Radar Level Gauge Cleaning Detection via Signal Amplitude
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Solution Overview
Problem
Radar level gauges face difficulties in determining the filling level during tank cleaning processes due to disturbances caused by cleaning activities, making it challenging to accurately measure the level of products in tanks.
Innovation Solution
A method using a radar level gauge that detects a cleaning process by determining the difference in signal amplitude between consecutive fill level measurements, with the system comparing this difference to a predetermined threshold value to verify if a cleaning process is ongoing, and optionally adjusting the fill level measurement sensitivity or discarding measurements during cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If radar level gauge performs continuous fill level measurements during tank cleaning, then measurement capability is maintained, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to signal amplitude fluctuations caused by cleaning disturbances
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection by analyzing signal amplitude differences at positions above the fill level before actual fill level measurement is needed. This preliminary analysis of the electromagnetic signal characteristics allows the system to identify cleaning processes early, enabling it to prepare for accurate measurements by distinguishing cleaning-induced fluctuations from actual level changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a reference signal analysis mechanism that operates independently of the main fill level measurement. By analyzing signal amplitude differences at positions above the fill level as an intermediary step, the system can detect cleaning processes without directly interfering with the primary measurement function, thus maintaining both capabilities.
2Productivity
If radar level gauge continues to measure fill level during cleaning process, then operational continuity is maintained, but measurement reliability deteriorates due to turbulent ambient conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring signal amplitude differences and using this information to determine when cleaning processes are occurring. This feedback mechanism allows the system to automatically adjust its measurement strategy, maintaining operational continuity by knowing when to trust measurements and when to expect cleaning-related disturbances.
Solution Approach 2:
The radar level gauge performs self-diagnosis by analyzing its own signal characteristics during operation. By detecting changes in signal amplitude at positions above the fill level, the system can independently identify cleaning processes without external input, enabling it to self-adjust its measurement reliability assessment and maintain operational continuity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If radar level gauge detects cleaning process by analyzing signal amplitude differences, then cleaning detection capability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system detects cleaning processes by monitoring changes in signal amplitude parameters at positions above the fill level. By focusing on parameter changes rather than complex pattern recognition, the system achieves cleaning detection capability through relatively simple amplitude difference calculations, minimizing the increase in system complexity while improving adaptability.
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
Effectively detects the initiation and progression of cleaning processes, ensuring accurate fill level measurements by differentiating signal amplitude fluctuations from normal tank conditions, thereby enhancing the reliability of tank content monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
Radar level gauging is generally performed either by means of non-contact measurement, whereby electromagnetic signals are radiated towards the product contained in the tank, or by means of contact measurement, often referred to as guided wave radar (GWR), whereby electromagnetic signals are guided towards and into the product by a probe acting as a waveguide.
Implementation Method 2
the distance to the surface of the product is generally determined based on the time between transmission of an electromagnetic signal and reception of the reflection thereof in the interface between the atmosphere in the tank and the product contained therein
Data Source
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AI summary
Method and system for detecting a cleaning process in a radar level gauge configured to determine a fill level of a product contained in a tank, the radar level gauge comprising a transceiver configured to provide a transmit signal, ST, to be propagated towards the product by a propagating device, to receive a reflected signal, SR, resulting from a reflection of the transmit signal at a surface of the product, and to determine a fill level in the tank based on the received reflected signal, wherein the method comprises: at a measurement position above the fill level and a known distance from a reference position near a ceiling of the tank, determining (300) a difference in signal amplitude between at least two different fill level measurements; and if the determined difference in signal amplitude exceeds a predetermined threshold value, determining (302) that a cleaning process is ongoing in the tank.