Nucleonic Level Gauge Detector Assembly Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional nucleonic level gauges for measuring material levels in vessels are bulky due to the need for large housings to accommodate high-voltage generators and electronic components, limiting their compactness and usability in hazardous areas.
Innovation Solution
A radiation detector apparatus with a circular, uniformly cross-sectioned housing containing multiple detector assemblies, each with a scintillation detector, electronic control, and photodetector, utilizing a low-power high-voltage generator and allowing for cable passage within the housing to reduce size and enhance safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional high-voltage generators and electronic components are housed in large housings, then the nucleonic level gauge can function properly, but the device becomes bulky and unsuitable for hazardous areas
Solution Approach 1:
The detector assembly is divided into multiple discrete components: scintillation detector, photodetector, low-power high-voltage generator, and electronic components. These segmented components are arranged linearly along the elongate housing, with cables running between them, eliminating the need for a single large housing and reducing overall device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a compact but bulky three-dimensional housing arrangement to a linear one-dimensional arrangement along the length of the detector assembly. Components are distributed along the longitudinal axis, allowing the device to achieve functional capability with reduced volumetric footprint.
2Reliability
If traditional housing designs are used to accommodate all components, then all components can be protected, but the device becomes complex and difficult to fabricate
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of a single complex housing, the invention uses multiple simpler housing sections or open arrangements where components are individually positioned and protected. This segmentation simplifies fabrication while maintaining component protection through distributed positioning rather than enclosed housing.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts components from a traditional enclosed housing and positions them in an open or simplified housing arrangement. Cables and components are exposed or minimally enclosed, eliminating the need for complex housing fabrication while maintaining functional protection.
3Reliability
If high-power components are used to ensure reliable detection, then detection capability is maintained, but heat generation increases and safety is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the power parameter of the high-voltage generator from conventional high-power to low-power operation. This parameter change maintains sufficient detection capability through optimized detector design while dramatically reducing heat generation and improving safety for hazardous area applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention converts the limitation of low power availability into a benefit by designing a system that operates effectively with low power. The low-power high-voltage generator, combined with optimized scintillation and photodetector components, achieves reliable detection while eliminating the harmful heat generation associated with high-power operation.
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 compact design allows for smaller, lighter, and safer nucleonic level gauges that can be used in hazardous areas, with improved fabrication simplicity and reduced heat generation, enabling longer detector lengths without joining scintillator segments.
Implementation Method 1
at least one scintillation detector for detecting radiation
Implementation Method 2
a photodetector
Implementation Method 3
a source of gamma radiation of sufficient energy to penetrate the vessel walls
Implementation Method 4
The radiation is attenuated as is passes through materials; the amount of attenuation being related to the density of the materials
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
The invention provides a detector assembly for use in a nucleonic level gauge comprising: a) at least one scintillation detector (20); b) electronic apparatus (24) for controlling the at least one detector and processing the electronic signals produced by the at least one detector; and c) a photomultiplier (22); wherein all of said components (a) - (c) are capable of being enclosed in an elongate, radiation-permeable housing (12) having a cross-sectional area which is substantially uniform along the length of the housing. A detector apparatus (25) may contain a plurality of such detector assemblies (34a, 34b) contained within a single housing. The detector is preferably an elongate plastic scintillator.