Radar Level Gauge Reference Echo Verification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Radar level gauge systems face issues with mechanical overfill alarm systems, including robustness, accuracy, and reliability problems due to harsh tank environments and the need for periodic proof testing, which increases time and effort.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using a propagation property discontinuity within the tank to detect the filling level by evaluating the time-of-flight of electromagnetic signals, allowing for continuous monitoring and reducing the need for manual intervention, with a reference reflector providing distinguishable signal properties to accurately indicate filling levels and prevent overfill conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical overfill alarm systems are used, then overfill detection capability is provided, but robustness and reliability deteriorate due to harsh tank environments and mechanical part malfunction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical overfill alarm systems with a radar-based electromagnetic measurement system. The radar level gauge uses electromagnetic signals to continuously monitor filling level without mechanical contact with the product, eliminating mechanical parts that malfunction in harsh environments. The system determines filling level based on time-of-flight measurements of electromagnetic signals reflected from the product surface, providing reliable overfill detection without mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a reference echo signal as an intermediary element to verify radar system operation. By comparing the detected filling level with the known position of the reference echo, the system can automatically verify its own operation status. This intermediary reference signal enables proof testing of the overfill alarm functionality without requiring manual intervention or external calibration equipment.
2Measurement precision
If continuous filling level monitoring is implemented, then overfill detection accuracy is improved, but time and effort for proof testing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service verification by using the radar system's own reference echo signal to automatically test its measurement functionality. The system compares the detected filling level against the known reference echo position to verify operation. This self-verification mechanism eliminates the need for external proof testing procedures, allowing continuous monitoring without increasing proof testing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback by continuously comparing the measured filling level with the reference echo position. This feedback mechanism allows the system to automatically verify its own operation status and detect any drift or malfunction. The reference echo serves as a known reference point that provides continuous feedback on system performance, enabling automatic verification without manual intervention.
3Reliability
If manual proof testing procedures are performed, then system operation verification is achieved, but productivity and efficiency deteriorate due to increased time and effort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual proof testing procedures with automated electronic verification using the radar system's reference echo functionality. The automated system continuously verifies its own operation by comparing measurements against the known reference echo position, eliminating the need for manual intervention. This substitution of manual mechanical verification with automated electronic verification significantly improves productivity while maintaining verification reliability.
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 enhances the reliability and accuracy of filling level monitoring, reduces the need for manual proof testing, and allows for continuous operation monitoring, improving the robustness and efficiency of radar level gauge systems.
Implementation Method 1
the distance to the surface of the product is generally determined based on the time between transmission of an electromagnetic signal and receipt of the reflection thereof
Implementation Method 2
The electromagnetic signals are subsequently reflected at the surface of the product, and the reflected signals are received by a receiver or transceiver
Implementation Method 3
a propagation property discontinuity which is arranged at a first known distance from a reference position... and being configured to reflect a portion of the transmitted electromagnetic signal back towards the transceiver to thereby provide a first reference echo
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3
AI summary
A method of monitoring operation of a radar level gauge system installed at a tank and arranged to determine a filling level of a product contained in the tank. The method comprises the steps of: providing a first propagation property discontinuity at a first distance from a reference position at a top of the tank; generating and transmitting an electromagnetic signal; propagating the transmitted electromagnetic signal towards the product contained in the tank; receiving a reflected electromagnetic signal comprising a plurality of echoes resulting from reflections at propagation property discontinuities encountered by the transmitted electromagnetic signal, including a first reference echo resulting from reflection at the first propagation property discontinuity and a surface echo resulting from reflection at a surface of the product contained in the tank; identifying the surface echo; determining the filling level based on the surface echo; evaluating a first portion of the reflected electromagnetic signal exhibiting a time-of-flight corresponding to the first distance from the reference position; determining, based on the evaluation, whether or not the first reference echo is detectable in the first portion of the reflected electromagnetic signal. If it is determined that the first reference echo is detectable in the first portion of the reflected electromagnetic signal, a first signal indicative of the filling level is provided; and if it is determined that the first reference echo is non-detectable in the first portion of the reflected electromagnetic signal, a second signal different from the first signal is provided.