CN116767643A - Monitoring device, reservoir and method for mounting a monitoring device at a reservoir - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a monitoring device for a reservoir having a plurality of support members, comprising: at least one load cell module having a base plate for attachment to a support surface and an elongated measurement device attached to the base plate; and at least one adapter unit configured to be attached to a support member of the reservoir and rest on the measurement device; wherein the base plate of the at least one load cell module comprises a recess allowing the base plate to at least partially circumferentially surround the support member when mounted, and the measuring device is arranged on the base plate such that the measuring device extends at least partially above the recess. The invention also relates to a reservoir and a method for mounting a monitoring device at a reservoir.

Description

Monitoring device, reservoir and method for mounting a monitoring device at a reservoir

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a monitoring device for a reservoir and a reservoir comprising such a monitoring device according to the appended claims. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for installing such a monitoring device according to the appended claims.

Background

Large elevated reservoirs such as silos or hoppers typically need to be monitored to ensure proper function and to ensure adequate access to the contents of the reservoir. By monitoring the weight of the reservoir, an alert may be provided to the user when the reservoir is refilled when the weight indication is. Furthermore, monitoring weight can be used to avoid uncertainty in the availability of animal feed in the silo, thereby optimizing the feed ordering plan as well as the refilling plan of the silo. Various electronic devices have been used to monitor the weight of such reservoirs. Such an electronic device may be equipped with a load cell (load cell) arranged below the reservoir for monitoring the level of the content in the reservoir by measuring the weight of the reservoir.

A disadvantage of the known monitoring system for a reservoir is that the measuring equipment, such as the load cell, is difficult to retrofit to the reservoir. Typically, such retrofit operations require heavy machinery such as cranes and manpower to lift the reservoir. Thus, retrofitting a reservoir is often a very complex and expensive project. Furthermore, stresses due to the heavy loads and moments imposed by the reservoir affect the monitoring system and shorten the life of the components of the monitoring system, which increases the need for replacement and repair.

Other solutions do not require heavy machinery to lift the reservoir. One example presented in document US 2020/033169 discloses a system comprising a load unit, a support plate, a bolt, an inner leg mount mounted on the load unit and an outer bracket. However, the system includes multiple components with complex connections, which makes the system bulky, less robust, and complex to install.

Document WO 2020/024067 discloses a compression load unit and a load unit base support for holding the load unit on the ground. Both the load unit base and the load unit are located inside the support element, which makes the system compact but also complicated to install.

Thus, there is a need for an uncomplicated monitoring device to retrofit a currently in place reservoir. Furthermore, there is a need for a reservoir monitoring device that is compact, durable, and reliable when subjected to heavy loads and pressures.

Disclosure of Invention

Despite the solutions known in the art, it would be desirable to develop a monitoring device that overcomes or mitigates at least some of the disadvantages of the prior art.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to achieve a monitoring device that provides reliable monitoring information even when subjected to heavy loads and stresses.

Another object of the invention is to achieve a monitoring device that is not complex and that can be retrofitted directly to a currently in place reservoir.

It is a further object of the present invention to achieve a monitoring device that is easy to install and maintain while providing a compact, space-saving arrangement.

It is a further object of the present invention to achieve a monitoring device that is durable, robust and cost effective.

It is a further object of the invention to achieve a reservoir and a method which enable a high reliability of monitoring while providing a simple installation and reduced maintenance requirements and an optimized space use.

These objects are achieved by a monitoring device, a reservoir and a method according to the appended claims.

Thus, according to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a monitoring device for a reservoir having a plurality of support members. The monitoring device includes: at least one load cell module having a base plate for attachment to a support surface and an elongated measurement device attached to the base plate; and at least one adapter unit configured to be attached to a support member of the reservoir and rest on the measurement device; wherein the base plate of the at least one load cell module comprises a recess allowing the base plate to at least partially circumferentially surround the support member when mounted, and the measuring device is arranged on the base plate such that the measuring device extends at least partially above the recess. The monitoring device may be used to monitor the weight of the reservoir.

The use of monitoring devices for monitoring the reservoir, such as a silo or a hopper, provides the possibility to ensure proper functioning of the reservoir and sufficient access to the contents of the reservoir. For example, where the reservoir contains animal feed, monitoring the reservoir enables a user of the monitoring device to ensure that there is always sufficient feed for the animal. Furthermore, when there is an insufficient supply in the reservoir, an alarm may be given to the user so that he/she may refill the reservoir and/or order new feed in time. Furthermore, the food conversion can be monitored in real time by means of a monitoring device such as disclosed herein. The food conversion rate may provide the following indication: how much unit animal meat is produced per unit animal feed, e.g., how much kg chicken is produced from one kg chicken feed. The monitoring device typically includes electronics, such as a load cell, that facilitates operation of the monitoring device by recording elastic deformation corresponding to the load from the reservoir or the weight of the reservoir. Based on the load/weight, the level of the contents in the reservoir may be determined. The load unit is typically arranged below the support member of the reservoir and should be arranged in a stable manner, as the load unit bears the weight of the support member and thereby supports at least a portion of the reservoir. Thus, the configuration of the monitoring device and the position of the load unit relative to the support member of the reservoir affect the stability of the reservoir as a whole.

By means of the recess in the base plate of the at least one load cell module allowing the base plate to at least partly circumferentially surround the support member, the monitoring device according to the present disclosure provides a stable device which is compact and space-saving. The base plate at least partially circumferentially surrounds the support member increases the stability of the base plate, and the recess in the base plate means that less material can be used and the base plate covers a smaller area. Furthermore, the measuring device is arranged such that the measuring device extends at least partially over the recess, allowing the measuring device to deform under the load of the reservoir. The existing shape of the base plate ensures resistance to tilting and also enables the measuring device to be positioned closer to the centre of gravity of the support member without any loss of stability of the reservoir and the monitoring device. Thus, by means of the recess in the base plate, the fulcrum of the measuring device may be positioned closer to the center of gravity of the support member to which the measuring device is connected. This reduces the stress exerted on the measuring device, thereby making the measuring device more durable and longer-lived. Furthermore, this configuration increases safety by preventing the support member from bending, and is advantageous because the position of the measuring device mitigates the consequences of potential component failure that may be caused by high mechanical stresses imposed on the support member of the reservoir.

Furthermore, a monitoring device comprising an elongated measuring device attached to a base plate and an adapter unit configured to be attached to a support member of a reservoir and resting on the measuring device provides a robust solution that yields reliable monitoring information and which is easier to retrofit to a currently in place reservoir.

The at least one adapter unit may be configured to be attached in a cavity of the support member, and the at least one load cell module may be configured to be arranged such that the measuring device extends into the cavity. In this way, the adapter unit is protected inside the cavity and a robust and space-saving monitoring device is achieved.

The monitoring device may further comprise at least one load support element configured to be arranged between the at least one adapter unit and the measuring means of the at least one load cell module, wherein the at least one load support element comprises a curved surface. The at least one load support element may be arranged on the measuring device and the at least one load cell module may be configured to be arranged such that the at least one adapter unit abuts a curved surface of the load support element when mounted. The load support element is configured to compensate for any angular displacement between the load cell module and the adapter unit by means of the curved surface.

The at least one load cell module may comprise a sensor device arranged in the measuring device for sensing deformations of the measuring device, which sensor device is operatively connectable to the control unit.

The measuring device and the at least one adapter unit may be configured to be connected to each other by means of fasteners extending through the measuring device and the at least one adapter unit. For connection by means of the fastener, the at least one adapter unit may comprise a first through-hole having a first diameter, and the measuring device may comprise a second through-hole having a second diameter, wherein the first diameter is larger than the second diameter. In case the monitoring device comprises a load supporting element, the measuring means and the adapter unit of the monitoring device may be configured to be connected to each other by means of fasteners extending through the adapter unit, the load supporting element and the measuring means. A second through hole having a second diameter may extend through the load support element and the measurement device when the load support element is disposed on the measurement device. When the load support element is arranged on the adapter unit, a first through hole having a first diameter may extend through the adapter unit and the load support element. The second through hole in the measuring device is suitably threaded and thus the fastener may be rigidly connected to the measuring device by means of the threads. The first diameter of the first through hole in the adapter unit may be larger than the diameter of the fastener.

By applying through holes of different sizes in the adapter unit and the measuring device, respectively, movement between the components can be achieved when the measuring device is deformed. This connection configuration between the measuring device and the adapter unit thus provides a clearance fit between the components, which results in a more durable connection. In this way, the connection does not risk breaking or tearing due to being too rigid, for example when subjected to heavy loads from the weight of the reservoir and/or to vibrations due to filling or emptying the reservoir. The connection between the adapter unit and the measuring device via the load support element may also be referred to as a bolted connection, which may act as a bearing-type joint allowing movement between the adapter unit rigidly attached to the support member and the measuring device rigidly attached to the base plate. As such, the monitoring device according to the present disclosure not only increases the technical life of the components in the monitoring device, but also provides greater mounting tolerances.

The monitoring device may further comprise at least one spring washer configured to be arranged around the fastener at the at least one adapter unit. The spring washer increases the durability of the connection between the adapter unit and the measuring device by providing a vibration resistance while maintaining a resistance against rotation of the fastener. Furthermore, the arrangement of the spring washer around the fastener will allow some vertical movement between the adapter unit and the measuring device without compromising the stability of the connection.

The monitoring device may further comprise a control unit operatively coupled to the at least one load cell module. More specifically, the control unit may be operatively coupled to the sensor arrangement of the at least one load cell module. When the monitoring device comprises a plurality of load cell modules, the weight of the reservoir will be distributed over all load cell modules. Thus, the control unit will be configured to receive electrical signals from all load cell modules and to determine the total weight of the reservoir based on these signals.

The monitoring device may further comprise a lifting arrangement configured for use during installation at the support member of the reservoir, wherein the lifting arrangement comprises a lifting adapter configured to be attached to the support member and a lifter configured to interact with the lifting adapter to lift the support member above the support surface. By means of the lifting means, advantageous assembly/mounting conditions are achieved, thereby facilitating retrofitting of the reservoir in current use. With the lifting device, the installation can be done by one person. Thus, installation is facilitated, which saves both resources and costs.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a reservoir having a plurality of support members is provided. The reservoir comprises a monitoring device as disclosed herein, wherein at least one adapter unit of the monitoring device is attached on a support member of the reservoir, and the at least one load cell module is arranged such that the base plate at least partially circumferentially surrounds the support member and such that the at least one adapter unit rests on the measuring means.

It will be appreciated that a monitoring device as disclosed herein may comprise a plurality of load cell modules and adapter units, suitably one load cell module and one adapter unit for each support member of the reservoir to be monitored.

The support member of the reservoir may be shaped such that the support member forms a cavity into which the adapter unit may be inserted and attached. The cavity may also be referred to as a chamber, space or opening. For example, the support member may have a substantially U-shaped, omega-shaped or C-shaped profile or cross-section.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a method for mounting a monitoring device as disclosed herein at a reservoir having a plurality of support members is provided. The method comprises the following steps: attaching at least one adapter unit to a support member; lifting the support member above the support surface; positioning at least one load cell module such that the base plate at least partially circumferentially surrounds the support member; and positioning the support member such that the at least one adapter unit rests on the measuring device of the at least one load cell module. It should be understood that the features and advantages mentioned in relation to the monitoring device as disclosed herein are also applicable to the method. The method may be a retrofit method and the monitoring device may therefore be installed at a reservoir already in use. Alternatively, the monitoring device is mounted simultaneously with the reservoir.

The step of lifting the support member may comprise: attaching a lifting adapter to the support member; and lifting the support member above the support surface by means of a lifter interacting with the lifting adapter.

The step of positioning at least one load cell module may comprise positioning the at least one load cell module such that the measuring device extends into a cavity formed by the contour shape of the support member.

Attaching the lift adapter may include attaching the lift adapter on a side of the support member opposite the adapter unit by using fasteners for attaching the adapter unit.

The load cell module may be a strain gauge module, such as a bending beam load cell module. The measuring device of the load cell module may thus be referred to as a bending beam load cell. Such a load cell is subjected to elastic deformation under stress, indicating the weight of the entity being measured. The features and functions of the load cell are considered to be common general knowledge and therefore the specific details of the measuring device will not be discussed herein. With the monitoring apparatus as disclosed herein, the adapter unit will rest on the measuring device of the load cell module and the weight/load of the support member/reservoir is thus exerted on the measuring device. The measuring device will thus elastically deform, i.e. bend, under the weight of the reservoir. Thus, the deformation may correspond to the weight of the reservoir, which may give an indication of the amount of material in the reservoir. The load cell module is thus configured to detect deformations of the measuring device.

The elevated reservoir with the plurality of support members may be positioned on a concrete slab, platform or foundation. In other examples, the support member of the reservoir may rest on a floor in the warehouse, for example, composed of other materials than concrete. Thus, it should be understood that the base plate configured to be attached to a support surface includes a base plate configured to be attached to a concrete base, a mounting platform, a floor, or any support surface for a reservoir.

Other objects, advantages and novel features of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description and by practicing the invention. Although the invention is described below, it is evident that the invention is not limited to the details of the specific description. Those skilled in the art who have access to the teachings herein will recognize additional applications, modifications, and combinations in other areas, which are within the scope of the present invention.

Drawings

For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure, as well as further objects and advantages thereof, reference should be made to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals in the various figures denote similar items, and in which:

Fig. 1a to 1b schematically illustrate details of a monitoring device for a reservoir according to an example;

fig. 2a to 2b schematically illustrate a front view and a cross-sectional view, respectively, of a monitoring device according to an example;

FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a monitoring device for a reservoir according to an example;

FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a reservoir having a plurality of support members according to an example;

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates details of a monitoring device for a reservoir according to an example;

FIG. 6 illustrates a flow chart of a method for installing a monitoring device according to an example;

FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a monitoring device for a reservoir according to an example; and

fig. 8 schematically illustrates a monitoring device for a reservoir according to an example.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1a and 1b schematically illustrate details of a monitoring device 1 for a reservoir according to an example. The reservoir may be constructed as disclosed in fig. 4. The monitoring device 1 comprises a load cell module 3 shown in fig. 1a and 1 b. The load cell module 3 comprises a base plate 31, the base plate 31 being for attachment to a support surface, such as a floor, a concrete base or the ground. The load cell modules 3 shown in fig. 1a and 1b are constructed in a similar manner, but the base plate 31 is of a different size. The load cell module 3 further comprises an elongated measuring device 37 attached to the base plate 31. As shown in fig. 2a, 2b and 3, the monitoring device 1 further comprises an adapter unit 4, which adapter unit 4 is configured to be attached to a support member of the reservoir and rest on the measuring means 37. The support member of the reservoir may be of the type shown in fig. 2a to 5, but variations are possible within the scope of the invention. The base plate 31 of the load cell module 3 comprises a recess 32, which recess 32 allows the base plate 31 to at least partly circumferentially surround the support member when mounted. The measuring device 37 is arranged on the base plate 31 such that the measuring device 37 extends at least partially over the recess 32 and such that the measuring device 37 can be deformed.

The load cell module 3 may be a strain gauge module, such as a bending beam load cell module. The measuring device 37 of the load cell module 3 may thus be referred to as a bending beam load cell. The measuring means 37 may undergo elastic deformation under the load of the support member, thereby indicating the weight of the reservoir.

The recess 32 of the base plate 31 allows the base plate 31 to at least partially surround the support member of the reservoir in the circumferential direction. When installed, the edges of the recess 32 extend at least partially along the circumference/perimeter of the support member. The support member, including any support plates associated with the support member, may have a variety of cross-sectional shapes and sizes, and thus the recess 32 may be shaped to mate with the cross-section of the support member. In these examples, the recess 32 has a substantially rectangular shape, but the recess 32 may have a substantially circular shape, a square shape, or the like. The recess 32 may be formed in the base plate 31 such that the base plate 31 is substantially U-shaped.

The base plate 31 may comprise one central portion 33 and two protrusions 35, the two protrusions 35 extending substantially perpendicularly from the central portion 33. The two protrusions 35 may be arranged at opposite ends of the central portion 33. The two protrusions 35 may be configured to extend along a portion of the circumference of the support member. The two protrusions 35 may be adjustable in length to fit the desired support member. As an example, the protrusion 35 shown in fig. 1b extends further from the central portion 33 than the protrusion shown in fig. 1 a. Although not shown in this figure, the two protrusions 35 may be arranged at an angle with respect to the central portion 33 in order to properly fit the support member, wherein the angle is greater than 90 degrees. Thus, the two protrusions 35 may be separated in a direction away from the central portion 33.

The central portion 33 may comprise at least one attachment point 34 for attaching the base plate 31 to a support surface on which the reservoir is arranged. The attachment points 34 may be configured as through holes in the base plate 31 that are adapted to receive fasteners, such as screws or bolts. The central portion 33 may include a plurality of attachment points 34, and in these examples, the central portion 33 includes two attachment points 34. The protrusion 35 may further comprise at least one attachment point 36, each attachment point 36 for attaching the base plate 31 to a support surface. The attachment points 36 on the protrusions 35 may be configured as through holes in the base plate 31 adapted to receive fasteners, such as screws or bolts. Arranging both attachment points 34, 36 of the base plate 31 in the central portion 33 and the protrusions 35 results in a stable base plate 31, which base plate 31 is firmly attached to the support surface and prevented from tilting.

An elongated measuring device 37 is arranged on the base plate 31 such that the measuring device 37 extends over the recess 32. The recess 32 will in this way allow the measuring device 37 to deform/bend in a downward direction due to the load exerted on the measuring device without touching the base plate 31 or the ground. Typically, the measuring device 37 is attached to the central portion 33 of the base plate 31. The measuring means 37 may thus extend parallel to the projection 35 of the base plate 31.

The load cell module 3 of the monitoring apparatus 1 further comprises a sensor device 38, the sensor device 38 being arranged in the measuring device 37 for sensing deformations of the measuring device 37. The sensor device 38 is operatively connectable to a control unit (71, see fig. 3). The sensor device 38 may comprise a strain gauge or the like. The sensor device 38 may be configured to convert the detected deformation into an electrical signal and send the electrical signal to the control unit 71. The sensor device 38 may comprise a transmitter or be electrically connected to a transmitter for transmitting data to the control unit 71.

The monitoring device 1 may further comprise a load support element 5, which load support element 5 is configured to be arranged between the measuring means 37 and the adapter unit 4. The load support element 5 will be further described with reference to fig. 2 b.

Fig. 2a to 2b schematically illustrate a front view and a cross-sectional view, respectively, of a monitoring device 1 according to an example. In these figures, the monitoring device 1 is mounted at a support member 21 of the reservoir. Fig. 2a shows an adapter unit 4 of the monitoring device 1, the adapter unit 4 being attached to the support member 21 in a cavity 23 formed by the contour shape of the support member 21. The load cell module 3 is thus arranged such that the measuring device 37 extends into the cavity 23. The cavity 23 may also be referred to as a chamber, space or opening. The support member 21 may include a rear wall 22 and two side walls 24 extending away from the rear wall 22. The side wall 24 may constitute a short end of the support member 21 and the rear wall 22 may constitute a long end of the support member 21, or the side wall 24 may constitute a long end of the support member 21 and the rear wall 22 may constitute a short end of the support member 21. A cavity 23 is formed between the rear wall 22 and the side walls 24. In this example, the adapter unit 4 of the monitoring device 1 is attached to the rear wall 22 of the support member 21 inside the cavity 23.

The recess 32 of the base plate 31 is here adapted to the shape of the support plate 25 of the support member 21. The load cell module 3 of the monitoring apparatus 1 is arranged such that the central portion 33 of the base plate 31 extends along the opening of the cavity 23 and the two protrusions 35 of the base plate 31 extend at least partially along the side walls 24 of the support member 21.

As shown in fig. 2a, the adapter unit 4 may comprise a holder 41. The bracket 41 may be L-shaped and comprise two legs 42, 44 arranged substantially perpendicular to each other. These two legs may be referred to as a vertical leg 42 and a horizontal leg 44. The vertical legs 42 of the bracket 41 are attached to the rear wall 22 of the support member 21. The horizontal leg 44 extends substantially parallel to the ground or floor surface and is connected to the measuring device 37. The horizontal leg 44 may be shorter than the vertical leg 42. The vertical leg 42 of the bracket 41 comprises at least one attachment point 43 or aperture for attachment to the support member 21 by means of a fastener. The horizontal leg 44 of the bracket 41 comprises at least one attachment point 45 for attachment to the measuring device 37 by means of the fastener 8. The attachment points 43, 45 may be through holes.

The bracket 41 may also include two parallel side walls 46 connected to the vertical leg 42 and the horizontal leg 44. The side walls 46 may extend substantially perpendicular to the vertical legs 42 and the horizontal legs 44. The side walls 46 may be substantially triangular in shape such that the side walls 46 taper along the length of the vertical leg 42 in the direction of the horizontal leg 44.

The measuring device 37 of the load cell module 3 may be attached at one end to the base plate 31 and extend at the other end into the cavity 23 formed by the contour shape of the support member 21. In this way, the measuring device 37 is connected to the adapter unit 4 in the cavity 23.

As shown in fig. 2a, the load cell module 3 may further comprise a ground wire 39, which ground wire 39 may also be referred to as a ground cable, a ground wire, a ground cable, etc. The ground wire 39 may be arranged to connect the base plate 31 and the adapter unit 4. The ground 39 is configured to transfer electricity from the reservoir structure to the ground.

As shown in fig. 2b, the adapter unit 4 may be attached to the support member 21 by means of fasteners such as screws or bolts. Fasteners may be inserted into one or more attachment points 43 in the adapter unit 4 and through the rear wall 22 of the support member 21. The monitoring device 1 may further comprise a back plate 47, which back plate 47 is configured to be arranged on the opposite side of the support member 21 from the adapter unit 4. The fasteners may thus extend through the adapter unit 4 and the rear wall 22 of the support member 21 as well as the back plate 47. The back plate 47 may serve as a reinforcement for the back wall 22 of the support member 21, thereby reinforcing the connection of the adapter unit 4 with the support member 21. The back plate 47 may also provide stability to the structure, as the back plate 47 attached to the back wall 22 adds rigidity to the support member 21.

As shown in fig. 2b, the monitoring device 1 may further comprise a load support element 5, which load support element 5 is configured to be arranged between the measuring means 37 of the load cell module 3 and the adapter unit 4. The load support element 5 comprises a curved surface 51. The load support element 5 is configured to compensate for any angular displacement between the load cell module 3 and the adapter unit 4 by means of the curved surface 51. The load support element 5 may be substantially hemispherical or spherical.

In this example, the load support element 5 is arranged on the measuring device 37 and the load cell module 3 is arranged such that the adapter unit 4 abuts against the curved surface 51 of the load support element 5. However, it should be understood that the load support element 5 may be attached to the adapter unit 4 and that the curved surface 51 of the load support element 5 may abut the measuring device 37.

As shown in fig. 2b, the measuring device 37 and the adapter unit 4 of the monitoring apparatus 1 may be connected to each other by means of a fastener 8 extending through the adapter unit 4, the load support element 5 and the measuring device 37. To this end, the adapter unit 4 may comprise a first through hole 61 at the attachment point 45 in the horizontal leg 44 of the bracket 41. The first through hole 61 may have a first diameter. The load support element 5 and the measuring device 37 may comprise a second through hole 62 having a second diameter, wherein the first diameter is larger than the second diameter. The first through hole 61, which has a larger diameter than the second through hole 62, allows movement between the adapter unit 4 and the measuring device 37. The connection between the adapter unit 4, the load support element 5 and the measuring device 37 limits the lateral movement of these components relative to each other by the shanks of the fasteners 8 bearing on the sides of the through holes 61, 62. However, the clearance between the fastener 8 and the first through hole 61 in the adapter unit 4 allows some lateral movement to occur.

The monitoring device 1 may further comprise a spring washer 9, which spring washer 9 is configured to be arranged around a fastener 8 connecting the adapter unit 4 and the measuring means 37. The spring washer 9 may also be referred to as a split lock washer. A spring washer 9 is arranged around the fastener 8 at the adapter unit 4. The spring washer 9 provides vibration resistance while maintaining resistance against rotation of the fastener 8. Furthermore, the arrangement of the spring washer 9 around the fastener 8 may allow some vertical movement between the adapter unit 4 and the measuring device 37 without compromising the stability of the connection.

Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a monitoring device 1 for a reservoir 2 according to an example. The monitoring device 1 may be configured as disclosed in fig. 1a, 1b, 2a or 2b, and the monitoring device 1 further comprises a control unit 71, the control unit 71 being operatively coupled to the load cell module 3.

The control unit 71 may be configured to receive an electrical signal corresponding to the elastic deformation of the measuring device 37 from the sensor device 38 of the load cell module 3 and to determine the current weight of the reservoir based on the electrical signal. The determined weight of the reservoir may be stored in a memory in the control unit 71 or in an external memory. The control unit 71 may also be configured to estimate the volume of the content in the reservoir based on the determined weight of the reservoir. The control unit 71 or the monitoring device 1 may comprise a data processing unit. The control unit 71 may be configured to send the determined weight or volume of the content in the reservoir to the second control unit, to a node in the communication network, such as a cloud or server, and/or to a piece of user equipment associated with a user monitoring the reservoir by means of the monitoring device 1, such as a computer, a smart phone, a tablet computer, etc.

The control unit 71 may also be configured to perform suitable actions based on the determined weight. Suitable actions may include controlling outflow from a reservoir, ordering more feed, or the like. According to an example, the control unit 71 may be configured to provide an alarm based on the determined weight, such that an operator may perform an appropriate action. The alarm or alert may be provided audibly and/or visually. An alarm or alert may be presented on the display. The alarm or alert may be sent to a control center and/or to an operator center for the reservoir.

Fig. 4 schematically illustrates a reservoir 2 with a plurality of support members 21 according to an example. Only a portion of the reservoir 2 is shown. The reservoir 2 may be a silo, a tank, a hopper or any other type of reservoir 2, the reservoir 2 resting on a support member 21. The reservoir 2 may be used for storing and dispensing particles or liquids, such as grains, sand, pellets or milk, wine, oil, etc. The support member 21 may also be referred to as a leg. The weight of the reservoir 2 is distributed over the support member 21. Depending on the configuration and placement of the reservoir 2, the reservoir 2 may have at least two support members 21. The support member 21 of the reservoir 2 may be constructed as disclosed in fig. 2 a.

The reservoir 2 comprises a monitoring device 1 as disclosed in fig. 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b or 3. In this example, the monitoring device 1 comprises four load cell modules 3 and four adapter units 4, one load cell module 3 and one adapter unit 4 at each support member 21 of the reservoir 2. The adapter units 4 are attached on the respective support members 21 and the load cell modules 3 are arranged such that the base plate 31 at least partially circumferentially surrounds the support members 21 and such that the adapter units 4 rest on the measuring device 37.

Fig. 5 schematically illustrates a monitoring device 1 for a reservoir 2 having a plurality of support members 21 according to an example. The monitoring device 1 may be configured as disclosed in fig. 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b or 3, and the monitoring device 1 further comprises a lifting means 11, which lifting means 11 is configured for use during installation at the support member 21 of the reservoir 2.

The lifting device 11 comprises a lifting adapter 12 and a lifter 13, the lifting adapter 12 being configured to be attached to the support member 21, the lifter 13 being configured to interact with the lifting adapter 12 to lift the support member 21 above the support surface during installation of the load cell module 3. The lift adapter 12 may comprise an L-shaped bracket 14, the L-shaped bracket 14 comprising two legs 15, 16 arranged at an angle of substantially 90 degrees. These two legs 15, 16 may be referred to as a vertical leg 15 and a horizontal leg 16. The vertical leg 15 is attached to a support member 21. Specifically, the vertical leg 15 is attached to the rear wall 22 of the support member 21. Thus, the vertical leg 15 may comprise a plurality of attachment points 17 or apertures for attachment to the support member 21 by means of fasteners.

The lifting adapter 12 may be configured to be attached on the opposite side of the support member 21 from the adapter unit 4. The lift adapter 12 may be attached to the support member 21 such that the lift adapter 12 abuts the back plate 47 of the monitoring device. The lifting adapter 12 may be configured to be attached to the support member 21 using at least one of the fasteners for attaching the adapter unit 4 to the support member 21. Fasteners attaching the adapter unit 4 to the support member 21 may protrude through the support member 21 on opposite sides of the rear wall 22. Thus, the lift adapter 12 may be mounted on a fastener protruding through the rear wall 22 and may be fastened by means of an end nut of the fastener. The lift adapter 12 may also include two parallel side walls 18 connected to the vertical leg 15 and the horizontal leg 16. The side walls 18 may extend substantially perpendicular to the vertical 15 and horizontal 16 legs. The side walls 18 may be substantially triangular in shape such that the side walls 18 taper from the direction of the horizontal leg 16 along the length of the vertical leg 15. The side walls 18 may each include a hollow section.

The lifter 13 may be any suitable lifting means, such as a mechanical, hydraulic or pneumatic jack. The lifter 13 is configured to interact with the lifting adapter 12 to lift the support member 21 above the ground. More specifically, the riser 13 may be configured to interact with a horizontal leg 16 of the L-shaped bracket 14 of the lift adapter 12.

The monitoring device 1 may also comprise a template drill plate, which may be used to mark the attachment point of the adapter unit 4 on the support member 21. Such template drill plates or drill guides (not shown in the figures) indicating proper positioning of the drill holes may be provided to the installer as part of the monitoring device 1 to facilitate installation of the fasteners and ensure proper positioning of the fasteners. The monitoring device 1 may also comprise any suitable fastening means, such as screws, bolts and nuts, used during the installation of the different components of the monitoring device 1.

Fig. 6 shows a flow chart of a method according to an example for mounting the monitoring device 1 at the support member 21 of the reservoir 2. The monitoring device 1 may be constructed as disclosed in fig. 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3 or 5. The method may be performed by using a lifting device 11 as shown in fig. 5. The method comprises the following steps: attaching s101 at least one adapter unit 4 on the support member 21; lifting s102 the support member 21 above the support surface 100; positioning s103 at least one load cell module 3 such that the base plate 31 at least partially circumferentially surrounds the support member 21; and positioning s104 the support member 21 such that the at least one adapter unit 4 rests on the measuring device 37 of the load cell module 3. In this way, the monitoring device 1 as disclosed herein can be easily installed at the reservoir 2 without expensive equipment such as a hoisting crane or the like. The method may be a retrofit method and thus the monitoring device 1 may be installed at the already in use reservoir 2. It is advantageous to mount the load cell module 3 and the adapter unit 4 at each support member 21 of the reservoir 2 and thus repeat the method for each support member 21. The load cell module 3 and the adapter unit 4 may be mounted at each support member 21 sequentially, one after the other, for example in a clockwise direction.

Attaching s101 the adapter unit 4 on the support member 21 may comprise drilling a plurality of holes in the support member 21 and attaching the adapter unit 4 by means of fasteners arranged through the holes. The adapter unit 4 may be attached at the support member 21 at a predetermined height such that the adapter unit 4 can rest on the measuring device 37 when the monitoring apparatus 1 is installed. Thus, the adapter unit 4 is attached to the support member 21 at a predetermined height such that the support member 21 does not contact the support surface 100 when the adapter unit 4 is resting on the measuring device 37.

The step of attaching s101 the adapter unit 4 to the support member 21 may comprise using a template drill plate indicating where on the support member 21 the holes for attaching the adapter unit 4 should be drilled.

The step of attaching s101 the adapter unit 4 on the support member 21 may comprise: the adapter unit 4 is arranged on a first side of the support member 21 and the back plate 47 is arranged on an opposite side of the support member 21, and the adapter unit 4, the support member 21 and the back plate 47 are attached by means of fasteners extending through the adapter unit 4, the support member 21 and the back plate 47. In one example, attaching s101 the adapter unit 4 on the support member 21 comprises arranging the adapter unit 4 in a cavity 23 formed by the contour shape of the support member 21.

The step of lifting s102 the support member 21 may include: attaching the lifting adapter 12 to the support member 21; and lifting the support member 21 above the ground by means of the lifter 13 interacting with the lifting adapter 12. Thus, lifting s102 the support member 21 may comprise: the lifter 13 is arranged below the lifting adapter 12 and the lifter 13 is operated such that the lifter 13 abuts the lifting adapter 12 and eventually lifts the support member 21 from the ground. The lifter 13 thus exerts a lifting force on the lifting adapter 12. By using such lifting means 11, the installation of the monitoring device 1 can be done by one person without the need for a lifting crane or other expensive equipment. Attaching the lift adapter 12 to the support member 21 may include temporarily attaching the lift adapter 12. Thus, the lift adapter 12 may be removably attached to the support member 21. In this way, the same lifting adapter 12 can be used to mount a plurality of load unit modules 3 and adapter units 4 on all support members 21 of the reservoir 2.

The step of lifting s102 the support member 21 may comprise attaching the lifting adapter 12 on the opposite side of the support member 21 from the adapter unit 4 by using fasteners for attaching the adapter unit 4. Thus, the lifting adapter 12 and the adapter unit 4 are attached to the support member 21 by means of at least one common fastener. In this way, no separate attachment means for lifting the adapter 12 are required and the installation of the monitoring device 1 is facilitated. By attaching the adapter unit 4 and the lifting adapter 12 on opposite sides of the support member 21 using the same fasteners, the number of through holes required in the support member 21 can be reduced. A stable and easy-to-install lifting device 11 is thus achieved.

In the case of performing the method to retrofit the monitoring device 1 at the reservoir 2, the step of lifting s102 the support member 21 may further comprise detaching the support member 21 from the support surface 100 before lifting the support member 21. Thus, if the reservoir 2 is positioned on a platform and the support members 21 are attached to the platform by means of fasteners, each support member 21 should be detached from the platform before attempting to lift the support member 21. The support member 21 may be detached from the support surface by unscrewing the fasteners or by cutting the fasteners such that the support member 21 is no longer attached.

The step of positioning s103 the load cell module 3 such that the base plate 31 at least partially circumferentially surrounds the support member 21 may comprise positioning the load cell module 3 such that at least a portion of the measuring device 37 is arranged below the adapter unit 4 on the support member 21 and aligned with the adapter unit 4 on the support member 21.

The step of positioning s104 the support member such that the adapter unit 4 rests on the measuring device 37 of the load cell module 3 may comprise lowering the support member 21 by means of the lifter 13. When the support member 21 has been positioned such that the support member 21 rests on the measuring device 37, the lifter 13 can be removed from under the lift adapter 12 and the lift adapter 12 can be removed/detached from the support member 21. The lifter 13 and the lifting adapter 12 can then be used on another support member 21 to mount another load cell module 3.

The step of positioning s103 the load cell module 3 may comprise positioning the load cell module 3 such that the measuring device 37 extends into the cavity 23 formed by the contour shape of the support member 21. With the adapter unit 4 attached to the support member 21 in the cavity 23 of the support member 21, the load cell module 3 should be positioned such that the measuring device 37 extends into the cavity 23 such that the adapter unit 4 can rest on the measuring device 37. Furthermore, in case the monitoring device 1 comprises a load support element 5, the load cell module 3 with the load support element 5 should be positioned such that the load support element 5 is arranged below the adapter cell 4 on the support member 21 and aligned with the adapter cell 4 on the support member 21. The step of positioning s104 the support member 21 such that the adapter unit 4 rests on the measuring device 37 of the load cell module 3 may comprise positioning the support member 21 such that the support member 21 abuts the load support element 5. The step s103 of positioning the load cell module 3 may comprise positioning the load cell module 3 such that the load support element 5 is arranged between the adapter unit 4 and the measuring device 37.

Fig. 7 schematically illustrates a monitoring device 1 for a reservoir 2 according to an example. The monitoring device 1 may be constructed as disclosed in fig. 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3 or 5. Thus, the monitoring device 1 comprises a load cell module 3, the load cell module 3 having a base plate 31 and an elongated measuring means 37 attached to the base plate 31. The load cell module 3 of the monitoring apparatus 1 further comprises a sensor device 38, the sensor device 38 being arranged in the measuring device 37 for sensing deformations of the measuring device 37. The monitoring device 1 further comprises at least one adapter unit 4, the adapter unit 4 being configured to be attached to the support member 21 of the reservoir 2 and rest on the measuring means 37.

The figure shows a monitoring device 1 comprising a cable 300 for operatively coupling a measuring device 37 with a control device 71, such as disclosed in fig. 3. The cable 300 may be arranged to connect the measuring device 37 with a junction box (not shown) which in turn is operatively coupled to the control device 71. Thus, the sensor means 38 of the measuring means 37 may be operatively coupled to the control means 71 via a junction box arranged at the reservoir 2. It should be understood that the monitoring device 1 as illustrated in the previous figures also typically comprises the cable 300, although the cable 300 is not shown in the figures. The cable 300 protrudes from the measuring device 37 at a connection point 370. The connection point 370 is here arranged at the short end of the measuring device 37 and thus facing away from the support member 21 and the adapter unit 4. Thus, a portion of the cable 300 will protrude away from the base plate 31 (beyond the base plate 31) in the direction of the base plate 31 and before bending on the base plate 31. With such an arrangement of the cable 300, there may be a risk that the cable 300 is damaged, and the data transmission from the measuring device 37 to the control device 71 may thus be destroyed.

Thus, the monitoring device 1 comprises a cable protector 310. The cable protector 310 may comprise a bent metal plate and may be connected to the measuring device 37 to remain in place. The cable protector 310 may be connected to the measuring device 37 using the same fasteners that connect the measuring device 37 to the base plate 31. Thus, the cable protector 310 may have a C-or U-shape, with one leg connected to the measuring device 37 and the other leg resting on the support surface 100 adjacent the base plate 31. Accordingly, the cable protector 310 is configured to at least loop around the protruding portion of the cable 300 and protect it from physical effects/damage. The cable 300 may also be connected to the base plate 31 by means of a cable holder 320. It should be noted that although the cable 300 is illustrated as terminating in a straight line with the recess 32 of the base plate 31, the cable 300 is actually longer and is typically connected to a junction box.

Fig. 8 schematically illustrates a monitoring device 1 for a reservoir 2 according to an example. The monitoring device 1 may be constructed as disclosed in fig. 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3 or 5. In this example, the monitoring device 1 comprises a cable 300, the cable 300 being used to operatively couple the measuring means 37 with the control means 71, as disclosed in fig. 3. The cable 300 may be arranged to connect the measuring device 37 with a junction box (not shown) which in turn is operatively coupled to the control device 71. Thus, the sensor means 38 of the measuring means 37 may be operatively coupled to the control means 71 via a junction box arranged at the reservoir 2. The cable 300 protrudes from the measuring device 37 at a connection point 370. The connection point 370 is arranged here at the long side of the long measuring device 37. Thus, the cable 300 will protrude away from the long side of the measuring device 37, suitably over the base plate 31 or the recess 32 of the base plate 31, and then bend upwards along the support member 21 of the reservoir 2. With this configuration of the measuring device 37 in which the cable 300 protrudes from the measuring device 37 closer to the support member 21, the cable 300 will not protrude beyond the base plate 31 and the cable 300 will be less likely to be damaged. A safe and reliable connection between the measuring device 37 and the control device 71 is thereby achieved.

The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to practitioners skilled in the art. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, and to thereby enable others skilled in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Claims (15)

1. A monitoring device (1), the monitoring device (1) being for a reservoir (2) having a plurality of support members (21), the monitoring device (1) comprising:

-at least one load cell module (3), the at least one load cell module (3) having a base plate (31) for attachment to a support surface (100) and an elongated measuring device (37) attached to the base plate (31); and

-at least one adapter unit (4), the at least one adapter unit (4) being configured to be attached to a support member (21) of the reservoir (2) and to rest on the measuring device (37);

wherein the base plate (31) of the at least one load cell module (3) comprises a recess (32), the recess (32) allowing the base plate (31) to at least partially circumferentially surround the support member (21) when mounted, and the measuring device (37) is arranged on the base plate (31) such that the measuring device (37) extends at least partially above the recess (32).

2. The monitoring device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one adapter unit (4) is configured to be attached in a cavity (23) of the support member (21), and the at least one load cell module (3) is configured to be arranged such that the measuring means (37) extends into the cavity (23).

3. The monitoring device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising at least one load support element (5), the at least one load support element (5) being configured to be arranged between the measuring means (37) of the at least one load cell module (3) and the at least one adapter unit (4), wherein the at least one load support element (5) comprises a curved surface (51).

4. A monitoring device (1) according to claim 3, wherein the at least one load supporting element (5) is arranged on the measuring means (37), and the at least one load unit module (3) is configured to be arranged such that the at least one adapter unit (4) abuts the curved surface (51) of the load supporting element (5) when mounted.

5. The monitoring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one load cell module (3) comprises a sensor arrangement (38), the sensor arrangement (38) being arranged in the measuring arrangement (37) for sensing a deformation of the measuring arrangement (37), the sensor arrangement (38) being operatively connectable to a control unit (71).

6. The monitoring device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the measuring means (37) and the at least one adapter unit (4) are configured to be connected to each other by means of a fastener (8) extending through the at least one adapter unit (4) and the measuring means (37).

7. Monitoring device (1) according to claim 6, wherein for connection by means of the fastener (8), the at least one adapter unit (4) comprises a first through hole (61) having a first diameter and the measuring means (37) comprises a second through hole (62) having a second diameter, wherein the first diameter is larger than the second diameter.

8. The monitoring device (1) according to claim 6 or 7, further comprising at least one spring washer (9), the at least one spring washer (9) being configured to be arranged around the fastener (8) at the at least one adapter unit (4).

9. The monitoring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a control unit (71), the control unit (71) being operatively coupled to the at least one load cell module (3).

10. The monitoring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a lifting means (11), the lifting means (11) being configured for use during installation at the support member (21) of the reservoir (2), wherein the lifting means (11) comprises a lifting adapter (12) and a lifter (13), the lifting adapter (12) being configured to be attached to the support member (21), the lifter (13) being configured to interact with the lifting adapter (12) to lift the support member (21) above the support surface (100).

11. A reservoir (2) having a plurality of support members (21), wherein the reservoir (2) comprises a monitoring device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the at least one adapter unit (4) of the monitoring device (1) is attached on a support member (21) of the reservoir (2), and the at least one load cell module (3) is arranged such that the base plate (31) at least partially circumferentially surrounds the support member (21) and such that the at least one adapter unit (4) rests on the measuring means (37).

12. A method for mounting a monitoring device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 at a reservoir (2), the reservoir (2) having a plurality of support members (21), the method comprising:

-attaching (s 101) the at least one adapter unit (4) on a support member (21);

-lifting (s 102) the support member (21) above the support surface (100);

-positioning (s 103) the at least one load cell module (3) such that the base plate (31) at least partially circumferentially surrounds the support member (21); and

-positioning (s 104) the support member (21) such that the at least one adapter unit (4) rests on the measuring device (37) of the load cell module (3).

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the step of lifting (s 102) the support member (21) comprises: -attaching (s 102 a) the lifting adapter (12) on the support member (21); and lifting (s 102 b) the support member (21) above the support surface (100) by means of a lifter (13) interacting with the lifting adapter (12).

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the step of positioning (s 103) the at least one load cell module (3) comprises positioning the at least one load cell module (3) such that the measuring device (37) extends into a cavity (23) formed by the contour shape of the support member (21).

15. The method according to claim 13, wherein attaching (s 102 a) the lifting adapter (12) comprises attaching the lifting adapter (12) on a side of the support member (21) opposite to the adapter unit (4) by using fasteners for attaching the adapter unit (4).