Guided Wave Radar Valve Assembly for Sealed Tank Level Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Guided wave radar level gauges face challenges in applications requiring a valve for sealing, particularly with liquid natural gas, as existing solutions hinder the use of non-contacting radar measurements due to safety and operational constraints.
Innovation Solution
A valve arrangement with a movable valve element, probe sections, and a spring-loaded connection assembly that forms an unbroken conductive path for measurement signals when open, allowing for continuous signal propagation and sealing when closed, enabling reliable guided wave radar level gauge measurements in applications with liquid natural gas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a valve is installed to seal the tank for safety requirements, then safety and sealing are improved, but the measurement signal path is interrupted and guided wave radar measurement is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The valve element is segmented with a through-opening that can be positioned to either block or align with the probe, creating distinct sealed and measurement states. This segmentation allows the valve to perform dual functions of safety sealing and signal transmission without compromising either capability
Solution Approach 2:
The valve is designed with dynamic positioning capability where the through-opening can be rotated or moved between different angular positions. When aligned with the probe, it enables signal passage; when misaligned, it provides sealing. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between maintaining safety seal and enabling measurement
2Reliability
If a ball valve is used for sealing applications, then safety sealing is achieved, but the measurement signal cannot pass through the valve
Solution Approach 1:
The valve design integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides safety sealing when closed, enables signal transmission when open with proper alignment, and maintains structural integrity throughout. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate sealing and measurement components
Solution Approach 2:
The through-opening in the valve element acts as an intermediary structure that can either block or permit the probe signal. By designing this intermediary feature with precise geometry and positioning, the valve mediates between the conflicting requirements of sealing and signal transmission
3Reliability
If the valve seals the tank completely, then safety and containment are improved, but service and replacement of the radar level gauge becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The valve's dynamic opening/closing capability allows it to be opened during maintenance operations, providing temporary access for service and replacement of the radar level gauge while maintaining sealed operation during normal use. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction between permanent sealing and periodic accessibility
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
Enables the use of guided wave radar level gauges in applications requiring valve sealing, ensuring reliable measurements and simplifying service and replacement by maintaining an unbroken conductive path for measurement signals while sealing the tank.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-loaded connection assembly configured to form an electrical connection between the upper and the lower probe section via the probe section in the movable valve element when the movable valve element is in an open position
Data Source
AI summary
A valve arrangement for a guided wave radar level gauge including a valve housing holding a movable valve element having a through-opening, the movable valve element being configured to be movable between an open position and a closed position. A probe section arranged in the through-opening of the movable valve element. Upper and lower probe sections are located on respective sides of the movable valve element. A spring-loaded connection assembly is configured to form an electrical connection between the upper and the lower probe section via the probe section in the movable valve element when the movable valve element is in an open position.