Adaptive Refuelling Flow Control for Electrostatic Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current refuelling systems impose a maximum flow rate based on worst-case scenarios to mitigate electrostatic charge build-up and over-pressurization, leading to longer refuelling times even when these threats are not present, due to the use of fixed orifice plates and binary valves.
Innovation Solution
A refuelling system with a variable-position valve and sensor arrangement that measures electrostatic conditions and fuel levels to dynamically control fuel flow rates, adjusting based on actual threats to minimize refuelling time while ensuring safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a maximum flow rate is imposed based on worst-case scenario assumptions to mitigate electrostatic charge build-up, then safety is improved, but refuelling time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by replacing the static maximum flow rate restriction with a dynamic flow rate control system. The controller continuously monitors electrostatic charge measurements and adjusts the fuel flow rate in real-time, allowing the system to operate at higher flow rates when safe and reduce flow rate only when necessary to maintain safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using electrostatic charge sensors to continuously monitor the refuelling process and feed this information back to the controller. The controller then adjusts the fuel flow rate based on the actual electrostatic conditions, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to changing conditions during refuelling.
2Reliability
If a maximum flow rate is imposed to prevent over-pressurisation of the fuel tank, then safety is improved, but refuelling time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller receives feedback about fuel tank pressure or fuel level and adjusts the fuel flow rate accordingly. This allows the system to maintain safety by preventing over-pressurisation while minimizing the impact on refuelling time by only restricting flow when necessary.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the flow rate parameter dynamically based on real-time conditions. Instead of maintaining a constant maximum flow rate restriction, the system adjusts the flow rate parameter up or down depending on the actual electrostatic and pressure conditions in the fuel tank.
3Device complexity
If fixed orifice plates are used to control fuel flow rate, then device complexity is reduced, but refuelling time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces static orifice plates with a dynamic valve system that can adjust its opening position continuously. This dynamic valve, controlled by an actuator, allows the system to optimize fuel flow rate in real-time based on electrostatic conditions, significantly reducing refuelling time compared to fixed orifice restrictions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical fixed orifice plate system with a controlled system that includes sensors, a controller, and an actuated valve. This substitution introduces electronic control and real-time monitoring capabilities that enable optimized flow rate management.
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 reduces refuelling time by adjusting fuel flow rates according to real-time electrostatic and pressure conditions, optimizing operations and reducing operational and economic impacts.
Implementation Method 1
the measurement of the electrostatic condition in the fuel tank is based on an electric field measurement
Implementation Method 2
the measurement of the electrostatic condition in the fuel tank is based on a streaming current measurement
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3c
AI summary
A refuelling system comprises a fuel conduit, a variable-position valve for controlling a rate of flow of fuel leaving the conduit, and a controller. The controller is configured to receive from a sensor arrangement a measurement of an electrostatic condition in a fuel tank being fuelled by the system. The controller is configured to control the variable-position valve to control the rate of flow of fuel based at least in part on the measurement received from the sensor arrangement.