Synchronized Sensor Detection Apparatus for Fluid Storage Monitoring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing monitoring and detection devices for fluid storage tanks are limited in compensating for tank wall bulging and perform sequential measurements, leading to inconsistencies and inaccuracies in fluid state property monitoring.

Innovation Solution

A computer-readable medium with instructions for a detection apparatus that uses multiple sensors housed in a durable tubular housing, capable of synchronously collecting data from pressure and temperature sensors, providing real-time, accurate, and consistent measurements through simultaneous data processing and communication to a processor for regulation and monitoring.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If sequential measurements are performed by existing monitoring devices, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to inconsistencies and inaccuracies in fluid state property monitoring

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple sensors (pressure sensors, temperature sensors, and other detection devices) into a single integrated monitoring system that performs synchronized measurements. This merging of multiple measurement functions into one cohesive device enables simultaneous data collection from various parameters, resolving the technical contradiction by achieving high measurement precision through synchronized multi-parameter monitoring while maintaining manageable device complexity through integrated design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements continuous synchronized measurement and monitoring of fluid state properties using multiple sensors operating simultaneously. This continuous action approach eliminates the inconsistencies inherent in sequential measurements by ensuring that all parameters (pressure, temperature, etc.) are measured at the same moment, thereby achieving consistent and accurate monitoring of fluid state changes without requiring overly complex sequential measurement systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

2Measurement precision

If multiple sensors are used for synchronized measurements, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases due to multiple sensor housing and data processing requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement consistencyVSAvoidsensor housing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple sensors (pressure sensors, temperature sensors, level sensors) into a single integrated housing structure that facilitates synchronized measurements. This consolidation approach allows the system to achieve high measurement precision and consistency through simultaneous multi-parameter monitoring while managing device complexity by providing a unified, coordinated structure for housing and interfacing with all sensors, rather than requiring separate complex housings for each sensor type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Measurement precision

If synchronized data collection is implemented, then measurement precision improves, but loss of time increases due to simultaneous data processing requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoiddata processing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements continuous synchronized data collection and processing from multiple sensors, enabling real-time monitoring of fluid state properties. This continuous action approach ensures that all parameters are measured and processed simultaneously, achieving high measurement precision without significant time loss, as the system is designed to handle multiple data streams concurrently rather than sequentially.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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

Enhances measurement accuracy and consistency by enabling simultaneous data collection and processing from multiple sensors, improving the monitoring and regulation of fluid storage systems, particularly in tank farms, and providing early detection of potential leaks or hazardous emissions.

Implementation Method 1

using a least one pressure sensor and at least one temperature sensor disposed in a housing of the detection apparatus

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure sensing:

Implementation Method 2

using a least one pressure sensor and at least one temperature sensor disposed in a housing of the detection apparatus

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTemperature sensing:

Data Source

PatentUS7315788B1Computer program for continuously monitoring a fluid storage system using synchronized sensors
Publication Date: 2008.01.01 INNOVATIVE MEASUREMENT METHODS INC
  • US7315788B1 patent drawing
  • US7315788B1 patent drawing
  • US7315788B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A computer readable medium with a plurality of computer instructions for causing the processor to monitor and regulate a fluid storage system is disclosed. Computer instructions are used for instructing the processor to synchronously collect data using a detection apparatus disposed in a fluid of a vessel. The detection apparatus includes a housing with at least one pressure sensor and at least one temperature sensor for synchronously collecting data. Each sensor communicates with the processor and a signaling means to provide synchronized data. Computer instructions can instruct the processor to continuously form at least one calculated value, such as a value for mass of the fluid, from the data synchronously collected, continuously compare the calculated value to at least one predetermined range of values to identify if the at least one calculated value is within the predetermined range of values, and communicate the compared values to an auxiliary device.