Segmented Radar Probe With Locking Pin
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rigid probes for guided wave radar level gauges in large tanks face challenges such as difficulty in transportation and installation due to their one-piece design, and existing adjustable probes with telescoping segments can introduce signal disturbances and increase system complexity.
Innovation Solution
A modular probe system comprising separate, electrically conductive probe sections connected via a threaded connection and locking pin, allowing for adjustable length and secure assembly without signal interference, facilitating easy installation and reuse across different tank sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid probe is used for guided wave radar level gauging, then robustness and resistance to mechanical wear and chemical exposure are improved, but transportation and installation become difficult due to the one-piece design
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid probe is divided into multiple modular sections that can be connected together. Each section maintains the robustness and chemical resistance of a rigid structure, while the modular design enables easy transportation and installation by allowing the probe to be assembled in segments rather than as a single large piece.
2Adaptability or versatility
If telescoping segments are used to provide adjustable probe length, then adaptability to different tank sizes is improved, but signal disturbances and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The probe consists of multiple rigid sections of different lengths that can be connected in various combinations. This segmentation allows the probe to be configured to match different tank sizes without requiring telescoping mechanisms or regulators, thereby maintaining signal integrity while providing adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular probe sections are designed with standardized connectors that allow the same basic probe design to be used across multiple applications and tank sizes. By selecting and combining different section lengths, a single probe type can serve multiple functions and adapt to various measurement requirements.
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 modular probe system simplifies transportation and installation, reduces signal disturbances, and allows for the same probe type to be used in various tank sizes, lowering manufacturing costs and ensuring accurate level measurements.
Implementation Method 1
a single conductor probe configured to guide the electromagnetic transmission signals towards the surface and to guide the reflected electromagnetic signals back to the transceiver
Data Source
Figure 1~2b
Figure 3a~3d
Figure 4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a guided wave radar level gauge comprising a transceiver, processing circuitry and a single conductor probe comprising at least two elongate probe sections; wherein a connector permanently attached to and extending from a first end of the probe section comprises an abutment portion having a diameter smaller than a diameter of the probe section, an intermediate portion, arranged between the probe section and the abutment portion, the intermediate portion having a diameter smaller than the abutment portion; and an outside threaded portion. A second end portion of the probe section comprises a sleeve comprising an inside threaded receiving portion configured to receive the connector; a passage through a sidewall of the sleeve being located off-center in relation to a longitudinal central axis of the probe section, such that the passage is located radially outside of the intermediate portion and radially inside of the abutment portion when the connector is fitted in the sleeve. The probe further comprises a locking pin to be arranged in the passage locking two assembled probe sections by limiting movement of the abutment portion in a longitudinal direction.