Guided Microwave Level Measurement with Multi-Principle Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current level measurement technologies, such as those using FMCW or impulse transit time methods, face challenges in accurately measuring fill levels and properties of emulsions within containers, particularly in distinguishing between different media properties and determining mixing ratios effectively.
Innovation Solution
A measuring device with a first wave guiding device and a measuring device that uses electromagnetic waves to divide a container into spatial areas, allowing for separate measurements in each area, and a control device to process these measurements and determine common values, enabling the evaluation of fill levels and media properties by combining different measurement principles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single measurement method is used to determine fill level, then the device structure is simple, but the measurement precision and ability to distinguish different media properties is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement methods (guided microwave method and at least one other method such as capacitance, impedance, or radar) into a single measuring device. The evaluating device integrates results from both measurement methods to determine fill level and media properties, thereby improving measurement precision while maintaining a unified device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The measuring device is designed to perform multiple measurement functions simultaneously - it can determine fill level, detect media properties (such as dielectric constant, conductivity), and distinguish between different media (emulsion, pure liquid, gas). This multi-functionality is achieved through the wave guiding device that can support multiple measurement principles.
2Measurement precision
If multiple measurement methods are combined to determine media properties, then the measurement precision improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple measurement methods within a single wave guiding device structure. The guided microwave method and the additional measurement method share common components such as the wave guide, coupling devices, and evaluating electronics, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining enhanced measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The wave guiding device structure serves multiple measurement functions simultaneously. The same physical infrastructure (wave guide, coupling devices) supports both the guided microwave measurements and the additional measurement method, making the device self-sufficient and reducing the need for separate independent measurement systems.
3Volume of moving object
If the wave guiding device and measuring device are placed close together, then the device structure is compact, but the electromagnetic wave propagation is interfered with
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces coupling devices as intermediary elements between the wave guiding device and the measuring device. These coupling devices (such as capacitive or inductive couplings) enable electromagnetic energy transfer while maintaining physical separation, thus preventing direct interference between the wave guide and measuring device while keeping the overall structure compact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different spatial arrangements to different parts of the device. The wave guiding device and measuring device are positioned at specific distances from each other at critical locations to ensure proper electromagnetic wave propagation, while other parts of the device maintain compact positioning. This localized optimization of spacing ensures both compactness and reliable measurement.
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
This solution allows for precise determination of fill levels and media properties, including mixing ratios and overlay medium characteristics, by using guided electromagnetic waves and processing signals from multiple measurement principles, enhancing measurement accuracy and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
The first wave guide device (531) is set up for guiding a first electromagnetic wave (511) into the first spatial region (531)
Implementation Method 2
A sensor then records the echo signals reflected by the filling material, the vessel installations and the vessel itself
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
The invention relates to a measurement that takes place in various regions (531, 731, 532, 732) of a container, using a waveguide device (531, 505, 605, 731) and a measuring device (532, 632, 732).