Optical Reference Line Tank Calibration via Computer Vision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for calibrating storage tanks are inefficient, invasive, and pose safety risks, leading to infrequent and inaccurate volume measurements, which can be costly and result in significant volume changes due to external and internal conditions.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing computer vision techniques with a camera and robotic vehicle to measure the horizontal offset of tank walls relative to a reference line, allowing for precise and non-invasive volume calculations, enabling frequent and accurate tank volume assessments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional manual strapping or optical techniques are used for tank calibration, then measurement accuracy can be achieved, but the process requires tank downtime and is invasive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical calibration methods (manual strapping, physical reference lines) with an optical system using a camera to capture images of a measurement scale on the tank wall, eliminating the need for physical intervention and tank downtime while maintaining measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy of the measurement scale through camera imaging, allowing remote observation and measurement of tank calibration data without physical contact with the tank interior, thus avoiding invasive procedures and downtime
2Measurement precision
If traditional calibration methods are used, then volume measurements can be obtained, but the process is time-consuming and safety risks exist for workers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes manual measurement processes with automated optical imaging and digital image analysis, eliminating the need for workers to physically access the tank and perform manual measurements, thereby reducing calibration time and eliminating safety risks
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-measurement by capturing images of the measurement scale and automatically processing the data through image analysis algorithms, eliminating the need for human operators to perform time-consuming manual calibration procedures
3Measurement precision
If invasive calibration methods are used, then accurate volume data can be obtained, but the tank operation must be halted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces invasive mechanical calibration methods with non-contact optical imaging, allowing calibration measurements to be taken while the tank remains in operation, thus maintaining productivity and operational efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical intermediary (camera imaging system) that enables measurement of tank calibration data from the exterior without interfering with internal tank operations, allowing continuous operation while obtaining accurate volume measurements
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 approach significantly reduces calibration time, increases measurement accuracy, and allows for more frequent volume assessments, addressing the inefficiencies and safety concerns of existing methods.
Implementation Method 1
a camera 106 having an optical sensor and configured to capture images of the measurement scale
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed for measuring the dimensions of storage tanks using Optical Reference Line Method calibration techniques. The system utilizes a camera mounted near the tank wall such that its optical axis defines a reference line extending parallel to the wall and a robotic vehicle for moving a target object along the surface of the tank. Specifically, the target includes a predefined measurement scale that can be imaged by the camera as it is moved along the wall. A computer implementing computer-vision algorithms analyzes images of the scale captured at respective elevations to determine the point on the scale intersected by the reference line and a corresponding offset distance between the wall and the reference line. Accordingly, the dimensions of the tank are calculated by the computer based on the offset distance calculated for respective elevations of the tank wall.