted and received by the sensor. In example embodiments, the inner wall of a duct, pipe, channel or container may be configured to operate as a waveguide for radio waves transmitted by the sensor device.

[0066] In one embodiment, radar-based sensors are more accurate than, for example, ultrasonic sensors or optical level sensors.Furthermore, sensors based on radar technology do not require through-holes in the walls of tubes, pipes, channels or containers for precise operation.

[0067] In one embodiment, a radar-based sensor can detect the presence of an object or material in a pipe, duct, or channel at a distance from the sensor's mounting point in the direction of the pipe, duct, or channel. In one embodiment, the radar-based sensor can detect the presence of material in a space within the pipe, duct, or channel, and / or the degree of fill of that space, even if the pipe, duct, or channel is arranged to form a bend. In one embodiment, the waves generated by the radar-based sensor are reflected from the inner wall of the pipe, duct, or container.

[0068] In one embodiment, a radar-based sensor may include a lens configured to adjust a beam of the radar-based sensor. The lens may be configured to narrow the beam of the radar-based sensor.

[0069] Figure 1a yes Figure 1 A simplified detail diagram of an example of detail A. In one embodiment, two input points are connected to a branch conveying pipe 103. A replacement air duct 104 may be provided on the branch conveying pipe 103. A valve 105 may be arranged in the replacement air duct to control the entry of replacement air into the branch connecting pipe 103 via a replacement air connection 106. This can enable material to be transported in the material conveying pipe with the aid of pressure differentials and / or air flow. A sensor S1 may be arranged in connection with the branch conveying pipe 103 to monitor the emptying of material from the input point 1 and / or the temporary storage 3. In one embodiment, the sensor S1 may be arranged in the replacement air duct 104. In one embodiment, the sensor may be arranged adjacent to the replacement air valve 105. In one embodiment, the sensor S1 can detect whether material objects, such as waste materials, have moved from a monitored space in the material conveying pipe, such as the branch conveying pipe 103. In one embodiment, the sensor S1 may be arranged on a sidewall or end of a pipe, channel, or container, or near the end of the pipe, channel, or container. In one embodiment, the end of the pipe, channel or container may be an open end, or provided with an opening, such as a through hole, or the end of the pipe may be provided with a valve. The sensor S1 may be arranged to monitor the movement of an object such as waste material W in the axial direction of the conveying space of the conveying pipe (e.g., in the direction of the conveying space). Figure 1aIn one embodiment, the branch valve 107 is set to an open state, and the input point 1 of the branch conveying pipe 103 can be emptied. In an embodiment, during the emptying of the input point 1, for example when the discharge valve 4 is already open, the sensor S1 is able to detect the movement of material from the input point 1 to the branch conveying pipe 103. When the movement is finished, this means that the input point 1 and the temporary storage space 3 have been emptied of material, and this is detected by the sensor S1. The discharge valve 4 can be closed. Next, the upstream input point in the branch conveying pipe is emptied, and so on. Figure 1a This process is repeated for each input point in . Sensor S2 may be provided at input point 1, for example, above the input point. In one embodiment, sensor S2 may be configured to monitor the presence or movement of material (i.e., objects) in input point 1 and / or the temporary storage space 3 of the input point. In one embodiment, sensor S2 may be configured to monitor the filling level of the temporary storage space 3 of input point 1. In one embodiment, sensor S2 may be configured to monitor the presence and / or movement of objects in the monitored space. In one embodiment, sensor S2 may be configured to monitor the emptying of input point 1. In one embodiment, sensor S2 may be configured to monitor the emptying of the temporary storage space 3 of input point 1. If the filling level detected by sensor S2 at input point 1 is low, the system may be configured to skip emptying that input point. In one embodiment, when input point 1 of the branch conveying pipe 103 has been emptied and its discharge valve 4 has been closed, the displacement air valve 105 may be closed. This can save energy and shorten the emptying sequence of the pneumatic material conveying system.

[0070] Figure 1b yes Figure 1 Example simplified detail drawing of detail B. Figure 1b In an embodiment, the branch conveying pipe 103 can be provided with a material former 108. This can be arranged to compact and shape the material to fit in the conveying pipe. The material former can be, for example, a former, i.e. a rotary former, which can be used to compact and / or shape the material guided from the input point to the material conveying pipe. The operation of the material former 108 can also be controlled by a data / signal receiver of the sensor 1. In addition, the sensor S1 can be configured to monitor whether the material has moved through the material former. In one embodiment, the sensor can be configured to monitor possible material blockages in the material conveying pipes 100, 103 and / or in the temporary storage space 3 and / or in the material former 108. In one embodiment, the control system can be configured to control components, such as valves and / or partial vacuum generators and / or material formers and / or input points of the material conveying system, based on information / signals received from the sensors S1, S2, S3.

[0071] Figure 1c yes Figure 1 Example simplified detail drawing of detail C. Figure 1c This embodiment includes an input point but no exhaust valve. The temporary storage space 3 of the input point 1 can be connected to the branch conveying pipe 103. The input point 1 can be equipped with a displacement air valve 5. When a lower pressure is reached from the conveying pipe side, that is, when the suction side of the partial vacuum generator 121 is connected to act on the branch conveying pipe 103 via the material conveying pipe 100, the input point 1 and its temporary storage space 3 can be emptied by opening the displacement air valve 5. A sensor S2 can be provided at the input point 1, for example, above the input point. In one embodiment, the sensor S2 can be configured to monitor the presence or movement of material (i.e., objects) in the input point 1 and / or the temporary storage space 3 of the input point. In one embodiment, the sensor S2 can be configured to monitor the fill level of the temporary storage space 3 of the input point 1. In one embodiment, the sensor S2 can be configured to monitor the presence and / or movement of objects in the monitored space. In one embodiment, the sensor S2 can be configured to monitor the emptying of the input point 1. In one embodiment, the sensor S2 can be configured to monitor the emptying of the temporary storage space 3 of the input point 1.

[0072] Figure 1d yes Figure 1 Example simplified detail drawing of detail D. Figure 1d This embodiment includes an input point 1 but no discharge valve. In embodiment 1d, the branch conveying pipe 103 may be provided with a replacement air duct 104 and a replacement air valve 105 disposed in the replacement air duct. At the end of the replacement air duct 104 is a replacement air connector 106. A valve 105 may be disposed in the replacement air duct to control the flow of replacement air into the branch connecting pipe 103 via the replacement air connector 106. This enables material to be transported in the material conveying pipe with the aid of pressure differentials and / or air flow. A sensor S1 may be disposed in connection with the branch conveying pipe 103 to monitor the discharge of material from the input point 1 and / or the temporary storage 3. In one embodiment, the sensor S1 may be disposed in the replacement air duct 104. In one embodiment, the sensor may be disposed adjacent to the replacement air valve 105. In one embodiment, the sensor S1 can detect whether an object, such as waste material, has moved from a monitored space in the material conveying pipe, such as the branch conveying pipe 103. In one embodiment, the sensor S1 may be arranged on a side wall or an end of a pipe, channel or container, or near an end of the pipe, channel or container. In one embodiment, the end of the pipe, channel or container may be an open end, or provided with an opening, such as a through hole, or a valve may be provided at the end of the pipe. The sensor S1 may be arranged to monitor the movement of an object such as waste material W in the axial direction of the conveying space of the conveying pipe (e.g., in the direction of the conveying space). Figure 1d The presence, position and / or movement of the branch conveying pipe in the axial direction of the branch conveying pipe.

[0073] Figure 2 This is an embodiment of an input point 1 that includes fill level monitoring, utilizing a sensor S2 positioned above the input point 1 to monitor the axial direction of the temporary storage 3. The input point 1 can be connected to a material conveying pipe, such as a branch conveying pipe 103, via the temporary storage 3. A discharge valve 4 can be positioned between the branch conveying pipe 103 and the temporary storage at the input point. A replacement air duct 104 can be positioned on the branch conveying pipe 103. A valve 105 can be positioned in the replacement air duct to control the flow of replacement air into the branch connecting pipe 103. This allows material to be conveyed through the material conveying pipe using pressure differentials and / or air flow. A sensor S1 can be positioned in connection with the branch conveying pipe 103 to monitor the emptying of material from the input point 1 and / or the temporary storage 3. In one embodiment, the sensor S1 can detect whether material objects, such as waste materials, have moved from the monitored space of the branch conveying pipe 103. In one embodiment, the sensor S1 can be positioned on a sidewall or end of a pipe, channel, or container, or near the end of the pipe, channel, or container. In one embodiment, the end of the pipe, channel or container may be an open end or provided with an opening, such as a through hole. The sensor S1 may be arranged to monitor the movement of an object such as waste material W in the axial direction of the conveying space of the conveying pipe (e.g., in the direction of the conveying space). Figure 2 In one embodiment, the branch valve 107 is set to an open state, and the input point 1 of the branch conveying pipe 103 can be emptied. In an embodiment, during the emptying of the input point 1, for example when the discharge valve 4 is already open, the sensor S1 is able to detect the movement of material from the input point 1 to the branch conveying pipe 103. When the movement is finished, this means that the input point 1 and the temporary storage space 3 have been emptied of material, and this is detected by the sensor S1. The discharge valve 4 can be closed. Next, the upstream input point in the branch conveying pipe is emptied, and so on. This process can be performed on Figure 2 Repeat for each input point in the pneumatic material conveying system. If the fill level detected by sensor S2 of input point 1 is low, the system can be configured to skip emptying that input point. In one embodiment, when input points 1 of branch conveying pipes 103 have been emptied and their discharge valves 4 have been closed, the displacement air valve 105 can be closed. This can save energy and shorten the emptying sequence of the pneumatic material conveying system.

[0074] Figure 3 The embodiment in which the input point 1 is connected to the branch conveying pipe 103 is shown. The sensor S1 can be arranged to monitor the movement of objects such as waste materials W in the axial direction of the conveying space of the conveying pipe (e.g. Figure 3The presence, position and / or movement of material in the axial direction of the branch conveying pipe 103). In one embodiment, the branch valve 107 is set to the open state, and the input point 1 of the branch conveying pipe 103 can be emptied. In an embodiment, during the emptying of the input point 1, for example when the discharge valve 4 is already open, the sensor S1 is able to detect the movement of material from the input point 1 to the branch conveying pipe 103. When the movement is finished, this means that the input point 1 and the temporary storage space 3 have been emptied of material, and this is detected by the sensor S1. The discharge valve 4 can be closed. Next, the next input point 1 in the upstream direction of the branch conveying pipe is emptied, and so on. Figure 3 Repeat this process for each input point in .

[0075] Figure 4a 、 4b 4c shows an embodiment of a sensor S3 arranged on a pipe 100. The pipe 100 may include an inner wall and an outer wall 100". The inner wall of the pipe defines a conveying space 100'' of the pipe 100. The pipe may have a longitudinal axis A. The sensor may be arranged to monitor the conveying space of the pipe 100 in a direction intersecting the longitudinal axis A of the pipe. In one embodiment, the assembly of the sensor S3 may include a housing having one or more side walls 34 and a cover 35. The sensor device 31 may be disposed within the housing. In one embodiment, the sensor may include a control board 32. In one embodiment, the control board 32 may be disposed in the housing of the sensor assembly. In one embodiment, the sensor S3 may be mounted on the wall of the pipe 100. In one embodiment, the pipe wall may include a groove 30. In one embodiment, the sensor may be mounted on the groove of the pipe wall. The side wall 34 of the housing may extend in the recess 30 and also be a distance away from the outer surface 100'' of the pipe wall. A connector 33 for energy and / or data connection may be arranged in the side wall.

[0076] exist Figures 4a-4c In an embodiment, the sensor S3 may be mounted on or near a wall of a pipe 100, a channel, or a container for conveying and / or temporarily storing materials (e.g., waste materials or recyclable materials). In an embodiment, the sensor may be disposed on a side wall or an end of the pipe, channel, or container, or near an end of the pipe, channel, or container.

[0077] In an embodiment, the sensors S1 , S2 , S3 may be radar-based sensors including a lens configured to adjust the beam of the radar-based sensor.

[0078] exist Figure 4b In the embodiment of FIG. 3 , the sensor device 31 may include a lens 36 . Figure 5An embodiment of an input point 1 is shown, which includes a temporary storage space 3. The temporary storage space 3 may extend in a hollow duct from an input aperture 2 towards a discharge valve 4 or other holding device. In one embodiment, the input aperture 2 of the input point 1 may be provided with an openable and closable hatch 2'. The volume of the temporary storage 3 may be formed between the input aperture 2 of the input point and a closing member of the discharge valve 4 or other holding device. In one embodiment, a sensor S2 may be provided to measure the filling degree of the temporary storage of the input point. Figure 5 In an embodiment, the sensor S2 may be arranged to measure the distance D of the material level from a starting point (e.g. from an input hole 2 of an input point) to the level of the material (e.g. waste material W) fed into the temporary storage space 3. M The total distance D can be based on the empty temporary storage of the input point tot (e.g. length) related measurement distance D M To estimate the filling degree of the temporary storage space 3. In one embodiment, the filling degree of the temporary storage can be calculated as follows:

[0079] Filling degree = (1-D M / D tot )*100

[0080] In one embodiment, the distance is the axial distance of the material conveying pipe, duct, container or channel forming the temporary storage space 3 .

[0081] In one embodiment, the sensors S1, S2, S3 may be arranged to measure a distance D to an object such as waste material W in the direction of an axial distance of the temporary storage 3 (such as in the axial distance of a material conveying pipe, duct, channel or container). M .

[0082] In one embodiment, the sensor S2 may be a sensor capable of measuring the distance D to an object. M The type of measuring device can measure the distance D to an object even if the longitudinal axis of the tube, duct, channel or container is curved or contains sections with longitudinal axes that intersect each other. M .

[0083] In one embodiment, the temporary storage 3 may be configured to operate as a waveguide for the waves transmitted and received by the sensors S1, S2, S3. In one embodiment, the inner wall of a duct, pipe, channel or container may be configured to operate as a waveguide for the radio waves transmitted by the sensor devices S1, S2, S3.

[0084] Figures 6a-6fThe different measurement results received from the sensor device in various cases are shown. On the lower horizontal axis of each diagram is the distance [m] from the starting point to the obstacle (i.e. to the object being fed into the material conveying pipe, duct, channel or container). These measurements show different filling levels of the temporary storage space 3 at the input point ( Figures 6a-6f ). Figure 6a The measurement signal shows a measured distance D of approximately 7.8 m from the starting point. M The distance D from the starting point to the end of the temporary storage 3 at the input point (ie to the closing member of the discharge valve) tot 7,8 m. This could mean that the closing member of the outlet valve is closed at a distance of approximately 7,8 m from the starting point and the temporary storage at the input point is empty (ie the filling level is 0%). Figure 6b The measurement signal shows that at a distance of about 7.2 meters D M In an embodiment, this may mean that the filling degree of the temporary storage of the input points is approximately 8% (1-(measurement distance D M / Total distance of empty storage D tot )×100)(1-7,2m / 7,8m)*100=7,7%≈8%.

[0085] exist Figure 6c In the embodiment, the measurement signal of the sensor device shows a distance D of approximately 4,4 meters M This means that the filling degree of the temporary storage space at the input point is about 43%.

[0086] exist Figure 6d In the embodiment, the measurement signal of the sensor device shows a distance D of approximately 2,9 meters M This means that the filling level of the temporary storage space is approximately 63%.

[0087] exist Figure 6e In the embodiment, the measurement signal of the sensor device shows a distance D of approximately 0,8 m M This means that the filling level of the temporary storage space is approximately 90%.

[0088] exist Figure 6f In the embodiment, the measurement signal of the sensor device shows a distance D of approximately 0 m. M This means that the filling degree of the temporary storage space is approximately 100%, ie the temporary storage space at the input point is full of material.

[0089] These measurement results show that a single radar-based sensor can also be used to detect the filling level of a temporary storage space at an entry point, even in cases where the shape of the storage space is not linear but curved or comprises sections with longitudinal axes that intersect each other (e.g. Figure 5 ). The material conveying pipe, duct, channel or container can be used as a waveguide for the waves sent by the sensor device.

[0090] In one embodiment, the sensor can measure the distance D to the waste material W. M , and based on the measurement results, the operation of the waste material conveying system can be controlled. In one embodiment, the conveying system can be controlled to minimize the amount of operating time used to empty the temporary storage spaces at the input points. This can be achieved, for example, by only emptying those temporary storage spaces at the input points that have a filling level that meets an emptying condition. In one embodiment, only those temporary storage spaces that have a filling level at or above a predetermined limit can be emptied. In one embodiment, operating time can be minimized by using only the time required to empty each temporary storage space at the input point, or the time required to empty the temporary storage spaces at multiple input points.

[0091] In one embodiment, a sensor may be arranged to measure whether material has actually been transferred from the temporary storage space to the material conveying pipe 100. This may help minimize the emptying time of the temporary storage space of the input point. Once the sensor detects that the material in the temporary storage space has been emptied, the discharge valve or the valve for controlling the replacement air (i.e., the make-up air) may be closed and / or the next input point may be emptied according to the input point emptying sequence if the conditions are met.

[0092] In one embodiment, this real-time emptying can be as follows Figure 7b It is shown, wherein the number of input points to be emptied is minimized based on the filling levels of the input points and / or wherein the emptying time of the input points is minimized based on monitoring the emptying process by at least one sensor device.

[0093] exist Figure 7a , a timeline of so-called prior art standard time emptying is shown in , wherein predetermined standard times t1, t2, t3, t4, t5, t6, t7, t8, t9, t10 are used in the emptying of each of the ten temporary storage spaces at the input point. Time t1 represents the time of emptying the first temporary storage space, time t2 represents the time of emptying the second temporary storage space, and so on. Figure 7aIn the example, the predetermined times t1, t2, t3, ..., t10 are used for the emptying sequence of the ten temporary storage spaces at the input point. In this control of the emptying of the temporary storage at the input point (i.e., the input point), the fixed times are defined under the assumption that the temporary spaces at the input point are always full of material. However, the temporary storage spaces at the input point may often not be full of material, which means that it may not be necessary to empty these partially filled temporary storage spaces.

[0094] exist Figure 7b 1 shows a timeline of an emptying sequence for ten temporary storage spaces, wherein the emptying times t1, t2, t3, t4, t5, t6, t7, t8, t9, t10 are minimized by monitoring the emptying process of each temporary storage space using at least one sensor device and controlling the emptying of the temporary storage space based on information and / or signals from the at least one sensor device. In one embodiment, the at least one sensor device is a type of radar sensor.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the input point 1 can be an input point for waste materials or recyclable materials, such as a waste bin or a waste chute. In one embodiment, the materials can be, for example, household waste, paper, cardboard, biowaste, metal, glass and / or industrial materials packaged in bags or packages.

[0096] In one embodiment, multiple input points may be arranged on the waste chute. Figure 8 An example of such an embodiment is shown. In one embodiment, the waste chute may comprise a vertical portion, which may comprise at least one input point 1 having an input aperture 2. The input aperture 2 may be provided with an openable and closable hatch 2'. In one embodiment, the input apertures 2 may be arranged at a distance from one another on the waste chute. Figure 8 In an embodiment, the input apertures are arranged at a vertical distance from each other. In an embodiment, the input apertures may be arranged to different floors F of a building. In an embodiment, the waste chute may include a portion that deviates from the vertical portion. Figure 8In one embodiment, the waste chute may include a vertical portion, a horizontal portion, and a curved portion connecting the vertical portion to the horizontal portion. In one embodiment, the waste chute may include a temporary material storage 3. In one embodiment, the waste chute may include a discharge valve 4 or other material W retention device. In one embodiment, the waste chute may include an air displacement valve 5. In one embodiment, the waste chute may include a sensor S2 for detecting the presence, position, and / or movement of objects, such as waste materials W, within the space of the material conveying pipe 100 or within the temporary storage space 3 of the pneumatic material conveying system. In one embodiment, the sensor S2 may be disposed at the upper end of the waste chute. In one embodiment, the sensor S2 may be disposed in connection with the air displacement valve 5. In one embodiment, the sensor S2 may be disposed upstream of the air displacement valve 5. In one embodiment, the sensor S2 may be disposed downstream of the air displacement valve 5. In one embodiment, the sensor S2 may be configured to detect the presence and / or movement of material in the axial direction of the space of the material conveying pipe 100 or the temporary storage space 3 of the pneumatic material conveying system (e.g., a feed container at an input point). In one embodiment, the sensor S2 may be disposed to detect the fill level of the temporary storage space 3 of the waste chute.

[0097] exist Figure 9a and 9b ] is an exemplary embodiment of a sensor arrangement. Figure 9a is a simplified view of an example embodiment of an arrangement comprising a sensor S1 and a replacement air valve 200 disposed in an end 201 of a pipe, tube, chute or storage space, the replacement air valve being closed. In one embodiment, the replacement air valve 200 may comprise a closing member 205. In one embodiment, the replacement air hole may be arranged in a side wall of the end 201 of the pipe, tube, chute or storage space. In one embodiment, the closing member may be a sleeve portion arranged to move on the end 201 of the pipe, tube, chute or storage space. At least one actuator 206, 207 may be arranged to move the closing member 205. In the end of the end 201 of the pipe, tube, chute or storage space, an end cap 204 may be arranged to close the end 201. The sensor S1 may be arranged on the end cap 204. In one embodiment, a recess may be formed on the end cap 204. In one embodiment, the sensor may be arranged to detect in the axial direction A of the end 201 of the pipe, tube, chute or storage space. As Figure 9a and 9bIn an embodiment, the closing member 205 is configured so that it does not block the transmission and reception of waves by the sensor S1. In an embodiment, the at least one actuator may be a linear actuator. In an embodiment, the actuator may include a cylinder 206 arranged in a support structure 209. In an embodiment, the actuator may include a piston configured to move the closing portion 205 in the closed state of the replacement air valve (e.g., Figure 9a ) and the open state (as shown in Figure 9b ) between the two.

[0098] Figure 9b 2 is a simplified diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an arrangement comprising a sensor arranged in an end 201 of a pipe, tube, chute or storage space and a displacement air valve, the displacement air valve being open. In embodiments of the sensor and displacement air valve arrangement, it may be advantageous that the sensor can be protected from soiling because it is arranged upstream of the displacement air valve.

[0099] It is obvious to a person skilled in the art that the basic idea of the invention can be implemented in various ways as technology advances. Therefore, the present invention and its embodiments are not limited to the above examples, but rather they can vary within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A sensor for observing the presence, position and / or movement of objects such as waste materials (W) in a space of a material conveying pipe (100) or in a temporary storage space (3) of a pneumatic material conveying system, the sensor (S1, S2, S3) comprising means for processing measurement signals of the sensor (S1, S2, S3), such as measurement electronics, and means for transmitting measurement results and / or data related to the measurement results for further processing, wherein the sensor (S1, S2, S3) is a radar-based sensor, such as a frequency modulated continuous wave MIMO radar-based sensor, which is configured to detect objects in the monitored space and to detect the presence, position and / or movement of objects in the monitored space.

2. The sensor according to claim 1, wherein the sensor (S3) is configured to detect the presence and / or movement of an object such as waste material (W) in the lateral direction of the space (100'") of the material conveying pipe (100) or the temporary storage space (3).

3. The sensor according to claim 1, wherein The sensors (S1, S2) are configured to detect the presence and / or movement of the material in the axial direction of the space of the material conveying pipe (100) or the temporary storage space (3) of the pneumatic material conveying system, such as a feed container of an input point.

4. The sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The sensors (S1, S2, S3) are configured to use the material conveying pipe (100) or the storage space (3) of the material conveying system as a waveguide.

5. The sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein The radar-based sensor includes a lens (36) configured to adjust a beam of the radar-based sensor.

6. A method for controlling the emptying of a storage space at an input point of a pneumatic material conveying system, characterized in that Sensors (S1, S2, S3) detect the presence, position and / or movement of objects in a monitored space of a material conveying pipe (100) and / or in a temporary storage space (3) of a material conveying system, and based on the information / signals received from the sensors, control one or more of the following: at least one exhaust valve (4), and / or at least one replacement air valve (105) and / or at least one replacement air valve (5) of at least one input point (1), and / or at least one sectioning valve (101) of the conveying pipe (100), and / or at least one partial vacuum generator (121).

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein: The sensors (S1, S2, S3) are radar-based sensors, such as frequency modulated continuous wave MIMO radar-based sensors, configured to detect objects in a monitored space and detect the presence, position and / or movement of objects in the monitored space.

8. The method according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the method comprises: The filling level of the temporary storage space and / or the storage space of the input point of the material conveying system is detected by the sensor (S2).

9. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein The emptying of the temporary storage space of the material conveying system is detected by the sensors (S1, S3).

10. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein A material conveying pipe (100), a pipeline, a channel or a container is used as a waveguide for the radio waves transmitted by the sensors (S1, S2, S3).

11. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein The sensors (S1, S2, S3) are arranged to detect a monitored space in an axial direction of a material conveying pipe, a duct, a channel or a storage space such as a container.

12. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein When the monitored space of the material conveying pipe (100) and / or the temporary storage space (3) is arranged to include a curved portion within the boundaries of the monitored space, the monitored space is detected in the axial direction.

13. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 12, wherein The radar-based sensor includes a lens (36) configured to adjust a beam of the radar-based sensor.

14. A pneumatic waste material conveying system comprising an input point (1) having a temporary storage space (3) connectable to a material conveying pipe (100), a device for achieving a pressure difference for conveying material from the input point via the material conveying pipe to a separator / container device arranged at the outlet end of the pneumatic waste material conveying system, wherein the system comprises a sensor (S1, S2, S3) according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

15. Pneumatic waste material conveying system according to claim 14, wherein the sensors (S1, S2, S3) are configured to detect the filling level of a temporary storage space and / or a storage space of an input point (1) of the material conveying system.

16. A pneumatic waste material conveying system according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the sensor (S1, S3) is configured to detect the emptying of a temporary storage space of the material conveying system.

17. A pneumatic waste material conveying system according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the sensors (S1, S2, S3) are arranged to detect a monitored space in an axial direction of a material conveying pipe, duct, channel or storage space such as a container.

18. A pneumatic waste material conveying system according to any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the system comprises a control device configured to control one or more of the following based on information / signals received from the sensor: at least one discharge valve (4), and / or at least one replacement air valve (105) and / or at least one replacement air valve (5) of at least one input point (1), and / or at least one section valve (101) of the conveying pipe (100), and / or at least one partial vacuum generator (121).

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