Radar Level Gauging With Corner Reflector Speed Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Radar level gauging systems face challenges in accurately determining the filling level of products in tanks due to variations in tank atmospheres, which affect signal propagation speed, and require verification of their operational reliability.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using a radar level gauge system that generates and transmits electromagnetic signals to a corner reflector formed by the tank wall and product surface, determining a signal propagation speed compensation factor based on timing relations and known horizontal distances, and processing these signals to calculate the true filling level, while also verifying system operation by comparing vertical distance measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If radar level gauging is performed using standard vertical signal propagation, then the filling level can be determined, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to variations in tank atmosphere affecting signal propagation speed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a corner reflector as an intermediary element at the tank wall to provide a reference measurement path. This reflector creates a known geometric relationship that serves as a mediator between the variable tank atmosphere conditions and the measurement system, enabling compensation for propagation speed variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the reflection signal from the corner reflector to calculate a compensation factor that is then applied to correct the filling level measurement. This feedback mechanism continuously adjusts for changes in tank atmosphere properties, maintaining measurement accuracy despite environmental variations.
2Reliability
If the radar level gauge system operates in varying tank atmospheres, then it can measure filling levels, but the reliability of the measurement deteriorates due to unverified system operation
Solution Approach 1:
The corner reflector enables the system to perform self-verification by providing a known reference point. The system uses the geometric relationship between the transmitter and the reflector to automatically verify its own operation and detect potential failures without external intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual verification procedures with an automated electromagnetic signal-based verification system. The corner reflector creates a measurable signal that automatically indicates system health, substituting mechanical or manual check methods.
3Measurement precision
If signal propagation speed compensation is implemented, then the filling level determination accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases due to additional signal processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system compensates for propagation speed variations by calculating a compensation factor based on the time difference between direct and reflected signals. This parameter change approach adjusts the measurement without requiring complex hardware modifications, maintaining simplicity while improving accuracy.
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 allows for accurate determination of the filling level and verification of system reliability, accounting for changes in tank atmospheres and improving estimation of the total product amount in the tank.
Implementation Method 1
generating and transmitting an electromagnetic first transmit signal; propagating the first transmit signal through the tank atmosphere towards a corner reflector
Implementation Method 2
receiving an electromagnetic first reflection signal resulting from reflection of the first transmit signal at the corner reflector
Implementation Method 3
propagating the first transmit signal through the tank atmosphere; determining a signal propagation speed compensation factor based on timing relations
Data Source
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AI summary
A method carried out using a radar level gauge system, the tank having a tank roof supporting the radar level gauge system, a tank wall, and a tank atmosphere in a space defined by a surface of a product in the tank, the tank roof, and the tank wall, wherein the method comprises generating and transmitting an electromagnetic first transmit signal; propagating the first transmit signal through the tank atmosphere towards a corner reflector formed by the surface of the product and the tank wall where the surface of the product meets the tank wall, the corner reflector being at a known horizontal distance from the radar level gauge system; receiving an electromagnetic first reflection signal resulting from reflection of the first transmit signal at the corner reflector; and performing a filling level determination and/or a verification operation for the radar level gauge system based on a timing relation between the first transmit signal and the first reflection signal, and the known horizontal distance between the radar level gauge system and the corner reflector.