Sealed Tube Magnetic Float Level Sensor for Fire Tanks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid fire suppression systems face challenges in accurately measuring the fluid level within tanks without venting them, which is necessary for safety inspections but can be cumbersome and requires manual or complex automated methods.
Innovation Solution
A fire suppressant storage device equipped with a liquid level measurement assembly featuring a sealed tube with a float and a carrier bearing magnetic field sensors, allowing for in situ calibration and selection of a suitable sensing algorithm based on the float's magnet configuration, enabling precise level measurement without breaking the tank's sealed nature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual level measurement methods are used, then the tank can be inspected, but the process is cumbersome and requires venting the tank
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods with an automated magnetic sensing system. Magnetic sensors detect the position of a float containing magnets, converting mechanical float movement into electrical signals for automated level measurement, eliminating the need for manual tank venting and measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The level measurement system operates autonomously within the sealed tank environment. The float automatically follows liquid level changes and triggers the magnetic sensors, which continuously provide level data without requiring external intervention or tank venting for inspection.
2Productivity
If automated level measurement systems are implemented, then inspection efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic float system serves multiple functions: it provides level measurement, indicates liquid presence, and can trigger alarms or control operations. The same float mechanism works across different tank sizes and applications, reducing the need for multiple specialized components and simplifying the overall system.
Solution Approach 2:
The float acts as an intermediary between the liquid level and the magnetic sensors. It translates liquid level position into a detectable magnetic field position, enabling non-contact measurement and simplifying the interface between the measured parameter and the sensing system.
3Extent of automation
If magnetic sensors are used to detect float position, then automated measurement is achieved, but sensor calibration becomes necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calibration by detecting the magnetic field characteristics of the float during initial operation. The sensors are calibrated to the specific float's magnet configuration before normal measurement begins, ensuring accurate readings without requiring repeated calibration procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the magnetic field sensors to continuously monitor float position and adjust measurements accordingly. The sensors detect variations in magnetic field strength and position, providing feedback that enables real-time calibration verification and correction of measurement drift.
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 provides a reliable, efficient, and automated method for measuring the liquid level within fire suppression tanks, ensuring accurate readings without venting the tank and reducing the need for manual interventions, thus enhancing safety and inspection efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A float surrounds the tube and has one or more magnets. A plurality of magnetic field sensors are along a carrier within the tube interior.
Data Source
AI summary
A fire suppressant storage device (20) comprises: a tank (22) having a first port (40), a second port (70), and an interior (32) for storing fire suppressant. A discharge assembly (46) is mounted to the first port and comprises: a discharge valve (48); and a discharge conduit (50). The discharge conduit is at least partially within the interior and has an interior and an exterior. A liquid level measurement assembly is mounted to the second port and comprises: a tube (100) at least partially within the interior and having: an exterior and an interior sealed relative to the surrounding tank interior. A float (120) surrounds the tube and has one or more magnets (130) and having a range of motion. A plurality of magnetic field sensors (152, 154) are along a carrier (150) within the tube interior. The carrier extends from a proximal end to a distal end. The plurality of magnetic field sensors (152, 154) comprise: a first plurality of one-dimensional sensors (152); and at least two three-dimensional sensors (154) distally of the first plurality.