UWB Float Localization for Accurate Fluid Level Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring fluid levels in containers are prone to inaccuracies due to environmental factors and mechanical failures, and lack centimeter-level accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing Ultra-Wide-Band (UWB) radio-frequency positioning technology, with anchor devices and a remote float device emitting RF signals, calculates the fluid level by analyzing time-of-flight and phase-difference-of-arrival of signals, providing centimeter-level accuracy and robustness against environmental conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If float-based mechanical measurement is used, then fluid level can be measured, but the system has numerous moving parts prone to failure and limited measurement range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical float-rod-resistor system with a wireless RF localization system. A remote float device with RF transceiver communicates with anchor devices to determine position via time-of-flight measurements, eliminating mechanical moving parts while maintaining the float-based measurement concept.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces RF signals as an intermediary to transfer position information between the float device and the measurement system. The RF signals enable wireless communication of location data without requiring direct mechanical or electrical connections.
2Measurement precision
If ultrasonic wave measurement is used, then fluid level can be measured, but environmental conditions such as temperature and dust affect measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from ultrasonic wave time-of-flight to RF signal time-of-flight. RF signals are less affected by environmental factors like temperature, dust, and vapor that significantly impact ultrasonic wave propagation, thereby improving measurement reliability in harsh environments.
3Measurement precision
If radar fluid measuring is used, then fluid level can be measured, but RF reflections off environmental objects cause measurement inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses multiple anchor devices positioned at different locations to create spatial diversity. By receiving RF signals from multiple angles and positions, the system can distinguish between reflections from the fluid surface and reflections from environmental objects, improving measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system processes RF signals from multiple anchors and uses signal analysis to identify and filter out reflected signals. The processor analyzes signal characteristics to distinguish direct line-of-sight signals from reflected signals, correcting for environmental interference.
4Measurement precision
If submersible pressure transducer is used, then fluid level can be measured, but the sensor orifice and vent tube frequently clog requiring servicing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the submersible pressure transducer with a non-contact RF measurement system. The float device with RF transceiver determines fluid level wirelessly through time-of-flight measurements, eliminating the need for submerged sensors with orifices and vent tubes that are prone to clogging.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses RF signals as an intermediary to measure fluid level without physical contact with the fluid. This eliminates the need for submerged sensor elements that require maintenance due to clogging from fluid contamination.
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 UWB-based system offers accurate and reliable fluid level measurements, immune to environmental factors and mechanical failures, with no moving parts or orifice clogging issues, enabling precise fluid level monitoring and control.
Implementation Method 1
measuring the time-of-flight of RF signals between the devices. Since the speed of RF waves is constant (the speed of light), and the RF wave's travel time is measurable, calculating distances can be more accurately achieved.
Implementation Method 2
Ultrasonic fluid measuring involves injecting an ultrasonic wave towards the fluid's surface. A transducer then captures the ultrasonic wave reflected back by the fluid's surface and measures time-of-flight to calculate the fluid's depth.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are devices, systems, and methods for accurately determining fluid level using Ultra Wide-Band (UWB) positioning or localization. UWB utilizes a radio frequency (RF) technology to enable the accurate measurement of the time-of-flight of a radio signal and UWB positioning can operate in Time-Difference-of-Arrival (TDoA) mode, Two-Way-Ranging (TWR) mode, and Phase-Difference-of-Arrival (PDoA) mode. The systems disclosed herein include multiple anchor devices having a UWB antenna(s) and positioned in fixed location(s) over the fluid to be measured. The anchor devices serve as reference points for UWB communication with a remote float device, which emits RF signals and floats on the surface of the fluid to be measured. The anchor devices may include, or be in communication with, a processor which receives and/or measures RF signals, generates timestamps, calculates distance(s) between the remote float device and an anchor device, calculates fluid level, calculates an angle-of-arrival (AoA), or any combination thereof.