Multi-Sensor Optical Probe for Fluid Monitoring
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for monitoring fluids in process systems, such as Distributed Temperature Sensing (DTS) and Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS), are limited in sensitivity and require multiple instruments and fittings, making it difficult and costly to monitor various parameters within the same cross-sectional area of piping or close proximity to process flow control equipment.
Innovation Solution
A monitoring probe with a plurality of optical sensors along an optical waveguide is inserted through an aperture into a process system, allowing for simultaneous measurement of multiple parameters like pressure, temperature, and acoustic noise without the need for multiple instruments, using fiber Bragg gratings or other optical sensors that can operate under high pressures and temperatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different instruments are installed at the same cross sectional area of piping to monitor various parameters, then monitoring capability is improved, but device complexity and installation cost increase due to multiple ports and connection mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple monitoring functions (temperature, pressure, acoustic sensing) into a single integrated probe assembly. The probe contains multiple sensors that can simultaneously monitor different parameters at the same location, eliminating the need for multiple separate instruments and their associated ports and connection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe is designed as a universal monitoring device that can perform multiple functions simultaneously. It incorporates temperature sensors, pressure sensors, and acoustic sensors within a single probe body, allowing one device to replace multiple specialized instruments while maintaining monitoring capability across all parameters.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different instruments are installed in close proximity to process flow control equipment, then monitoring capability is improved, but space requirements and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple monitoring functions (temperature, pressure, acoustic sensing) into a single integrated probe assembly. The probe contains multiple sensors that can simultaneously monitor different parameters at the same location, eliminating the need for multiple separate instruments and their associated ports and connection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe structure employs a nested arrangement where multiple sensors are housed within a single probe body. The temperature sensor, pressure sensor, and acoustic sensor are all contained within the same probe assembly, allowing them to occupy the same spatial footprint rather than requiring separate mounting locations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fiber-optic cable is laid along the outside of pipeline for DTS/DAS monitoring, then leak detection capability is provided, but sensitivity to small leaks is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a fluid coupling medium as an intermediary between the external sensors and the process fluid. This coupling medium enhances the transmission of thermal, acoustic, and pressure signals from the process fluid to the sensors, thereby improving the sensitivity and detection capability for small leaks compared to direct external monitoring.
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 enables cost-effective, space-efficient monitoring of fluid characteristics within process systems, improving sensitivity and allowing for reuse of the probe across different locations, without the need for internal sensors or housings, effectively addressing the limitations of existing methods.
Implementation Method 1
a first portion comprising a plurality of optical sensors provided along an optical waveguide for monitoring a plurality of measurands from the fluid
Implementation Method 2
using fiber Bragg gratings or other optical sensors that can operate under high pressures and temperatures
Data Source
AI summary
A monitoring probe is for monitoring a fluid inside a process system. The probe has a first portion comprising a plurality of optical sensors provided along a waveguide for monitoring a plurality of measurands from the fluid, wherein each optical sensor is configured to monitor at least one measurand from the fluid. The first portion of the probe is elongate and is configured to be inserted through an aperture of the process system into a chamber of the process system such that the optical sensors are in communication with the fluid. The probe further has an attachment element for securing the probe to the process system.