Integrated Tank Probe for Synchronized Fluid Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing monitoring systems for fluids in tanks lack sensitivity and accuracy, leading to inconsistent and unreliable measurements, which can result in environmental contamination, equipment damage, and safety hazards due to inadequate detection of extreme pressures, temperatures, and hazardous emissions.
Innovation Solution
A land-based probe with synchronized temperature sensors and pressure transducers that provide continuous, simultaneous measurements, using a processor to compare data against preset limits, and communicate wirelessly or via a network for real-time monitoring and alerts, eliminating the need for manual gauging and reducing uncertainties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional monitoring systems are used for fluids in tanks, then the system structure is simple, but the measurement accuracy and sensitivity are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensing elements (pressure transducers, temperature sensors) into a single integrated probe assembly. This merging approach enables simultaneous multi-parameter measurements at different depths within the tank, improving measurement accuracy and consistency while avoiding the need for multiple separate monitoring systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe is divided into multiple sensing sections with pressure transducers and temperature sensors positioned at different depths along the probe length. This segmentation allows for localized measurements at specific positions, enabling more precise detection of fluid conditions throughout the tank volume.
2Reliability
If manual gauging methods are used, then the equipment cost is low, but the measurement consistency and reliability are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical gauging operations with an automated electronic probe system that uses pressure transducers and temperature sensors. This substitution eliminates human error and subjectivity in measurements, providing consistent, reliable, and objective data collection while enabling continuous monitoring without manual intervention.
3Measurement precision
If synchronized sensing devices are implemented, then the measurement accuracy increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe enables continuous simultaneous measurements of pressure and temperature at multiple depths through synchronized sensing devices. This continuous multi-point monitoring provides comprehensive fluid characterization and improves measurement accuracy by capturing spatial and temporal variations in fluid conditions throughout the tank.
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 solution enhances measurement accuracy and consistency, enabling timely remediation to prevent environmental contamination and equipment damage by providing immediate alerts for hazardous conditions, thus ensuring safer and more reliable fluid management.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of pressure transducers (22) for continuous pressure measurement through direct contact with the fluid (2) in the tank (8)
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of temperature sensors (30) for continuous temperature measurement of the fluid (2) in the tank (8)
Data Source
AI summary
A probe with no moving parts for use in a tank having pressure transducers, temperature sensors, a probe processor electrically connected to the pressure transducers and the temperature sensors, and a probe data storage. The probe controls the temperature sensors and the pressure transducers to produce bidirectional signals and calculate at least one physical property, and perform adaptive measurement for synchronized measurement of the fluid in static operation, non-synchronized measurement of the fluid in static operation, non-synchronized measurement of the fluid in dynamic operation, synchronized measurement of the fluid in dynamic operation, and combinations thereof. The probe data storage contains computer instructions to instruct the probe processor to identify temperature sensors and pressure transducers not covered by the fluid, measure movement of the fluid in the tank, calibrate pressure transducers of the tank, and communicate with a client device via a network using bidirectional signals.