EP0518662A2 - Vorrichtung und Verfahren zum kontrollierten Umfüllen von Flüssigkeit - Google Patents

Vorrichtung und Verfahren zum kontrollierten Umfüllen von Flüssigkeit Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0518662A2
EP0518662A2 EP92305351A EP92305351A EP0518662A2 EP 0518662 A2 EP0518662 A2 EP 0518662A2 EP 92305351 A EP92305351 A EP 92305351A EP 92305351 A EP92305351 A EP 92305351A EP 0518662 A2 EP0518662 A2 EP 0518662A2
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
fluid
compartment
static tank
remote device
stored
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.)
Granted
Application number
EP92305351A
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English (en)
French (fr)
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EP0518662B1 (de
EP0518662A3 (en
Inventor
Simon Hugh Arnison James
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Emco Wheaton UK Ltd
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Emco Wheaton UK Ltd
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Publication of EP0518662A3 publication Critical patent/EP0518662A3/en
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D7/00—Apparatus or devices for transferring liquids from bulk storage containers or reservoirs into vehicles or into portable containers, e.g. for retail sale purposes
    • B67D7/06—Details or accessories
    • B67D7/08—Arrangements of devices for controlling, indicating, metering or registering quantity or price of liquid transferred
    • B67D7/14—Arrangements of devices for controlling, indicating, metering or registering quantity or price of liquid transferred responsive to input of recorded programmed information, e.g. on punched cards
    • B67D7/145—Arrangements of devices for controlling, indicating, metering or registering quantity or price of liquid transferred responsive to input of recorded programmed information, e.g. on punched cards by wireless communication means, e.g. RF, transponders or the like
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D7/00—Apparatus or devices for transferring liquids from bulk storage containers or reservoirs into vehicles or into portable containers, e.g. for retail sale purposes
    • B67D7/06—Details or accessories
    • B67D7/32—Arrangements of safety or warning devices; Means for preventing unauthorised delivery of liquid

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for monitoring the discharge of fluid from a compartment of a fluid transport container, such as a road or rail tanker.
  • fluid containers such as road tankers may comprise a plurality of separate compartments, each containing a different fluid, e.g. a different grade of petrol or diesel fuel:
  • the compartments are loaded up at a filling point from a loading arm either via a fill cap at the top of the compartment, or a first valve, the foot valve, located at the underside of the container or via a second outlet valve, located at a more accessible position to one side of the container and coupled to the foot valve via a conduit extending therebetween.
  • the outlet valve may comprise a conventional API (American Petroleum Institute) valve, the opening and closing of which is controlled by a pneumatic system associated with the tanker and by a safety mechanism which prohibits the opening of the valve unless it is mechanically engaged with a corresponding delivery hose.
  • the foot valve may be controlled similarly.
  • the API valve may be a solely manually operable valve not connected to the pneumatic system, whilst the foot valve is connected to and controlled by the pneumatic system.
  • the API valve may be both manually and pneumatically operable, i.e. such that it must be pneumatically enabled before it can be manually opened.
  • each compartment is discharged via the outlet valve to a static tank located at the discharge point.
  • a static tank located at the discharge point.
  • an electronic apparatus for monitoring the discharge of fluid from a compartment of-a transport container to a static tank via an associated outlet and a fluid connection means between the outlet and the tank, comprising a means for identifying the fluid stored in the compartment, a means adapted to automatically communicate with a remote device at the static tank via the fluid connection means to determine the identity of the fluid stored, or intended to be stored, in the static tank, and a means for comparing the identity of the fluid in the compartment and that stored, or intended to be stored, in the static tank.
  • the apparatus further comprises a means for preventing the discharge of fluid from the compartment if the comparison means indicates that-the identity of fluid in the compartment is incompatible with or different from that of the static tank.
  • the apparatus may comprise a means for signalling the result of the comparison.
  • the present invention also extends to a discharge system including the remote device.
  • the present invention is particularly applicable to a transport container comprising a plurality of compartments to facilitate avoidance of discharge of the wrong compartment into a storage tank.
  • the transport container may include a plurality of monitoring apparatuses, one for each compartment.
  • a single apparatus may be provided, e.g. with common comparison means, separate communication means, etc.
  • the communication means is adapted to send electrical signals to a remote device located at the static tank via a connection made between the outlet and the static tank and to receive electrical signals therefrom.
  • signals can take the form of electrical pulses sent from the communication means to a remote device located permanently at the static tank.
  • the remote device does not include a power supply, for safety reasons, but is a passive device that will respond to signals from the communication means to provide a return signal identifying the static tank contents.
  • the remote device may include a storage means, e.g. a capacitor, which is responsive to charging signals sent from the communication means and which, when discharging, provides sufficient power to enable the device to output the signal.
  • the present invention also extends to the remote device per se.
  • the remote device may also be adapted to signal the presence of an over-spill condition in the static tank due to over-filling of the tank.
  • the apparatus is operable to periodically switch to earth any stray charge in its operation or when not in operation. This may be done, for example, via a connection to earth provided by a vapour recovery hose connected between the transport container and the static tank at another point.
  • the communication means may comprise one or more sensors located at the outlet point to directly sense the characteristics of the connection made at that point to identify the static tank contents. This will be described below in relation to further preferred features of the means for identifying the compartment contents.
  • the means for identifying the fluid stored in the compartment may comprise a memory means together with a manually operable input means to enable the operator to manually input the identity of the fluid in the container into the memory.
  • sensors could be mounted in the tank to analyze the composition of the fluid in the compartment at all times.
  • the apparatus is further adapted to monitor the loading of the compartment with fluid from a loading arm via an associated inlet, the identifying means comprising a means adapted to automatically respond to or communicate with the loading arm to determine the identity of the fluid being loaded into the compartment.
  • the apparatus may further comprise a means for signalling the identity of the fluid to the operator during loading.
  • the apparatus may operate with a compartment having the same inlet and outlet such that the loading and discharge communication occurs via the same connection, e.g. via the main API outlet valve of a compartment of a conventional fluid transport container.
  • a different inlet connection e.g. via the foot valve, from that used during discharge and the present invention extends to an apparatus adapted for use in such circumstances.
  • the loading communication means may be similar to that of the discharge communication system and may comprise a sensor means for sending and receiving electrical signals from a remote device.
  • the identifying means comprises sensors located at the inlet to directly sense the characteristics of the connection made between the inlet of the compartment and the outlet of the-loading tank.
  • the identifying means comprises one or more Hall effect sensors disposable around the aperture of the inlet and adapted to sense the magnetic field of one or more magnets arranged around the outlet of the loading tank. The presence or absence of one or more of the magnets indicates to the sensors the type of fluid stored in the loading tank. This information may then be stored in an appropriate memory means and retrieved later for comparison during discharging.
  • Conventional fluid transport containers include a pneumatic control system for controlling the opening and closing of inlet and outlet valves of all compartments as described earlier.
  • the means for preventing the discharge of fluid includes a control valve arrangable in the pneumatic system to pneumatically control the outlet valve to prevent discharge of fluid through the compartment outlet.
  • the relevant outlet valve may be the API valve.
  • the foot valve may be pneumatically controlled and disabled by the control valve accordingly in the event of a mismatch.
  • a single control valve may be arranged in the system to prevent discharge of fluid from all compartments when the comparison means indicates an incompatible matching of one compartment with a static tank.
  • a plurality of control valves, one per compartment may be provided to prevent discharge from the particular compartment which has been incompatibly matched with a static tank.
  • the apparatus further comprises a power source in the form a chargeable battery system, operable to charge up from the electrical system of the transport container when the container is not discharging or loading fluid, and to disconnect or isolate itself from the vehicle electrical system during discharge or loading.
  • a power source in the form a chargeable battery system, operable to charge up from the electrical system of the transport container when the container is not discharging or loading fluid, and to disconnect or isolate itself from the vehicle electrical system during discharge or loading.
  • a power source in the form a chargeable battery system, operable to charge up from the electrical system of the transport container when the container is not discharging or loading fluid, and to disconnect or isolate itself from the vehicle electrical system during discharge or loading.
  • the apparatus may comprise a sensor arrangeable in the pneumatic system to detect operation of the pneumatic system and to disconnect the battery system from the vehicle electrical system accordingly.
  • the apparatus may also comprise a further sensor operable to detect operation of the pneumatic system and to actuate the apparatus to monitor discharge or loading accordingly.
  • the apparatus may also preferably comprise a means for monitoring the opening and closing of the valve to determine that, at the time of discharge to the static tank, the valve has not been opened after the transport container was filled.
  • This "sealed package" concept enables precise filling of the static tank, as the volume of fuel carried by the transport container will have been measured at the filling point, and will not have changed since that time. Should this condition not be satisfied, the apparatus can prevent discharge of fluid and/or provide a warning signal.
  • the monitoring means may comprise a sensor arrangement, e.g. in the form of a magnet and Hall effect sensor, to remotely monitor the position of an internal element of the valve.
  • the present invention also extends to a fluid transport container having an apparatus as described above and a pneumatic control system.
  • the present invention provides a method of electronically monitoring the discharge of fluid from a compartment of a transport container via an associated outlet to a static tank, comprising providing a means for identifying the fluid stored in the compartment, providing a means for automatically communicating with the static tank, and a comparison means, and including the steps of identifying the fluid stored in the container, automatically communicating with the static tank via a connection between the outlet and the static tank to determine the fluid stored, or intended to be stored, in the static tank, and comparing the identity of the fluid stored in the compartment with that stored or intended to be stored, in the static tank.
  • the method further comprises preventing the discharge of fluid from the compartment if the identity of the fluid in the compartment is incompatible with or different from that of the static tank.
  • the method further comprises providing a communication means operable to send or receive electrical signals via the connection made between the outlet and the static tank.
  • the method further comprises providing a remote device located in or on the static tank, sending electrical signals from the communication means to the remote device and identifying the fluid of the static tank accordingly.
  • the apparatus operates to ground stray charge periodically in its operation or when not in operation.
  • the method further comprises providing a power source in the form of a chargeable battery system, which operates to charge up from the electrical system of the transport container when the container is not discharging or loading, and which is operable to disconnect or isolate itself from the vehicle electrical system during discharge or loading.
  • a power source in the form of a chargeable battery system, which operates to charge up from the electrical system of the transport container when the container is not discharging or loading, and which is operable to disconnect or isolate itself from the vehicle electrical system during discharge or loading.
  • a fluid transport container in the form of a road tanker 1 comprising a plurality of compartments 2 is shown.
  • Each compartment 2 may be accessed for fluid via an inlet/outlet API valve 3 connected via an associated foot valve 4 to the compartment 2.
  • Each compartment 2 also includes an associated vapour recovery vent 5. These are connected via the common channels 6 and 7 to a vapour dump vent 8 and a vapour recovery adaptor 9.
  • Each compartment also includes a dip tube and dip tube interlock system 10 for allowing access to the compartment 2 for measurement of the liquid level therein.
  • the inlet/outlet valves 3, foot valves 4, vapour recovery vents 5 and vapour dump vent 8 are all connected and controlled by a central pneumatic control system 11.
  • the pneumatic control system 11 also controls the operation of guard bar interlocks 12 which operate to open or lock a pair of guard bars (not shown) over the inlet/outlet valves 3 to prohibit or permit access thereto.
  • the pneumatic control system 11 will be discussed in more detail in conjunction with Figs. 2 and 3.
  • the elements of the pneumatic system associated with the inlet/outlet valves 3, foot valves 4, etc. enabling or disabling the valves from operation are well-known and will not be discussed in any detail herein.
  • one or more inlet loading arms are connected to the inlet valves 3 and a vapour recovery arm connected to the vapour recovery adaptor 9.
  • Providing the pneumatic system is enabled and valves 3, 4 and 5 are open, the compartments 2 are loaded up with fluid and the vapours thereby displaced from the compartments and via the vents 5 and channels 6 and 7 are recovered through the vapour recovery hose.
  • one or more of the valves 3 is connected via an appropriate hose to an associated static tank. If appropriate, a further hose is connected from an outlet of the static tank to the vapour recovery adaptor 9.
  • the monitoring system includes a first terminal box 20, connected to the electrical power supply of the vehicle on lines 21, to a battery pack 22 and to pressure switches 23, 24 located in the pneumatic control system 11.
  • the battery pack 22 is connected via the terminal box 20 to the vehicle power supply 21, for charging.
  • the pressure switch 23 senses this and operates the terminal box 20 to disconnect the vehicle power supply from the battery pack 22 and the rest of the monitoring system. This isolation of the monitoring system from the power supply is important for safety reasons.
  • the pressure switch 24 operates the junction box 20 to connect the battery pack 22 to a central processor 25 of the monitoring system.
  • the pressure switch 24 may switch at a slightly higher pressure than that of the switch 23 to ensure that the apparatus is disconnected before actuating the monitoring system.
  • the central processor 25 is connected to shut-off valves 26, operable to disable the pneumatic system, a display 27 and a plurality of junction boxes 28, one associated with each compartment 2 of the transport container, and which connect the central processor 25 to a series of sensors located within each compartment.
  • the sensors typically comprise a wet sensor 29 which detects the presence or absence of liquid in the compartment, a pressure switch 30, which detects whether or not the pneumatic system for that compartment is in operation, and a sensor system 31 which communicates with the loading apparatus at the loading point and the static tank at the discharge point to identify the fluid being loaded and the fluid in the static tank.
  • the communication means for the loading and discharge stages can be the same. However, in a preferred embodiment, separate systems are used.
  • the loading sensor system may comprise a plurality of Hall effect sensors located in a coupling ring at the outlet valve 3. These interact with a plurality of magnets located in the corresponding connecting part of the associated loading arm. Specifically, the number and orientation of magnets around the loading hose is detected by the Hall effect sensors, to communicate the identity of the fluid being loaded into that compartment at that time. The identity of the fluid stored in that compartment is then transmitted to and stored in the central processor 25, for later comparison.
  • the monitoring system shown in Fig. 2 uses a single bus connecting the junction boxes in series.
  • the junction boxes may each be connected directly to the microprocessor 25.
  • a load sensor 50 is shown in situ on an API outlet valve 3 of a compartment.
  • the sensor 50 is clamped or bolted into position.
  • Five or more Hall effect sensors 52 are recessed into the casing of the sensor body, which interact with one or more magnets located in the corresponding part of the associated loading arm.
  • the valve 3 is shown insulated from the fluid conduit 53 by an insulating ring 54. Electrically isolating the valve from the vehicle in this way enables electrical signals to be sent from the valve (see below).
  • the sensor 50 may also comprise a further communicating link in the form of an electrical connection terminal 51 adapted to link the controlling microprocessor 25 of the tanker system with the loading apparatus.
  • a warning signal from the tanker microprocessor the loading system will stop filling the tanker compartment.
  • an overspill sensor may be provided in the tanker such that, in the event of over-filling of a compartment, a signal will be sent to the loading system to cease operation.
  • the discharge sensor system preferably comprises a means for sending and receiving electrical signals via the connection made between the outlet valve 3 and the compartment 2 to an associated remote device located permanently at the static tank.
  • this remote device does not include a power source, for safety reasons, but includes a capacitor system for storing electrical pulses from the sensor system to charge up the remote device. Once charged, the remote device operates to send a coded digital pulse back to the discharge sensor on the counter. This signal identifies the characteristics of the static tank, and, in particular, the type of fluid stored or intended to be stored therein.
  • the central processor 25 can then compare the identity of the fluid of the static tank with the fluid in the compartment to determine whether or not a correct fluid connection has been made. A signal may also be sent from the remote device to the central processor in the event of an overspill condition within the static tank.
  • connection between the outlet valve 3 and the static tank has been conductive for earthing purposes.
  • the static tank end of the connection may be isolated from earth in order to enable the efficient charging up of the remote device. If so, it may be advantageous to ensure the earthing of the monitoring system as a whole via, for example, the vapour recovery connection.
  • the monitoring system is electrically switched to earth, for a predetermined pulse during the interrogation of each remote device.
  • suppressor diodes may be fitted in the discharge sensor system and in the remote device to pass to earth any voltage detected greater than 20V.
  • Fig. 6 shows a remote device 200 in position on the inlet connection 201 of a static tank 202.
  • the connection 201 is electrically isolated from the static tank by an insulating ring 203. This is to facilitate the charging up of the remote device 200 and the subsequent transmission of electrical pulses by the remote device 200.
  • the remote device 200 may be earthed by a further connection 204 to the fluid pipe of the static tank or to any other suitable earthing point.
  • the remote device is electrically connected to the hose connection 201 on the line 205 and to earth on the line 206.
  • the device includes a conventional electromagnetic interference absorber 207, which operates to absorb and filter out stray high frequencies, and a voltage surge suppressor 208 comprising, for example, a plurality of break-down diodes, which operates to pass to earth any large voltage surges on the line 205.
  • a charging pulse is sent from the sensor system of the compartment, over the connection between the outlet of the compartment and the inlet of the static tank and along the line 205 to charge up the storage capacitor 209 via the diode 210 and resistor 211.
  • the charge on the capacitor 209 is discharged along line 213 to power an encoder chip 214.
  • the encoder chip will operate as soon as the voltage on the line 213 rises above a certain level to send a characteristic digital signal from the output 215 via the coupling capacitor 216 along the line 205.
  • the encoder chip 214 may comprise any suitable conventional chip.
  • the chip includes a means for manually selecting the appropriate output to reflect the contents of the fluid in the static tank, e.g. thumbwheel switches.
  • the output signal sent may use pulse width modulation, the relative timing of digital pulses etc., or any other means to convey information regarding the static tank.
  • the discharge sensor system at the compartment comprises a decoder chip 300, opto-isolator connectors 301 and 302, through which the sensor system sends information to, and receives instructions from the central processor 25, a latching circuit 303 and a switching circuit 304, operable to earth the circuit. Signals to and from the remote device are sent and received on line 305 and the circuit is powered from the supply rail 306.
  • the central processor operates to sequentially activate the sensor system in each compartment. Specifically, the central processor 25 sends a signal via opto-isolator 302, to switch on transistor 307 to connect the supply rail 306 to the line 305 for a short burst, e.g. 200 microseconds.
  • This charging pulse is sent via line 305 to charge up the remote device 200. Simultaneously the transistor 308 is switched on to activate the decoder chip 300.
  • the latching circuit 303 operates to keep the transistor 308 activated after the charging pulse has terminated.
  • the decoder chip 300 operates to sense the characteristic signal output by the remote device 200 and to output the decoded information to the central processor 25 via the opto-isolator 306. After a certain period of time, the latching circuit 303 ceases to maintain the potential on the transistor 308 and the decoder is switched off.
  • the sensor also includes a circuit 304 which may be activated by the central processor after this time to switch line 305 to earth, so as to dispose of any stray charges present on the connector hose between the sensor and the remote device.
  • the line 305 includes an electromagnetic interference absorber 310 and a voltage suppressor circuit 311 of the same construction and function as the absorber and suppressor at the remote device.
  • the central processor operates the sensor system of each compartment in turn, such that a charging pulse is sequentially sent from each sensor circuit.
  • the total time for each cycle of operation for each sensor, from the sending of the charging pulse to the earthing of the connector line, may take of the order of 300 milliseconds.
  • the latching circuit 303 may operate to switch the decoder chip 300 on for only a portion of this time, e.g. 800 microseconds or so, or the time it takes for the central processor to interrogate each sensor system.
  • Fig. 11 shows an alternative encoder circuit from that of Fig. 7.
  • the circuitry includes an additional logic circuit 400 adapted to monitor the condition of an over-spill in the static tank from a sensor connected on line 401. Additionally, the encoder is adapted to communicate with the discharge sensor system via two lines 402 and 403. As with the circuit of Fig. 7, the encoder circuitry includes a diode 404, resistor 405 and capacitor 406 arrangement to power an encoder chip 407. The circuitry further includes an electromagnetic interference absorber 408 and a breakdown diode 409, which operate in the same manner as the elements of the circuit Fig. 7.
  • a charging pulse along the lines 402 and 403 charges the capacitor 406, which then discharges via the resistor 405 to power the encoder 407. Additionally, the discharge of the capacitor charges the logic circuit 400 which communicates the presence of an over-spill condition to the encoder 407.
  • An output signal, representing the contents of the fluid in the static tank and the presence or absence of an over-spill condition, is sent from the output 410 of the encoder 407 via the coupling capacitor 411.
  • the encoder circuit of Fig. 11 is adapted to communicate with the discharge sensor system of Fig. 12. In order to provide a higher current to this discharge sensor system, the coded signal is sent via a transistor 412.
  • the alternative discharge sensor system shown therein comprises a decoder circuit 500, a latch circuit 501, and opto-isolator circuits 502 and 503, which are connected to lines from and to the central microprocessor of the control system.
  • signals from the central processor operate the latch circuit 501 to send control pulses to the remote device, on the lines 508 and 509 and to charge the decoder circuit 500.
  • a number of isolating switch circuits and an opto-isolator circuit have been introduced.
  • the latch 501 controls a switch integrated circuit 505 to send a command pulse on line 506 to the second switch circuit 507, which then sends an output pulse to the decoder on lines 508 and 509.
  • the latch 501 also controls the switch circuit 505 to send a charging pulse on line 510 to enable the decoder circuit 500.
  • a charging pulse is sent at repeated intervals during the filling operation.
  • Return signals on the lines 508 and 509 are routed via the switch circuit 507 along the lines 511 and 512 to the opto-isolator 513. This then sends a signal on line 514 to the decoder circuit 500.
  • the decoder 500 communicates with the opto-isolator circuit 503 and the processor via a voltage change switching integrated circuit 515.
  • the circuit 515 enables the decoder to be operated at a lower voltage than the processor circuitry. This then enables an optimum choice of voltage values for the discharge sensor and encoder system. The choice of the appropriate circuit for each of the switch components would be a routine matter for one skilled in the art.
  • the load sensor and remote device may each comprise a tuned circuit set at the same resonant frequency.
  • This enables a constant and earthed d.c. connection to be made between the load sensor and remote device, whilst allowing information in the form of a.c. or pulsed signals to be generated and passed between the load sensor and remote device.
  • Use of a constant d.c. connection disposes of any stray charge on the hose connection, resulting in a particularly safe apparatus.
  • Fig. 3 shows a pneumatic control system for use with the monitoring system of Fig.2.
  • the pneumatic system includes a source of air pressure 40 connected to pneumatic switches 41, 42 and 43 associated with the vapour recovery vent, dipstick interlock and foot valve, respectively, of each compartment.
  • the source of pneumatic pressure is also connected, via a separate line, to an interlock system 44 associated with the inlet/outlet valve of each compartment.
  • Application of air pressure to these pneumatic switches causes the vapour recovery vent and foot valve to open and to free the dipstick interlock system to enable a measurement of liquid level to be made.
  • the interlock systems 44 are conventional ones, such that the inlet/outlet valves will only open when pressure is supplied and when the valve is mechanically interconnected to a corresponding valve.
  • the pneumatic supply 40 is also connected to pneumatic switches 45 associated with the bar locks 12. On application of pneumatic pressure, the switches operate to open the bar locks to enable access to the inlet/outlet valves.
  • the switches 45 also operate further pneumatic switches 46 which control supply of air to associated elements in the vehicle braking system, so as to apply the brakes when the pneumatic system is in operation.
  • the pneumatic system further includes pressure switches 23 and 24 and a series of shutdown valves 26 as described with reference to Fig.1.
  • Shut-down valves 26 are operable by the central processor 25 to cut the supply of air pressure to the interlock systems 44 of all compartments so as to terminate discharge or loading of fluid from or to the compartment 2.
  • the shut-down valves 26 may also include a manual push button valve operable to cut the supply to all the API interlock systems 44.
  • the interlock systems 44 may be omitted, or may operate in combination with the mechanical means for opening and closing the valve. Where the interlock systems 44 are omitted, the shut-down valves are arranged in the circuit to disable the foot valves 43 in the event of shut-down signal from the central processor 25.
  • the pneumatic system may also include an overspill detector 47, which operates to detect excess loading of a compartment and to operate the dump system 48 to open the vapour dump vent 8.
  • Figs. 4 and 5 show a flow diagram of the control steps carried out by the central processor 25 for each compartment during loading and discharge.
  • the processor 25 generally operates to enable the pneumatic control system. Only in the event of a detected error does the central processor operate the shut-down valves to disable the system.
  • the wet sensor 29 is read to determine whether or not there is any fluid in the compartment. If not, the program proceeds to steps 101 and 102 to determine whether or not the system is loading or discharging. If the system indicates both loading and discharging at the same time, there is clearly an error and the program proceeds to step 103 where the shut-down valves are enabled and a fault indication provided on the display 27.
  • step 104 the program proceeds to step 104 to read the load data identifying the fluid being loaded into the compartment and to indicate an empty condition on the display 27. If discharging, the system proceeds via step 105 to read the discharge data identifying the fluid in the static tank and to display both the information regarding the product in the static tank and an empty condition. If neither loading or discharging, the program proceeds to step 107 to merely display an empty condition.
  • step 100 If the sensor indicates at step 100 that liquid is present in the tank the program proceeds to steps 111 and 112 to determine whether or not the system is loading or discharging. If the system indicates both conditions, the shut-down valves are again initiated and a fault message indicated at step 113.
  • step 114 the system proceeds to step 114 to read the load data associated with the liquid being loaded.
  • step 115 it is determined whether or not this is the first reading being made. If it is, the program proceeds to store the load data and to display the product being loaded in the compartment. If not, the program proceeds to 117, to compare the data previously stored with that presently in the store. If the result of the comparison is positive, the program continues to display the product being stored in the compartment at step 118. If the result is negative, i.e. the same product is not still being loaded, the shut-down valves are again initiated and a fault message provided on the display. This prohibits the loading in of two different products into the same compartment.
  • step 120 the program proceeds to step 121, where the output of the pressure sensor is read to determine whether or not the pneumatic system for that compartment is still in operation. If the answer is negative, the discharge has either not been commenced or has finished, and the program proceeds to steps 122 and 123 where the discharge data associated with product in the static tank is read and the load data associated with the product presently in the compartment is retrieved from the microprocessor memory, and to step 124 where both sets of data are displayed.
  • step 121 If the result of step 121 is positive and the system is enabled for discharge of fluid from the compartment, and the system proceeds to steps 125 and 126 where the data of the static tank is read and the data for the compartment is retrieved, and then to step 127 where the identity of the fluid in the compartment and in the tank is compared. If the result of the comparison is acceptable, that is, the identity of the liquid in the compartment and in the tank is the same or an acceptable mixture, the program proceeds to step 128 where the product in the compartment and in the static tank is displayed. If the result of the comparison is unacceptable, the program proceeds to step 129 to energise the shut-down valves and to display a fault condition together with the product in the compartment. Thus, the system prevents discharge of fluid from compartment into the static tank.
  • step 130 the program proceeds to step 130 to see whether or not the pneumatic system for the compartment is in operation. If it is, the system proceeds to steps 131 and 132 to retrieve the load data and to enable the shut-down valves and to display a fault message together with an indication of the product in that compartment.
  • step 133 retrieve and display the load data associated with that compartment.
  • Fig. 13 shows a manually operable API valve 600 including a pivoting lever 601 movable to horizontally displace valve element 602 to open and close the valve.
  • the mechanical elements of the valve are entirely conventional and will not be described in any detail.
  • On the valve element 602 is mounted a magnet 603 which interacts with a remote Hall effect sensor 604 mounted external to the valve.
  • the sensor 604 is connected to microprocessor 25 of the control system to monitor the opening and closing of the valve, as indicated by the presence and absence of the magnet. This enables the control system to validate the delivery of the whole contents of the compartment of the tanker to the static tank, as the valve should only be opened and closed once at the filling point before prior to the delivery at the static tank. Should this condition not be satisfied, the apparatus can prevent discharge and/or send a warning signal.
  • the use of the Hall sensor and magnet arrangement enables accurate monitoring of the actual opening and closing of the valve.
  • Fig. 14 shows an encoder remote device 700 of the type illustrated in Fig. 7 together with a removable elbow joint 701.
  • static tanks will include a projecting pipe which may be fitted with a remote device of the invention as illustrated in Fig. 6.
  • the fluid entry is via a hole flush with the ground.
  • a removable elbow joint 701 can be used, constructed to ensure electrical isolation of the hose by means of appropriate insulating elements at the connection point, e.g. similar to those used on the embodiment of Fig. 6, and pre-fitted with a remote device 700.
  • the elbow joint 701 is removably screwed to the fill pipe 702 of the static tank.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Mathematical Physics (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Loading And Unloading Of Fuel Tanks Or Ships (AREA)
  • Feeding, Discharge, Calcimining, Fusing, And Gas-Generation Devices (AREA)
  • Electrical Discharge Machining, Electrochemical Machining, And Combined Machining (AREA)
  • Examining Or Testing Airtightness (AREA)
  • Fluid-Pressure Circuits (AREA)
  • Flow Control (AREA)
  • Emergency Alarm Devices (AREA)
  • Analysing Materials By The Use Of Radiation (AREA)
  • Gas-Filled Discharge Tubes (AREA)
EP92305351A 1991-06-11 1992-06-11 Vorrichtung und Verfahren zum kontrollierten Umfüllen von Flüssigkeit Expired - Lifetime EP0518662B1 (de)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB919112489A GB9112489D0 (en) 1991-06-11 1991-06-11 Discharge monitor system
GB9112489 1991-06-11

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0518662A2 true EP0518662A2 (de) 1992-12-16
EP0518662A3 EP0518662A3 (en) 1993-01-20
EP0518662B1 EP0518662B1 (de) 1995-05-17

Family

ID=10696425

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP92305351A Expired - Lifetime EP0518662B1 (de) 1991-06-11 1992-06-11 Vorrichtung und Verfahren zum kontrollierten Umfüllen von Flüssigkeit

Country Status (6)

Country Link
EP (1) EP0518662B1 (de)
AT (1) ATE122645T1 (de)
DE (1) DE69202520T2 (de)
DK (1) DK0518662T3 (de)
ES (1) ES2072098T3 (de)
GB (1) GB9112489D0 (de)

Cited By (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4805135A (en) * 1984-07-04 1989-02-14 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Image communication apparatus having a function for dividing and outputting an image
EP0668240A1 (de) * 1994-02-16 1995-08-23 ALFONS HAAR Maschinenbau GmbH & Co. Vorrichtung zur Überwachung der Betätigung der Produktventile in Tankwagen
EP0697370A1 (de) * 1994-08-04 1996-02-21 Scully Signal Company System zur Identifizieren und Vermindern von Überfüllung mit einer Flüssigkeit
EP0699624A1 (de) * 1994-08-29 1996-03-06 F.A. Sening Gmbh System zur unverwechselbaren temporären Verbindung von Tankabteilen eines Tankwagens mit einem stationären Aufnahmetank
EP0699623A1 (de) * 1994-07-09 1996-03-06 Riedel-De Haen Aktiengesellschaft Lager- bzw. Transportbehälter mit einem programmierbaren Datenträger
FR2726910A1 (fr) * 1994-11-10 1996-05-15 Piemont Serge Dispositif d'identification de fluides hydrocarbures
WO1998039248A1 (en) * 1997-03-04 1998-09-11 Gilbarco Inc. Fuel dispenser
EP0933329A2 (de) * 1995-06-12 1999-08-04 Scully Signal Company Fehlersichere Steuerung für Flüssigkeitstransfers
US6341629B1 (en) 1996-11-01 2002-01-29 Bp Oil International Limited Testing device and method of use
EP3296937A4 (de) * 2015-05-14 2019-01-23 Compañía Logística de Hidrocarburos CLH, S.A. System zur identifizierung von fächern und ablaufsteuerung in tankfahrzeugen
CN111003367A (zh) * 2019-11-29 2020-04-14 江苏智冷物联技术有限公司 一种卸液控制方法、设备及存储介质

Families Citing this family (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
ES2137080B1 (es) * 1996-08-02 2001-01-01 Repsol Com De Productos Petrol Sistema de precintado de bocas de descarga a tanques de almacenamiento de hidrocarburos liquidos.
ES2150399B1 (es) * 1998-05-29 2001-05-16 Espanola Petrol Dispositivo para el precintado de compartimentos en cisternas para el transporte de hidrocarburos
US10207912B2 (en) 2014-11-07 2019-02-19 Knappco Corporation Crossover protection system graphical user interfaces
AU2018347983A1 (en) 2017-10-09 2020-04-09 Knappco, LLC Control systems for liquid product delivery vehicles

Citations (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2264336A1 (de) * 1974-03-08 1975-10-10 Ljungmans Verkstader Ab
DE8709339U1 (de) * 1986-11-27 1987-10-22 Timm-Elektronik GmbH, 2056 Glinde Einrichtung zum Verhindern einer Befüllung von Tanks mit nicht tankfüllungsspezifischen flüssigen Füllmedien
FR2600318A1 (fr) * 1986-06-18 1987-12-24 Cga Hbs Dispositif de distribution de carburant et de gestion de cette distribution
EP0258935A1 (de) * 1986-08-25 1988-03-09 N.V. Nederlandsche Apparatenfabriek NEDAP Verfahren zur Kontrolle des Ladens und Entladens von Tankwagen mittels einer elektromagnetischen Identifikationsvorrichtung und Vorrichtung dazu
DE8716413U1 (de) * 1987-12-12 1988-03-10 Alfons Haar, Maschinenbau GmbH & Co KG, 2000 Hamburg Kupplung für Flüssigkeiten, insbesondere Trockenkupplung für Tankwagen
AU602791B2 (en) * 1987-09-04 1990-10-25 Trans-Mit Pty Ltd Fuel delivery identification system
EP0440299A1 (de) * 1990-02-02 1991-08-07 Shell Internationale Researchmaatschappij B.V. Elektronisches Datenübertragungssystem zwischen zwei Fluidbehältern
EP0456425A1 (de) * 1990-05-09 1991-11-13 Michael C. Ryan Kontrollgerät für Flüssigkeitsabgabevorrichtung
EP0476858A1 (de) * 1990-08-27 1992-03-25 Michael C. Ryan Kontrollgerät für Flüssigkeitsabgabevorrichtung

Patent Citations (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2264336A1 (de) * 1974-03-08 1975-10-10 Ljungmans Verkstader Ab
FR2600318A1 (fr) * 1986-06-18 1987-12-24 Cga Hbs Dispositif de distribution de carburant et de gestion de cette distribution
EP0258935A1 (de) * 1986-08-25 1988-03-09 N.V. Nederlandsche Apparatenfabriek NEDAP Verfahren zur Kontrolle des Ladens und Entladens von Tankwagen mittels einer elektromagnetischen Identifikationsvorrichtung und Vorrichtung dazu
DE8709339U1 (de) * 1986-11-27 1987-10-22 Timm-Elektronik GmbH, 2056 Glinde Einrichtung zum Verhindern einer Befüllung von Tanks mit nicht tankfüllungsspezifischen flüssigen Füllmedien
AU602791B2 (en) * 1987-09-04 1990-10-25 Trans-Mit Pty Ltd Fuel delivery identification system
DE8716413U1 (de) * 1987-12-12 1988-03-10 Alfons Haar, Maschinenbau GmbH & Co KG, 2000 Hamburg Kupplung für Flüssigkeiten, insbesondere Trockenkupplung für Tankwagen
EP0440299A1 (de) * 1990-02-02 1991-08-07 Shell Internationale Researchmaatschappij B.V. Elektronisches Datenübertragungssystem zwischen zwei Fluidbehältern
EP0456425A1 (de) * 1990-05-09 1991-11-13 Michael C. Ryan Kontrollgerät für Flüssigkeitsabgabevorrichtung
EP0476858A1 (de) * 1990-08-27 1992-03-25 Michael C. Ryan Kontrollgerät für Flüssigkeitsabgabevorrichtung

Cited By (15)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4805135A (en) * 1984-07-04 1989-02-14 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Image communication apparatus having a function for dividing and outputting an image
EP0668240A1 (de) * 1994-02-16 1995-08-23 ALFONS HAAR Maschinenbau GmbH & Co. Vorrichtung zur Überwachung der Betätigung der Produktventile in Tankwagen
EP0699623A1 (de) * 1994-07-09 1996-03-06 Riedel-De Haen Aktiengesellschaft Lager- bzw. Transportbehälter mit einem programmierbaren Datenträger
EP0697370A1 (de) * 1994-08-04 1996-02-21 Scully Signal Company System zur Identifizieren und Vermindern von Überfüllung mit einer Flüssigkeit
EP0699624A1 (de) * 1994-08-29 1996-03-06 F.A. Sening Gmbh System zur unverwechselbaren temporären Verbindung von Tankabteilen eines Tankwagens mit einem stationären Aufnahmetank
WO1996015064A1 (fr) * 1994-11-10 1996-05-23 Serge Piemont Dispositif d'identification de fluides hydrocarbures
FR2726910A1 (fr) * 1994-11-10 1996-05-15 Piemont Serge Dispositif d'identification de fluides hydrocarbures
EP0933329A2 (de) * 1995-06-12 1999-08-04 Scully Signal Company Fehlersichere Steuerung für Flüssigkeitstransfers
EP0933329A3 (de) * 1995-06-12 1999-08-11 Scully Signal Company Fehlersichere Steuerung für Flüssigkeitstransfers
US6341629B1 (en) 1996-11-01 2002-01-29 Bp Oil International Limited Testing device and method of use
WO1998039248A1 (en) * 1997-03-04 1998-09-11 Gilbarco Inc. Fuel dispenser
US5868179A (en) * 1997-03-04 1999-02-09 Gilbarco Inc. Precision fuel dispenser
US5971042A (en) * 1997-03-04 1999-10-26 Gilbarco Inc. Precision fuel dispenser
EP3296937A4 (de) * 2015-05-14 2019-01-23 Compañía Logística de Hidrocarburos CLH, S.A. System zur identifizierung von fächern und ablaufsteuerung in tankfahrzeugen
CN111003367A (zh) * 2019-11-29 2020-04-14 江苏智冷物联技术有限公司 一种卸液控制方法、设备及存储介质

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
GB9112489D0 (en) 1991-07-31
DK0518662T3 (da) 1995-07-10
DE69202520T2 (de) 1995-09-21
EP0518662B1 (de) 1995-05-17
DE69202520D1 (de) 1995-06-22
ATE122645T1 (de) 1995-06-15
ES2072098T3 (es) 1995-07-01
EP0518662A3 (en) 1993-01-20

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