Measuring unit

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a measurement unit (300) for a target component (310) adapted to be submerged into a body of water (312), the measurement unit (300) comprising: a connector (306) adapted to be in electrically conductive contact with the target component (310), at least a portion of the connector (306) being in fluid communication with an environment surrounding the measurement unit (300); a reference electrode (301), at least a portion of which is in fluid communication with the environment surrounding the measurement cell (300); a voltmeter (302) electrically connected to each of the connector (306) and the reference electrode (301), whereby the voltmeter (302) is adapted to determine a potential difference value indicative of a potential difference between the connector (306) and the reference electrode (301); and a consumption assembly (303) adapted to consume electrical energy.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a measurement unit. The present disclosure may be applied to components suitable for immersion in a body of water, such as components forming part of an immersed infrastructure or an ocean-going vessel (e.g., a boat). Although the present disclosure may be described with respect to a marine vessel, the present disclosure is not limited to any particular vehicle. Background Art

[0002] Seawater is a relatively corrosive environment and various immersed metal parts used in marine applications, such as ships, floating structures or at least partially submerged structures, require corrosion protection to avoid or reduce corrosion. The corrosion protection system is arranged to use anodes to shift the galvanic potential of the protected part or structure to a desired interval depending on the metal material to be protected. There are many factors that may affect the function of the corrosion protection system, such as anode consumption, anode passivation, increased corrosion protection current demand, stray currents, etc. Therefore, it is desirable to have a tool for monitoring the status of the corrosion protection system and the currently available galvanic potential. Summary of the invention

[0003] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a measuring unit that can be used to assess the status of a corrosion protection system of a structure.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a measurement unit is provided, which is used for a target component suitable for being immersed in a body of water. The measurement unit comprises: − a connector adapted to make electrically conductive contact with the target member, at least a portion of said connector being in fluid communication with the environment surrounding said measurement unit; − a reference electrode, at least a portion of which is in fluid communication with said environment surrounding said measuring cell; − a voltmeter electrically connected to each of the connector and the reference electrode, wherein the voltmeter is adapted to determine a potential difference value indicative of a potential difference between the connector and the reference electrode; and − Consumer components, which are suitable for consuming electrical energy.

[0005] The measuring unit also includes an electrode member, at least a portion of which is in fluid communication with the environment surrounding the measuring unit, and each of the connector and the electrode member is electrically connected to the consumable component. A first aspect of the present disclosure may seek to provide a measuring unit that may have the ability to feed electrical energy to the consumable component when in use by means of the connector and the electrode member. Technical benefits may include a need to reduce the provision of an additional source of electrical energy, such as a battery.

[0006] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the electrode member is such that when the connector is in electrically conductive contact with the target member, and when the target member and the measurement unit are immersed in a body of water, the target member and the electrode member form a galvanic cell that feeds electrical energy to the consumer component. A technical benefit may include that the target member may be used as part of a galvanic cell that feeds electrical energy to the consumer component.

[0007] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, when the connector is in electrical contact with the target member, the electrode member has an open circuit potential that is more electrically positive than the combined potential of the target member and the connector. The technical benefit may include that the electrode member can act as a cathode member when feeding power to the consumer component. Alternatively, the feature that the open circuit potential is more electrically positive than the combined potential of the target member and the connector when the connector is in electrical contact with the target member may be stated such that when the connector is in electrical contact with the target member, the open circuit potential is greater than the combined potential of the target member and the connector, taking into account the signs of the open circuit potential and the combined potential, respectively.

[0008] As used herein, the term "open circuit potential" of an electrode member relates to the electrode potential of the electrode member when it is not polarized by contact with other metals or as part of an electrical circuit. Generally, the "open circuit potential" is determined relative to a reference electrode having a known and stable potential.

[0009] As used herein, the term "combined potential of the target component and the connector" refers to the potential of multiple electrodes formed by the target component and the connector when the connector is in electrical conductive contact with the target component.

[0010] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the electrode member has an open circuit potential that is more electropositive than -0.5V relative to an electrode based on a reaction between elemental mercury and mercuric chloride. Technical benefits may include that the electrode member can act as a cathode member when feeding electrical energy to a consumer component. Electrodes based on a reaction between elemental mercury and mercuric chloride are commonly referred to as saturated calomel electrodes. Mercuric chloride is a compound with the formula Hg2Cl2. Thus, the feature that the electrode member has an open circuit potential that is more electropositive than -0.5V relative to an electrode based on a reaction between elemental mercury and mercuric chloride can also be described such that the electrode member has an open circuit potential that is more electropositive than -0.5V relative to a saturated calomel electrode, which can be shortened so that the electrode member has an open circuit potential that is more electropositive than -0.5V relative to the saturated calomel electrode. SCE A more electropositive open circuit potential.

[0011] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the measuring unit further comprises a transmitter connected to the voltmeter. The transmitter is adapted to wirelessly transmit information related to the potential difference value to a location outside the measuring unit, preferably the transmitter forms part of a consumable component. Technical benefits may include the ability to transmit information related to the potential difference value without the need for wires or the like.

[0012] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the measurement unit further comprises a battery forming part of the consumable assembly, each of the connector and the electrode member being electrically connected to the battery. Since the battery can be charged by electrical energy generated between the connector and the electrode member, technical benefits may include increased redundancy of the measurement unit.

[0013] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, a battery is adapted to be connected to the transmitter. As the battery feeds power to the transmitter, technical benefits may include increased redundancy of the measurement unit.

[0014] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the connector comprises a metal or metal alloy, such as stainless steel or aluminum, preferably consisting of a metal or metal alloy. Technical benefits may include that the galvanic potential of the connector is substantially the same as the galvanic potential of the target component, meaning that the potential difference value indicating the potential difference between the connector and the reference electrode is also related to the potential difference between the target component and the reference electrode. Preferably, the connector comprises a metal or metal alloy that is galvanically close to the material of the target component, meaning that the potential gradient around the connector is appropriately small.

[0015] Preferably, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the reference electrode comprises one of the following, preferably consists of one of the following: zinc, zinc alloy, silver, and silver chloride. Technical benefits may include that the potential difference may be determined in a straightforward manner, because the use of any of zinc, zinc alloy, silver, and silver chloride may ensure a stable potential that generally does not vary greatly depending on the electrolyte.

[0016] Preferably, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the electrode member comprises, preferably consists of, copper or a copper alloy.Technical benefits may include that the electrode member may form part of a galvanic cell that feeds electrical energy to a consumer component.

[0017] Preferably, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the measuring unit comprises a set of additional electrode members, the set of additional electrode members comprising at least one additional electrode member, at least a portion of each additional electrode member of the set of additional electrode members being in fluid communication with the environment surrounding the measuring unit. Technical benefits may include an increased possibility of feeding appropriately high levels of electrical energy to the consumer components.

[0018] Preferably, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, each additional electrode member in the set of additional electrode members is connected in series with the electrode member and the connector.Technical benefits may include an increased likelihood of feeding appropriately high current levels to the consumer component.

[0019] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, each additional electrode member in the set of additional electrode members is such that when the connector is in electrically conductive contact with the target member, and when the target member and the measurement unit are immersed in the body of water, the target member and the additional electrode member form a galvanic cell that feeds electrical energy to the consumer component. A technical benefit may include that the target member may be used as part of a galvanic cell that feeds electrical energy to the consumer component.

[0020] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, when the connector is in electrical conductive contact with the target member, each additional electrode member in the set of additional electrode members has an open circuit potential that is more electrically positive than the combined potential of the target member and the connector. Technical benefits may include that the electrode members may act as cathode members when feeding electrical energy to the consumer component.

[0021] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, each additional electrode member in the set of additional electrode members has an open circuit potential more electropositive than -0.5 V relative to an electrode based on a reaction between elemental mercury and mercuric chloride. A technical benefit may include that the electrode member may act as a cathode member when feeding electrical energy to a consumer component.

[0022] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the measurement cell includes a measurement cell body that houses at least each of the connector, the reference electrode, the voltmeter, and the electrode member, preferably the measurement cell body is made of a material having a lower electrical conductivity than at least each of the connector, the reference electrode, and the electrode member. Technical benefits may include that each of the connector, the reference electrode, the voltmeter, and the electrode member is held in place in an appropriate manner.

[0023] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the connector includes a connector portion adapted to directly contact the target component. Technical benefits may include obtaining electrically conductive contact with the target component.

[0024] According to a second aspect of the disclosure, a component is provided, which includes a target member suitable for immersion in a body of water and a measuring unit according to the first aspect of the disclosure, wherein the connector is in electrical conductive contact with the target member. Preferably, the measuring unit is fixedly connected to the target member via the connector. The second aspect of the disclosure can seek to provide a system in which the target member can be evaluated in a straightforward manner. Technical benefits can include that the measuring unit can provide relevant information about the potential difference value by means of electrical conductive contact with the target member and provide electrical energy to the consumption component.

[0025] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the connector portion is in direct contact with the target component. Technical benefits may include obtaining electrically conductive contact with the target component.

[0026] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the target component is in electrical contact with a sacrificial anode to achieve corrosion protection of the target component, wherein the connector is in electrical contact with the target component at a distance from the sacrificial anode. The technical benefit may include assessing a portion of the target component suitable for protection by the sacrificial anode.

[0027] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a marine vessel comprising the assembly according to the second aspect of the present disclosure.

[0028] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the marine vessel comprises a monitoring unit adapted to receive measurement data from the transmitter. Technical benefits may include that the monitoring unit may receive information related to a potential difference value associated with the target component.

[0029] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the monitoring unit is adapted to issue a warning signal in response to detecting that the information related to the potential difference value is outside a predetermined range. Technical benefits may include, for example, that an operator of a marine vessel may receive information related to the potential difference value being outside a predetermined range and be able to take appropriate actions, such as inspecting and / or maintaining the target component.

[0030] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a use of a measuring unit for measuring a galvanic potential value indicating a galvanic potential of a target component suitable for immersion in a body of water, the measuring unit comprising: − a connector adapted to make electrically conductive contact with the target member, at least a portion of said connector being in fluid communication with the environment surrounding said measurement unit; − a reference electrode, at least a portion of which is in fluid communication with said environment surrounding said measuring cell; − a voltmeter electrically connected to each of the connector and the reference electrode, wherein the voltmeter is adapted to determine a potential difference value indicative of a potential difference between the connector and the reference electrode; and − consumer components, which are suitable for consuming electrical energy, The measurement cell further comprises an electrode member, at least a portion of which is in fluid communication with the environment surrounding the measurement cell, and each of the connector and the electrode member is electrically connected to the consumable component.

[0031] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the disclosed aspects, examples (including any preferred examples), and / or the accompanying claims may be appropriately combined with each other. Additional features and advantages are disclosed in the following description, claims, and drawings, and will in part be apparent to those skilled in the art, or recognized by practicing the disclosure as described herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] Examples are described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0033] Figure 1 is an exemplary vessel including a corrosion protection system according to a first example;

[0034] Figure 2 is an exemplary vessel including a corrosion protection system according to a second example;

[0035] Figure 3 is a schematic cross section through an example of a measurement cell;

[0036] Figure 4 is a schematic plan view of an example of a measurement unit;

[0037] Figure 5 is a schematic plan view of an example of a measurement unit;

[0038] Figure 6 is a schematic plan view of an example of a measurement unit;

[0039] Figure 7 is a schematic plan view of an example of a measurement unit, and

[0040] Figure 8 is a schematic plan view of an example of a measurement unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] The detailed description set forth below provides information and examples of the disclosed technology in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure.

[0042] Figure 1A schematically illustrated vessel 100 including a corrosion protection system according to a first example is shown. The vessel 100 includes a hull having a transom 104 to which a marine propulsion system is attached. The propulsion system in this example includes a single drive train housing 101 at least partially submerged in water, a torque transmitting drive shaft 106 (not shown) extending out of the drive train housing 101, and a pair of counter-rotating propellers 102, 103 mounted on the drive shaft 106. In the current example, both propellers 102, 103 are electrically isolated from their drive shafts 106. However, this is not a requirement for the operation of the system. A cathodic protection arrangement can be used to protect metal parts (such as the drive train housing 101, the metal portion of the transom 104, and the trim tab 105 (one shown)) from corrosion. Note that this is a non-exhaustive list of metal parts suitable for corrosion protection. In this example, measurement units 108, 109 are mounted on the metal portion of the transom 104, the drive train housing 101, respectively. The monitoring unit 113 (or control unit) may be adapted to receive measurement data from a transmitter (not shown) of each of the measurement units 108, 109. Such transmitters will be explained in further detail below. As a non-limiting example, the vessel may include a battery 110, and the positive terminal 111 and the negative terminal 112 of the battery 110 may be connected to the control unit 113 in order to supply power to the control unit.

[0043] Each measuring unit 108, 109 is arranged to determine the potential difference value by means of a voltmeter, as will be further presented below. As a non-limiting example, the potential difference value may be transmitted to a control unit 113 which monitors the guard potential. The measurement results of the potential difference may be transmitted, for example, continuously, intermittently at regular intervals, or upon request from the control unit 113. This timing may be selected by an operator. In response to the received measurement data from the measuring units 108, 109, the control unit 113 may be arranged to generate an audible and / or visual warning to the operator if it is determined that the galvanic guard potential is outside a predetermined range. The transmitted data may also include the status of a dedicated power supply in the measuring unit in order to ensure that sufficient power is available to enable data transmission from the measuring unit to the control unit 113.

[0044] Figure 2 A schematically illustrated vessel 200 including a corrosion protection system according to a second example is shown. Figure 2A corrosion protection system and its measurement unit used as a backup system for an impressed current corrosion protection (ICCP) system are illustrated. A vessel 200 comprises a hull having a transom 204 to which a marine propulsion system is attached. The propulsion system in this example comprises a single drive train housing 201 at least partially submerged in water, a torque transmitting drive shaft 206 (not shown) extending out of the drive train housing 201, and a pair of counter-rotating propellers 202, 203 mounted on the drive shaft 206. In the present example, both propellers 202, 203 are electrically isolated from their drive shafts 206. The drive shaft arrangement is shown in FIG. Figure 2 2 and will be described in more detail below. Each electrically isolated propeller 202, 203 to be protected from corrosion is connected to the negative terminal 212 of a direct current (DC) power source 210 (such as a battery) to form a cathode. In the same manner, each additional metal component 201, 204, 205 to be protected from corrosion is connected to the negative terminal 212 of the DC power source 210 to form a cathode. An ICCP control unit 213 including an internal monitoring unit is connected to the DC power source 210 and distributes the current to all components forming the circuit. The ICCP control unit 213 is arranged to regulate the voltage and current output from the DC power source 210. To assist in regulating the voltage and current output, a reference electrode 224 is mounted on the hull and connected to the ICCP control unit 213 via an electrical wire 223. The reference electrode is preferably mounted away from the protected structure to avoid measurement errors due to local variations in the electric field around the protected structure. The reference electrode 224 measures the voltage difference between itself and the metal component, which is directly related to the amount of protection received by the anode. The ICCP control unit 213 compares the voltage difference between the reference electrode 224 and the protected structure. The current output to the protected structure is then automatically adjusted by the control unit to maintain the electrode voltage equal to a preset voltage.

[0045] Regulation of the voltage and current output from the DC power supply is controlled to automate the current output when the voltage output changes, or to automate the voltage output when the current output changes. This enables the maintenance of corrosion protection levels under changing conditions (such as changes in water resistivity, water temperature or water velocity). In sacrificial anode systems, an increase in seawater resistivity may result in a reduction in anode output and a reduction in the amount of protection provided, while a change from a stagnant condition may result in an increase in current demand to maintain the required level of protection. With an ICCP system, protection does not decrease within the standard seawater range, nor does it change with moderate changes in current demand. An advantage of ICCP systems is that they can provide continuous monitoring of the potential at the water / protected structure interface, and the output to the anode can be adjusted relative to this. ICCP systems that include a reference electrode are more effective and reliable than sacrificial anode systems where the level of protection is unknown and uncontrollable.

[0046] The corrosion protection system in this example is an impressed current cathodic protection (ICCP) arrangement using the propellers 202, 203 as cathodes 215. In this example, a hull mounted anode (not shown) connected to the positive terminal 211 is used. Figure 2 2, the metal parts to be protected from corrosion are the drive train housing 201, the trim tabs 205 (one shown), and the metal parts of the hull (in this case, the transom 204). Note that this is a non-exhaustive list of metal parts suitable for corrosion protection. To achieve this, the positive terminal 211 and the negative terminal 212 of the battery 210 are connected to the ICCP control unit 213. The ICCP control unit 213 is arranged to connect the negative terminal 212 to the propellers 202, 203 via a first wire 214. The ICCP control unit 213 is further arranged to connect the negative terminal 212 to an electrical connector 217 on the drive train housing 201 via a second wire 216. The negative terminal 212 is also connected to an electrical connector 219 on the trim tab 205 via a third wire 218, and to an electrical connector 221 on the transom 204 via a fourth wire 220. The corrosion protection system is also provided with passive sacrificial anodes 226 which can provide protection in the event of a failure in the active antifouling arrangement. The sacrificial anodes 226 can be located at any suitable location on the vessel and can be connected to the ICCP control unit 213 via a fifth electrical line 225 .

[0047] The corrosion protection system in this example may be provided with at least one measuring unit 208, 209 arranged to communicate with an internal monitoring unit in an ICCP control unit 213. Each measuring unit 208, 209 may be adapted to determine a potential difference value using a voltmeter, as will be described in further detail below. Information relating to such potential difference value may be transmitted to the ICCP control unit 213. The measurement results of the potential difference may be transmitted continuously, intermittently at regular intervals, or upon request from the ICCP control unit 213. In response to the received measurement data from the measuring units 208, 209, the ICCP control unit 213 may be arranged to generate an audible and / or visual warning to an operator if it is determined that the galvanic protection potential is outside a predetermined range. The transmitted data may also include the status of a dedicated power supply in the measuring unit to ensure that sufficient power is available to enable data transmission from the measuring unit to the control unit.

[0048] It should be noted that Figure 1 The metal parts of the transmission housing 101, the metal portion of the transom 104, and the trim tabs 105 (one shown) and the above with respect to Figure 2Each of the components 201, 202, 203, 204, 205 presented may be used as an example of a target component suitable for immersion in a body of water. However, it is also conceivable that the target component suitable for immersion in a body of water may also form part of another entity, such as an at least partially submerged structure, such as an offshore structure (not shown), a bridge (not shown) or a subsea structure (not shown). Regardless of the example of the target component, information about the galvanic potential of the target component may be desired. By way of example only, if the target component is protected by a corrosion protection system that is arranged to use an anode to shift the galvanic potential of the target component to a desired range depending on the metallic material to be protected, it may be desirable to determine information about the galvanic potential to assess whether the corrosion protection system is operating as intended.

[0049] For this purpose, refer to Figure 3 , which illustrates an example of a measurement unit 300 for a target member 310 adapted to be submerged in a body of water 312. As indicated above, the target member 310 may, for example, form part of any of the examples listed above.

[0050] The measuring unit 300 comprises: − a connector 306 adapted to be in electrically conductive contact with the target member 310 , at least a portion of said connector being in fluid communication with the environment surrounding the measurement unit 300 ; − a reference electrode 301 , at least a portion of which is in fluid communication with the environment surrounding the measurement cell 300 ; − a voltmeter 302 electrically connected to each of the connector 306 and the reference electrode 301 , wherein the voltmeter 302 is adapted to determine a potential difference value indicative of a potential difference between the connector 306 and the reference electrode 301 ; and − a consumption component 303 adapted to consume electrical energy.

[0051] With the aid of the above-mentioned potential difference value, information indicative of the galvanic potential of the target component 310 can be determined. As a non-limiting example, if the target structure 310 is protected by a corrosion protection system that is arranged to use the anode 313 to shift the galvanic potential of the target component 310 to within a desired range, the potential difference value can provide information indicating whether the corrosion protection system is operating as expected. Here, it should be noted that if, for example, the open circuit potential of the reference electrode 301 is known, the above-mentioned potential difference value can be used to determine the galvanic potential of the target component 310.

[0052] Furthermore, as a non-limiting example, the measurement unit 300 may be arranged to be fixed to and in electrical conductive contact with the target component 310 via the connector 306. Figure 3As shown schematically, a suitable fastener such as a threaded screw 311 may be passed through an opening in the connector 306 and secured to a corresponding threaded opening in the target component 310 ( Figure 3 (not shown).

[0053] By way of example only, connector 306 comprises, and preferably consists of, a metal or metal alloy, such as stainless steel or aluminum.

[0054] By way of example only, reference electrode 301 comprises, preferably consists of, one of: zinc, a zinc alloy, silver, and silver chloride.

[0055] The measurement unit 300 also includes an electrode member 308. At least a portion of the electrode member 308 is in fluid communication with the environment surrounding the measurement unit 300. Each of the connector 306 and the electrode member 308 is electrically connected to the consumable component 303.

[0056] Preferably, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the electrode member comprises, preferably consists of, copper or a copper alloy.

[0057] The consumption component 303 can be implemented in a variety of different ways, as will be described in detail below. In addition, although only by way of example, Figure 3 As indicated, the measurement cell 300 may include a measurement cell body 307 that houses at least each of the connector 306, the reference electrode 301, the voltmeter 302, and the electrode member 308. As a non-limiting example, the measurement cell body 307 is made of a material having a lower electrical conductivity than at least each of the connector 306, the reference electrode 301, and the electrode member 308. By way of example only, the measurement cell body 307 may include, or even consist of, a plastic material.

[0058] exist Figure 3 In the example, the measurement unit 300 has a substantially cylindrical shape. However, it is contemplated that other examples of the measurement unit 300 may have other shapes.

[0059] In addition, the measurement unit 300 of the present disclosure may have the ability to feed power to the consumer component 303 by means of the connector 306 and the electrode member 308 when in use. For this purpose, although only by way of example, Figure 3 As may be apparent, electrode member 308 is such that when connector 306 is in electrically conductive contact with target member 310 , and when target member 310 and measurement unit 300 are submerged in body of water 312 , target member 310 and electrode member 308 form a galvanic cell that feeds electrical energy to consumer component 303 .

[0060] In other words, the electrode member 308 is such that when the connector 306 is in electrically conductive contact with the target member 310 and when the target member 310 and the measurement unit 300 are immersed in a body of water 312, an electromotive force is generated by an electrolytic reaction between the connector 306 connected to the target member 310 and the electrode member 308 of the measurement unit 300, wherein the surrounding body of water 312 (which is preferably a body of seawater) is arranged to act as an electrolyte. The electrochemical energy supplied by this energy source can be fed to the consumption component 303.

[0061] As a non-limiting example, when the connector 306 is in electrically conductive contact with the target component 310 , the electrode component 308 may have an open circuit potential that is more electrically positive than the combined potential of the target component 310 and the connector 306 .

[0062] As a non-limiting example, the electrode member 308 has an open circuit potential that is more electropositive than -0.5 V relative to an electrode (not shown) based on the reaction between elemental mercury and mercuric chloride. Electrodes based on the reaction between elemental mercury and mercuric chloride are generally referred to as saturated calomel electrodes. Thus, the feature that the electrode member 308 has an open circuit potential that is more electropositive than -0.5 V relative to an electrode based on the reaction between elemental mercury and mercuric chloride can also be described such that the electrode member 308 has an open circuit potential that is more electropositive than -0.5 V relative to the saturated calomel electrode, which can be shortened so that the electrode member 308 has an open circuit potential that is more electropositive than -0.5 V relative to the saturated calomel electrode. SCE A more electropositive open circuit potential.

[0063] As such, the open circuit potential of the electrode member 308 may be determined using the electrode member 308 and the saturated calomel electrode (not shown) described above. For the sake of completeness, it should be noted that the saturated calomel electrode (not shown) need not form part of the measurement cell 300 and generally does not form part of the measurement cell 300. Therefore, the feature that the electrode member 308 has an open circuit potential that is more electropositive than -0.5V relative to an electrode based on a reaction between elemental mercury and mercuric chloride may alternatively be stated such that the electrode member 308 has an open circuit potential that is more electropositive than -0.5V when determined relative to an electrode based on a reaction between elemental mercury and mercuric chloride. The above alternatives may apply to any example of the present disclosure. Alternatively, the feature that the electrode member 308 has an open circuit potential that is more electropositive than -0.5V relative to an electrode based on a reaction between elemental mercury and mercuric chloride may be stated such that the electrode member 308 has an open circuit potential that is more electropositive than -0.5V when determined relative to a saturated calomel electrode, which again may be shortened such that the electrode member 308 has an open circuit potential that is more electropositive than -0.5V relative to an electrode based on a reaction between elemental mercury and mercuric chloride. SCE The above alternatives may apply to any example of the present disclosure.

[0064] Figure 4A top cross-sectional view of an example of a measuring unit 300 is illustrated, wherein the measuring unit 300 further comprises a transmitter 314 connected to the voltmeter 302. The transmitter 314 is adapted to wirelessly transmit information related to the potential difference value to a location outside the measuring unit 300. By way of example only, the transmitter 314 may form part of the consumable component 303, or constitute a consumable component, for example. Furthermore, Figure 4 It is exemplarily illustrated that each of the electrode member 308 and the connector 306 can be connected to the consumable component 303 by means of a conductive member 309 such as a wire.

[0065] Also like Figure 4 As indicated in the example, the measurement unit 300 may include a battery 315 that forms part of the consumable component 303. As a non-limiting example, each of the connector 306 and the electrode member 308 may be electrically connected to the battery 315. As a non-limiting example, and as Figure 4 As indicated, battery 315 may be adapted to be connected to transmitter 314. Again, by way of example only, battery 315 may be adapted to feed transmitter 314 with electrical energy.

[0066] It should be noted that the measurement unit 300 need not include only one electrode member 308. For this purpose, reference is made to Figure 5 , which illustrates an example of a measurement unit 300, the measurement unit includes a set of additional electrode members 316, the set of additional electrode members including at least one additional electrode member 308a, 308b. At least a portion of each additional electrode member 308a, 308b in the set of additional electrode members 316 is in fluid communication with the environment surrounding the measurement unit 300. For example only and as Figure 5 As schematically illustrated, each additional electrode member 308a, 308b of the set of additional electrode members 316 is connected in series with the electrode member 308 and the connector 306.

[0067] As a non-limiting example, each additional electrode member 308a, 308b in the set of additional electrode members 316 is such that when the connector 306 is in electrically conductive contact with the target member 310, and when the target member 310 and the measurement unit 300 are immersed in the water body 312, the target member 310 and the additional electrode members 308a, 308b form a galvanic cell that feeds electrical energy to the consumer component 303.

[0068] By way of example only, when the connector is in electrically conductive contact with the target component 310 , each additional electrode member 308a , 308b in the set of additional electrode members 316 has an open circuit potential that is more electrically positive than the combined potential of the target component 310 and the connector 306 .

[0069] As a non-limiting example, each additional electrode member 308a, 308b in the set of additional electrode members 316 has an open circuit potential that is more electropositive than -0.5 V relative to an electrode based on a reaction between elemental mercury and mercuric chloride.

[0070] Back to Figure 3 For example, it can be noted that the connector 306 can include a connector portion 317 adapted to directly contact the target component 310. By way of example only, and as Figure 3 As illustrated, the connector 306 may, for example, include a socket, such as a cylindrical socket, and the connector portion 317 may form a bottom portion of such a socket.

[0071] also, Figure 3 An example of a second aspect of the present disclosure is also illustrated, which relates to an assembly 318 comprising a target component 310 adapted to be submerged in a body of water and a measurement unit 300 according to the first aspect of the present disclosure. In the second aspect of the present disclosure, and as Figure 3 As indicated, the connector 306 is in electrically conductive contact with the target member 310. Preferably, the measurement unit 300 is fixedly connected to the target member 310 by the connector 306, such as via the threaded screw 311 described above.

[0072] Just for example, Figure 3 As indicated, connector portion 317 may be in direct contact with target component 310 .

[0073] As a non-limiting example, the target component 310 may be in electrical conductive contact with the sacrificial anode 313 to achieve corrosion protection of the target component 310. The connector 306 may be in electrical conductive contact with the target component 306 at a distance from the sacrificial anode 313.

[0074] A third aspect of the present disclosure relates to a marine vessel 100, 200 comprising an assembly 318 according to the second aspect of the present disclosure. For this purpose, reference is made to Figure 1 and Figure 2 As such, the target component 310 may form part of the marine vessel 100 , 200 .

[0075] The marine vessel 100, 200 may comprise a monitoring unit 113, 213 adapted to receive measurement data from the transmitter 314. By way of example only, the monitoring unit 113, 213 may be adapted to issue a warning signal in response to detecting that information relating to the potential difference value is outside a predetermined range.

[0076] Figure 6Schematic perspective view of an example of a measurement unit 300 is illustrated. The measurement unit 300 includes a measurement unit body 307, a connector 306, and a reference electrode 301 mounted to the measurement unit body 307, separated from the connector 306 and electrically connected to the connector. The measurement unit body 307 includes an upper annular surface 307a, a lower annular surface 307c, and a cylindrical side surface 307b connecting the upper surface 307a and the lower surface 307c.

[0077] Figure 6 The example in FIG. 3 includes an electrode member 308 that is separate from the connector 306 and electrically connected to the connector via the consumable component 303. The electromotive force is generated by connecting to the target member ( Figure 6 The electrolyte is generated by an electrolytic reaction between the electrode member 308 (not shown) and the connector 306 electrically connected to the main body 307 of the measuring unit 300, and the surrounding seawater is arranged to serve as the electrolyte.

[0078] exist Figure 6 In the example, the reference electrode 301 and the electrode member 308 are molded into the measurement unit body 307 and extend from the upper surface 307a to the lower surface 307c. Both the reference electrode 301 and the electrode member 308 have exposed surfaces at both ends and along their outer surfaces, which interrupt the cylindrical side surface 307b. When immersed, the reference electrode 301 and the electrode member 308 will be exposed to seawater on three sides. When installed, the lower ends of the reference electrode 701 and the electrode member 308 should preferably be kept away from the target member ( Figure 6 (not shown) contact.

[0079] Figure 7 1 illustrates a schematic perspective view of another example of a measurement unit 300. The measurement unit 300 includes a measurement unit body 307 (which may include an electrically insulating material, for example), a connector 306 (for fixing the measurement unit 300 to a target component ( Figure 7 The measuring cell body 307 includes an upper annular surface 307a, a lower annular surface 307c, and a cylindrical side surface 307b connecting the upper surface 307a and the lower surface 307c.

[0080] Figure 7 The illustrated example includes an electrode member 308 and additional electrode members 308a, 308b mounted to a measurement unit body 307, which are separated from a connector 306 and electrically connected to the connector via a consumable component 303. The electromotive force is generated by connecting to a target member ( Figure 7The electrode members 308 and the additional electrode members 308a, 308b are electrically connected to the measuring unit body 307 of the measuring unit 300, and the surrounding seawater is arranged to act as an electrolyte.

[0081] exist Figure 7 In the illustrated example, the reference electrode 301, the electrode member 308 and the additional electrode members 308a, 308b are molded into the measurement unit body 307 and extend from the upper surface 307a to the lower surface 307c. Each of the reference electrode 301, the electrode member 308 and the additional electrode members 308a, 308b has an exposed surface at both ends and along their outer surfaces, and the exposed surface interrupts the cylindrical side surface 307b. When immersed, the reference electrode 301, the electrode member 308 and the additional electrode members 308a, 308b will be exposed to seawater on three sides. When installed, the lower end of the reference electrode 301, the electrode member 308 and the additional electrode members 308a, 308b should preferably be kept away from the target member ( Figure 7 (not shown) contact.

[0082] Figure 8 1 illustrates a schematic perspective view of another example of a measurement unit 300. The measurement unit 300 includes a measurement unit body 307 (which may include an electrically insulating material, for example), a connector 306 (for fixing the measurement unit 300 to a target component ( Figure 7 The measuring cell body 307 includes an upper annular surface 307a, a lower annular surface 307c, and a cylindrical side surface 307b connecting the upper surface 307a and the lower surface 307c.

[0083] Figure 8 The illustrated example includes an electrode member 308 mounted to a measurement unit body 307, the electrode member being separate from the connector 306 and being electrically connected to the connector via the consumable component 303. The electromotive force is generated by connecting to the target member ( Figure 8 The electrolyte is produced by an electrolytic reaction between a connector 306 (not shown) and electrically connected to an electrode member 308, which is mounted to a measuring cell body 307 of the measuring cell 300 and in which the surrounding seawater is arranged to act as an electrolyte.

[0084] exist Figure 8In the example, the reference electrode 301 and the electrode member 308 are molded into the measurement unit body 307 and extend from the upper surface 307a to a portion of the way toward the lower surface 307c, a distance H1. The reference electrode 301 and the electrode member 308 terminate at a distance H2 from the lower surface 307c. Therefore, each of the reference electrode 301 and the electrode member 308 has an exposed surface at one end and along their outer surface, and the exposed surface interrupts the cylindrical side surface 307b. When immersed, the reference electrode 301 and the electrode member 308 expose both sides to seawater. When installed, the lower ends of the reference electrode 301 and the electrode member 308 are inherently kept from contacting the target member ( Figure 8 (not shown) contact.

[0085] The terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific aspects and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "said" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It should also be understood that the terms "include" and / or "comprising" when used herein indicate the presence of stated features, integers, actions, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, actions, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or their groups.

[0086] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. For example, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element.

[0087] Relative terms such as "below" or "above" or "upper" or "lower" or "horizontal" or "vertical" may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element to another element, as shown in the figures. It should be understood that these terms and those discussed above are intended to cover different device orientations in addition to the orientations depicted in the figures. It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another element, the element may be directly connected or coupled to the other element, or there may be intervening elements. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, there are no intervening elements.

[0088] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. It should also be understood that, unless otherwise clearly defined herein, the terms used herein should be interpreted as meanings consistent with their meanings in the context of this specification and the relevant art, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0089] It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the aspects described above and shown in the accompanying drawings; rather, the skilled person will recognize that many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the present disclosure and the appended claims. In the drawings and description, various aspects have been disclosed for illustrative purposes only and not for limiting purposes, and the scope of the disclosure is set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A measurement unit (300) for a target component (310) adapted to be immersed in a body of water (312), the measurement unit (300) comprising: − a connector (306) adapted to be in electrically conductive contact with the target member (310), at least a portion of the connector (306) being in fluid communication with the environment surrounding the measurement unit (300); − a reference electrode (301), at least a portion of which is in fluid communication with the environment surrounding the measurement unit (300); − a voltmeter (302) electrically connected to each of the connector (306) and the reference electrode (301), wherein the voltmeter (302) is suitable for determining a potential difference value indicative of a potential difference between the connector (306) and the reference electrode (301); as well as − a consumption component (303) adapted to consume electrical energy, The measuring unit (300) further comprises an electrode member (308), at least a portion of which is in fluid communication with the environment surrounding the measuring unit (300), and each of the connector (306) and the electrode member (308) is electrically connected to the consumable component (303).

2. The measurement unit (300) of claim 1, wherein the electrode member (308) is such that when the connector (306) is in electrically conductive contact with the target member (310), and when the target member (310) and the measurement unit (300) are immersed in a body of water (312), the target member (310) and the electrode member (308) form a galvanic cell that feeds electrical energy to the consumer component (303).

3. The measurement unit (300) of claim 1 or 2, wherein when the connector (306) is in electrically conductive contact with the target member (310), the electrode member (308) has an open circuit potential that is more electrically positive than a combined potential of the target member (310) and the connector (306).

4. The measuring cell (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrode member (308) has an open circuit potential that is more electropositive than -0.5 V relative to an electrode based on a reaction between elemental mercury and mercuric chloride.

5. A measuring unit (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a transmitter (314) connected to the voltmeter (302), the transmitter (314) being adapted to wirelessly transmit information related to the potential difference value to a location outside the measuring unit (300), preferably, the transmitter (314) forming part of the consumer component (303).

6. The measuring unit (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a battery (315) forming part of the consumable component (303), the connector (306) and each of the electrode members (308) being electrically connected to the battery (315).

7. The measuring unit (300) of claim 6 when dependent on claim 5, wherein the battery (315) is adapted to be connected to the transmitter (314).

8. The measuring unit (300) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the connector (306) comprises, preferably consists of, a metal or a metal alloy, such as stainless steel or aluminum.

9. The measuring cell (300) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reference electrode (301) comprises one of the following, preferably consists of one of the following: zinc, a zinc alloy, silver and silver chloride.

10. The measuring cell (300) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the electrode member (308) comprises, preferably consists of, copper or a copper alloy.

11. A measuring unit (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the measuring unit (300) comprises a set of additional electrode members (316), the set of additional electrode members comprising at least one additional electrode member (308a, 308b), at least a portion of each additional electrode member (308a, 308b) in the set of additional electrode members (316) being connected to the ambient fluid surrounding the measuring unit (300).

12. The measurement unit (300) of claim 11, wherein each additional electrode member (308a, 308b) of the set of additional electrode members (316) is connected in series with the electrode member (308) and the connector (306).

13. A measurement unit (300) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein each additional electrode member (308a, 308b) of the set of additional electrode members (316) is such that when the connector (306) is in electrically conductive contact with the target member (310), and when the target member (310) and the measurement unit (300) are immersed in a body of water (312), the target member (310) and the additional electrode members (308a, 308b) form a galvanic cell that feeds electrical energy to the consumer component (303).

14. The measurement unit (300) according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein when the connector (306) is in electrically conductive contact with the target member (310), each additional electrode member (308a, 308b) in the set of additional electrode members (316) has an open circuit potential that is more electrically positive than the combined potential of the target member (310) and the connector (306).

15. The measuring cell (300) according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein each additional electrode member (308a, 308b) of the set of additional electrode members (316) has an open circuit potential that is more electropositive than -0.5 V relative to an electrode based on a reaction between elemental mercury and mercuric chloride.

16. The measuring unit (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the measuring unit (300) comprises a measuring unit (300) body, the measuring unit body accommodating at least each of the connector (306), the reference electrode (301), the voltmeter (302) and the electrode member (308), preferably, the measuring unit (300) body is made of a material having a lower electrical conductivity than at least each of the connector (306), the reference electrode (301) and the electrode member (308).

17. The measurement unit (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connector (306) comprises a connector portion (317) adapted to be in direct contact with the target member (310).

18. An assembly comprising a target member (310) adapted to be submerged in a body of water (312) and a measurement unit (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connector (306) is in electrically conductive contact with the target member (310), preferably the measurement unit (300) is fixedly connected to the target member (310) via the connector (306).

19. An assembly according to claim 18 when dependent on claim 17, wherein the connector portion (317) is in direct contact with the target member (310).

20. The assembly of claim 18 or 19, wherein the target component (310) is in electrical contact with a sacrificial anode (313) to achieve corrosion protection of the target component (310), wherein the connector (306) is in electrical contact with the target component (310) at a distance from the sacrificial anode (313).

21. A marine vessel (100; 200) comprising an assembly according to any one of claims 18 to 20.

22. A marine vessel (100; 200) according to claim 21 when dependent on claim 5, wherein the marine vessel (100; 200) comprises a monitoring unit (113; 213) adapted to receive measurement data from the transmitter (314).

23. The marine vessel (100; 200) according to claim 22, wherein the monitoring unit (113; 213) is adapted to issue a warning signal in response to detecting that the information related to the potential difference value is outside a predetermined range.

24. Use of a measuring unit (300) for measuring a galvanic potential value indicative of a galvanic potential of a target component (310) adapted to be immersed in a body of water (312), the measuring unit (300) comprising: − a connector (306) adapted to be in electrically conductive contact with the target member (310), at least a portion of the connector (306) being in fluid communication with the environment surrounding the measurement unit (300); − a reference electrode (301), at least a portion of which is in fluid communication with the environment surrounding the measurement unit (300); − a voltmeter (302) electrically connected to each of the connector (306) and the reference electrode (301), wherein the voltmeter (302) is suitable for determining a potential difference value indicative of a potential difference between the connector (306) and the reference electrode (301); as well as − a consumption component (303) adapted to consume electrical energy, The measuring unit (300) further comprises an electrode member (308), at least a portion of which is in fluid communication with the environment surrounding the measuring unit (300), and each of the connector (306) and the electrode member (308) is electrically connected to the consumable component (303).

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