Hose End Valve Position Sensing for Secure Fuel Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fuel delivery systems lack effective security measures to prevent tampering and unauthorized access, particularly in remote locations, and there is a need for improved monitoring of valve operations.
Innovation Solution
A fuel delivery system incorporating a hose end valve with an integrated electronic sensor assembly to detect the position of a seal body relative to a main seal, automatically generating and storing data records of valve actuations, and optionally transmitting this data to a remote computing device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional security systems (cameras or additional personnel) are used to monitor storage tanks, then security against tampering and theft is improved, but system complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The hose end valve is designed to perform multiple functions: its primary function of controlling fuel flow is maintained, while simultaneously serving as a monitoring device through the integrated sensor assembly that detects valve position and generates security alerts. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate security systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly monitors its own operation through the integrated sensor that detects when the valve is opened or closed. The system automatically generates notifications to authorized devices, enabling self-monitoring without requiring external security personnel or complex camera systems.
2Loss of information
If an electronic sensor assembly is integrated with the hose end valve to detect valve position, then real-time monitoring capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor assembly is physically and functionally integrated with the hose end valve housing. The sensor, magnet, and notification components are combined into a single unit that attaches to or becomes part of the valve assembly, allowing the valve itself to serve as the monitoring device rather than requiring separate monitoring equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical valve operation is detected by an electronic sensor using magnetic field interaction rather than complex mechanical linkages. A magnet attached to the valve stem interacts with a Hall effect sensor or similar electronic sensor to detect valve position, replacing what would otherwise require complex mechanical position-sensing mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A fuel delivery system and method for controlling a fuel delivery system includes a fuel control device including a valve and an electronic sensor assembly integrated to the fuel control device and is arranged to detect an operational positioning of the valve, to generate a record of the real-time activation of the valve, and to compare records of real-time activation against a schedule of fuel deliveries to detect unauthorized fuel access.