Slide Valve Position Measurement Using TDR Radar Probe
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetostrictive measuring systems for industrial valves are susceptible to vibrations, leading to inaccurate position measurements of linearly moving components, particularly in harsh environments like chemistry, petrochemistry, and energy plants.
Innovation Solution
A radar-based measuring system utilizing time domain reflectometry (TDR) with a probe containing a reflective element coupled to the movable valve component, allowing for accurate position measurement by recording and evaluating the propagation time of radar signals, which is insensitive to vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If magnetostrictive measuring systems are used to measure the position of linearly moving components in industrial valves, then position measurement capability is provided, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to susceptibility to vibrations in harsh industrial environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the magnetostrictive measuring system with a radar-based measuring system that uses electromagnetic waves instead of mechanical/magnetic fields. The radar device emits electromagnetic signals that travel through the probe to reflect off the reflective element on the valve component, measuring position based on signal propagation time rather than mechanical displacement, thereby eliminating vibration susceptibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from magnetic field-based displacement detection to electromagnetic signal propagation time measurement. By using the time domain reflectometry method with radar signals, the system measures position based on the time it takes for electromagnetic waves to travel to and from the reflective element, a parameter that remains stable under vibrational conditions.
2Reliability
If a robust measuring system is implemented to withstand vibrations and mechanical stress, then reliability under harsh conditions improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe serves multiple functions: it acts as the transmission medium for radar signals, provides mechanical guidance for the reflective element, and serves as the coupling interface between the radar device and the valve component. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe acts as an intermediary element that transmits radar signals from the measuring device to the reflective element while also providing mechanical support and guidance. This intermediary structure simplifies the connection between components and enables the system to withstand mechanical stress without increasing overall complexity.
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 provides robust and accurate position measurement of linearly moving components in industrial valves, even under conditions of mechanical stress and vibration, ensuring reliable operation in challenging industrial environments.
Implementation Method 1
The measuring system has a measuring device for transmitting and receiving radar signals, which device is connected to a probe for guiding the radar signals. The position of the reflective element in the probe can be determined by the radar signal reflected at the reflective element. The propagation time of the reflected radar signals is recorded and evaluated.
Implementation Method 2
A radar-based measuring system utilizing time domain reflectometry (TDR) with a probe containing a reflective element coupled to the movable valve component, allowing for accurate position measurement by recording and evaluating the propagation time of radar signals
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a measuring system for industrial valves, in particular for plants in the fields of chemistry, petrochemistry, iron or steel production, glass production, or energy and environmental technology, for measuring the position of a movable component of the valve, wherein a measuring device for transmitting and receiving radar signals is connected to a probe for guiding the radar signals, wherein a reflective element is guided in the probe and can be coupled to the movable component in such a way that a position of the component corresponds to a position of the reflective element in the probe.