Refueling Tank Additive Detection to Prevent DEF-FSII Mix-Ups
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Solution Overview
Problem
The physical similarities between diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) and fuel system icing inhibitor (FSII) make it difficult to distinguish between them, leading to the risk of improper mixing, which can result in catastrophic engine failures due to crystalline deposits in fuel systems.
Innovation Solution
A refueling truck equipped with sensors and a computing device that differentiate between DEF and FSII based on measurable properties, providing an output when a mismatch is detected to prevent improper mixing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If DEF and FSII are stored in similar containers without clear labeling, then storage and handling are simplified, but the risk of improper mixing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs color-coded labeling and visual indicators on containers and storage tanks to differentiate between DEF and FSII. This allows similar container designs to be used while maintaining clear visual distinction through color coding, thus preserving ease of operation while eliminating the risk of improper mixing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates sensors and monitoring systems that detect the presence of additives in storage tanks and provide feedback signals to prevent improper mixing. The system actively monitors and alerts operators or automatically prevents incorrect additive introduction, maintaining simple storage handling while ensuring reliability.
2Reliability
If operator training and storage restrictions are implemented, then the potential for operator error is reduced, but these solutions do not eliminate the risk of improper contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-checking systems with sensors that automatically detect and prevent improper mixing without requiring complex operator procedures. The system performs its own verification and prevention functions, reducing reliance on operator training while maintaining high reliability through automated safeguards.
3Measurement precision
If sensors and computing devices are added to differentiate between DEF and FSII, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses sensors that detect specific physical or chemical parameters of the additives (such as refractive index, density, or other measurable properties) to differentiate between DEF and FSII. By focusing on specific parameter detection rather than comprehensive analysis, the system achieves high measurement precision with relatively simple sensor implementation.
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
The system effectively prevents the introduction of DEF into jet fuel, ensuring safe and accurate refueling by providing alarms or safety shut-offs, thereby avoiding harmful engine failures.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor positioned in at least one of the one or more refueling storage tanks is configured to provide data related to an additive introduced to the at least one of the one or more refueling storage tanks
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
A method of preventing improper mixing of additives in a refueling storage tank includes receiving, by a computing device, data related to an additive introduced to the refueling storage tank from a sensor positioned in the refueling storage tank. The additive introduced to the refueling tank is determined, by the computing device, based on the data received from the sensor. An output is provided, by the computing device, when the determined additive does not match a predetermined additive for the refueling storage tank. Devices and systems for preventing improper mixing of additives in a refueling storage tank are also disclosed.