Self-Learning Level Gauge for Automatic Media Parameter Determination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing level measurement technologies face challenges in accurately determining media and container properties, especially when dealing with chemical gases and gas mixtures, due to variations in electromagnetic wave propagation properties, leading to inaccuracies and the need for manual input of parameters.
Innovation Solution
A level measuring device equipped with an echo curve detection, echo identification, and speed determination system, along with a self-learning capability to automatically calculate parameters such as dome shaft length, container height, permeability, and permittivity of filling materials using echo speed values, and a method to classify multiple and ground echoes to determine characteristic values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electromagnetic waves are used to measure filling levels in chemical gases and gas mixtures, then the measurement can be performed remotely without contact, but the propagation properties of electromagnetic waves are changed by the overlay medium leading to measurement inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback by continuously monitoring the speed of electromagnetic waves propagating through the overlay medium and automatically adjusting the velocity parameter. The self-learning device compares measured wave speeds with expected values and dynamically corrects the velocity parameter to compensate for changes in the overlay medium's properties, thereby maintaining measurement accuracy despite variations in chemical gases or gas mixtures.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies parameter changes by automatically adapting the velocity parameter of electromagnetic waves based on the actual conditions of the overlay medium. Instead of using a fixed velocity value, the system adjusts this parameter in real-time according to the measured propagation characteristics, compensating for changes in density, composition, or temperature of the chemical gases or gas mixtures.
2Ease of operation
If manual input of container parameters is required, then the system can operate with simple hardware, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service through the self-learning device that automatically determines container parameters such as dome shaft length, container height, and media properties by analyzing the echo curves and wave propagation characteristics. The device performs self-calibration and self-adjustment without requiring manual intervention, eliminating the need for operators to manually input or correct parameters, thereby significantly reducing operation time and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies preliminary action by having the self-learning device automatically perform all necessary parameter determinations and system calibrations before actual measurements begin. The device pre-determines container geometry parameters, media properties, and wave velocity characteristics during an initial learning phase, so that during normal operation, these parameters are already optimized and ready for accurate measurements without requiring manual setup.
3Measurement precision
If the velocity parameter of electromagnetic waves is not dynamically adjusted, then the system is simpler to implement, but measurement inaccuracies occur due to changes in overlay medium properties
Solution Approach 1:
The self-learning device serves multiple functions: it determines container geometry parameters (dome shaft length, container height), identifies media properties (permittivity, permeability), calculates wave velocity, and dynamically adjusts the velocity parameter for accurate measurements. By consolidating these diverse functions into a single multi-functional device, the system achieves high measurement precision without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces manual mechanical adjustment of parameters with an automated electronic self-learning system. Instead of requiring physical intervention to adjust velocity parameters or input container dimensions, the system uses electronic signal processing and automated algorithms to determine and adjust parameters dynamically, reducing mechanical complexity while improving measurement precision through continuous adaptation.
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 provides a robust and automated method for determining media and container properties, reducing inaccuracies and enabling automatic parameter determination, especially in interface measurements, without requiring prior knowledge of container heights or permeability values.
Implementation Method 1
In the case of devices that use radar waves to measure the surface of the filling material, both free propagation in the direction of the medium to be measured and propagation inside a waveguide, which guides the radar waves from the level measuring device to the medium, can be considered.
Implementation Method 2
When using acoustic or optical waves, the signal generated by the level measuring device generally propagates freely in the direction of the filling material surface to be measured.
Implementation Method 3
A part of the incoming signals is reflected on the surface of the medium or filling material to be measured and returns to the level measuring device after an appropriate running time.
Implementation Method 4
The level measuring device receives the signals reflected at various points and uses known methods to determine the distance to the filling material.
Data Source
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AI summary
The level gauge (701) has echo curve detection unit for detecting echo curve of empty container. An echo identification unit (7021) is provided for identification of echoes in echo curve. A speed detecting unit (7023) is provided for determination of speed values of echoes. A determination unit (7027) is provided for automatically determining characteristic value selected from group consisting of parameters such as height of the container, permeability of filling material, and dielectric constant of filling material in container, based on determined values of speed of echoes. Independent claims are included for the following: (1) method for determining position of filling level of filling material and/or separating layer between two filling materials; and (2) computer program stored on computer readable medium for determining position of filling level of filling material and/or separating layer between two filling materials.