Tank Access Chamber Sump Sensor Extraction for Safe Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tank access chambers require physical entry for maintenance and inspection, which is unsafe and inefficient, and compatibility issues between components can impair system function and longevity.
Innovation Solution
A tank access chamber system with remote monitoring and maintenance capabilities, including a liquid sensor that can be checked and actuated automatically or manually from outside the chamber, and a magnetic sensor retainer and extraction tool for sensor removal and installation without entering the chamber, ensuring compatibility and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical entry into the tank access chamber is required for maintenance and inspection, then direct access to equipment is achieved, but safety risks and operational inefficiency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection with automated electronic monitoring systems. Sensors detect liquid levels, temperature, and other parameters in the sump, transmitting data to remote monitoring equipment. This substitution eliminates the need for personnel to physically enter the hazardous chamber while maintaining continuous oversight of system conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary devices such as remote testing mechanisms and extraction tools that allow maintenance personnel to interact with sensors and equipment from outside the chamber. These intermediaries transmit mechanical or electrical signals to perform testing and retrieval operations without requiring direct physical presence in the confined space.
2Measurement precision
If sensors are installed in the sump for monitoring, then liquid presence detection is improved, but sensor maintenance and replacement become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs sensors with extraction features that enable them to be removed from the sump environment using specialized tools accessed from outside the chamber. The sensors can be extracted through the chamber wall or access points without requiring personnel to enter the chamber, facilitating easy maintenance and replacement while maintaining continuous monitoring capability.
3Productivity
If remote testing capability is implemented, then maintenance frequency can be reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the testing device to perform multiple functions: it can test sensor operability, detect liquid presence, and retrieve sensor data, all through a single remote interface. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate testing equipment and procedures, thereby limiting the increase in system complexity while maintaining high maintenance efficiency.
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
Facilitates regular and unplanned maintenance without physical entry, ensuring long-term system performance, preventing leaks, and protecting users and personnel with built-in redundancies and protection mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic sensor retainer and extraction tool for sensor removal and installation without entering the chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A fuel storage system has a tank access chamber with improved monitoring, servicing and maintenance capabilities. In particular, the chamber includes a sump monitored by a liquid sensor whose proper function can be automatically checked remotely, e.g., via an electronic controller or remote manual operation. In cases where such a check indicates a need for physical inspection of the sump sensor, the present system provides for sensor removal and installation by service personnel from a location outside the tank access chamber. Thus, the present system facilitates regular inspection and routine or unplanned maintenance without the need for a person to physically enter the tank access chamber.