Fluid Detection Probes for Tank Motion Compensation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for measuring fluids in tanks lack accuracy and sensitivity, particularly in dynamic conditions, and fail to effectively detect leaks and emissions, especially on floating vessels where motion introduces challenges.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing probes with pressure transducers and temperature sensors connected to a processor for continuous measurement, adaptive synchronization, and network communication to calculate fluid parameters, detect unauthorized movement, and generate alarms, while accommodating tank motion and environmental factors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional measurement systems are used in tanks, then the system structure is simple, but measurement precision and leak detection sensitivity are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system is divided into multiple independent probes, each equipped with its own set of sensors (pressure transducers, temperature sensors, acceleration sensors). Each probe independently measures local parameters and communicates with a central controller, enabling distributed measurement that improves precision while keeping individual probe structures simple
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple sensor types (pressure transducers, temperature sensors, acceleration sensors) are integrated into a single probe assembly. This merging of different sensing functions into one unified device reduces the overall number of separate components needed in the system while enhancing measurement capabilities
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fixed measurement systems are deployed, then the system is stable, but it cannot accommodate tank motion from pitch, heave and yaw effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system transitions from a fixed reference frame to a dynamic one by incorporating acceleration sensors that continuously track tank motion. The system adapts to changing orientations and positions by using real-time motion data to compensate for pitch, heave, and yaw effects on measurements
Solution Approach 2:
Acceleration sensors provide continuous feedback about tank motion to the control system. This feedback loop enables the system to dynamically adjust measurements and maintain reliability despite motion-induced variations in tank position and orientation
3Reliability
If continuous monitoring is implemented, then leak detection sensitivity improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous monitoring of fluid parameters through permanently installed probes that continuously measure pressure, temperature, and acceleration. This uninterrupted measurement capability enables immediate detection of leaks while the system is operational, maintaining high reliability without requiring periodic manual checks
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
The system provides enhanced accuracy and consistency in fluid measurement, detects leaks and emissions effectively, and prevents hazardous conditions by continuously monitoring tank parameters, reducing environmental impact and ensuring worker safety.
Implementation Method 1
The probe can have at least one of: a plurality of pressure transducers and a plurality of temperature sensors measuring fluid in the tank
Implementation Method 2
The probe can have at least one of: a plurality of pressure transducers and a plurality of temperature sensors measuring fluid in the tank
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for continuous measurement of multiple fluids in multiple tanks and computation of physical properties for each of the multiple fluids continuously, which uses a plurality of probes, at least one client device, a master control processor, and a master control data storage. The system and method can use computer instructions for receiving data from the plurality of probes, receiving data from other detection devices associated with the fluid in each tank, mapping received data to a relational database, and comparing mapped data to stored values associated with prioritized alarm functions. The system and method can also use computer instructions for generating alarms to both a display connected with the master control processor and to at least one client device using a network, generating reports associated with each generated alarm, generating an alarm log, and generating a history of actions taken by a user.