Dynamic Pressure Probe Level Measurement in Single Conduit

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing level measurement devices for containers are complicated to attach and do not allow continuous level measurement during filling and emptying via a single conduit.

Innovation Solution

A dynamic pressure probe, configured like a pitot tube, is arranged in the conduit at right angles to the flow direction, connected to a pressure sensor, enabling continuous level measurement by measuring pressure changes during filling and emptying, with a resilient element and signal transmitter for reliable signal generation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a conventional level measurement device is attached to the container, then level measurement is possible, but the attachment becomes complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelevel measurement capabilityVSAvoidattachment complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The level measurement function is merged with the existing single conduit system. The dynamic pressure probe is integrated into the conduit that already serves for filling and emptying, eliminating the need for separate attachment structures. The probe utilizes the flow dynamics within the existing conduit to generate level-dependent pressure signals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single conduit is given multiple functions: it serves both for filling/emptying operations and for level measurement. The dynamic pressure probe enables the conduit to simultaneously perform fluid transport and level sensing, making the system more versatile and reducing overall complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If level measurement is implemented via pressure on the liquid tank, then continuous level measurement during filling and emptying is possible, but the device configuration becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontinuous level measurement capabilityVSAvoiddevice configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The dynamic pressure probe utilizes the natural flow dynamics within the conduit system itself to generate the measurement signal. The stagnation point formation during emptying and flow separation during filling are self-generated phenomena that the probe exploits, eliminating the need for external measurement infrastructure or complex device configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The measurement principle is based on hydraulic/pneumatic pressure measurement using a dynamic pressure probe. The probe measures pressure variations caused by fluid flow dynamics, converting mechanical pressure into a level measurement signal through the pressure sensor.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #29Pneumatics and hydraulics

3Measurement precision

If a dynamic pressure probe is arranged in the conduit at right angles to flow direction, then level measurement is enabled via stagnation point and flow separation, but the probe arrangement becomes sensitive to flow conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelevel determination accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement reliability under varying flow conditions
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The measurement system is designed to dynamically adapt to different flow conditions. During emptying, the probe detects the stagnation point; during filling, it detects flow separation. The system naturally transitions between measurement modes based on flow direction and velocity, maintaining reliability across varying operational conditions through its dynamic response characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables continuous and accurate level determination in containers during filling and emptying, unaffected by filling or emptying speeds, using a simple and economical configuration suitable for various fluid tanks.

Implementation Method 1

a dynamic pressure probe, which, in particular, is configured in the manner of a pitot tube, is arranged in the conduit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPitot tube principle: Pitot Tube

Implementation Method 2

as the container is emptied, a stagnation point is produced in front of the dynamic pressure probe, so that the measured pressure corresponds to the current level of the container

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectStagnation point:

Implementation Method 3

As the container is filled, separation of the flow occurs behind the dynamic pressure probe, so that the measured pressure likewise corresponds to the current level of the container

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFlow separation: Flow Separation

Implementation Method 4

The dynamic pressure probe is connected to a pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in the dynamic pressure probe

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure sensing:

Implementation Method 5

a resilient element for resetting the diaphragm can be provided

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 6

a resilient element for resetting the diaphragm can be provided. In order to generate the pressure signal, a signal transmitter can be operatively connected to the diaphragm and/or the resilient element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring force: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS10132670B2Arrangement for level measurement
Publication Date: 2018.11.20 MARQUARDT GMBH
  • US10132670B2 patent drawing
  • US10132670B2 patent drawing
  • US10132670B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a measuring device for measuring a level of a fluid in a container for holding a fluid, specifically a level sensor. The container is provided with a conduit for at least one of the supply and the removal of the fluid. A dynamic pressure probe, such as a pitot tube, is arranged in the conduit. The dynamic pressure probe is connected to a pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in the dynamic pressure probe. The fluid level in the container can be determined by using the measured pressure.