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WO2012174582A1 - Système et procédé de détermination du niveau d'un fluide - Google Patents

Système et procédé de détermination du niveau d'un fluide Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2012174582A1
WO2012174582A1 PCT/AU2011/000751 AU2011000751W WO2012174582A1 WO 2012174582 A1 WO2012174582 A1 WO 2012174582A1 AU 2011000751 W AU2011000751 W AU 2011000751W WO 2012174582 A1 WO2012174582 A1 WO 2012174582A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
level
fluid
float
level sensing
reservoir
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/AU2011/000751
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Noel Mancuso
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Pioneer Waste Management Holdings Trust Pty Ltd
Original Assignee
Pioneer Waste Management Holdings Trust Pty Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Pioneer Waste Management Holdings Trust Pty Ltd filed Critical Pioneer Waste Management Holdings Trust Pty Ltd
Priority to PCT/AU2011/000751 priority Critical patent/WO2012174582A1/fr
Publication of WO2012174582A1 publication Critical patent/WO2012174582A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01F—MEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME
    • G01F23/00—Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm
    • G01F23/22—Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm by measuring physical variables, other than linear dimensions, pressure or weight, dependent on the level to be measured, e.g. by difference of heat transfer of steam or water
    • G01F23/28—Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm by measuring physical variables, other than linear dimensions, pressure or weight, dependent on the level to be measured, e.g. by difference of heat transfer of steam or water by measuring the variations of parameters of electromagnetic or acoustic waves applied directly to the liquid or fluent solid material
    • G01F23/296—Acoustic waves
    • G01F23/2962—Measuring transit time of reflected waves
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01F—MEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME
    • G01F23/00—Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm
    • G01F23/30—Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm by floats
    • G01F23/64—Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm by floats of the free float type without mechanical transmission elements
    • G01F23/68—Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm by floats of the free float type without mechanical transmission elements using electrically actuated indicating means
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01F—MEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME
    • G01F23/00—Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm
    • G01F23/30—Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm by floats
    • G01F23/76—Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm by floats characterised by the construction of the float
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05D—SYSTEMS FOR CONTROLLING OR REGULATING NON-ELECTRIC VARIABLES
    • G05D9/00—Level control, e.g. controlling quantity of material stored in vessel
    • G05D9/12—Level control, e.g. controlling quantity of material stored in vessel characterised by the use of electric means
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2209/00—Controlling or monitoring parameters in water treatment
    • C02F2209/42—Liquid level

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to systems and methods for sensing the level of a fluid in a fluid reservoir.
  • the systems and methods describe are particularly useful in sensing the level of pulp slurries, and it will be convenient to describe the invention in relation to that exemplary, though non-limiting, application.
  • a wide variety of systems make use of level sensors. For example, many waste treatment and/or disposal systems operate by temporarily storing fluid waste in a holding tank. The holding tank is periodically emptied and the fluid waste transported elsewhere for disposal or further processing.
  • PCT applications PCT/AU2004/001460 (published on 6 May 2005) and PCT/AU2008/000685 (published on 20 November 2008) describe putrescible organic waste treatment systems which process putrescible organic waste into a pulp slurry and transfer the pulp slurry to a holding tank.
  • the systems described in these two PCT applications automatically control the addition of water during the processing and transportation of the waste to the holding tank such that a minimum (or reduced) amount of water is used, thereby creating a relatively dense and viscous pulp slurry. Due to the density/ viscosity, the surface of the pulp slurry in the reservoir is typically uneven.
  • the holding tank is provided with a level sensor.
  • level sensing technologies exist, however, the characteristics of the relatively dense and viscous pulp slurries produced by the systems disclosed in the aforementioned PCT applications are such that providing a cost-effective solution for reliably providing accurate level information can be difficult.
  • traditional float sensors i.e. sensors which float with the fluid and trigger an electrical, magnetic, or mechanical switch on reaching an actuation level
  • the workings of the float sensor may be impeded, either preventing the float from rising (during filling of the reservoir) or, in the instance of a pivot/hinged type float switch, preventing the float from falling (during/after emptying of the reservoir),
  • the holding tank may be overfilled and explode. At best this may create a large mess and be expensive (both in terms of having to replace the holding tank and other damaged components and having to clean up the mess), and at worst may present a safety risk - either due to the explosion itself, or the contents of the holding tank which are released on the explosion.
  • the present invention provides a level sensing assembly for determining a level of a fluid in a reservoir, the level sensing assembly including: a guide assembly; and a float adapted to be guided by the guide assembly to rise and fall with . the level of the fluid and in doing so to vary the length of a signal path travelled by a level sensing signal, the length of the signal path for use by a level sensor in determining the level of the fluid.
  • the level sensing assembly may include the level sensor.
  • the present invention provides a level sensing assembly for determining a level of a fluid in a reservoir, the level sensing assembly including: a level sensor; a guide assembly; and a float adapted to be guided by the guide assembly to rise and fall with the level of the fluid and in doing so to vary the length of a signal path travelled by a level sensing signal emitted by the level sensor, the length of the signal path for use by a level sensor in determining the level of the fluid.
  • the signal path may be the path between the level sensor and a target area.
  • the target area may be maintained at or above a surface level of the fluid by the float and may be adapted to direct the level sensing signal to a signal receiver: of the level sensor.
  • the level sensor may include an emitter for emitting the level sensing signal along the signal path; the. guide assembly may guide the float such that the target area moves along the signal path, and in use the level sensing signal may be reflected back to the receiver of the level sensor by the target area.
  • the guide assembly may include a stop against which the float rests when not buoyed up by fluid, the guide assembly in use allowing for fluid flow beneath the float when at rest against the stop.
  • the float may be approximately spherical in shape.
  • the target area may be a surface of the float.
  • the target area may be provided on a target carried by the float.
  • the target may be a plate which is maintained substantially parallel to the surface level of the fluid by the float.
  • the target may include one or more bearing formations for bearing on the guide assembly to maintain an orientation of the float and/or target.
  • the or each bearing formation may be a tab.
  • the guide assembly may include at least one rod for guiding travel of the float.
  • the guide assembly may include a plurality of rods for guiding travel of the float.
  • the plurality of rods may be arranged to form a cage about the float.
  • the level sensor may be in communication with a computer processing device and may be adapted to send sensed level information to the computer processing device.
  • the computer processing device may be configured to process the sensed level information received from the level sensor and output level-based information to one or more users.
  • Level-based information may be output to one or more users by one or more output means selected from a group including: displaying levels-based information on a display means; playing level-based information oil a speaker; sending level-based information to one or more email addresses; sending a short-message-service message including level-based information to one or more phone numbers; sending a voice message including level-based information to one or more phone numbers; posting level-based information to a website accessible by a user; and sending level-based information to a pager.
  • output means selected from a group including: displaying levels-based information on a display means; playing level-based information oil a speaker; sending level-based information to one or more email addresses; sending a short-message-service message including level-based information to one or more phone numbers; sending a voice message including level-based information to one or more phone numbers; posting level-based information to a website accessible by a user; and sending level-based information to a pager.
  • Level based information may include information selected from a group including: a path length between the target area and the level sensor; an estimated volume of fluid in the reservoir;, an estimated remaining capacity of the reservoir; an estimated time until the reservoir will be at ! full capacity; and a recommended time at which the reservoir should be emptied.
  • the reservoir may be adapted to receive and hold fluid waste from a waste processing unit via one or more inlet pipes.
  • the computer processing device may be configured to control operation of the waste processing unit according to the sensed level information.
  • the waste processing unit may be a putrescible Organic waste processing unit;
  • the fluid may be a pulp slurry; .
  • the present invention provides a fluid reservoir for fluid produced by a waste treatment system, the fluid reservoir including a level sensing assembly according to any one of the above statements.
  • the present invention provides a putrescible organic waste treatment system including a waste processing unit for processing putrescible organic waste and transporting said processed waste to a fluid reservoir as described above.
  • the present invention provides a method for determining a level of a fluid in a reservoir, including: directing a level sensing signal at a target area carried by a float; receiving a returned level sensing signal from the target area; and determining the level of the fluid based on characteristics of a signal path travelled by the level sensing signal, wherein the float is adapted to be guided by the guide assembly to rise and fall with the level of the fluid and in doing so to vary the. length of the signal path. .
  • the characteristics of the signal path include the distance of the signal path, and/or the time taken between directing the level sensing signal at the target area and receiving the returned signal.
  • the term “comprise” and variations of the term, such as “comprising”, “comprises” and “comprised”, are not intended to exclude further additives ⁇ components, integers or steps.
  • Figure 1 provides a perspective view of a level sensing assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
  • Figures 2A and 2B provide partial perspective views of the base of the level sensing assembly shown in Figure 1 , respectively without and with the float visible.
  • Figure 3 provides a perspective view of the float assembly of the level sensing assembly shown in Figure 1;
  • Figure 4A provides a perspective depiction of a fluid reservoir with the level sensing assembly of Figure 1 installed therein;
  • Figures 4B provides a sectional elevation depiction of the reservoir of Figure 4A.
  • Figure 5 provides a block diagram of a computing' system suitable for use with embodiments of the present invention.
  • Figure 6 provides a schematic diagram of a putrescible organic waste treatment system including the fluid reservoir of Figure 4 and level sensing assembly of Figure 1. Detailed description of the embodiments
  • FIGS 1 to 3 provide perspective and partial perspective views of a level sensing assembly 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
  • level sensing assembly 100 will be installed in a fluid reservoir such as a holding tank into which a fluid is pumped/otherwise transported.
  • Level sensing assembly 100 includes a guide assembly 102 and a float 104.
  • the guide assembly 102 includes four rods 106 extending between a base . 108, in the form of a ring, and a top plate 1 10.
  • the rods 106 form a cage about the float 104.
  • Each of the four rods 106 is provided with a threaded end 112 which is received through an aperture in the base 108, allowing the rod to be secured to the base 108 by use of a complementally threaded bolt 1 14.
  • This allows the base 108 to be easily secured/removed which, in turn, allows the float 104 to be placed inside/removed from the guide assembly 102.
  • a crossbar 1 16 extends across the centre of the base 108 (i.e.
  • the crossbar 1 16 provides an elevated stop for the float 104 which prevents the float 104 from resting on the base of the reservoir in which the sensing assembly 100 is installed, and/or from resting on the inner edge of the ring of the base 108 (which could inadvertently create a seal between the float 102 and the base 108).
  • a flow gap exists between the bottom of the crossbar 1 16 and the bottom of the base 108, allowing fluid flow beneath the crossbar 116.
  • Top plate 1 10 includes a central aperture (obscured) for receiving a level sensor device, and a plurality (in this case four) of peripheral apertures 118 by which the top plate 1 10 can be secured in place using bolts or other fasteners.
  • rods 106 are welded to the top plate 1 10, however alternative securing means are, of course, possible.
  • the float 104 of the present embodiment is a substantially spherical, air-filled hollow ball. As can be seen, the diameter of the float is such that the float is received between the four rods 106 of the guide assembly 102 and is free to travel up and down within the guide assembly 106. The float 104 cannot, however, escape the guide assembly 102, ensuring that the float 104 moves along a sensing axis of a level sensor 130 (discussed below).
  • the shape/construction of the float and guide assembly will be such that the float can freely travel up. and down as the fluid level changes, and that the float provides a target area that remains elevated above the surface of the fluid and "visible" to the level sensor 130.
  • the float could be a hollow geometric "solid" of an alternative shape, such a cube, a cylinder, a prism, or other shape.
  • the guide assembly 102 could be formed of a fewer or greater number of rods.
  • the guide assembly could be formed of two or three rods with the float shaped/adapted to be guided up and down between the rods.
  • the guide assembly could be formed of a single rod, with the float adapted ⁇ to be guided up and down the single rod (e.g. by being fnovably connected to the rod by, for example, a sleeve or collar of slightly greater diameter to the rod and able to travel along the rod).
  • Sensing assembly 100 also makes use of a level sensor 130.
  • the level sensor 130 may be provided as a part of the sensing assembly 100, though could also be supplied as a separate/user installable component.
  • the level sensor 130 may be a distance sensor which determines the distance between the sensor and the float (or a target carried by the float).
  • Suitable distance sensors may include optical distance sensors (e.g. laser distance sensors) and sonic distance sensors, though typically sonic distance sensors are more cost-effective than optical/laser distance sensors. Taking a sonic distance sensor as an example, and generally speaking, a transducer is used to emit a level signal (i.e.
  • the level sensor 130 being a ToughSonic® TSPC-30 series ultrasonic distance sensor manufactured by Senix Corporation. It will be understood, however, that alternative ultrasonic distance sensors may be used, or indeed alternative types of distance sensors.
  • Level sensor 130 is mounted to/carried by the top plate 1 10 and defines a sensing axis of the sensing assembly 100 - i.e. the direction in which sensing signals are emitted from an emitter of the level sensor 130, and returned to/received by a receiver of the level sensor 130.
  • the body of the level sensor 130 includes a threaded shaft which is received through the centrally located aperture in the top plate 1 10 and secured in place by a correspondingly threaded nut.
  • Relevant connections to the sensor 130 e.g. connection to a computing system 500 as described below for data and control communications with the sensor 130, and a power connection
  • cables 132 which extend from the top of the sensor 130.
  • Float 104 includes a target area 152 which during use is maintained above the surface level of the fluid so as to be easily receptive to signals sent by the level sensor 130.
  • the path travelled by the level sensing signal between the level sensor 130 and the target area 152 is referred to as the signal path.
  • the target area 152 is provided on. a rectangular target plate 154.
  • the target area is adapted to receive the level signal from the level sensor 130, and reflect the level signal back to the level sensor 130.
  • the edges of the plate 152 are provided with upturned tab formations 156, each of which being sized arid positioned so as to stabilise the plate 312 against one of the rods 106 and prevent the ball from spinning/rotating in the guide assembly 106.
  • the guide assembly 102 keeps the target plate 154 (and target area 152) aligned with the sensing axis of the sensing assembly 100 as the float 104 rises and falls with fluid level fluctuations.
  • the surface of the float 104 may itself be the target of the level sensor 130 (in which case the target area 152 is the surface of the float 104), or the target area 152 may be provided by alternative target devices or components which are integrally formed on/with or carried by the float 104.
  • the sensing assembly 100 (or a computing system processing the sensed data as discussed below) may be configured to adjust the raw sensor readings to account for the elevation of the target area 152 above the surface of the fluid level. For example, if the properties of the fluid are such that the target area is, on average, maintained a level of x cm above the surface level of the fluid, then this can be taken into account during processing by adding x to any distance measurement.
  • the level sensor 130 can easily measure the distance to the target area 152, allowing for relatively reliable and accurate levels to be obtained. This is in contrast to the known prior art, where level signals are bounced off the surface of the fluid itself, which (depending on the characteristics of the fluid) can make accurate and reliable level readings difficult or impossible.
  • the components of the level sensing assembly 100 may be manufactured from any material suitable to the environment in which the sensing assembly 100 is to be used. Typically these will be materials that will not corrode or otherwise degrade due to exposure to the fluid the level of which is being determined, limiting both damage to the level sensing assembly 100 components and contamination of the fluid in which the assembly 100 is placed.
  • the materials should be sufficiently strong/rigid to be able to withstand forces generated when fluid (which may be quite dense and viscous) is pumped out of the fluid reservoir.
  • float 104 should also be sufficiently lightweight and buoyant so as to rise and fall with the. fluid level and not get trapped beneath the surface of the fluid.
  • stainless steel is a suitable material as it will not degrade by exposure to the waste material, and. is strong enough to withstand suction forces generated during a tank pumprout operation.
  • a spun stainless steel (or similar) provides for a float 104 that does not become trapped under the surface level of the fluid.
  • the components of the level sensing assembly 100 could, of course be manufactured from alternative materials; Such materials may, for example, include plastics such as high density polyethylene.
  • FIGS. 4A and 4B perspective and sectional elevation depictions of a fluid reservoir 400 with the level sensing assembly 100 (as described above) are provided.
  • level sensing assemblies in accordance with embodiments of the present invention could be used with a wide variety of reservoirs, tanks etc, and as such reservoir 400 is provided by way of non-limiting example only.
  • Reservoir 400 is a holding tank moulded from high density polyethylene.
  • a floor 402 of the reservoir 400 is sloped downwardly from one end 404 to the other 406 to assist in pump-out operations.
  • the upper end of wall 406 is fitted with an outlet pipe 408 capped by a camlock 410 for connection to a hose Or similar by which fluid in the reservoir 400 is pumped out and info (for example) a tanker.
  • Outlet pipe 408 is provided with an elbow 412 such that the internal end 414 of the outlet pipe is located at the bottom of the foot 416 of the, reservoir 400.
  • the top wall 418 of the reservoir 400 is fitted with an inspection/access lid 420, a one-way air inlet vent/valve 422 (to allow air into the reservoir 400 during pump out operations), and a one-way outlet vent/valve 424 (to allow air/other gases to escape the reservoir 400).
  • the outlet vent 424 is fitted with a filter (e.g. a carbon filter) to reduce odours being released.
  • Reservoir 400 is also provided with an inlet 428 by which fluid is introduced into the reservoir 400.
  • a level sensing assembly 100 Installed inside the fluid reservoir 400 is a level sensing assembly 100 as described above.
  • the sensing assembly 100 is installed such that as the fluid level in the tank 400 increases/decreases the float 104 is guided by the guide assembly 102 to rise and fall substantially vertically.
  • the fluid reservoir 400 is a closed reservoir as shown, the base 108 and top plate 1 10 of the guide assembly 102..may be respectively secured to the floor and ceiling of the reservoir 400, such that the rods 106 extend substantially vertically therebetween. Additional or alternative struts or supports could, of course be used, though care should be taken not to unduly disrupt the flow of fluid in the reservoir 400 (which could, for example, increase pump out times).
  • the level sensing assembly 100 could, of course, be located at any position in the fluid reservoir, in applications where the fluid is a highly viscous fluid (e.g. an organic waste pulp slurry as discussed below), locating the level sensing assembly 100 in a corner of the tank as shown can be advantageous. By locating the assembly 100 in a corner drag during a pump-out operation (generated due to the viscosity of the fluid flowing past/through the components of the level sensing assembly) is reduced/minimised, which in turn provides for a more efficient pump-out operation.
  • a corner drag during a pump-out operation generated due to the viscosity of the fluid flowing past/through the components of the level sensing assembly
  • waste fluid is pumped into the fluid reservoir 400 via inlet 428.
  • the float 104 also rises, its movement being restricted by the guide assembly 102 so as to maintain alignment with the level sensor 130.
  • float 102 rests on the crossbar 116 provided at the base of the guide assembly 102. This elevates the float 102 from the floor of the tank 400 (and the base 108 of the guide assembly 102) allowing fluid to easily circulate around the float as it is pumped in to the tank 400.
  • Level sensor 130 is configured to periodically determine the distance to the target area 152 of the float 104 and output a level signal to a computing system 500 (described below).
  • the frequency at which the level sensor emits a signal to determine the position of the target area may.be set as is appropriate for the environment i which the sensing assembly 100 is used. For example, in reservoirs subject to relatively rapid level changes, a polling frequency of 2 seconds (or even shorter) may be appropriate. Alternatively, for reservoirs not subject to rapid level changes, a longer polling frequency may be appropriate.
  • FIG. 5 provides a block diagram of one example of a computing system 500 suitable for use in receiving and processing data/signals from the level sensor 130 and controlling level sensor 130.
  • the computing system 500 includes at least one processing unit 502.
  • the processing unit 502 will include a single processing device (e.g. a microprocessor, programmable logic controller,; or other computational device), however the processing unit may include a plurality of processing devices.
  • the processing unit 302 is in data communication with volatile memory 504 (e.g. random access memory including one or more DRAM modules) and non-volatile memory 506 (e.g. one or more hard disk drives, solid state disk drives, and/or ROM devices such as one or more EPROMs).
  • volatile memory 504 e.g. random access memory including one or more DRAM modules
  • non-volatile memory 506 e.g. one or more hard disk drives, solid state disk drives, and/or ROM devices such as one or more EPROMs.
  • the computing system 500 also includes one or more peripheral interfaces 508 which allow the system 500 to interface with (e.g: send data to and/or receive data from) a plurality of peripheral devices.
  • Level sensor 130 is one such peripheral device, and may interface with the system 500 via (for example) an RS-232 or RS-485 interface. Other interfaces (such, as USB, firewire etc) are, of course possible.
  • Additional peripheral devices will, typically, also be provided. These may include, for example, a display device 312 (e.g. an LCD screen, LED screen, or other display device), and one or more user input devices 314 (e.g. a keyboard, pointing device, and/or user operable buttons/switches).
  • a wide variety of additional peripheral .input/output interfaces may also be provided depending on other functions to be provided by the computing system 500. By way of non non-limiting example, these may include interfaces for interfacing with touch-screens; devices connected via USB, Firewire, eSata, serial ports, parallel ports; flash memory devices (such as SD cards, Compact Flash cards etc); and drives (such as compact disc drives, DVD drives, Blue-Ray drives).
  • Computing system 500 also includes a communications interface 316.
  • a variety of communications interfaces are possible, for example a GSM modem or a Network Interface Card allowing for wired or wireless connection to a network.
  • the computing system 500 can communicate with other computing systems via a network 518. These may be local devices on a local area network, and/or devices accessible via a public network such as a mobile network or the Internet.
  • Control of the computer system 500 is achieved , by computer software programs/applications run on the computer system 500. These programs include computer- readable instructions which are executed by the processing unit 502 to implement the relevant actions.
  • computing system 500 may be a PC running an operating system such as Windows® 7. Alternative computing systems and operating systems are, of course, possible. .
  • the level signal provided by the level sensor is received by the computing system 500 and, typically, stored (along with information such as date and time and identification information - e.g. a serial number or other identifier of the level sensor 130) in a database on memory 506.
  • The. level signal is then processed by the computing system 500 to provide users with level-based information.
  • the level-based information may include a variety of information based directly on the level information and/or on ancillary information, such as historical level or other data.
  • level-based information may include information such as: raw level data (e.g. the sensed distance between the target area 152 and the level sensor 130); tie volume of fluid sensed in the tank (e.g.
  • the remaining capacity of the tank 400 e.g. based on the sensed volume of fluid and the known capacity of the tank 400
  • an estimated time until the tank will reach full capacity e.g. based on usage statistics
  • a recommended time at which the fluid reservoir should be emptied e.g. based on current capacity and usage statistics.
  • the level-based information can be used to provide information/statistical data on reservoir and waste usage. For example, when pumping a reservoir out the volume pumped out can be determined according to the most recent sensed level. In many circumstances measuring, the volume pumped out in this manner will be simpler/more cost effective than doing so using flow sensors of similar to directly calculate the volume of fluid pumped.
  • the volumetric data on pump-out operations can then be used for billing i purposes (e.g. where disposal is charged at , a per-litre rate) and other environmental reporting data. Once again, this usage information may be made available to reservoir users to allow them to view their waste usage patterns over a given time period.
  • level-based information may be continuously displayed/updated on a dedicated display unit (e.g. 512) provided on the fluid reservoir 400 and/or at the source of the fluid being . transported to the fluid reservoir (such as the display of the Putrescible organic waste treatment system 600 discussed below).
  • a dedicated display unit e.g. 512
  • LeVel-based information may also, or alternatively, be periodically communicated to users by, for example, emailing email addresses provided in a mailing list of relevant users r sending messages (e.g. sms's and/or automatically generated voice messages) to phone numbers provided in a phone list of relevant users, and/or paging relevant users.
  • Relevant users may, for example, be the operator/owner of the fluid reservoir and the organisation responsible for collecting fluid from the fluid reservoir.
  • Computer system 500 may be configured to send such communications directly via a communications interface 516, or may be configured to send level based information to a further computing device which, in turn, is configured to send the communications.
  • computing device 500 may include a GSM modem which sends level-based information to a distribution list of phone numbers.
  • computing device may include an Internet connection interface (e.g. a network interface card) and send communications to users via a network such as the Internet.
  • System 500 may be programmed to send communications each time a level signal is received at system 500 from the level sensor 130 or only when a level signal indicative of a change in the level of the fluid is received by the system 500. More typically, however, communications will only be sent when particular threshold levels are sensed (e.g.
  • system 500 may be programmed with multiple predefined thresholds, and configured to take different actions depending on which threshold has been reached. For example, when the level sensed indicates the tank 400 is at 50% capacity, a communication may be sent to a "regular" distribution list of email addresses/phone numbers. If, however, the level sensed indicates the tank 400 is at 95% capacity, a communication may sent to an "important" distribution list of email addresses/phone numbers.
  • computer system 500 may be configured to make reservoir and level-based information available via a user-accessible web-site (reservoir information may, for example, include a reservoir identifier, the physical location of the reservoir, the owner/operator of the reservoir, the next scheduled emptying of the reservoir, etc).
  • Access to such a website may be limited by requiring a user account and/or valid login/authentication details.
  • such an arrangement allows for relevant parties to monitor the level-based information of a fluid reservoir 400 from anywhere. This may be particularly advantageous where a single organisation owns/uses, or is responsible for emptying, a number of separate fluid reservoirs.
  • a single website may be provided showing level-based information for all fluid reservoirs relevant to a particular user.
  • Each individual fluid reservoir may be uniquely identified (for example based on physical location, a serial number, or other information) and level-based information provided in a way that allows the user to quickly and easily determine the levels of all relevant tanks.
  • This may, for example, be by a display showing the relevant tanks (and associated information) along with a visual representation of the capacity and current level of each tank.
  • the tanks may, for example, be displayed in a list or table, or may be displayed on a map, each tank being positioned on the map according to its actual location.
  • the visual representation of each tank may be colour-coded according to the sensed level. For example, tanks with a sensed fluid level below a predefined "safe” threshold (e.g. 60%) may be shown in green, tanks with a sensed fluid level above a predefined "danger” threshold (e.g. 90%) may be shown in red, and tanks with a sensed fluid level between the "safe” and “danger” thresholds may be displayed in yellow.
  • a predefined "safe” threshold e.g. 60%
  • tanks with a sensed fluid level above a predefined "danger” threshold e.g. 90%
  • tanks with a sensed fluid level between the "safe” and “danger” thresholds may
  • Various intermediate thresholds/colour codings may, of course, also be used. This allows a user to very quickly review all tanks under their responsibility in order to determine which (if any) of the tanks need to be emptied as a matter of urgency, which are substantially empty, and which are in-between.
  • This information may also be used by collection agencies to efficiently plan tank -emptying runs, particularly where tank information is displayed on a map and a user can visually determine the relative 3 ⁇ 4 physical locations of the various tanks.
  • the information may be input into an algorithm to automatically plan the most efficient path for a collection run (i.e. one that provides a shortest path covering all tanks that are. considered to need emptying).
  • computing system 500 will also be programmed to control the operation of various components of the system(s) which deliver fluid to the fluid reservoir 400 according to the level-based information. For example, if the level-based information is such at the tank 400 is at (or approaching) capacity, system 500 may control relevant .components/systems to prevent further fluid being transported to the fluid reservoir. .
  • computing system 500 may also be programmed to interpret any fault signal received from .the level sensor 130 (or, in fact, absence of a signal from the level sensor 130 as could occur, for example, if the sensor 130 had ceased operating) as being a full tank 400 and prevent further fluid being transported to the tank 400.
  • FIG. 6 provides a schematic diagram of a putrescible Organic waste treatment system 600 including the fluid reservoir of Figure 6.
  • System 600 is similar to the system described in PCT/AU2008/000685 (publication number WO 2008/138069, . titled 'Putrescible organic waste treatment” and published on 20 November 2008), the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.
  • Putrescible organic waste treatment system 600 that includes a comminution unit 602 having an outlet 604 that is in fluid communication with fluid reservoir 400.
  • the comminution unit 602 includes an internal chamber 604 which is used to receive putrescible organic waste.
  • the internal chamber 604 is located above a comminution means 606 which is used to comminute and masticate the, putrescible organic waste.
  • the system 600 also includes a control panel 608 that is used to display information and control the comminution unit 602.
  • the comminution means 606 in the form of a grinding unit which is operable by a motor
  • the comminution unit also includes a mechanical brake 612 for stopping the grinding unit 606. It will be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, other comminution units may also be used, for example cutting blades, and the motor 610 may be either internal or external to the comminution unit, and the brake 612 need not be provided. .
  • a water supply 614 is also connected to the comminution unit 602 and is controlled by the computing device 622. Water from the water supply 614 is introduced into the comminution unit 602 at the internal chamber 604 by water jet 618 and at the grinding unit 606 by water jet 620. If required additional water inlet jets may be provided in the comminution unit 602. For example, if a pump is used to pump the waste pulp from the comminution unit 602 to the fluid reservoir 400 (as opposed to the vacuum arrangement described below) an additional water inlet may be placed between the grinding unit 606 and the pump to prime the pump before use. In addition, one or more jets may be directed to spray on the under-surface of the lid 638 to ensure no waste material becomes stuck thereon. Putrescible organic waste treatment system 600 also includes a computing device 622.
  • Computing device 622 is programmed to receive information regarding the operating parameters of the comminution means from the comminution means, and oh the basis of that information control the grinding unit 606 and the water supplied to the comminution unit during comminution of the putrescible 1,7 organic waste. Computing device 622, also receives information from the/level sensing assembly 100. : ⁇ '
  • the motor 610 may be fitted with a load sensor 624 for sensing the load on the motor 610.
  • the load sensor 624 will read only a low load and the computing device 622 will not supply a large amount of water.
  • the load sensor 624 will read a high load and the computing device 622 .will supply a greater amount of water to aid in the comminution and transport of comminuted waste.
  • the computing device 622 can interpret this to be that there is no more material requiring comminution and switch the grinding unit 606 off.
  • the computing device 622 can be programmed to interpret this as an indication that the grinding unit 606 has become stuck and should either be shut off or the direction of rotation changed (as discussed below) in order to prevent damage to the grinding unit 606 or the motor 610.
  • the computing device 622 When the computing device 622 cuts power to the grinding unit 606 (for example at the end of a cycle or in the event of a blockage/jam or some other fault) the computing device 622 also operates the brake 612 in order to halt the rotation of the comminution means 606. Although without power the comminution means 606 would, of course, eventually stop turning of its own accord (and therefore a brake 612 is not strictly necessary) by providing a brake 612 the grinding unit 606 will come to a halt in a shorter period of time, allowing for stoppage time (either due to a malfunction or merely time between cycles) to be minimised.
  • the computing device 622 can automatically determine and add the appropriate; amount o water to ensure that any one or more of the following pulp characteristics are produced by the comminution unit: a defined pulp density; a range of pulp densities; a defined moisture content; a range of moisture contents; flow characteristic; or a range of flow characteristics.
  • the density, moisture content and flow characteristics may be selected to ensure the most efficient transportation of the pulp waste material, or selected to optimise the pulp waste material for further use.
  • the further use of the pulp waste material may be transportation to a biogas plant for use in a digester for the production of biogas.
  • the computing device 622 can be programmed to introduce a predetermined volume of water during each comminution cycle.
  • An appropriate volume of water per cycle may be between 2 to 5 litres, this volume divided between the water jets 618 and 620.
  • the computing device 622 can be programmed to vary the amount of water supplied according to the load on the motor 610.
  • Water jets 618 and 620 are fed by a mains water line 614 which includes an on/off control valve 626.
  • Valve 626 is a variable valve and is able to vary the flow of water from between 0% to 100% of the total available water flow, depending on the desired flow characteristics and pulp density required
  • the outlet 628 of the comminution unit 602 is connected to the fluid reservoir 400 via outlet line 630.
  • fluid reservoir 400 is fitted with a vacuum pump 632 for depressurising the fluid reservoir 400.
  • waste from the comminution unit 602 is transferred through the pipes by the suction created in the sealed fluid reservoir 400.
  • a standard pump 634 may be installed to pump the waste from the comminution unit s 602 to the tank 400.
  • Fluid reservoir 400 is also connected to an outlet (e.g. pipe 408) which includes an interface (such as camlock 410).
  • an outlet e.g. pipe 408
  • an interface such as camlock 410
  • the valve 408 is manually operable to enable an operator to , empty the fluid reservoir 400 independently of the comminution Unit 602 and computing device 622.
  • the system 600 may be incorporated within a single unit so as to be conveniently located adjacent; a food preparation or processing area, for example in a kitchen or a food processing plant.
  • a unit' may be appropriately , sized, for example to a size similar to that of a domestic clothes washing machine.
  • the comminution unit 602 further includes a lid 638 which pivots about pivot joint 640 and is used to cover the chamber 604 when the comminution unit is in operation.
  • the lid is designed to be lifted by an electronic actuator (not shown) which is also linked to computing device 622.
  • the computing device 622 is programmed not to allow the comminution means to operate when the lid is open.
  • the upper part 604 of the chamber is provided with sloping walls so as to funnel the putrescible organic waste material onto the grinding unit 606.
  • the water jet 618 (which may be one of multiple jets placed around the periphery of the upper part 604 of the chamber) is directed onto the surface of the funnel to produce centrifugal flow of water and thereby ensure that all waste material is substantially funnelled onto grinding unit 606.
  • the grinding unit 606 comminutes and masticates the putrescible organic waste material in the presence of the water to produce a putrescible organic waste pulp.
  • the computer processing device 622 is, also configured to store a log of data concerning the operation of the comminution unit 602 and the level ' of fluid reservoir 400.
  • Information processed, logged, and or communicated may include, for example: the number and type of comminution cycles performed by the comminution unit; the total time which the comminution unit 602 has been operated for; the load information as sensed by the load sensor 624; the control operations selected by a user; the configuration of the controller 622 (such as communicatiori settings, ' griridihg unit 606 settings, door 640 settings); the volume of water used during the comminution cycles; how the capacity of the fluid reservoir 400 has changed with each comminution cycle; the present capacity of the fluid reservoir 400; machine faults.
  • This data may be used to determine, for example, if and when upcoming maintenance of the various components (such as the motor 610 or grinding unit 606) of the comminution unit 602 may be required, when the fluid reservoir 400 will require emptying, and general statistical information such as the efficiency of the comminution unit 602 with respect to water usage.
  • the lid 638 is raised by an operator of the comminution unit 602, or automatically by the actuator means. Putrescible organic waste is loaded in the chamber 604.
  • the lid 638 is closed and the operator, using the control panel 608, initiates the operation of the comminution unit 606, and a signal is sent to the computing device 622 which initiates a comminution cycle.
  • the computing device 622 actuates the valve 626 so that a jet of water is supplied to the chamber 604 and (if required) the grinding unit 606.
  • the jet 618 is located at a position on the cone to cause the fluid to travel centrifugally to ensure that the waste material is swept off the walls of the chamber 604.
  • the opening of the internal chamber 604 leads onto the grinding unit 606 allowing the grinding' unit 606 pulp the material to a predefined size.
  • the valve 626 is actuated for a period of time set by the computing device 622 utilising information received from the load sensor 624 to supply volume of water to water jets 618 and 620 so that an optimal Waste pulp will be produced.
  • the operation of the grinding unit 606 itself is also controlled by the controller 622 on the basis of the sensed load on the motor 610. ; . ; " '
  • the optimal pulp density is determined to ensure that the pulp is optimal for transportation to and from the fluid reservoir 400.
  • the system 600 may be optionally operated without the comminution means 606 being operated, whilst the waste is delivered to the fluid reservoir 400.
  • Such liquids provide high energy feedstock for digestion by a biodigestor. It will be appreciated that although such liquids may be introduced into the system and be added to a pulp already contained within the fluid reservoir 400, the predetermined water content or density can be maintained by the addition of water, or alternatively by decanting excess ⁇ vater should there be an excess.
  • the contents of the fluid reservoir 400 can be periodically evacuated/removed by transportation such as by waste transportation truck.
  • the waste pulp may, for example, be transported to a biogas production plant which utilises the waste pulp as production feed for the production of a biogas.
  • the level sensing assembly 100 of the fluid reservoir 400 sends the level signal to the computing device 622.
  • the computing device 622 can then displays level- based information on the control panel 22 to allow users to determine when the level of the tank 400 is approaching full.
  • the computing device 622 may be programmed to display to the user that only a set number of comminution cycles will be allowed before the must be emptied.
  • the computing device 622 will prevent operation of the system 600 until the tank 400 has been emptied.
  • the computing device controller 30 also prevents operation of the comminution unit 602 if no signal is received from the level sensing assembly 100.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • Acoustics & Sound (AREA)
  • Electromagnetism (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Automation & Control Theory (AREA)
  • Processing Of Solid Wastes (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un ensemble de détection de niveau (100) permettant de mesurer le niveau d'un fluide dans un réservoir (400). L'ensemble de détection de niveau (100) comprend un ensemble guide (102) et un flotteur (104) conçu pour être guidé par l'ensemble guide (102) de manière à monter et descendre en fonction des variations du niveau du fluide, ceci entraînant une variation de la longueur du chemin de signal parcouru par un signal de détection de niveau. La longueur du chemin de signal peut être utilisée par un capteur de niveau (130) afin de déterminer le niveau du fluide.
PCT/AU2011/000751 2011-06-21 2011-06-21 Système et procédé de détermination du niveau d'un fluide Ceased WO2012174582A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/AU2011/000751 WO2012174582A1 (fr) 2011-06-21 2011-06-21 Système et procédé de détermination du niveau d'un fluide

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/AU2011/000751 WO2012174582A1 (fr) 2011-06-21 2011-06-21 Système et procédé de détermination du niveau d'un fluide

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WO2012174582A1 true WO2012174582A1 (fr) 2012-12-27

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Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2015199886A1 (fr) * 2014-06-27 2015-12-30 Emerson Electric Co. Systèmes et procédés de surveillance et de planification de collecte pour système d'élimination, de stockage et de traitement de déchets alimentaires
CN113778143A (zh) * 2021-08-31 2021-12-10 太原市水利技术推广服务站 一种村镇水利工程高位池水位自动监测及补充装置

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3693445A (en) * 1970-06-26 1972-09-26 Sven J Johnson Liquid level measurement device
US5073253A (en) * 1990-07-11 1991-12-17 Phillips Petroleum Company Froth level measurement
US5257090A (en) * 1991-11-27 1993-10-26 United Technologies Corporation Laser diode liquid-level/distance measurement
WO2008138069A1 (fr) * 2007-05-15 2008-11-20 Pioneer Waste Management Australia Pty Limited Traitement des déchets organiques putrescibles

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3693445A (en) * 1970-06-26 1972-09-26 Sven J Johnson Liquid level measurement device
US5073253A (en) * 1990-07-11 1991-12-17 Phillips Petroleum Company Froth level measurement
US5257090A (en) * 1991-11-27 1993-10-26 United Technologies Corporation Laser diode liquid-level/distance measurement
WO2008138069A1 (fr) * 2007-05-15 2008-11-20 Pioneer Waste Management Australia Pty Limited Traitement des déchets organiques putrescibles

Cited By (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2015199886A1 (fr) * 2014-06-27 2015-12-30 Emerson Electric Co. Systèmes et procédés de surveillance et de planification de collecte pour système d'élimination, de stockage et de traitement de déchets alimentaires
WO2015199884A1 (fr) * 2014-06-27 2015-12-30 Emerson Electric Co. Estimation de teneur en énergie pour système de broyage, stockage et traitement de déchets alimentaires
WO2015199888A3 (fr) * 2014-06-27 2016-02-25 Emerson Electric Co. Recommandations de surveillance, diagnostic et maintenance pour système de mise au rebut, stockage et traitement de déchets alimentaires
US10399088B2 (en) 2014-06-27 2019-09-03 Emerson Electric Co. Food waste storage and treatment system
CN113778143A (zh) * 2021-08-31 2021-12-10 太原市水利技术推广服务站 一种村镇水利工程高位池水位自动监测及补充装置
CN113778143B (zh) * 2021-08-31 2024-03-29 太原市水利技术推广服务站 一种村镇水利工程高位池水位自动监测及补充装置

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