Fill level measuring system for measuring the fill level of a liquid inside a tank
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- HYBRIDSUPPLY GMBH
- Filing Date
- 2026-01-20
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-30
Smart Images
Figure EP2026051226_30072026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Münster, January 20, 2026
[0002] Our reference number: HY1113-02WO
[0003] Official file number: New registration
[0004] Applicant: Companion sro
[0005] U Stadionu 615, 33012
[0006] Horni Briza
[0007] Czech Republic
[0008] HybridSupply GmbH
[0009] Roggenhorsterstr. 9b
[0010] 23556 Lübeck
[0011] Germany
[0012] Level measuring system for measuring the fill level of a liquid located inside a tank
[0013] The invention relates to a level measuring system for measuring the level of a liquid located inside a tank, in particular a liquefied gas located inside a gas tank, comprising: a sliding element whose vertical position depends on the level of the liquid located in the tank and a guide element for guiding the sliding element.
[0014] Furthermore, the invention relates to a liquid container for containing liquid, in particular a liquefied gas, comprising a tank, in particular a gas tank, and a level measuring system.
[0015] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for determining the fill level of a liquid located inside a tank, in particular a liquefied gas located inside a gas tank, by means of a level measuring system, wherein the vertical position of a sliding element of the level measuring system depends on the fill level of the liquid located in the tank and the sliding element is guided by a guide element.
[0016] Mechanical level measurement systems are known in the prior art. These systems comprise a float located within the liquid or on its surface, with the float attached to a rotatable arm. The fill level is determined based on the rotational deflection of the swiveling arm, which is generated depending on the float's vertical position, and can be displayed by means of a level indicator. Due to the limited length of the rotatable arm, the level measurement range of the system is also limited. The measurement range is defined by twice the length of the rotatable arm. The measurement range may also be further limited by structural constraints. This is the case, for example, with elongated gas tanks, whose limited interior space restricts the swivel range of the rotatable arm.Due to limitations, mechanical level measurement systems typically only measure the level at either high or low levels.
[0017] Electronic level measurement systems are also known in the prior art, which perform distance measurements between a distance sensor and the liquid surface, wherein the distance sensor, for example, emits ultrasound which is reflected by the liquid surface. Such electronic level measurement systems typically have level measurement ranges over the entire fill level range and can therefore reliably determine both low and high fill levels. However, such electronic level measurement systems are usually more expensive than mechanical level measurement systems.Furthermore, such electronic level measurement systems cannot be used with flammable and / or aggressive liquids or gases, as the operation of such electronic level measurement systems could, for example, cause sparking or heating of the electronic components, leading to ignition of the flammable and / or aggressive liquid or gas.
[0018] The object underlying the invention is therefore to measure the fill level of a liquid or liquefied gas contained in a tank reliably and safely over a large fill level range, preferably the entire fill level range of the tank.
[0019] The problem is solved using a level measuring system of the type mentioned above, wherein the level measuring system has a rotary element whose rotational position depends on the vertical position of the sliding element. The level measuring system is designed to measure the fill level within a level measuring range. The level measuring system can therefore determine when the tank is completely filled with liquid, in particular liquefied gas. It can also determine when the tank is partially filled with liquid, in particular liquefied gas. Furthermore, the level measuring system can determine when the tank is almost or completely filled with liquid, in particular liquefied gas. The level measuring range has a minimum and a maximum measured value. The level measuring range can be fixed and / or limited, particularly due to design considerations.The level measuring range can be adjustable, in particular, variable. If the level measuring range is adjustable, the minimum and / or maximum measured values are also adjustable. The level measuring range can be selected such that the minimum measured value occurs when the tank is almost empty. The tank is almost empty when the liquid volume in the tank is less than 10% of the total tank volume. The level measuring range can be selected such that the maximum measured value occurs when the tank is almost full. The tank is almost full when the liquid volume in the tank is more than 90% of the total tank volume. The level measuring range can also be selected such that the minimum measured value occurs when the tank is empty. When the tank is empty, there is no liquid, in particular no liquefied gas, in the tank.The gas tank can be designed as a gas cylinder or gas bottle. The tank can be pressurized, especially overpressure, or unpressurized. The liquid level represents the height of the liquid in the tank. Consequently, the liquid level represents the height to which the tank is filled with liquid. The liquid level can be changed vertically.
[0020] The tank can have a cylindrical shape. The tank preferably has an internal volume of 5 to 50 liters, more preferably 10 to 35 liters, and most preferably 12 to 28 liters. The tank can be made of metal, a composite material, and / or plastic.
[0021] The liquid can be flammable, in particular highly flammable. The liquid can therefore be a fuel. The liquid can be a propellant. In the case of a propellant, its chemical energy can be converted into mechanical energy through combustion, particularly in an internal combustion engine such as a combustion engine or a gas turbine. The propellant can include, for example, gasoline, light gasoline, diesel, biodiesel, or kerosene.
[0022] The liquefied gas can be liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). LPG contains short-chain hydrocarbons, such as propane and / or butane. Therefore, liquefied gas can contain alkanes. Alternatively or additionally, liquefied gas can contain methane and / or ethane. Liquefied gas can contain natural gas, particularly natural gas liquids (NGLs). Liquefied gas can contain liquefied natural gas (LNG) and / or liquefied biomethane (LBM). A gas can be liquefied, in particular by cooling, and thus converted into a liquefied gas.
[0023] The sliding element is located within the liquid or on the surface of the liquid. The vertical position of the sliding element can be proportional to the fill level of the liquid in the tank. The sliding element can float in the liquid in the tank or substantially on the surface of the liquid in the tank. Consequently, the sliding element can be designed as a floating element, in particular a float. The floating of the sliding element constitutes support of the sliding element by means of the liquid in the tank. The sliding element exhibits static buoyancy, in particular hydrostatic buoyancy, which is why the sliding element floats in the liquid in the tank or substantially on the surface of the liquid in the tank.The degree of static buoyancy of the sliding element determines its immersion depth in the liquid contained in the tank. Consequently, the degree of static buoyancy determines whether the sliding element floats in the liquid or essentially on the liquid's surface. The sliding element can be located between several, preferably two, guide elements. The sliding element can be displaceable between the several, preferably two, guide elements. The sliding element has a center of gravity, in particular a center of mass. The relative, in particular vertical, distance between the center of mass of the sliding element and the liquid surface depends on the difference between the density of the sliding element and the density of the liquid.The relative distance between the center of mass of the displacement element and the liquid surface remains constant during the level-change-based displacement of the displacement element.
[0024] The guide element is partially submerged in the liquid. The guide element may include metal. The guide element may extend to the bottom of the tank. If the guide element extends to the bottom of the tank, a particularly low fill level can be measured by the level measurement system.
[0025] The rotating element is partially submerged in the liquid. It is mounted on a pivot and can therefore rotate. In particular, it can perform a circular motion. The rotating element has at least the same length as the guide element.
[0026] The rotational position of the rotary element depends on the translational movement of the sliding element. The rotational position of the rotary element can, for example, be linearly dependent on the vertical position of the sliding element. The rotational position of the rotary element can be proportional to the vertical position of the sliding element. The rotational position of the rotary element can be assigned to a rotational angle. The rotary element is rotatable over a rotational angle range of preferably a maximum of 360°, more preferably a maximum of 270°, and particularly preferably a maximum of 180°. The level measuring system can include an electronic encoder by means of which the rotational position of the rotary element can be determined. Using the electronic encoder, rotational positions of the rotary element can be determined, particularly unambiguously, over a rotational angle range of more than 360°.
[0027] In another preferred embodiment, the level measuring system according to the invention includes a level indicator for displaying the level of the liquid in the tank, wherein the level displayed by the level indicator depends on the rotational position of the rotary element. The level indicator can determine the rotational position of the rotary element. Based on the determined rotational position of the rotary element, the level indicator can display the level of the liquid in the tank. Because the level displayed by the level indicator depends on the rotational position of the rotary element, a specific rotational position of the rotary element can be assigned to a specific level.If the rotary element is rotatable over a rotational angular range of preferably a maximum of 360°, more preferably a maximum of 270°, and particularly preferably a maximum of 180°, the rotational positions of the rotary element can each be uniquely assigned to a specific fill level. Consequently, the assignment of the rotational position of the rotary element to the fill level is free of aliasing effects. The fill level measuring system can be designed such that the rotational position of the rotary element exhibits a linear or non-linear dependence on the fill level. The dependence of the rotational position of the rotary element on the fill level can be influenced by the pitch, or thread pitch, of the rotary element. A non-linear dependence of the rotational position of the rotary element on the fill level can result from a variable pitch of the rotary element across different regions.Alternatively or additionally, the level measurement system can have different spacing between the indicator markings in different areas. With a non-linear relationship between the rotational position of the rotary element and the fill level, a fixed change in the rotary element's position can correspond to different changes in the fill level at different levels. For example, at a low fill level, a fixed change in the fill level might result in a greater change in the rotary element's position than at a high fill level. This non-linear relationship between the rotary element's position and the fill level can compensate for tanks with a non-linear shape.
[0028] In a further preferred embodiment, the level measuring system according to the invention comprises a mounting unit, wherein the guide element is rigidly attached to the mounting unit and / or the rotary element is rotatably mounted in the mounting unit. The mounting unit can include a holder, wherein the guide element is rigidly attached to the holder and / or the rotary element is rotatably mounted in the holder. The holder can be arranged in the cover, for example, the tank lid of the tank. The holder can fill an opening, for example, a recess, in the tank and / or in the cover. The guide element is immovable, in particular translationally immovable, with respect to the mounting unit. The guide element can have an elongated shape. Consequently, the guide element is immovable in the longitudinal direction with respect to the mounting unit. Furthermore, the guide element is immovable in the transverse direction with respect to the mounting unit.The rotating element is immobile, in particular translationally immobile, with respect to the mounting unit. The rotating element may have an elongated shape. Consequently, the rotating element is immobile in the longitudinal direction with respect to the mounting unit. Furthermore, the rotating element is immobile in the transverse direction with respect to the mounting unit.
[0029] In a further embodiment of the level measuring system according to the invention, the displacement element is guided along the guide element, in particular along a guide direction of the guide element. The guide element is guided along a guide track. The guide track can be arranged on the inner wall of the tank, embedded in the inner wall of the tank, or be part of the inner wall of the tank. The guide direction of the guide element can be straight. Consequently, the guide track can also be straight. The guide direction is essentially perpendicular to the surface of the liquid in the tank. The guide direction is vertical. The tank can be elongated. The guide direction can correspond to the longitudinal direction or run parallel to the longitudinal direction.
[0030] In a further embodiment of the level measuring system according to the invention, the guide element is designed as a guide rod. Because the guide element is designed as a guide rod, it has a solid form. Because the guide element is designed as a guide rod, it exhibits comparatively high stability. Because the guide element is designed as a guide rod, it has a flat, round, rectangular, polygonal, and / or oval cross-section. Alternatively, the guide element can be designed as a guide rail. The guide element designed as a guide rail can, for example, be located on the inner wall of the tank. The guide element designed as a guide rail can be part of the inner wall of the tank. The guide element can also be designed as a guide band, particularly a flexible one.
[0031] In another embodiment of the level measuring system according to the invention, the rotating element has a section that is wound or twisted, particularly about a longitudinal axis of the rotating element. The wound or twisted section serves to convert a longitudinal movement into a rotary movement. The wound or twisted section of the rotating element can have a helical surface, in particular a helix surface. A helical surface represents a screw thread forming a curve in Euclidean space. The wound section of the rotating element can have a thread. The wound section of the rotating element preferably has a maximum of one turn, more preferably a maximum of three-quarters of a turn, and most preferably a half turn. Consequently, the wound section of the rotating element can preferably be wound by a maximum of 360°, more preferably a maximum of 270°, and most preferably a maximum of 180°.The twisted section can preferably be rotated by a maximum of 360°, more preferably by a maximum of 270°, and particularly preferably by a maximum of 180°. In particular, if the level measuring system has an electronic encoder by which the rotational positions of the rotary element can be determined within a rotational angular range of more than 360°, the helical section of the rotary element can have more than one turn. The rotary element can be partially or completely designed as a spindle. The rotary element can, for example, have a straight section and a first and second helical section. The straight section can be located between the first and second helical sections. The straight section is preferably located outside the level measuring range. During movement of the displacement element along the straight section, the rotational position of the rotary element is independent of the vertical position of the displacement element.During movement of the sliding element along the first or second coiled section, the rotational position of the rotating element depends on the vertical position of the sliding element. Consequently, a change in the fill level cannot be displayed by the level indicator while the sliding element is moving along the straight section. However, a change in the fill level can be displayed by the level indicator while the sliding element is moving along the first or second coiled section. If the rotating element has a first, second, and third straight section and a first and second coiled section, it can, for example, indicate when a specific fill level is reached or exceeded. Alternatively or additionally, the fill level, or a change in the fill level, can be displayed after a specific fill level has been reached or exceeded.
[0032] In another embodiment of the level measuring system according to the invention, the rotating element is designed as a rod twisted about its longitudinal axis, in particular as a twisted rod. The rod twisted about its longitudinal axis can be a flat bar twisted about its longitudinal axis. The rod twisted about its longitudinal axis can preferably be twisted by a maximum of 360°, more preferably by a maximum of 270°, and particularly preferably by a maximum of 180° about its longitudinal axis. Because the rotating element is designed as a rod twisted about its longitudinal axis, the rod can have a helical surface, in particular a reversible surface. The rod twisted about its longitudinal axis can be made from a cuboid, in particular having a first, second, third, and fourth longitudinal side surface, which is twisted about its longitudinal axis. The rod twisted about its longitudinal axis can thus be designed as a cuboid twisted about its longitudinal axis.Consequently, the first, second, third, and fourth longitudinal faces of the rod, designed as a cuboid twisted about its longitudinal axis, can each be a helical surface, in particular a reversible surface. The rod twisted about its longitudinal axis can alternatively be designed as a threaded rod. Alternatively, the rod can be spirally shaped. The rotating element can be designed as a torsion bar. Because the rotating element is designed as a guide bar twisted about its longitudinal axis, it has a solid form. Because the rotating element is designed as a bar twisted about its longitudinal axis, it has a flat, round, rectangular, polygonal, and / or oval cross-section.
[0033] In one embodiment, the level measuring system according to the invention has a rotating element magnet whose rotational position depends on the rotational position of the rotating element, wherein the level indicator has a display magnet whose rotational position depends on the rotational position of the rotating element magnet, and wherein the level indicator is configured to display the level based on the rotational position of the display magnet. The level indicator can have a display coil which generates an electrical signal proportional to a rotational movement of the rotating element magnet, and the level indicator displays the change in the level based on the electrical signal from the display coil. When the level indicator displays the change in the level, it can, for example, indicate if the level is changing too rapidly.A rapidly changing fill level occurs, for example, when too much liquid is withdrawn from the tank or the tank has a leak. Because the level measuring system incorporates a rotating magnet, information about the magnet's rotational position can be transmitted through the tank wall, the tank cover, and / or the valve body. The rotating magnet is preferably ferromagnetic. Alternatively, it can be paramagnetic or diamagnetic. The indicator magnet is preferably ferromagnetic. Alternatively, it can be paramagnetic or diamagnetic. The tank is non-magnetic. The sliding element is non-magnetic. The guide element is non-magnetic. The rotating element is preferably non-magnetic. The tank can be transparent, at least in certain areas, or may have transparent elements.For example, the tank wall, tank lid, and / or tank cover can be transparent, at least in part. Alternatively or additionally, the tank lid and / or tank cover can have an opening, such as a recess, which is filled and / or sealed by means of a transparent element, in particular in a pressure-tight manner. The transparent element can be designed as a viewing window. If the tank is transparent, at least in part, or has transparent elements, the rotational position of the rotating element can be determined optically, in particular by means of an optical sensor, and / or visually, i.e., by the naked eye or by an observer. If the tank is transparent, at least in part, or has transparent elements, the rotational position of the rotating element can be determined without the presence of a rotating element magnet and / or indicator magnet.
[0034] In another preferred embodiment of the level measuring system according to the invention, the rotating element magnet is arranged on the rotating element, in particular on an end section of the rotating element. The rotating element magnet can be arranged on an upper end section of the rotating element. The rotating element magnet can be arranged on a lower end section of the rotating element. The upper end section of the rotating element is located on the side of the rotating element facing the tank cover. The lower end section of the rotating element is located on the side of the rotating element facing away from the tank cover, i.e., on the side of the rotating element facing the tank bottom. Alternatively, the rotating element magnet can be an integral part of the rotating element, or the rotating element can be designed as a rotating element magnet in certain areas.
[0035] In one embodiment of the level measurement system according to the invention, the level indicator is designed mechanically or electrically, in particular as a sensor. The mechanically designed level indicator can display the level analogously, in particular an analog level value. The electrically designed level indicator can display the level digitally, in particular a digital level value.
[0036] In a further preferred embodiment of the level measuring system according to the invention, the guide element is enclosed, at least partially, by the sliding element. This partial enclosure of the guide element ensures reliable guidance of the sliding element by means of the guide element.
[0037] In a further embodiment of the level measuring system according to the invention, the sliding element has a guide opening adapted to the shape, in particular the cross-section, of the guide element or a portion thereof. By having a guide opening adapted to the shape, in particular the cross-section, of the guide element or a portion thereof, the sliding element ensures reliable guidance of the sliding element by means of the guide element. The guide opening has a negative shape into which the positive shape of the guide element can be inserted. The guide opening has a female shape into which the male shape of the guide element can be inserted.
[0038] In another preferred embodiment of the level measuring system according to the invention, the rotating element is enclosed, at least partially, by the sliding element. This partial enclosure of the rotating element ensures reliable rotation of the rotating element by means of the sliding element.
[0039] In a further embodiment of the level measuring system according to the invention, the sliding element has a rotary opening adapted to the shape, in particular the cross-section, of the rotating element or a portion thereof. The rotary opening serves to rotate, or drive, the rotating element. Because the sliding element has a rotary opening adapted to the shape, in particular the cross-section, of the rotating element or a portion thereof, reliable rotation of the rotating element by means of the sliding element is ensured. The rotary opening has a negative shape into which the positive shape of the rotating element can be inserted. The rotary opening has a female shape into which the male shape of the rotating element can be inserted.
[0040] In one embodiment of the level measuring system according to the invention, the guide element and the rotary element are arranged essentially parallel to each other. The guide element and the rotary element, in particular the long side of the guide element and the rotary element, are oriented essentially vertically. If the level measuring system has a single guide element, the rotary element, together with the guide element, can prevent the sliding element from rotating with the rotary element and / or the sliding element from rotating around the guide element.
[0041] In another embodiment, the level measuring system according to the invention comprises at least one stabilizing element which stabilizes the guide element, in particular transversely to its longitudinal direction or its guiding direction, and / or the rotary element, in particular transversely to its longitudinal direction. The at least one stabilizing element stabilizes the guide element transversely to its longitudinal direction or guiding direction against translational movement. The at least one stabilizing element stabilizes the rotary element transversely to its longitudinal direction against translational movement. In one embodiment, the level measuring system according to the invention comprises one or more stop elements by means of which the displacement range of the displacement element is limited, along which the displacement element can be displaced. The one or more stop elements can each be designed as a stop.The level measuring range is defined by the displacement range. The level measuring range can be proportional to the displacement range. Based on the positions of one or more stop elements in the longitudinal direction of the level measuring range, particularly the vertical positions of the one or more stop elements, the displacement range, and consequently the level measuring range, can be defined. The stop elements can be designed to be adjustable in the longitudinal direction of the level measuring system, particularly in the vertical direction, so that the displacement range is adjustable, especially depending on the application. The bottom of the tank can be designed as one or more stop elements. The displacement element contacts the bottom of the tank, which is designed as one or more stop elements, when the tank is empty or nearly empty.
[0042] In a further embodiment of the level measuring system according to the invention, the one or more stop elements are formed by the at least one stabilizing element. Because the one or more stop elements are formed by the at least one stabilizing element, each of the one or more stop elements has a dual function.
[0043] In one embodiment, the level measuring system according to the invention has at least one bearing, in particular a rolling bearing, by means of which the rotary element is rotatably mounted. The at least one bearing, in particular a rolling bearing, ensures reliable rotation of the rotary element by means of the sliding element. The rolling bearing can be designed as a ball bearing. The rolling bearing can be located in the assembly unit.
[0044] In another preferred embodiment of the level measuring system according to the invention, the sliding element has a sliding bearing for the guide element. The sliding element can also have a sliding bearing for the rotary element. The sliding bearing of the sliding element enables and / or improves the movement of the sliding element. The sliding bearing of the sliding element reduces, and in particular minimizes, the friction, especially sliding friction, between the sliding element and the guide element.
[0045] The problem underlying the invention is further solved by a liquid container according to the invention of the type mentioned above, wherein the level measuring system is designed according to one of the embodiments described above. With regard to the advantages and modifications of the liquid container according to the invention, reference is first made to the advantages and modifications of the level measuring system according to the invention.
[0046] Because the liquid container includes a level measurement system, the level of the liquid in the tank can be measured. The mounting unit of the level measurement system can be mounted on the tank wall, particularly the inner wall, or in the tank cover, which is designed as a tank lid. The mounting unit can, at least partially, fill an opening, such as a recess, in the tank and / or in the tank cover.
[0047] Furthermore, the problem underlying the invention is solved by a method according to the invention of the type mentioned above, wherein a rotary element of the level measuring system is rotated by the sliding element depending on the vertical position of the sliding element. A method according to the invention is particularly preferred in which the level of the liquid inside the tank is determined by means of a level measuring system according to one of the embodiments described above. With regard to the advantages and modifications of the method according to the invention, reference is first made to the advantages and modifications of the level measuring system according to the invention.
[0048] For example, liquid can be drawn from the tank for heating purposes. The liquid drawn from the tank can be used for heating by igniting it. The tank can be designed to allow for the controlled, and in particular, the controlled, withdrawal of liquid. The tank or the level-measuring system can include a valve, in particular an adjustable one. A desired quantity of the liquid in the tank, and / or a desired flow rate, can be withdrawn from the tank using the valve.
[0049] Preferred embodiments of the invention are explained and described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These show:
[0050] Fig. 1 shows a level measurement system according to the invention in a front view;
[0051] Fig. 2 shows a side view of the level measuring system shown in Fig. 1 as a sectional view;
[0052] Fig. 3 shows another level measuring system according to the invention in a front view;
[0053] Fig. 4 shows another level measuring system according to the invention in a side view as a sectional representation;
[0054] Fig. 5 shows a liquid container according to the invention in a front view;
[0055] Fig. 6 shows another liquid container according to the invention in a front view;
[0056] Fig. 7 shows another level measuring system according to the invention in a perspective view;
[0057] Fig. 8 shows another level measuring system according to the invention in a perspective view;
[0058] Fig. 9 shows another level measuring system according to the invention in a perspective view; Fig. 10 shows the sliding element of the level measuring system shown in Fig. 9 in a side view; and
[0059] Fig. 11 shows the level indicator of the level measuring system shown in Fig. 1 in a top view.
[0060] Fig. 1 shows a level measuring system 10, which includes a sliding element 12, a guide element 14, a rotary element 16, a level indicator 18 and a mounting unit 20.
[0061] The level measuring system 10 can be mounted in a tank, the tank being designed to contain a liquid or a liquefied gas. When the tank is oriented as intended, i.e., upright, the level measuring system 10 extends along the vertical direction V.
[0062] The sliding element 12 comprises a plastic material. The sliding element 12 has a cavity. When the sliding element 12 is located in a liquid or a liquefied gas, it experiences static buoyancy. The position of the center of buoyancy AP1, AP2 of the sliding element 12 depends on the type of liquid. When the sliding element 12 is located in liquefied propane, it has the first center of buoyancy AP1. When the sliding element 12 is located in liquid gasoline, it has the second center of buoyancy AP2. The first center of buoyancy AP1 is located vertically V above the second center of buoyancy AP2.
[0063] The guide element 14 comprises metal and is designed as a solid rod. Alternatively, the guide element 14 can be designed as a hollow rod. The guide element 14 designed as a solid rod has a round cross-section. The sliding element 12 is displaceable along the guide element 14 in, or against, the guide direction F. The guide direction F extends along the vertical direction V. The sliding element 12 is assigned a vertical position VP1, VP2. The vertical position VP1, VP2 changes when the sliding element 12 is displaced along the guide direction F or the vertical direction V. The vertical position VP1, VP2 describes the position of the center of buoyancy AP1, AP2 of the sliding element 12 relative to the vertical direction V. When the sliding element 12 is located in liquid gasoline, it has the first vertical position VP1.When the displacement element 12 is in a liquefied state, it has the second vertical position VP2. Consequently, the first vertical position VP1 is located above the second vertical position VP2 in the vertical direction V.
[0064] The rotating element 16 extends along the vertical direction V and is arranged essentially parallel to the guide element 14. Consequently, in the front view of the level measuring system 10 shown in Fig. 1, the rotating element 16 is concealed by the guide element 14.
[0065] The fill level indicator 18 allows the level of the liquid or liquefied gas in the tank to be determined based on the vertical position VP1, VP2 of the sliding element 12. Furthermore, the determined fill level can be displayed using the fill level indicator 18. The fill level indicator 18 comprises a movable pointer and a level scale for displaying the determined fill level. The fill level indicator 18 is mechanically operated.
[0066] The mounting unit 20 can be installed in an opening of a tank. The level indicator 18 is located on the outside, i.e., the top side (in the vertical direction V), of the mounting unit 20. The guide element 14 is attached to the mounting unit 20.
[0067] Fig. 2 shows the level measuring system 10 described in Fig. 1 in a side view as a sectional representation.
[0068] The rotating element 16 is designed as a flat bar wound around its longitudinal axis. When the sliding element 12 is moved along the vertical direction V, the rotating element 16 is rotated. The rotational position of the rotating element 16 therefore depends on the vertical position VP1, VP2 of the sliding element 12. If the level measuring system 10 is mounted in a tank, the sliding element 12 is moved to a specific vertical position VP1, VP2 based on the buoyancy of the sliding element 12, depending on the fill level of the liquid or liquefied gas in the tank.
[0069] A rotating magnet 22 is attached to the upper end section V of the rotating element 16 in the vertical direction. The rotational position of the rotating magnet 22 is therefore dependent on the rotational position of the rotating element 16. Thus, the rotational position of the rotating magnet 22 is specific to the respective fill level in the tank.
[0070] The level indicator 18 includes the indicator magnet 24. The indicator magnet 24 is connected to the movable pointer of the level indicator 18 and is rotatably mounted. The rotating element magnet 22 and the indicator magnet 24 are arranged such that they attract each other based on their magnetic fields. Consequently, a rotational movement of the rotating element magnet 22 causes a rotational movement of the indicator magnet 24. Thus, the rotational position of the indicator magnet 24 and the rotational position of the movable pointer of the level indicator 18 depend on the rotational position of the rotating element magnet 24.The rotational position of the movable pointer is therefore also dependent on the rotational position of the rotating element 16 and the vertical position VP1, VP2 of the sliding element 12, and thus the movable pointer can indicate the fill level of the liquid or liquefied gas in the tank on the level scale.
[0071] The sliding element 12 has the guide opening 26. The horizontal position of the guide opening 26 corresponds to the horizontal position of the center of mass of the sliding element 12. Consequently, the guide opening 26 passes through the center of mass of the sliding element 12. The guide opening 26 is adapted to the shape of the guide element 14. The guide element 14 is partially inserted into the guide opening 26 such that the guide opening 26 is completely filled. The guide opening 26 thus encloses a portion of the guide element 14. When the sliding element 12 is moved in the vertical direction V, or guide direction F, the portion of the guide element 14 that is located in, or enclosed by, the guide opening 26 changes. The guide element 14 can be welded and / or bonded to the mounting unit 20.Alternatively, the guide element 14 can be firmly fitted into the mounting unit 20 and / or mechanically fastened to the mounting unit 20. Thus, the guide element 14 is materially bonded to the mounting unit 20. Consequently, the guide element 14 is arranged on the mounting unit 20 in a rotationally and torsionally rigid manner.
[0072] The sliding element 12 has the rotary opening 28. The rotary opening 28 is adapted to the shape of the rotary element 16. The rotary element 16 is inserted into the rotary opening 28 in such a way that the rotary opening 28 is completely filled. The rotary opening 28 thus encloses a portion of the rotary element 16. When the sliding element 12 is moved in the vertical direction V, or guide direction F, the portion of the rotary element 16 that is located in the rotary opening 28, or that the rotary opening 28 encloses, changes. Because the rotary element 16 is designed as a flat bar wound around its longitudinal axis, the rotary element 16 is rotated when the sliding element 12 is moved. Consequently, the rotational position of the rotary element 16 changes.
[0073] The stabilizing element 30 is arranged at the lower vertically V region of the guide element 14. The stabilizing element 30 has a first opening that is positively filled by the guide element 14. Consequently, the stabilizing element 30 is rigidly connected to the guide element 14. The stabilizing element 30 has a second opening that is filled by a lower vertically V region of the rotary element 16. The second opening is shaped such that the rotary element 16 can rotate within it. The stabilizing element 30 stabilizes the guide element 14 and the rotary element 16 against translational movement. The stabilizing element 30 can be made of metal or be metal-free.
[0074] Because the stabilizing element 30 is arranged at the lower region of the guide element 14, or rotary element 16, it prevents the sliding element 12 from detaching from the guide element 14, or rotary element 16, in the vertical direction V. Furthermore, the stabilizing element 30 prevents the sliding element 12 from moving into a region below it. Consequently, the stabilizing element 30 is designed as a stop element 32, which defines the downward movement range of the sliding element 12. Since the lower region of the sliding element 12 can be brought into contact with the stabilizing element 30, which acts as a stop element 32, the stabilizing element 30 also provides a stop.
[0075] Fig. 3 also shows a level measuring system 10. The sliding element 12 is arranged to be displaceable along the guide element 14. The sliding element 12 has a guide opening 26 adapted to the shape, or rather the cross-section, of the guide element 14.
[0076] The rotating element 16 is concealed by the guide element in the front view of the level measuring system 10 shown in Fig. 3.
[0077] The guide element 14 and the rotary element 16 are stabilized against translational movement relative to each other by means of the stabilizing element 30.
[0078] The first stop element 32a is located in the lower region of the guide element 14 and thus defines the lower limit of the displacement range of the displacement element 12. The underside of the mounting unit 20 is designed as the second stop element 32b and thus defines the upper limit of the displacement range of the displacement element 12. Consequently, the first and second stop elements 32a, 32b together define the displacement range of the displacement element 12.
[0079] Fig. 4 shows another level measuring system 10. The level measuring system 10 comprises a first and second guide element 14a, 14b. The sliding element 12 is guided along the first and second guide elements 14a, 14b. The sliding element 12 comprises plastic.
[0080] The sliding element 12 has a first and second guide opening 26a, 26b. The first guide opening 26a is adapted to the shape of the first guide element 14a. The second guide opening 26b is adapted to the shape of the second guide element 14b. The first guide opening 26a encloses a portion of the first guide element 14a. The second guide opening 26b encloses a portion of the second guide element 14b. The first and second guide elements 14a, 14b each comprise metal. Alternatively or additionally, the first and second guide elements 14a, 14b can each comprise plastic.
[0081] The sliding element 12 has the rotary opening 28, which is adapted to the shape of the rotary element 16. The rotary element 16 has a helical surface. Consequently, the rotary opening 28 has a negative shape adapted to the helical surface of the rotary element.
[0082] The stabilizing element 30, located in the lower part of the level measuring system 10, stabilizes the first and second guide elements 14a, 14b and the rotary element 16 against translational movement relative to the mounting unit 20. The stabilizing element 30 is thus designed as a stop element 32 and therefore limits the displacement range of the displacement element 12.
[0083] In the upper part of the level measuring system 10, the bearing 34, designed as a ball bearing, is arranged. The rotary element 16 is rotatably mounted by means of the bearing 34. The sliding element 12 has the first and second sliding bearings 36a, 36b. The first sliding bearing 36a is located within the first guide opening 26a. The second sliding bearing 36b is located within the second guide opening 26b. The first sliding bearing 36a minimizes the sliding friction between the sliding element and the first guide element 14a. The second sliding bearing 36b minimizes the sliding friction between the sliding element and the second guide element 14b. Because the sliding element 12 has the first and second sliding bearings 36a, 36b, reliable guidance of the sliding element 12 along the first and second guide elements 26a, 26b is ensured.
[0084] Fig. 5 shows a liquid container 200, which includes a tank 100 and a level measuring system 10.
[0085] Tank 100 is designed to contain liquefied gas. Tank 100 is made of metal. Tank 100 is designed to withstand the pressure prevailing within it. Consequently, tank 100 has a wall thickness appropriate to its application. Tank 100 has an elongated cylindrical shape. Tank 100 is arranged upright. Consequently, the elongated cylindrical shape of tank 100 extends along the vertical direction V. Tank 100 contains the liquid F. The liquid F is liquefied propane. The fill level FS of the liquefied propane in tank 100 can be changed, for example, by withdrawing propane from or adding propane to the tank.
[0086] The mounting unit 20 of the level measuring system 10 essentially fills a tank opening 102 in the upper tank cover of the tank 100. The underside of the mounting unit 20 is surrounded by the seal 38 of the level measuring system 10, so that the mounting unit 20, together with the seal 38, seals the tank opening 102 airtight.
[0087] The sliding element 12 has a center of buoyancy AP specific to the liquefied propane. The center of buoyancy AP represents a nearly constant coordinate relative to the sliding element 12, i.e., in the reference frame of the sliding element 12. However, the center of buoyancy AP represents a variable coordinate, at least in the vertical direction V, relative to the tank 100, i.e., in the reference frame of the tank 100, particularly when the fill level FS changes. Consequently, when the fill level FS changes, the center of buoyancy AP shifts in the vertical direction V relative to the tank 100. Because the center of buoyancy AP represents a constant coordinate relative to the sliding element 12, a change in the fill level FS also causes the sliding element 12 to shift in the vertical direction V relative to the tank 100.Moving the sliding element 12 in the vertical direction V results in a change in the rotational position of the rotating element 16 and thus in a change in the fill level indicated by the level indicator 18. A change in temperature can alter the density of the liquid. Consequently, a change in temperature can shift the center of buoyancy AP.
[0088] Fig. 6 shows a liquid container 200 analogous to the one described in Fig. 5.
[0089] The liquid F in tank 100 is liquefied butane. Liquefied butane has a higher density than liquefied propane. In the reference frame of the sliding element 12, the center of buoyancy AP specific to liquefied butane has a lower value in the vertical direction V than the center of buoyancy AP specific to liquefied propane. Therefore, the sliding element 12 experiences a higher static buoyancy than the sliding element 12 shown in Fig. 5. Consequently, in the reference frame of the sliding element 12, the center of buoyancy AP has a lower value in the vertical direction V than the center of buoyancy AP shown in Fig. 5. Thus, the area of the sliding element 12 located outside the liquid F is larger than the area of the sliding element 12 shown in Fig. 5 located outside the liquid F.
[0090] Fig. 7 shows a level measuring system 10 analogous to the level measuring system shown in Fig. 1, comprising the sliding element 12, the guide element 14, and the rotary element 16. In addition, the level measuring system 10 includes the mounting unit 20 and the level indicator 18 arranged on the mounting unit 20. The stabilizing element 30 has a first and a second opening. The first opening accommodates the guide element 14, at least partially. A rolling bearing is located in the second opening. The rolling bearing of the second opening accommodates the rotary element 16, at least partially. By means of the rolling bearing, the friction of the rotary element 16 is reduced compared to the case where the second opening of the stabilizing element does not have a rolling bearing. Furthermore, the stability of the rotating element 16 is increased by means of the rolling bearing compared to the case where the stabilizing element 30 does not have a rolling bearing.Furthermore, the stabilizing element 30 is designed as a stop element 32, which defines the downward displacement range of the displacement element 12.
[0091] Fig. 8 shows the level measuring system 10, which is arranged on the valve body 104 of the tank 100. The valve body 104 comprises the valve by means of which the gas flow of the tank 100 can be adjusted. The valve body can comprise several valves and thus be designed as a multi-valve. Alternatively or additionally, the level indicator 18 can be arranged on the valve body 104. The level measuring system 10 is designed analogously to the level measuring system shown in Fig. 1 and comprises the sliding element 12, the guide element 14, and the rotary element 16. The sliding element 12 receives the guide element 14 by means of the guide opening 26 and the rotary element 16 by means of the rotary opening 28. The stabilizing element 30, which is designed as a stop element 32, is arranged at the lower end of the guide element 14.
[0092] Fig. 9 shows a level measuring system 10 analogous to the level measuring system shown in Fig. 1, comprising the sliding element 12, the first and second guide elements 14a, 14b, the rotary element 16, the level indicator 18, and the mounting unit 20. Furthermore, the stabilizing element 30, designed as the first stop element 32a, is arranged at the lower ends of the first and second guide elements 14a, 14b and the rotary element 16. The underside of the mounting unit 20 represents the second stop element 32b. A guide device 40 is arranged on the sliding element 12, which has a first and second guide roller 42a, 42b. When the sliding element 12 is moved vertically, the first and second guide rollers 42a, 42b roll along the surface of the rotary element 16. Consequently, the sliding element 12 is guided along the rotary element 16 by means of the guide device 40.
[0093] Fig. 10 shows the sliding element 12 described in Fig. 9, which is guided along the rotary element 16 by means of the guide device 40. The first and second guide rollers 42a, 42b are rotatably mounted. The first and second guide rollers 42a, 42b have a surface roughness such that slip-resistant rolling of the first and second guide rollers 42a, 42b along the rotary element 16 is ensured.
[0094] Fig. 11 shows the level indicator 18 described in Fig. 1. The level indicator 18 comprises the level scale 44, the indicator disc 46, and the viewing area 48. The level scale 44 displays values from 0 to 40% for the fill level volume. The indicator disc 46 is rotatably mounted and has a surface area with a colored marking. Depending on the fill level volume, i.e., based on the rotation of the rotating element 16, the indicator disc 46 is rotated such that the current fill level volume can be read from the colored surface area of the indicator disc 46 visible in the viewing area 48. In Fig. 11, the level indicator 18 shows a fill level volume of 10%.
[0095] 10 Level measuring system
[0096] 12 sliding element
[0097] 14, 14a, 14b Guide elements
[0098] 16 rotating elements
[0099] 18 Level indicator
[0100] 20 assembly units
[0101] 22 Rotary element magnet
[0102] 24 Display magnet
[0103] 26, 26a, 26b Guide openings
[0104] 28 Rotary opening
[0105] 30 stabilizing element
[0106] 32, 32a, 32b Stop elements
[0107] 34 warehouses
[0108] 36a, 36b Plain bearings
[0109] 38 Sealing
[0110] 40 Guide device
[0111] 42a, 42b Leadership roles
[0112] 44 level scale
[0113] 46 Display disc
[0114] 48 field of view
[0115] 100 Tank
[0116] 102 Tank opening
[0117] 104 Valve bodies
[0118] liquid container
[0119] V Vertical direction
[0120] VP1, VP2 Vertical positions
[0121] F Guidance direction
[0122] AP, AP1, AP2 Centers of Lift
[0123] Longitudinal axis F Liquid
[0124] FS fill level
[0125] VB shift range
Claims
- 29 - Claims 1. Level measuring system (10) for measuring the level (FS) of a liquid (F) located inside a tank (100), in particular a liquefied gas located inside a gas tank, comprising: a sliding element (12) whose vertical position depends on the fill level (FS) of the liquid (F) located in the tank (100); and a guide element (14, 14a, 14b) for guiding the sliding element (12), characterized by a rotating element (16) whose rotational position depends on the vertical position of the sliding element (12).
2. Level measuring system (10) according to claim 1, characterized by a level indicator (18) for displaying the level (FS) of the liquid (F) in the tank (100), wherein the level (FS) displayed by the level indicator (18) depends on the rotational position of the rotary element (16).
3. Level measuring system (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by an assembly unit (20), wherein the guide element (14, 14a, 14b) is rigidly attached to the assembly unit (20) and / or the rotary element (16) is rotatably mounted in the assembly unit (20).
4. Level measuring system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the displacement element (12) can be guided along the guide element (14, 14a, 14b), in particular along a guide direction of the guide element (14, 14a, 14b).
5. Level measuring system (10) according to one of the preceding claims,- 30 - characterized in that the guide element (14, 14a, 14b) is designed as a guide rod.
6. Level measuring system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rotating element (16) has a section that is wound or twisted, in particular about a longitudinal axis of the rotating element (16).
7. Level measuring system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rotating element (16) is designed as a rod twisted about its longitudinal axis, in particular as a twisted rod.
8. Level measuring system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a rotating element magnet (22) whose rotational position depends on the rotational position of the rotating element (16), wherein the level indicator (18) has a display magnet (24) whose rotational position depends on the rotational position of the rotary element magnet (22), wherein the level indicator (18) is configured to display the level (FS) on the basis of the rotational position of the display magnet (24).
9. Level measuring system (10) according to claim 8, characterized in that the rotating element magnet (22) is arranged on the rotating element (16), in particular on an end section of the rotating element (16).
10. Level measuring system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the level indicator (18) is designed mechanically or electrically, in particular as a sensor.
11. Level measuring system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the guide element (14, 14a, 14b) is enclosed, at least partially, by the displacement element (12).
12. Level measuring system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the displacement element (12) has a guide opening (26, 26a, 26b) adapted to the shape, in particular the cross-section, of the guide element (14, 14a, 14b) or a part of the guide element (14, 14a, 14b).
13. Level measuring system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rotating element (16) is enclosed, at least partially, by the sliding element (12).
14. Level measuring system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sliding element (12) has a rotary opening (28) adapted to the shape, in particular the cross-section, of the rotary element (16) or a partial area of the rotary element (16).
15. Level measuring system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the guide element (14, 14a, 14b) and rotary element (16) are arranged substantially parallel to each other.
16. Level measuring system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one stabilizing element (30) which Guide element (14, 14a, 14b), in particular transverse to its longitudinal direction or its guide direction; and / or rotation element (16), in particular transverse to its longitudinal direction, stabilized.
17. Level measuring system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by one or more stop elements (32, 32a, 32b) by means of which the displacement range of the displacement element (12) is limited, along which the displacement element (12) is displaceable.
18. Level measuring system (10) according to claims 16 and 17, characterized in that the one or more stop elements (32, 32a, 32b) are formed by the at least one stabilizing element (30).
19. Level measuring system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one bearing (34), in particular a rolling bearing, by means of which the rotary element (16) is rotatably mounted.
20. Level measuring system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the displacement element (12) has a sliding bearing (36a, 36b) for the guide element (14, 14a, 14b).
21. Liquid container (200) for containing liquid (F), in particular a liquefied gas, comprising a tank (100), in particular a gas tank; and a level measurement system (10), characterized in that the level measuring system (10) is designed according to one of the preceding claims.
22. Method for determining the fill level (FS) of a liquid (F) located within a tank (100), in particular a liquefied gas located within a gas tank, by means of a level measuring system (10), in particular by means of a level measuring system (10) according to one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the vertical position of a displacement element (12) of the level measuring system (10) depends on the fill level (FS) of the liquid (F) located in the tank (100) and the displacement element (12) is guided by a guide element (14, 14a, 14b), characterized in that a rotary element (16) of the level measuring system (10) is rotated by the displacement element (12) depending on the vertical position of the displacement element (12).