Level Meter Signal Analysis for Accurate Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing level meters face challenges in accurately measuring the level of objects in containers due to signal reflections from elements other than the interface, such as stirrers or ladders, which can interfere with the measurement signal and prevent correct level determination.
Innovation Solution
A level meter with a transmission/reception unit, distribution determination unit, extraction unit, measurement value determination unit, candidate determination unit, and display portion that analyzes the reception intensity distribution of the reflection signal to distinguish the peak corresponding to the object's level from other signals, allowing for optimal measurement condition setting and correct level measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a signal transmission method is used to measure level, then non-contact measurement is achieved, but signal reflections from elements other than the object interface occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the reflection signal analysis by identifying multiple peak positions in the reception intensity distribution, allowing the system to distinguish between different reflection sources (object interface vs. other elements) and select the correct measurement target
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension of analysis by examining the reception intensity distribution across multiple peak positions, transforming a single-point measurement approach into a multi-point spectral analysis that enables discrimination between different reflection sources
2Adaptability or versatility
If the container is large with internal elements like ladders and stirrers, then measurement coverage is improved, but the number of signal reflection sources increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically analyzes the reception intensity distribution and identifies peak positions without manual intervention, enabling the level meter to autonomously adapt to different container configurations and internal elements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement approach by analyzing the frequency spectrum of reflection signals and identifying peak positions, allowing the system to adapt to various container types and internal structures through parameter-based discrimination
3Ease of operation
If signal transmission is used for level measurement, then the measurement can be performed remotely, but the signal may be reflected at the bottom of the container for substances that easily transmit signals
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary analysis of the reception intensity distribution to identify all peak positions before final measurement, allowing the operator to pre-identify and avoid selecting incorrect reflection sources such as bottom reflections
Solution Approach 2:
The patent provides feedback by displaying multiple peak candidates with their corresponding reception intensities, allowing the system to iteratively refine the measurement selection and ensure the correct peak is chosen for accurate level 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
Enables accurate measurement of the object's level by identifying and isolating the signal reflected at the interface from other signals, ensuring reliable and precise level determination even in complex container environments.
Implementation Method 1
a transmission circuit that transmits a measurement signal for measuring the level
Implementation Method 2
a reception circuit that receives a reflection signal due to reflection of the measurement signal
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a level meter capable of correctly measuring a level of an object stored in a container. The level meter includes a distribution determination unit, an extraction unit, a candidate determination unit, and a display portion. The distribution determination unit determines the reception intensity distribution of the reflection signal with respect to the distance from the level meter based on the reception intensity of the reflection signal due to reflection of the measurement signal. The candidate determination unit extracts a plurality of combinations of the peak position and the peak intensity from the reception intensity distribution by the extraction unit, and determines the combinations as a plurality of peak candidates. The display portion displays a candidate confirmation screen including the measurement value corresponding to each of the plurality of peak candidates and the reception intensity scale related to the reception intensity.