NZ762885A - Bulk liquid monitoring and management system - Google Patents
Bulk liquid monitoring and management system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- NZ762885A NZ762885A NZ762885A NZ76288520A NZ762885A NZ 762885 A NZ762885 A NZ 762885A NZ 762885 A NZ762885 A NZ 762885A NZ 76288520 A NZ76288520 A NZ 76288520A NZ 762885 A NZ762885 A NZ 762885A
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- tank
- liquid
- monitoring
- controller
- volume
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- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 112
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 20
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- 230000001702 transmitter Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 12
- 239000000446 fuel Substances 0.000 claims description 21
- 230000001276 controlling effect Effects 0.000 claims description 10
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000002283 diesel fuel Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000001934 delay Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000009313 farming Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 2
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- 238000009114 investigational therapy Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003973 irrigation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002262 irrigation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000002955 isolation Methods 0.000 description 1
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- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
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Abstract
A monitoring and/or management system for monitoring bulk liquid from a remote location is disclosed. The system includes at least one tank, configured to receive and store bulk liquid and at least one sensor associated with the at least one tank. The at least one sensor is configured to sense a measurement relating to the quantity of liquid in the at least one tank. The system also includes a controller in proximity to the at least one tank that is configured to determine a volume of liquid in the tank in response to the measurement sensed by the at least one sensor. The controller is also configured to transmit volume data relating to the determined volume to a central server. The controller includes a transmitter that is configurable to transmit the volume data using a non-data cellular service such as text messaging. A method of monitoring and/or managing bulk liquid from a remote location is also disclosed. easurement relating to the quantity of liquid in the at least one tank. The system also includes a controller in proximity to the at least one tank that is configured to determine a volume of liquid in the tank in response to the measurement sensed by the at least one sensor. The controller is also configured to transmit volume data relating to the determined volume to a central server. The controller includes a transmitter that is configurable to transmit the volume data using a non-data cellular service such as text messaging. A method of monitoring and/or managing bulk liquid from a remote location is also disclosed.
Description
BULK LIQUID MONITORING AND MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
FIELD
The present invention relates to monitoring and management of bulk fluids.
The invention relates particularly but not exclusively, to a system for monitoring
and/or managing bulk quantities of liquid from a remote location, e.g. liquid fuels such as diesel
and water. The invention also extends to a method of monitoring and/or managing a bulk liquid
from a remote location.
DEFINITION
In the present specification and claims (if any), the word ‘comprising’ and its
derivatives including ‘comprises’ and ‘comprise’ include each of the stated integers but does not
exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.
BACKGROUND ART
Farming, mine, construction and earthmoving sites generally require significant
amounts of diesel to operate their equipment, which is used for performing a variety of tasks
from harvesting to transportation to development. The equipment is generally spread out over
large areas, and as such, many sites include multiple diesel storage tanks, thereby providing
diesel close to the equipment. In short, diesel is generally transported to the sites in bulk from
nearby cities or towns, to fill the tanks when needed.
Many centrally managed farming and mining sites are spread out over a region, and
are often located in remote locations. Furthermore, several operators may operate the
equipment, and thus use the diesel. As such, management of the diesel across these sites is
often very difficult. As a result, it is generally difficult to predict when the diesel tanks will need
refilling. Accordingly, the diesel tanks are often refilled based on know-how and best guesses,
which is inefficient.
Several attempts have been made to improve diesel management in such cases,
based upon regular, manual tank level monitoring. While such monitoring enables a manager
or other person to get a better understanding of the diesel levels, the monitoring, management
and travel to and from the site are all time-consuming tasks, which take staff away from other
more productive tasks.
In more recent years, remote tank monitoring systems have been developed, where
level sensors are used to remotely sense a level of diesel in a tank, and transport details of the
tank levels by the Internet. A problem, however, with such remote monitoring of tanks is that the
systems are generally complex and expensive. Furthermore, in many cases the systems must
be custom made to suit each configuration, which is complex and time consuming.
Another problem with such remote monitoring systems is that the data therefrom can
be difficult to interpret, and as a result, it can be difficult for a manager to get a good overview of
the diesel levels and usage information.
A further problem with such Internet-based remote monitoring systems is that they
are not well-suited to remote areas. In Australia, a large portion of the country is without mobile
broadband Internet coverage, and as a result, such systems are generally not suitable.
Satellite based Internet is available in many remote areas, but these systems are
generally complex, difficult to install and expensive. Furthermore, many remote tanks may not
have access to mains power, and as such, require further associated infrastructure to be
installed.
It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this
reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common
general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
The applicant has recognised that it would be beneficial if improved methods and
systems for bulk liquid monitoring and/or managing bulk liquids could be devised.
The present invention is directed to methods and systems for monitoring and/or
managing bulk liquids, which may at least partially overcome at least one of the abovementioned
disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.
According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a monitoring and/or
management system for monitoring bulk liquid from a remote location, the system including:
at least one tank, configured to receive and store bulk liquid;
at least one sensor associated with the at least one tank, the at least one sensor
configured to sense a measurement relating to the quantity of liquid in the at least one tank; and
a controller in proximity to the at least one tank, the controller being configured to
determine a volume of liquid in the tank in response to the measurement sensed by the at least
one sensor, and the controller also being configured to transmit volume data relating to the
determined volume to a central server.
The measurement relating to the quantity of liquid may be the level of liquid in the
tank and the controller may be configured to determine the volume of liquid in response to the
level of liquid sensed by the sensor.
The controller may be configured to determine a volume of liquid in the tank based
upon the level of liquid sensed by the sensor and a model of tank, or the controller may be
configured to determine a volume of liquid in the tank based upon the sensor level and a lookup
table.
The model of the tank may comprise a cylindrical model. The cylindrical model may
comprise a horizontal or a vertical cylinder. The lookup table may be determined heuristically.
The liquid may comprise diesel. Alternatively, the liquid may comprise water, or one
or more chemicals.
The at least one sensor may be an ultrasonic sensor that is configured to determine
a level of liquid in the tank with reference to a reference point, e.g. being the position and height
of the sensor in the tank. The use of an ultrasonic sensor alleviates the need to lower a sensor,
or a part of the sensor, into the liquid, while still enabling accurate measurement to be performed.
The controller may include a transmitter that is configured to wirelessly transmit the
determined volume of liquid to the central server.
The transmitter may include a cellular transmitter transmitting wirelessly to the
central server using a cellular base station.
The cellular transmitter may be configurable to include transmitting the volume data
using a non-data cellular service, such as text messaging.
Further, the controller may be configurable to include transmitting the data over the
internet.
The monitoring and/or management system may include a valve operatively
associated with each tank for controlling the discharge of liquid from the tank, and the valve may
be operatively connected to the controller associated with that tank which controls the flow of
liquid from the tank by opening and closing the valve.
In this way, the controller controls the delivery of liquid from its associated tank by
opening and closing the valve.
The system may further include a liquid volume measuring arrangement for
measuring the volume of liquid drawn from the tank each time a user draws liquid from the tank.
The liquid volume measuring arrangement may be like a fuel volume measuring
arrangement of the type found at a fuel bowser.
Optionally, the liquid volume measuring arrangement may include the flow meter.
The liquid volume measuring arrangement may be operatively connected to the
controller to communicate liquid data regarding liquid volume drawn from the tank to the
controller.
Further, the controller may transmit the liquid data to the central server.
The monitoring and/or management system may further include a flow meter
mounted in line with the valve for measure the flow of liquid from the tank. Further, the controller
may be operatively connected to the flow meter for receiving flow measurements therefrom,
determining a volume of liquid discharged from the tank, and transmitting data relating to the
volume of liquid discharged from the tank to the central server.
The system may include a reader for controlling access to the the/each tank and
limiting access to authorized users.
The reader may include a wireless access tag reader that is operatively coupled to
the controller, and the controller may be configured to control access in response to data read
by the wireless access tag reader.
The monitoring and/or management system may optionally include a keypad, for
enabling a user to enter a pin code or password. The controller may be configured to control
access to the one or more tanks at least in part through data entered into the keypad.
Optionally, the system may include a keypad in addition to the reader. Alternatively,
the system may include a keypad instead of the reader.
The controller may be configured to receive an equipment identifier identifying a
piece of equipment to which liquid is to be supplied, to log a record of the piece of equipment to
which the liquid is supplied.
The controller may be configured to transmit data relating to the equipment identifier
and equipment usage associated with that equipment identifier to the central server.
Alternatively, a user may be associated with the equipment, thereby providing an
indirect equipment identifier by virtue of a known association between a user and their
equipment.
At least one piece of equipment may have an odometer or hour meter reflecting
usage of that piece of equipment, and the controller may be configured to log an odometer or
hour reading of that equipment when liquid, e.g. diesel is delivered to that equipment.
The central server may associate the determined volume of liquid discharged with
the particular user. Alternatively, the central server may associate the determined volume of
liquid discharged with a particular piece of equipment.
The central server may be configured to generate a graphical user interface (GUI),
and the GUI is configured to display at least volume data of the at least one tank. In particular,
the GUI may comprise an interactive dashboard.
The GUI may be configured to display data indicative of a flow of liquid from the tank,
and/or data for a particular piece of equipment, and/or data for a particular operator, and/or data
for a particular tank.
The GUI may be configurable to display data for a selected time period.
In one embodiment, the monitoring and/or management system may have a plurality
of said tanks, and the GUI may be configured to display volume data for the plurality of tanks.
The volume data may include displaying volume data for each of the plurality of tanks.
Additionally, or alternatively, the volume data may include volume data that is aggregated for the
plurality of tanks in addition to or instead of volume data for each of the plurality of tanks.
The controller may be contained in a housing.
The GUI may be further configurable to transmit control instructions to the controller
for controlling operation of a piece of equipment.
The system may further include a pump for pumping liquid from the tank.
The controller may be configurable to enable a user to control the pump by
transmitting instructions through the GUI to the controller.
In particular, a user may transmit instructions to the controller to switch on a pump
to draw water from the tank and also to switch off the pump.
Generally, the system enables tanks to be added in a modular manner which renders
the system flexible and capable of incremental expansion.
The system is easy to install and configure and the server does not need have
information on the shape or volume of the tanks.
According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for
monitoring and/or managing bulk liquid from a remote location, the method including:
using at least one sensor associated with at least one tank configured to receive and
store bulk liquid to sense a measurement relating to the quantity of liquid in the at least one tank;
determining, using at least one controller in proximity to the at least one tank, a
volume of liquid in the tank based upon the measurement in the at least one tank, and
transmitting volume data relating to the determined volume of liquid to a central
server.
A valve may be operatively associated with each tank for controlling the flow of liquid
from the tank, and the method includes controlling opening and closing the valve to control the
flow of liquid by means of the controller.
Transmitting to a central server may include wirelessly transmitting the volume data
to the central server by means of a cellular transmitter.
Further, wirelessly transmitting to the central server may include transmitting the
volume data using a non-data cellular service, such as text messaging.
The method may further include configuring the central server to generate a GUI and
configuring the GUI to display volume data of the at least one tank.
The method may include monitoring and/or managing a bulk liquid which is diesel
fuel which is used by pieces of equipment such as vehicles and pumps. Further, the method
may include monitoring and/or managing a bulk liquid which is water which may be used for
irrigation of farmland.
Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any
one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.
In particular, the method may include using the system defined in a preceding
statement of invention. Further, the system used in the method may include any one or more of
the optional or preferred features of the system defined in a preceding statement of invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
Various embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the
following drawings, in which:
Figure 1 illustrates a system for managing and monitoring diesel across a plurality of
remote sites, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 2 illustrates a simplified overview of a site including a tank of the system of
Figure 1 and remote monitoring modules;
Figure 3 illustrates a schematic of a site of the system of Figure 1 with associated
remote monitoring modules;
Figure 4 illustrates a screenshot of a first dashboard screen of the system of Figure
1, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 5 illustrates a screenshot of a second dashboard screen of the system of
Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 6 illustrates a screenshot of a third dashboard screen of the system of Figure
1, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 7 is a schematic flow sheet illustrating a method of remotely monitoring and
managing a bulk liquid; and
Figure 8 is a schematic drawing illustrating an example controller for a system in
accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
Figure 9 show some screenshots of example fuel management software.
Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned
from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in
the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the
scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Figure 1 illustrates a system 100 for managing and monitoring diesel across a
plurality of remote sites, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In particular, the
system 100 enables a manager 105, or other authorised individual, to obtain an accurate
overview of each of a plurality of tanks 110 storing the diesel, distributed across a plurality of
remote sites 115, in a manner that is easy to use and understand. This enables better decisions
to be made about the diesel, and reduces the likelihood that the diesel unexpectedly runs out in
one of the tanks 110. The system 100 also enables sites 115 to be monitored in areas without
mobile broadband Internet coverage, as outlined in further detail below.
The sites 115 may be agricultural or mine sites, where equipment 120, such as
mining or agricultural machinery, is operated. The equipment 120 is powered by diesel from the
tanks 110. Operators 125 of the equipment 120 use RFID tags 130 to gain access to the tanks
110, which thereby enable the operators 125 to fill the equipment 120 with diesel.
Each tank 110 is associated with remote monitoring modules 135, which provide
access control (i.e. ensure that the operator 125 is authorised to access the diesel), and
monitoring of the diesel usage, such as monitoring of the amounts of diesel distributed, to whom,
and when. The remote monitoring modules 135 may also obtain data of the equipment 120,
such as an equipment identifier and associated running data (e.g. hour meter or odometer
readings).
The monitored data is uploaded to a remote server 140 by way of one or more
cellular base stations 145. The cellular base stations 145 may receive the monitored data using
a mobile broadband Internet configuration, when available, and messaging (or voice)
configurations otherwise. As an illustrative example, the remote monitoring modules 135 may
communicate with the cellular base station 145 using 3G or 4G mobile broadband Internet when
available, and revert to text messaging when 3G or 4G mobile broadband Internet is not
available.
In case text messaging is used, the data may be encoded and compressed in the
text message prior to being uploaded, to save transmission costs, and to increase reliability. As
an illustrative example, the data may be encoded as a string of hexadecimal characters.
The use of messaging, when required, enables the system to function in areas where
mobile broadband Internet is not available, but when cellular coverage is available. As such,
this configuration provides a cost-effective step between mobile broadband based solutions and
expensive satellite-based solutions.
The server 140 receives data from each of the remote locations 115, and both saves
and analyses this information. This in turn enables the manager 105 to receive intelligent
warnings and messages, as well as be able to access the received data in its original
(untransformed) state, e.g. for investigative purposes.
As outlined below, the server 140 generates a dashboard, which is displayed to the
manager 105 on a manager computing device 150, such as a personal computer. The
dashboard includes warnings and alerts (if relevant), and information regarding levels of diesel
in the tanks, as well as usage statistics and other important information. The dashboards are
configurable, which enables managers 105 to see data that is most relevant to them.
In addition to monitoring, the manager 105 may select one or more restrictions to
place on an operator 125 and or equipment 120. As an illustrative example, the manager 105
may, using the system 100, direct an operator 125 to use a particular tank 110, either generally
or for particular equipment 120. This is preferably achieved by sending a message, using the
system 100, to the operator 125. As a result, the manager 125 is able to have better control
over how the diesel in the tanks 110 is used.
The manager 105 may also arrange for diesel to be transported from one tank 110
to another tank 110, instead of simply arranging for the other tank 110 to be filled. This may be
arranged using the system 100, for example using messaging, or directly with a transport vehicle.
This in turn enables the manager 105 to have better control over the diesel in the tanks 110 as
a whole, rather than considering each tank 110 in isolation. This may in turn enable the manager
105 to reduce a total amount of diesel stored on site, while maintaining availability of the diesel
where required.
Figure 2 illustrates a simplified overview of a site 200 including a tank 110 and
remote monitoring modules, and Figure 3 illustrates a schematic of the site 200 including the
tank 110 and associated remote monitoring modules.
The tank 110 includes a control panel 205 in association therewith, which provides
connectivity to the server 140, and provides access control and monitoring. In particular, the
control panel 205 includes an RFID tag reader 210, which enables the operator 125 to scan an
RFID tag for identification purposes. The RFID tag may comprise a fob, which is held against
the reader 210 in use by one or more magnets.
The control panel 205 further includes a keypad 215, which enables the operator
125 to enter a pin number associated with the RFID tag, to provide further security in case the
RFID tag becomes lost or otherwise in the hands of someone that is unauthorised.
Diesel 220, which is stored in the tank 110, is provided using a dispensing hose with
a nozzle 225, to enable the tank 110 to function much like a diesel bowser (also known as a
diesel pump). A valve 230 is provided intermediate the tank 110 and the nozzle 225, to enable
access to diesel from the nozzle 225 to be controlled. In particular, a processor 235 of the control
panel 205 is coupled to the valve 230, and is configured to prevent access to the diesel of the
tank 110 by keeping the valve 230 closed unless the operator 125 is authorised using the RFID
card and associated code.
The keypad 215 is also configured to receive odometer or hour meter readings of
the equipment 120 prior to dispensing the diesel. The odometer or hour meter readings may be
used to determine inconsistencies in diesel usage, which may correspond to faults in the
equipment 120, theft or other issues. In such case, an alert may issue to the manager 105, for
further investigation.
The keypad 215 may also be used to enter other details, such as fleet number,
employee number or the like. In such case, the system may be configured to communicate with
a fleet management system, and update data thereto. Such data could include fuel usage
associated with the equipment, or any other suitable information. Similarly, information from the
fleet management system, such as kilometres travelled, may be obtained and associated with
the dispensed fuel. Such configuration provides more accurate travel data than if the operator
is required to manually enter odometer data.
The tank 110 includes an ultrasonic level sensor 240, which is configured to measure
a level of diesel 220 in the tank, by measuring an ultrasonic reflection from a surface thereof. In
particular, the ultrasonic level sensor 240 is used to measure a height of the diesel with respect
to a reference point (i.e. the location of the sensor). That height data is then used with either a
table, or geometric information, which is stored in a memory 245 of the control panel 205 to
determine a volume of diesel in the tank.
In case a model of the tank 110 is used, the model may, for example, comprise a
cylinder (which may be standing or sitting) defined by a length and diameter. Similar, the model
may be cuboid in shape, and defined by a length, width and height. The model is then used to
define a volume of diesel in the tank using geometry. As an illustrative example, a shape may
be defined by the model, truncated at a height corresponding to the level of diesel in the tank.
A volume of the shape may then be determined, to determine a volume of diesel in the tank.
As the sensor 240 may not be able to be mounted directly on an edge of the model,
a sensor offset may also be defined. The sensor offset may be applied to the sensor data to
align the sensor reading to the model.
When it isn't possible, feasible or desirable to create a model for the tank 110, a
lookup table may instead be used to map sensor data to tank volume. This data of the lookup
table may be determined from known characteristics of the tank 110 (e.g. the tank is of a known
type and size), or may be measured in a one-off manner. In particular, when empty, the tank
110 may be progressively filled with known volumes of diesel, and incrementally. That sensor
data of these measurements may then be mapped to the associated volume in the look up table.
The ultrasonic level sensor 240 is advantageous in that it does not have any moving
parts, and does not require any sensors or parts thereof to be submerged in the diesel.
Furthermore, by determining the volume on site (rather than at the server 140), tanks can be
added in a modular manner without needing to configure details of the tanks at the server 140.
In particular, it enables the reported data to have meaning (i.e. volume), regardless of the shape
or size of the tank.
A flow meter 250 is coupled intermediate the tank 110 and the nozzle 225, and when
the operator 125 is dispensing diesel 220 through the nozzle 225, the flow rate is used to
determine a volume dispensed. As such, the volumes dispensed from the tank 110 are logged
by the control panel.
The control panel may be configured to take a volume measurement using the
ultrasonic sensor 240 before and after filling. As such, the volume data of the flow meter 250
may be compared with the readings of the ultrasonic sensor 240 for consistency. Similarly,
taking volume measurements in association with use of the diesel 220 ensures that
measurements are taken when needed, rather than needlessly across a large time period of
non-use.
While it is desirable to only measure liquid levels when needed, measurements may
also be taken periodically. This is particularly useful in identifying leaks or damage to the tank,
or unauthorised entry to the tank, particularly if the tank is not used often. As an illustrative
example, an event may be scheduled to verify that the control panel 105 is still operational, and
that the tanks 110 are at their expected levels.
While not illustrated, the skilled addressee will readily appreciate that the tank will
include a pump, configured to pump the diesel through the nozzle. The pump is preferably
activated on demand, such that it does not use power when idle. Similarly, the skilled addressee
will readily appreciate that the control panel 105 and associated components (including the
pump) are powered by an external power source. In remote environments, the power source
may comprise one or more solar panels, coupled to batteries, to power the control panel 105
and associated components whether there is sun powering the solar panels or not.
Finally, the control panel 105 will generally be housed in a cabinet having doors, or
is otherwise sheltered and protected from the weather and damage. The cabinet may be located
on a side of the tank 110, or in proximity to the tank 110.
The control panel 105 may be configured to detect irregularities or tampering with
the tank, and sound an alarm and issue an alert or notification when an irregularity or tampering
is detected. One or more security sensors may be provided on the tank and/or the control panel.
As outlined above, the data captured and generated by the control panel is uploaded
to the server 140, and this is performed using a remote data interface 255 in the form of a cellular
data interface.
The server 140 is configured to generate dashboards based upon the received data
of the tanks, which enables the manager 105 to make data-based decisions, rather than
decisions based upon intuition alone. In particular, the dashboards may give important
information to the manager 105 such as how much and when the diesel is used, which may be
used to identify trends, and provides a record (log) of diesel use and deliveries, which is useful
from an audit perspective.
Figure 4 illustrates a screenshot 400 of a first dashboard screen of the system 100,
according to an embodiment of the present invention. The first dashboard screen provides an
overview of all of the tanks 110, including total amounts of fuel remaining, historical usage and
the like, as outlined below.
The first dashboard screen includes a reporting period selection component 405,
which enables the manager 105 to select a reporting period for which the data of the dashboard
relates. The reporting period selection component 405 includes a pre-defined period drop down
menu, enabling the manager 105 to select from one or more pre-defined periods (e.g. last 7
days, last month), and custom range definition elements, enabling the manager 105 to choose
custom start and end dates.
This is particularly useful if the manager 105 is interested only in recent activity, or
activity over a specific period of time (e.g. in association with an incident).
The first dashboard screen includes a historical usage chart 410, which includes
details of diesel usage of the tanks 110 over a period of time (e.g. the last 30 days). The historical
usage chart 410 shows usage for each of a plurality of different sub periods (e.g. days).
The first dashboard screen further includes a fuel summary portion 415, which
includes an overview of the fuel remaining, as well as the fuel used and delivered for a particular
period of time. The period of time is defined by the reporting period selection component 405,
defined above. As such, the manager 105 is able to quickly see how much fuel was used and
delivered for a particular period selected by the manager 105.
The first dashboard further includes an alerts portion 420, which provides an
overview of any alerts associated with the tanks. The alerts may be level alerts (e.g. the level
of a tank 110 is below a defined threshold), or any other suitable alert.
In regard to low-level alerts, the system may be configured to enable the manager
105 to manually define the thresholds or criteria defining the alert. Similarly, the server 140 may
be configured to send email or SMS alerts to the manager 105 or other users when an alert is
detected.
The first dashboard includes a user usage portion 425, which graphically illustrates
a portion of usage for each of a plurality of operators, based upon their usage of diesel. This is
particularly useful in identifying operators whose diesel usage is above or below that of others,
which can be further investigated, if desired.
Similarly, the first dashboard includes a tank usage portion 430, which graphically
illustrates a portion of usage for each of the tanks 110. This is particularly useful in identifying
tanks which are used much more or less than other tanks, which can be further investigated, if
desired, or used in future planning.
Tables are associated with each of the user usage portion 425 and the tank usage
portion 430, enabling the manager 105 to get an overview of the absolute usage (in addition to
the relative usage provided by the graphical charts).
Finally, the first dashboard includes an event log portion 435, which provides a log
of all events for the period defined by the reporting period selection component 405.
The first dashboard is designed to give the manager 105 a quick overview of all
tanks, and thereby enable high-level discrepancies to be identified, and high-level decisions to
be made. Different dashboards are, however, provided for individual tanks, and individual
operators, as outlined below, and the user may navigate between different dashboards using a
menu 440.
Figure 5 illustrates a screenshot 500 of a second dashboard screen of the system
100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The second dashboard screen is
similar to the first dashboard screen, but provides an overview of a selected tank 110, rather
than all tanks.
The second dashboard screen includes a tank selection menu 505, which enables
the manager 105 to select the tank.
The second dashboard screen includes the reporting period selection component
405, which enables the manager 105 to select the reporting period in the same manner as
outlined above. Similarly, the second dashboard, includes the historical usage chart 410, which
is configured to display historical usage data for the selected tank, rather than all tanks.
A fuel summary portion 510 is provided, much like the fuel summary portion 415
above, and includes an overview of the fuel remaining, as well as the fuel used and delivered
for a particular period of time but for the particular tank. The fuel summary portion 510 also
includes a graphical element showing a representation of the tank and the level (as a
percentage) it is full.
The second dashboard further includes the user usage portion 425, as outlined
above but in relation to the selected tank, and a delivery summary portion 515, which graphically
illustrates a portion of delivery for each of a plurality of different operators, based upon their
delivery of diesel. This is particularly useful in identifying who is delivering the diesel to the tank
110.
Finally, the second dashboard includes the event log 425, as illustrated above, but
for the selected tank.
Figure 6 illustrates a screenshot 600 of a third dashboard screen of the system 100,
according to an embodiment of the present invention. The third dashboard screen is similar to
the second dashboard screen, but provides an overview for a selected operator 125 (user) rather
than a selected tank 110.
The third dashboard screen includes an operator selection menu 605, which enables
the manager 105 to select the operator to which the dashboard relates.
The third dashboard screen includes the reporting period selection component 405,
which enables the manager 105 to select the reporting period in the same manner as outlined
above. Similarly, the second dashboard, includes the historical usage chart 410, which is
configured to display historical usage data for the selected user, rather than all users.
A fuel summary portion 610 is provided, much like the fuel summary portion 415
above, and includes an overview of the fuel used and delivered for a particular period of time but
for the particular operator.
The third dashboard screen further includes a tank usage portion 615, which
graphically illustrates the proportion of tanks from which the operator has used diesel, and a
delivery summary portion 620, which graphically illustrates a portion of delivery by the operator
to each of the tanks. This is particularly useful in identifying from where the operator is obtaining
his diesel, and to where he is delivering diesel.
Finally, the third dashboard includes the event log 425, as illustrated above, but for
the selected operator.
As mentioned above, the system 100 may be configured to generate alerts and send
the alerts to one or more users, such as the manager 105. As an illustrative example, the system
100 may be configured to send the manager 105 (and/or other key personnel) an automatic text
message or email when the tanks 110, or one or more of the tanks 110, meets a pre-defined
criteria, such as a level condition (e.g. below a certain level), or a usage condition (e.g. usage
from a tank was above a certain level). This provides the operator 125 with the information that
they need to respond appropriately to the situation, in a timely manner.
The system 100 may also be used to issue alerts about the equipment 120, such as,
when unexplained additional diesel usage from equipment is detected. This enables the
manager 105 to investigate the equipment, and service the equipment if that is at fault, or secure
the equipment if theft of diesel has been occurring.
Figure 7 illustrates a bulk liquid remote monitoring and management method 700,
according to an embodiment of the present invention. The method 700 may be similar or
identical to the method performed by the system 100 above.
At step 705, a liquid level in at least one tank is determined, using at least one sensor
associated with the at least one tank. The at least one tank is configured to receive and store
bulk liquid, such as diesel.
At step 710, a volume of liquid in the tank is determined using at least one controller
in proximity to the at least one tank. The controller determines the volume of liquid based upon
the sensor data of the at least one tank (i.e. the liquid level). This may be performed using a
model of the tank and geometry, for example.
At step 715, the determined volume data is transmitted to a central server. As
outlined above, the central server may log the volume data and use the volume data when
generating dashboards.
At step 720, a user that is in proximity to the at least one tanks is authenticated. This
may include scanning an RFID tag or fob of the user, and receiving a pin or other identifier
associated with the user.
At step 725, liquid (e.g. diesel) is dispensed from the tank to the user. As an
example, the liquid may be dispensed directly into a tank of equipment using a nozzle. The
liquid is dispensed to the user upon authentication of the user, and if authentication fails, the
user may be prevented from accessing the liquid.
At step 730, the flow of liquid to the user is monitored to determine a dispensed
volume. In particular, a flow rate of the liquid may, together with a time the liquid was dispensed,
may be used to determine the volume of liquid dispensed.
At step 735, the determined volume of liquid dispensed is transmitted to the central
server. The determined volume may be transmitted with an identifier of the user, and a
timestamp associated with the dispensing of the liquid. The central server may log the volume
data, associated with the user, and use the volume data when generating dashboards.
While much the above has been made with reference to diesel, other fluids may be
used. As an illustrative example, water may be stored and dispensed in similar ways, as may
chemicals such as herbicides and pesticides.
Furthermore, while the tanks are generally static, embodiments of the invention may
be used in relation to transportable/movable tanks. In such case, GPS data may be associated
with the tank as it moves, and location information may be associated with the delivery of fuel.
Advantageously, the systems and methods described above enable remote
monitoring of liquid storage tanks in a simple to use manner. This enables better decisions to
be made about the tanks, such as the ability to place bulk delivery orders at a desirable time
(such as when costs are relatively low). This in turn reduces the likelihood of a tank running low.
The systems and methods work with 2G, 3G, or 4G wireless communication, and
can be fitted with solar panels and batteries, allowing it to be setup in remote areas without a
direct power source. As the systems and methods enable non-mobile broadband
communication (e.g. using messaging over 2G), the system 100 also enables sites 115 to be
monitored in areas without mobile broadband Internet coverage.
The controller is enclosed in an electrical enclosure 10 and includes a main PCB 12
which acts as a central connection point and simplifies the wiring loom. The timer functionality
is built into a separate daughter board 14 that is connected to the main PCB. The timer PCB 14
controls signals within the enclosure and delays switching on the ignition power after the operator
has actuated the ignition switch. It also delays turning off the batch controller to allow time for a
batch to be finalised. The system can be built with either a 240V to 12V supply or an external
12V supply. Both these options require a 12V to 24 V step up.
As shown in the drawing, the main PCB is operatively connected to a batch controller
which, in turn, is operatively connected to a flow meter.
The main PCB is operatively connected to a Teletrac Navman Qube 300 which
transmits the signals to a remote server.
Reference throughout this specification to ‘one embodiment’ or ‘an embodiment’
means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the
embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the
appearance of the phrases ‘in one embodiment’ or ‘in an embodiment’ in various places
throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.
Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any
suitable manner in one or more combinations.
In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more
or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is
not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises
preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of
its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately
interpreted by those skilled in the art.
Claims (24)
1. A monitoring and/or management system for monitoring bulk liquid from a remote location, the system including: at least one tank, configured to receive and store bulk liquid; at least one sensor associated with the at least one tank, the at least one sensor configured to sense a measurement relating to the quantity of liquid in the at least one tank; and a controller in proximity to the at least one tank, the controller being configured to determine a volume of liquid in the tank in response to the measurement sensed by the at least one sensor, and the controller also being configured to transmit volume data relating to the determined volume to a central server.
2. A monitoring and/or management system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to sense the level of liquid in the tank in response to the level of liquid sensed by the sensor.
3. A monitoring and/or management system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the sensor is an ultrasonic sensor that is configured to determine a level of liquid in the tank with reference to a reference point.
4. A monitoring and/or management system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the controller includes a transmitter that is configured to wirelessly transmit the determined volume of liquid to the central server.
5. A monitoring and/or management system according to claim 4, wherein the transmitter is a cellular transmitter transmitting the volume data wirelessly to the central server using a cellular base station.
6. A monitoring and/or management system according to claim 5, wherein the cellular transmitter is configurable to include transmitting the volume data using a non-data cellular service.
7. A monitoring and/or management system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, including a valve operatively associated with each tank for controlling the discharge of liquid from the tank, the valve being operatively connected to the controller associated with that tank for controlling the flow of liquid from the tank by opening and closing the valve.
8. A monitoring and/or management system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further including a flow meter mounted in line with the valve for measure the flow of liquid from the tank, and wherein the controller is operatively connected to the flow meter for receiving flow measurements therefrom, determining a volume of liquid discharged from the tank, and transmitting data relating to the volume of liquid discharged from the tank to the central server.
9. A monitoring and/or management system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the system includes a reader for controlling access to the/each tank and limiting access to authorized users.
10. A monitoring and/or management system according to claim 7, wherein the reader includes a wireless access tag reader a wireless access tag reader that is operatively coupled to the controller, and the controller is configured to control access in response to data read by the wireless access tag reader.
11. A monitoring and/or management system according to claim 9 or claim 10, further including a keypad, for enabling a user to enter a pin code or password, wherein the controller is configured to control access to the/ each tank at least in part through data entered in the keypad.
12. A monitoring and/or management system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the controller is configured to receive an equipment identifier identifying a piece of equipment to which liquid is to be supplied, to log a record of the piece of equipment to which the liquid is supplied.
13. A monitoring and/or management system according to claim 12, wherein the controller is configured to transmit data relating to relating to the equipment identifier and equipment usage associated with that equipment identifier to the central server.
14. A monitoring and/or management system according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein at least one piece of equipment has an odometer or hour meter reflecting usage of that piece of equipment, and the controller is configured to log an odometer or hour reading of that equipment when liquid is delivered to that equipment.
15. A monitoring and/or management system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the central server is configured to generate a graphical user interface (GUI), and the GUI is configured to display at least volume data of the at least one tank.
16. A monitoring and/or management system according to claim 15, wherein the GUI is configured to display data indicative of a flow of liquid from the tank, and/or data relating to a particular piece of equipment, and/or data relating to a particular operator.
17. A monitoring and/or management system according to claim 15 or claim 16, having a plurality of said tanks, and the GUI is configured to display volume data for the plurality of tanks, wherein the volume data includes displaying volume data for each of the plurality of tanks and/or volume data that is aggregated for the plurality of tanks.
18. A method for monitoring and/or managing bulk liquid from a remote location, the method including: using at least one sensor associated with at least one tank configured to receive and store bulk liquid, to sense a measurement relating to the quantity of liquid in the at least one tank; and determining, using at least one controller in proximity to the at least one tank, a volume of liquid in the tank based upon the measurement in the at least one tank, and transmitting volume data relating to the determined volume of liquid to a central server.
19. A method for monitoring and/or managing bulk liquid according to claim 18, wherein a valve is operatively associated with each tank for controlling the flow of liquid from the tank, and the method includes controlling opening and closing the valve to control the flow of liquid by means of the controller.
20. A method for monitoring and/or managing bulk liquid according to claim 18 or claim 19, wherein transmitting to a central server includes wirelessly transmitting the volume data to the central server by means of a cellular transmitter.
21. A method for monitoring and/or managing bulk liquid according to claim 20, wherein wirelessly transmitting to the central server includes transmitting the volume data using a non- data cellular service, such as text messaging.
22. A method for monitoring and/or managing bulk liquid according to any one of claims 18 to 21, further including configuring the central server to generate a GUI and configuring the GUI to display volume data of the at least one tank.
23. A method for monitoring and/or managing bulk liquid according to any one of claims 18 to 22, wherein the at least one tank stores diesel fuel which is used as a fuel for a piece of equipment.
24. A method for monitoring and/or managing bulk liquid according to any one of claims 18 to 22, wherein the at least one tank stores water.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
AU2019900964 | 2019-03-22 |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
NZ762885A true NZ762885A (en) | 2020-03-27 |
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