WO1995010030A1 - Distance measuring system using laser technology for the determination of levels - Google Patents

Distance measuring system using laser technology for the determination of levels Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO1995010030A1
WO1995010030A1 PCT/ES1994/000096 ES9400096W WO9510030A1 WO 1995010030 A1 WO1995010030 A1 WO 1995010030A1 ES 9400096 W ES9400096 W ES 9400096W WO 9510030 A1 WO9510030 A1 WO 9510030A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
laser
head
sensor head
block
level
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/ES1994/000096
Other languages
Spanish (es)
French (fr)
Inventor
José Antonio SANZ GARCIA
Original Assignee
Elapsa, S.L.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Elapsa, S.L. filed Critical Elapsa, S.L.
Priority to AU78140/94A priority Critical patent/AU7814094A/en
Publication of WO1995010030A1 publication Critical patent/WO1995010030A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01F—MEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME
    • G01F23/00—Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm
    • G01F23/22—Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm by measuring physical variables, other than linear dimensions, pressure or weight, dependent on the level to be measured, e.g. by difference of heat transfer of steam or water
    • G01F23/28—Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm by measuring physical variables, other than linear dimensions, pressure or weight, dependent on the level to be measured, e.g. by difference of heat transfer of steam or water by measuring the variations of parameters of electromagnetic or acoustic waves applied directly to the liquid or fluent solid material
    • G01F23/284—Electromagnetic waves
    • G01F23/292—Light, e.g. infrared or ultraviolet

Definitions

  • the present invention refers to a distance measuring system with laser technology for determining levels, the purpose of which is to provide an advantageous means over existing ones, capable of providing measurements distances with adequate precision, with excellent safety and reliability conditions, with a lower economic cost than that required by conventionally used equipment, and with greater installation facilities than those presented by such equipment. All of this preferably in order to use the inventive measuring system as level reading equipment, locally, remotely or both, and by locating it on top of any tank or storage tank.
  • the referred reading of levels is carried out using, in a novel way, emitters and receivers of laser light; determining the corresponding measurement by the reflection of the laser on the surface of the product contained in the aforementioned tank or deposit.
  • the main applications of the invention are in level systems for cargo tanks, ballast and draft to be installed on ships; in local and remote systems for onshore installations, such as fuel tanks, refineries, gas stations, silos, cement, liquefied gases, water tanks, etc .; on portable level probes without contact with the load; and in various uses in the construction field.
  • These radar systems have good precision in measurements over long distances, perfectly discriminating level changes of a millimeter at 50 meters away. Furthermore, these systems are stable at different temperatures and provide reliable measurements. They are the systems that are preferably implemented in oil tankers, due to their quality and precision. The main disadvantages of these radar systems are their high price and their excessive size due to the need to use a satellite dish in each tank that you want to control.
  • Ultrasonic level measurement systems are the most widespread on the market, there are quite a few companies that manufacture them for different applications; although its use is usually limited to tanks on land installations, being used very rarely in naval installations.
  • the size of the corresponding ultrasonic equipment is small compared to that of the radar type, and its price is also lower. Without However, they have the drawbacks that their measurement resolution is lower than that of radar equipment and decreases with increasing distance, and that the problems due to interference and instability are greater than those of radar equipment.
  • radar and ultrasound level measurement equipment have other drawbacks common to both.
  • One of them is that the signal beam they send has an opening between 5 degrees and 10 degrees, so they need free space in the measurement area, such as a diameter greater than 5 meters at the bottom of a 30 meters high, which implies important limitations of the corresponding installation on the tank and expensive filtering processes and the installation of reflection plates in the work areas.
  • Another one of said common drawbacks is that the calculation of the distance is based on the measurement of the time between the emission and reception of the signal sent; and since this signal is reflected in the load with the same angle of incidence but with opposite sign with respect to the perpendicular, to travel towards the receiver, all non-perpendicular echoes are lost. This reflection characteristic limits the usefulness and correct operation of the system on surfaces that change or differ from perpendicularity at angles greater than 3 degrees.
  • the invention consists of a distance measuring system with laser technology for level determination, which is preferably installed on top of any ship depot, refineries and storage plants, no physical contact with the load, using laser light emitters and receivers with the circuits as field sensors associated required to measure the distance from the top of the storage tank, by refle ⁇ nection of the corresponding signal light on the product (oil, fuel, liquefied gases, water, grain, cement, etc.) and reading level local and / or distant.
  • the measuring system of the invention has versions of intrinsically safe characteristics for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, and includes a mechanical leveling system for its correct installation on the upper part of the storage tank when the specific application requires it.
  • This system or equipment is fixed inside a completely watertight head with presses for input and output cables.
  • no part of the equipment is in contact with the environment outside the tank, and the only element of the head exposed to the tank's atmosphere is a reinforced glass that closes the end of the laser probe at its bottom. This glass is easily accessible for cleaning through a hatch incorporated in the corresponding mounting base.
  • a manual probe plug is also included for level reading with reference grade.
  • the operating principle consists of a laser beam that is intensity modulated by means of an electronic head or assembly, to be launched sequentially through an emitter on the surface of the product whose height is to be measured.
  • the optical signal reflected in the product is detected and amplified by a receiver, thus obtaining data whose value depends directly on the flight time of the light.
  • the head of the system of the invention includes signals from pressure and temperature sensors, when required. These signals are added to the result of the data referred to in the paragraph previous. All data is multiplexed in the aforementioned electronic head, and is sent through an output thereof, and through the system network, to a control and process station that presents them on its monitors and transmits them to the alarm and control of the corresponding floor.
  • the system of the invention was initially designed for direct application on oil tankers, but since the technical requirements for said application exceed those of most other cases in which level gauges are needed, the possibilities of applying tion, as indicated in another section, they extend to many other fields.
  • the elements that have been described in this section make the invention a complete system for data acquisition and graphic presentation based on the control and monitoring of level, pressure and temperature of storage tanks, regardless of the type and product density, because the level measurement is performed by measuring the distance from the top of the tank to the surface of the product to be measured.
  • the invention is designed as a modular system, being easy to configure it to adapt to the specific needs of each installation, both in terms of equipment and functionality, and it is also easy to reconfigure it during commissioning due to changes or last-minute needs.
  • the corrections for seat and heel, due to the movements of the cargo in the ships will be carried out automatically by the system software working together with the data obtained by the built-in draft equipment; being available at the user's request, the vacuum data, level, weight of the load and volume.
  • the metering system of the invention has been designed so that its operational safety is a basic design parameter, complying with the safety standards required by the classification societies. All components located in hazardous area are intrinsically safe and redundant data buses are connected to computers through safety barriers in safe area, limiting the maximum current to the hazardous area.
  • the system continuously monitors the status of the different sensors to be controlled, presenting graphic information, on the screens of the corresponding computers, of the data received and of the corresponding alarms that are presented.
  • said data is sent, through a communication bus, to the repeaters, load calculator and via radio, where appropriate, to the equipment connected to the system of the invention.
  • the distance meter with laser technology for the determination of levels presents notable advantages over the meters with radar or ultrasonic technology referred to in the "Background of the Invention" section.
  • the measurement system with laser technology has characteristics of precision and stability that are at least similar to radar equipment for level systems. Accuracies greater than 1 millimeter can be achieved with this laser technology, but in level applications they are not considered necessary.
  • the size of the laser sensor equipment is smaller than that of radar equipment and of the order of that of ultrasonic equipment of similar characteristics, reducing assembly and installation costs compared to the former.
  • the maintenance needs and the lifetime of the laser equipment are lower and higher respectively.
  • Another advantage is that the congruence of the laser light implies a practically punctual emission of the signal, so that there is no opening beam or necessary free spaces in the working area, only a cylinder a few centimeters in the perpendicular of the beam. This implies great freedom when carrying out the installation in the most ideal place, and greater precision and stability of the measurements in all ranges, with the consequent saving in materials, filters and time for mounting reflective plates. .
  • the dependence of the perpendicularity of the laser emission on the product is much less than that of radar or ultrasonic systems, since the optical receiver detects laser light reflected by a surface that differs perpendicularity, even at angles greater than 10 grades.
  • the advantage of its utility is evident in installations that present considerable variations in perpendicularity with respect to the surface of the product, such as ships, silos, etc.
  • the estimated cost for the commercialization of the laser measurement systems object of this report, for naval applications is lower than that of current radar systems, apart from important advantages and economic savings for shipyards and ship owners regarding installation, commissioning and maintenance.
  • Figure 1 Represents a schematic elevation view of the sensor head of a distance measuring system with laser technology for level determination, according to the present invention and showing its main elements.
  • Figure 2. Represents the electronic block diagram of the sensor head referred to in the previous figure 1.
  • Figure 3. Schematically represents a complete configuration of an application example of the distance measuring system with laser technology for level determination, corresponding to the present invention. DESCRIPTION OF AN EXAMPLE OF EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION
  • the distance measuring system with laser technology for level determination has a sensor head 1 hermetically closed, including presses 2 at the corresponding cable inlets and outlets, so that no element inside the head 1 can come into contact with the external environment to the storage tank 4 to which the measuring system is applied, thus being protected against external elements such as gases, water, etc.
  • the lower part of the head 1 has a resistant glass 5 that allows the passage of the corresponding optical signals and that is the only element of the sensor that is exposed to the environment of the tank 4.
  • Head 1 when circumstances require it, is mounted on a socket 6 that includes a mechanical leveling system for its correct installation in the tank top 4.
  • This socket 6 has a hatch 7 that allows easy access to the external surface of the glass 5 to facilitate cleaning.
  • the housing of the head 1, in proximity to its connection with the socket 6, has a manual probe plug 8 that has the same reference grade 9 used by the laser sensor.
  • sensor head 1 This sensor head 1 also houses an optical receiver 13 that detects and amplifies the optical signal 14 corresponding to the reflection of the laser beam 11 on the surface of the product 3.
  • Head 1 optionally includes an inert gas pressure sensor 15 with atmospheric pressure tap 16; as well as a cable entry 17 for the signals coming from different temperature sensors 18.
  • the signals from these sensors 15 and 18, as well as the signal from the optical receiver 13 are taken to the electronic assembly 12 where they are multiplexed and processed, to be sent to the system network through a cable outlet 19, head 1.
  • the mechanical leveling system referred to earlier in this section has a level setting 20 also located inside the head 1.
  • the laser emitter and receiver, 10 and 13 respectively, are located in a laser block 21 that has the components and blocks necessary to provide a level information signal 22 to the electronic assembly 12.
  • this laser block 21 can be constituted by an oscillator 23 that connects with the laser emitter 10 and with a delay block 24 whose output is taken to a phase comparator 25, which it also reaches, after passing through an amplifier stage 26, the output of the optical receiver 13.
  • phase comparator 25 Following the phase comparator 25 and connected in series with it, a low-pass filter 27, an amplifier 28, and a zero-crossing detector circuit 29 could be found successively, the output of which will provide the tank level information signal 22.
  • This configuration of the laser block 21 is only one example among the existing possibilities for obtaining the level information signal 22.
  • the electronic assembly 12 also has different blocks. It has a multiplexer 30 to which the aforementioned level information signal 22 arrives and the signals from the pressure sensor 15 and the temperature sensors 18.
  • the multiplexer 30 connects to a logical circuitry block 31 which in turn connects to a microprocessor block 32, which is also attached to the multiplexer 30 and to a network adaptation block 33 of the system.
  • This block 33 provides the signals 34 that are sent to the network of the external system to the sensor head 1.
  • the electronic assembly 12 also has an input 35 for supplying its various blocks and for the laser block 21.
  • One or more sensor heads 1 can be part of a larger system configured for a real application of the invention, as shown in Figure 3.
  • Said system has a central unit for control 36 consisting of two industrial computers interconnected by a local network.
  • Each computer manages one of the two buses 37 and 38 that are connected to all the sensor heads 1 by means of distribution boxes 39, achieving full system redundancy.
  • Peripherals for access to the system such as color monitor 40, keyboard 41, printer 42, as well as the repeaters 43 and substations 44 required in different areas, are connected to the central control unit 36 through the area network local.
  • the central control unit 36 sends its data to a load calculator 45 and to a radio station 46 that communicates with the portable radio unit of the system.
  • the sensor heads 1 will provide the level data of the different tanks 4, as well as their inert gas pressure and temperature data when required.
  • pressure sensors 15 and temperature 18 are used, via electronic transmitters, which are also connected to buses 37 and 38 through the adapters of corresponding signal.
  • the configuration of figure 3 includes, in one of the tanks 4, alarm sensors 48 that connect to an alarm unit 49; having also provided protections 50 for buses 37 and 38 previously mentioned.

Abstract

The system comprises a sensor head (1), which may be integrated in various configurations of a system and which includes a laser emitter (10) and an optical receiver (13) which are used to obtain a distance measurement, preferably corresponding to the level of a product (3) inside a tank (4). The head (1) also includes an electronic assembly (12) which provides a data signal related to said distance measurement, to the temperature sensed by external sensors and to the pressure detected by a pressure sensor (15) which optionally integrates the head (1). The sensor head (1) is fixed, when necessary, by means of a mechanical levelling system to the tank (4) and by means of a plate (6) which has a manual gauge plug (8) and a hatch (7) to clean the head (1).

Description

SISTEMA MEDIDOR DE DISTANCIA CON TECNOLOGÍA LÁSER DISTANCE MEASURING SYSTEM WITH LASER TECHNOLOGY
PARA DETERMINACIÓN DE NIVELESFOR DETERMINATION OF LEVELS
OBJETO DE LA INVENCIÓNOBJECT OF THE INVENTION
La presente invención, tal y como se expresa en el enunciado de esta memoria descriptiva, se refiere a un sistema medidor de distancia con tecnología láser para determinación de niveles, cuya finalidad consiste en facilitar un medio ventajoso frente a los existentes, capaz de proporcionar medidas de distancias con la precisión adecuada, con excelentes condiciones de seguridad y fiabilidad, con un coste económico menor que el que requie¬ ren los equipos empleados convencionalmente, y con mayores facilidades de instalación que las que presentan dichos equipos. Todo ello preferentemente en orden a utilizar el sistema medidor de la invención como equipo de lectura de niveles, de manera local, a distancia o ambas y mediante su ubicación en la parte superior de cualquier depósito o tanque de almacenamiento.The present invention, as expressed in the statement of this specification, refers to a distance measuring system with laser technology for determining levels, the purpose of which is to provide an advantageous means over existing ones, capable of providing measurements distances with adequate precision, with excellent safety and reliability conditions, with a lower economic cost than that required by conventionally used equipment, and with greater installation facilities than those presented by such equipment. All of this preferably in order to use the inventive measuring system as level reading equipment, locally, remotely or both, and by locating it on top of any tank or storage tank.
La referida lectura de niveles se realiza utilizando, novedosamente, emisores y receptores de luz láser; determinándose la correspondiente medida por la reflexión del láser sobre la superficie del producto contenido en el aludido tanque o depósito.The referred reading of levels is carried out using, in a novel way, emitters and receivers of laser light; determining the corresponding measurement by the reflection of the laser on the surface of the product contained in the aforementioned tank or deposit.
Sin descartar otras muchas que pueden surgir, las principales aplicaciones de la invención se dan en sistemas de nivel de tanques de carga, lastre y calados a instalar en buques; en sistemas de nivel local y a distan¬ cia para instalaciones en tierra, tales como tanques de combustible, refinerías, gasolineras, silos, cementeros, gases licuados, depósitos de agua, etc.; en sondas de nivel portátiles sin contacto con la carga; y en utilizaciones diversas del campo de la construcción.Without ruling out many others that may arise, the main applications of the invention are in level systems for cargo tanks, ballast and draft to be installed on ships; in local and remote systems for onshore installations, such as fuel tanks, refineries, gas stations, silos, cement, liquefied gases, water tanks, etc .; on portable level probes without contact with the load; and in various uses in the construction field.
ANTECEDENTES DE LA INVENCIÓN Actualmente, a nivel mundial, y según la información que se ha podido recabar, existen dos tecnolo- gias para medida de niveles sin contacto físico con el correspondiente producto cuyo nivel se desea determinar. Una de estas tecnologías se basa en sistemas de radar, mientras que la otra se basa en sistemas de ultrasonidos. No se ha encontrado ningún sistema para medida de niveles basado en tecnología láser, y aunque se conocen aparatos medidores de distancias micrométricaε para aplicaciones de fabricación industrial, basados en la tecnología láser, dichos aparatos, además de quedar fuera del objeto y campo de aplicación de la presente invención, no interfieren con la misma, ya que sus metodologías, requisitos, elementos físicos y configuraciones, asi como los problemas técnicos a resolver en cada caso son muy diferentes. Los sistemas de mediciones de niveles por radar son cualitativamente mejores que los que emplean ultrasonidos. Dichos sistemas de radar tienen una buena precisión en medidas a largas distancias, llegando a discriminar perfectamente cambios de nivel de un milímetro a 50 metros de distancia. Además, estos sistemas son estables a distintas temperaturas y proporcionan medidas fiables. Son los sistemas que se implantan preferentemente en buques petroleros, por su calidad y precisión. Los inconvenientes principales de estos sistemas de radar son su elevado precio y su excesivo tamaño debido a la necesi¬ dad de emplear una antena parabólica en cada tanque que se quiera controlar.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Currently, worldwide, and according to the information that has been collected, there are two technologies gias for level measurement without physical contact with the corresponding product whose level you want to determine. One of these technologies is based on radar systems, while the other is based on ultrasound systems. No system for level measurement based on laser technology has been found, and although micrometric distance measuring devices for industrial manufacturing applications are known, based on laser technology, such devices, in addition to being outside the scope and field of application of The present invention does not interfere with it, since its methodologies, requirements, physical elements and configurations, as well as the technical problems to be solved in each case are very different. Radar level measurement systems are qualitatively better than those using ultrasound. These radar systems have good precision in measurements over long distances, perfectly discriminating level changes of a millimeter at 50 meters away. Furthermore, these systems are stable at different temperatures and provide reliable measurements. They are the systems that are preferably implemented in oil tankers, due to their quality and precision. The main disadvantages of these radar systems are their high price and their excessive size due to the need to use a satellite dish in each tank that you want to control.
Los sistemas de medición de niveles por ultrasonido son los que se encuentran más extendidos en el mercado, existiendo bastantes empresas que los fabrican para distintas aplicaciones; aunque su empleo suele estar limitado a tanques de instalaciones en tierra, utilizándose muy raramente en instalaciones navales. El tamaño de los correspondientes equipos ultrasónicos es pequeño respecto del de los de tipo radar, y su precio también es menor. Sin embargo, presentan los inconvenientes de que su resolución de medida es menor que la de los equipos de radar y disminuye al aumentar la distancia, y de que los problemas por interferencias e inestabilidad son mayores que los que presentan los equipos de radar.Ultrasonic level measurement systems are the most widespread on the market, there are quite a few companies that manufacture them for different applications; although its use is usually limited to tanks on land installations, being used very rarely in naval installations. The size of the corresponding ultrasonic equipment is small compared to that of the radar type, and its price is also lower. Without However, they have the drawbacks that their measurement resolution is lower than that of radar equipment and decreases with increasing distance, and that the problems due to interference and instability are greater than those of radar equipment.
Además, los equipos de medida de niveles por radar y por ultrasonido presentan otros inconvenientes comunes a ambos. Uno de ellos consiste en que el haz de señal que envían presentan una apertura entre 5 grados y 10 grados, por lo que necesitan espacio libre en la zona de medida, como por ejemplo un diámetro mayor de 5 metros en el fondo de un tanque de 30 metros de altura, lo cual implica importantes limitaciones de la correspondiente instalación sobre el tanque y costosos procesos de filtrᬠdos e instalaciones de chapas de reflexión en las zonas de trabajo.In addition, radar and ultrasound level measurement equipment have other drawbacks common to both. One of them is that the signal beam they send has an opening between 5 degrees and 10 degrees, so they need free space in the measurement area, such as a diameter greater than 5 meters at the bottom of a 30 meters high, which implies important limitations of the corresponding installation on the tank and expensive filtering processes and the installation of reflection plates in the work areas.
Otro de dichos inconvenientes comunes consiste en que el cálculo de la distancia se basa en la medida del tiempo entre la emisión y recepción de la señal enviada; y como esta señal se refleja en la carga con el mismo ángulo de incidencia pero con signo contrario respecto a la perpendicular, para viajar hacia el receptor, se pierden todos los ecos no perpendiculares. Esta característica de reflexión limita la utilidad y el correcto funcionamiento del sistema sobre superficies que cambien o difieran de la perpendicularidad en ángulos mayores de 3 grados.Another one of said common drawbacks is that the calculation of the distance is based on the measurement of the time between the emission and reception of the signal sent; and since this signal is reflected in the load with the same angle of incidence but with opposite sign with respect to the perpendicular, to travel towards the receiver, all non-perpendicular echoes are lost. This reflection characteristic limits the usefulness and correct operation of the system on surfaces that change or differ from perpendicularity at angles greater than 3 degrees.
DESCRIPCIÓN DE LA INVENCIÓNDESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Para lograr los objetivos y evitar los inconvenientes indicados en anteriores apartados, la invención consiste en un sistema medidor de distancia con tecnología láser para determinación de niveles, que se instala preferentemente en la parte superior de cualquier depósito de buques, refinerías y plantas de almacenamiento, sin contacto físico con la carga, utilizando como sensor de campo emisores y receptores de luz láser con los circuitos asociados necesarios para medir la distancia desde la parte superior del tanque de almacenamiento, mediante la refle¬ xión de la correspondiente señal lumínica sobre el producto (petróleo, combustible, gases licuados, agua, grano, cemento, etc.) y con lectura de nivel local y/o a distan¬ cia.To achieve the objectives and avoid the drawbacks indicated in previous sections, the invention consists of a distance measuring system with laser technology for level determination, which is preferably installed on top of any ship depot, refineries and storage plants, no physical contact with the load, using laser light emitters and receivers with the circuits as field sensors associated required to measure the distance from the top of the storage tank, by refle ¬ nection of the corresponding signal light on the product (oil, fuel, liquefied gases, water, grain, cement, etc.) and reading level local and / or distant.
El sistema medidor de la invención cuenta con versiones de características intrínsecamente seguras para su utilización en atmósferas potencialmente explosivas, e incluye un sistema mecánico de nivelación para su correcta instalación sobre la parte alta del tanque de almacenamien¬ to cuando la aplicación concreta lo requiera.The measuring system of the invention has versions of intrinsically safe characteristics for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, and includes a mechanical leveling system for its correct installation on the upper part of the storage tank when the specific application requires it.
Este sistema o equipo va fijado en el interior de un cabezal totalmente estanco con prensas para cables de entrada y salida. Así, ninguna parte del equipo queda en contacto con el ambiente exterior al tanque, y el único elemento del cabezal expuesto a la atmósfera del tanque es un cristal reforzado que cierra el extremo de la sonda láser por su parte inferior. Este cristal es fácilmente accesible para su limpieza a través de una escotilla incorporada en el correspondiente zócalo de montaje. También se incluye un tapón de sonda manual para la lectura de nivel con rasante de referencia.This system or equipment is fixed inside a completely watertight head with presses for input and output cables. Thus, no part of the equipment is in contact with the environment outside the tank, and the only element of the head exposed to the tank's atmosphere is a reinforced glass that closes the end of the laser probe at its bottom. This glass is easily accessible for cleaning through a hatch incorporated in the corresponding mounting base. A manual probe plug is also included for level reading with reference grade.
El principio de funcionamiento consiste en un haz láser que es modulado en intensidad mediante un cabezal o conjunto electrónico, para ser lanzado secuencialmente a través de un emisor sobre la superficie del producto cuya altura se desea medir. La señal óptica reflejada en el producto es detectada y amplificada por un receptor, obteniéndose así unos datos cuyo valor depende directamente del tiempo de vuelo de la luz .The operating principle consists of a laser beam that is intensity modulated by means of an electronic head or assembly, to be launched sequentially through an emitter on the surface of the product whose height is to be measured. The optical signal reflected in the product is detected and amplified by a receiver, thus obtaining data whose value depends directly on the flight time of the light.
El cabezal del sistema de la invención incluye las señales procedentes de sensores de presión y de temperatura, cuando asi se precise. Estas señales se suman a la resultante de los datos referidos en el párrafo anterior. Todos los datos se multiplexan en el mencionado cabezal electrónico, y se envían a través de una salida del mismo, y a través de la red del sistema, a una estación de control y proceso que las presenta en sus monitores y las transmite a los equipos de alarma y control de la corres¬ pondiente planta.The head of the system of the invention includes signals from pressure and temperature sensors, when required. These signals are added to the result of the data referred to in the paragraph previous. All data is multiplexed in the aforementioned electronic head, and is sent through an output thereof, and through the system network, to a control and process station that presents them on its monitors and transmits them to the alarm and control of the corresponding floor.
El sistema de la invención se diseñó inicial- mente para su aplicación directa en buques petroleros, pero debido a que las exigencias técnicas para dicha aplicación superan las de la mayoría de otros casos en los que se necesitan medidores de nivel, las posibilidades de aplica¬ ción, tal y como se indicó en otro apartado, se extienden a otros muchos campos.The system of the invention was initially designed for direct application on oil tankers, but since the technical requirements for said application exceed those of most other cases in which level gauges are needed, the possibilities of applying tion, as indicated in another section, they extend to many other fields.
Por otra parte, los elementos que se han descrito en este apartado, hacen de la invención un sistema completo de adquisición de datos y presentación gráfica basado en el control y monitorización de nivel, presión y temperatura de tanques de almacenamiento, independientemen¬ te del tipo y densidad del producto, por realizarse la medida de nivel midiendo la distancia desde la parte alta del tanque hasta la superficie del producto a medir.On the other hand, the elements that have been described in this section make the invention a complete system for data acquisition and graphic presentation based on the control and monitoring of level, pressure and temperature of storage tanks, regardless of the type and product density, because the level measurement is performed by measuring the distance from the top of the tank to the surface of the product to be measured.
Además, la invención está diseñada como sistema modulable, siendo fácil configurarla para adaptarse a las necesidades específicas de cada instalación, tanto en equipamiento como en funcionalidad, siendo también fácil reconfigurarlo durante la puesta en marcha por cambios o necesidades de última hora. En sus aplicaciones navales; las correcciones por asiento y escora, debido a los desplazamientos de la carga en los buques, se efectuarán automáticamente por el software del sistema trabajando junto con los datos obtenidos por el equipo de calados incorporado; pudiéndose disponer a petición del ususario, de los datos de vacío, nivel, peso de la carga y volumen.Furthermore, the invention is designed as a modular system, being easy to configure it to adapt to the specific needs of each installation, both in terms of equipment and functionality, and it is also easy to reconfigure it during commissioning due to changes or last-minute needs. In its naval applications; the corrections for seat and heel, due to the movements of the cargo in the ships, will be carried out automatically by the system software working together with the data obtained by the built-in draft equipment; being available at the user's request, the vacuum data, level, weight of the load and volume.
El sistema medidor de la invención se ha concebido de modo que su seguridad de funcionamiento es un parámetro básico de diseño, cumpliendo las normas de seguridad requeridas por las sociedades de clasificación. Todos los componentes situados en zona peligrosa son intrínsecamente seguros y los buses de datos redundantes están conectados a los ordenadores a través de barreras de seguridad en zona segura, limitando la máxima corriente a la zona peligrosa.The metering system of the invention has been designed so that its operational safety is a basic design parameter, complying with the safety standards required by the classification societies. All components located in hazardous area are intrinsically safe and redundant data buses are connected to computers through safety barriers in safe area, limiting the maximum current to the hazardous area.
El sistema supervisa continuamente el estado de los diferentes sensores a controlar, presentando información gráfica, en las pantallas de los correspondien¬ tes ordenadores, de los datos recibidos y de las alarmas correspondientes que se presenten. De modo selectivo se envían dichos datos, a través de un bus de comunicaciones, a los repetidores, calculadora de carga y vía radio en su caso, a los equipos conectados al sistema de la invención.The system continuously monitors the status of the different sensors to be controlled, presenting graphic information, on the screens of the corresponding computers, of the data received and of the corresponding alarms that are presented. Selectively, said data is sent, through a communication bus, to the repeaters, load calculator and via radio, where appropriate, to the equipment connected to the system of the invention.
El medidor de distancia con tecnología láser para la determinación de niveles, según la invención, presenta notables ventajas respecto a los medidores con tecnología radar o ultrasónica referidos en el apartado "Antecedentes de la Invención" .The distance meter with laser technology for the determination of levels, according to the invention, presents notable advantages over the meters with radar or ultrasonic technology referred to in the "Background of the Invention" section.
Así, cualitativamente, el sistema de medida con tecnología láser tiene unas características de preci¬ sión y estabilidad al menos similar al equipo de radar para sistemas de niveles. Pueden conseguirse precisiones mayores de 1 milímetro con esta tecnología láser, pero en las aplicaciones de niveles no se consideran necesarias.Thus, qualitatively, the measurement system with laser technology has characteristics of precision and stability that are at least similar to radar equipment for level systems. Accuracies greater than 1 millimeter can be achieved with this laser technology, but in level applications they are not considered necessary.
Por otra parte, el tamaño del equipo sensor láser es inferior al de los equipos con radar y del orden del de los equipos ultrasónicos de características pareci- das, reduciéndose los costes de montaje e instalación respecto a los primeros. Además, al no emplear partes del equipo, en el interior del tanque, tales como las antenas parabólicas de los equipos con radar, las necesidades de mantenimiento y el tiempo de vida del equipo láser son menores y mayor respectivamente. Otra ventaja consiste en que la congruencia de la luz láser implica una emisión prácticamente puntual de señal, por lo que no existe haz de apertura ni espacios libres necesarios en la zona de trabajo, solo un cilindro de unos centímetros en la perpendicular del haz. Esto implica una gran libertad a la hora de efectuar la instala¬ ción en el lugar más idóneo, y una mayor precisión y estabilidad de las medidas en todos los rangos, con el consiguiente ahorro en materiales, filtros y tiempo de montaje de chapas de reflexión.On the other hand, the size of the laser sensor equipment is smaller than that of radar equipment and of the order of that of ultrasonic equipment of similar characteristics, reducing assembly and installation costs compared to the former. In addition, by not using parts of the equipment, inside the tank, such as the satellite dishes of the radar equipment, the maintenance needs and the lifetime of the laser equipment are lower and higher respectively. Another advantage is that the congruence of the laser light implies a practically punctual emission of the signal, so that there is no opening beam or necessary free spaces in the working area, only a cylinder a few centimeters in the perpendicular of the beam. This implies great freedom when carrying out the installation in the most ideal place, and greater precision and stability of the measurements in all ranges, with the consequent saving in materials, filters and time for mounting reflective plates. .
Además, la dependencia de la perpendicularidad de la emisión láser sobre el producto es muy inferior a la de los sistemas de radar o ultrasónicos, ya que el receptor óptico detecta la luz láser reflejada por una superficie que difiera la perpendicularidad, incluso en ángulos superiores a 10 grados. La ventaja de su utilidad es evidente en instalaciones que presenten considerables variaciones de perpendicularidad respecto a la superficie del producto, tales como buques, silos, etc. Por último, respecto a factores económicos, cabe destacar que el coste estimado para la comercializa¬ ción de los sistemas de medida láser objeto de esta memoria, para aplicaciones navales es inferior al de los sistemas actuales con radar, aparte de importantes ventajas y ahorros económicos para los astilleros y armadores respecto a la instalación, puesta en marcha y mantenimien¬ to.Furthermore, the dependence of the perpendicularity of the laser emission on the product is much less than that of radar or ultrasonic systems, since the optical receiver detects laser light reflected by a surface that differs perpendicularity, even at angles greater than 10 grades. The advantage of its utility is evident in installations that present considerable variations in perpendicularity with respect to the surface of the product, such as ships, silos, etc. Finally, regarding economic factors, it should be noted that the estimated cost for the commercialization of the laser measurement systems object of this report, for naval applications, is lower than that of current radar systems, apart from important advantages and economic savings for shipyards and ship owners regarding installation, commissioning and maintenance.
A continuación, para facilitar una mejor comprensión de esta memoria descriptiva y formando parte integrante de la misma, se acompañan unas figuras en las que con carácter ilustrativo y no limitativo se ha repre¬ sentado el objeto de la invención. BREVE DESCRIPCIÓN DE LAS FIGURASBelow, to facilitate a better understanding of this descriptive memory and forming an integral part of it, some figures are attached in which the object of the invention has been represented by way of illustration and not limitation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
Figura 1.- Representa una vista en alzado y esquemática del cabezal sensor de un sistema medidor de distancia con tecnología láser para determinación de niveles, según la presente invención y mostrando sus elementos principales.Figure 1.- Represents a schematic elevation view of the sensor head of a distance measuring system with laser technology for level determination, according to the present invention and showing its main elements.
Figura 2.- Representa el diagrama electrónico de bloques del cabezal sensor referido en la anterior figura 1. Figura 3.- Representa esquemáticamente una configuración completa de un ejemplo de aplicación del sistema medidor de distancia con tecnología láser para determinación de niveles, correspondiente a la presente invención. DESCRIPCIÓN DE UN EJEMPLO DE REALIZACIÓN DE LA INVENCIÓNFigure 2.- Represents the electronic block diagram of the sensor head referred to in the previous figure 1. Figure 3.- Schematically represents a complete configuration of an application example of the distance measuring system with laser technology for level determination, corresponding to the present invention. DESCRIPTION OF AN EXAMPLE OF EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION
Seguidamente se realiza una descripción de un ejemplo de la invención, haciendo referencia a la numera¬ ción adoptada en las figuras.Next, a description of an example of the invention is made, referring to the numbering adopted in the figures.
Así, el sistema medidor de distancia con tecnología láser para determinación de niveles, de este ejemplo de realización, cuenta con un cabezal sensor 1 cerrado herméticamente, incluyendo prensas 2 en las correspondientes entradas y salidas de cables, de manera que ningún elemento del interior del cabezal 1 puede entrar en contacto con el ambiente exterior al tanque de almacena¬ miento 4 al que se aplique el sistema medidor, quedando así protegido frente a elementos externos tales como gases, agua, etc.Thus, the distance measuring system with laser technology for level determination, in this embodiment, has a sensor head 1 hermetically closed, including presses 2 at the corresponding cable inlets and outlets, so that no element inside the head 1 can come into contact with the external environment to the storage tank 4 to which the measuring system is applied, thus being protected against external elements such as gases, water, etc.
La parte inferior del cabezal 1 dispone de un resistente cristal 5 que permite el paso de las correspon¬ dientes señales ópticas y que es el único elemento del sensor que queda expuesto al ambiente del tanque 4.The lower part of the head 1 has a resistant glass 5 that allows the passage of the corresponding optical signals and that is the only element of the sensor that is exposed to the environment of the tank 4.
El cabezal 1 cuando las circunstancias lo exijan, se monta en un zócalo 6 que incluye un sistema mecánico de nivelación para su correcta instalación en la parte superior del tanque 4.Head 1 when circumstances require it, is mounted on a socket 6 that includes a mechanical leveling system for its correct installation in the tank top 4.
Este zócalo 6 dispone de una escotilla 7 que permite acceder cómodamente a la superficie externa del cristal 5 para facilitar su limpieza. La carcasa del cabezal 1, en proximidad a su conexión con el zócalo 6, cuenta con un tapón de sonda manual 8 que presenta el mismo rasante de referencia 9 empleado por el sensor láser.This socket 6 has a hatch 7 that allows easy access to the external surface of the glass 5 to facilitate cleaning. The housing of the head 1, in proximity to its connection with the socket 6, has a manual probe plug 8 that has the same reference grade 9 used by the laser sensor.
El interior del cabezal 1, en proximidad al grueso cristal 5 dispone de un emisor láser 10 que lanza secuencialmente hacia la superficie del producto 3 un haz de luz láser 11 previamente modulado en intensidad mediante un cabezal o conjunto electrónico 12 ubicado también en el interior del cabezal sensor 1. Este cabezal sensor 1 aloja además a un receptor óptico 13 que detecta y amplifica la señal óptica 14 correspondiente al reflejo del haz láser 11 sobre la superficie del producto 3.The interior of the head 1, in proximity to the thick glass 5, has a laser emitter 10 that sequentially launches a laser light beam 11 previously modulated in intensity by means of a head or electronic assembly 12 located inside the product surface 3. sensor head 1. This sensor head 1 also houses an optical receiver 13 that detects and amplifies the optical signal 14 corresponding to the reflection of the laser beam 11 on the surface of the product 3.
El cabezal 1 incluye optativamente un sensor de presión de gas inerte 15 con toma de presión atmosférica 16; asi como una entrada de cables 17 para las señales procedentes de distintos sensores de temperatura 18.Head 1 optionally includes an inert gas pressure sensor 15 with atmospheric pressure tap 16; as well as a cable entry 17 for the signals coming from different temperature sensors 18.
Las señales procedentes de estos sensores 15 y 18, así como la señal procedente del receptor óptico 13 se llevan al conjunto electrónico 12 donde son multiplexa- das y tratadas, para ser enviadas a la red del sistema a través de una salida de cables 19, del cabezal 1.The signals from these sensors 15 and 18, as well as the signal from the optical receiver 13 are taken to the electronic assembly 12 where they are multiplexed and processed, to be sent to the system network through a cable outlet 19, head 1.
El sistema mecánico de nivelación referido anteriormente en este apartado, dispone de un ajuste de nivel 20 ubicado también en el interior del cabezal 1.The mechanical leveling system referred to earlier in this section has a level setting 20 also located inside the head 1.
El emisor y el receptor láser, 10 y 13 respectivamente, se encuentran en un bloque láser 21 que cuenta con los componente y bloques necesarios para proporcionar una señal 22 de información de nivel al conjunto electrónico 12. Así, este bloque láser 21, entre otras opciones, puede constituirse mediante un oscilador 23 que conecta con el emisor láser 10 y con un bloque de retardo 24 cuya salida se lleva a un comparador de fase 25 al que también llega, después de pasar por una etapa amplificadora 26, la salida del receptor óptico 13.The laser emitter and receiver, 10 and 13 respectively, are located in a laser block 21 that has the components and blocks necessary to provide a level information signal 22 to the electronic assembly 12. Thus, this laser block 21, among other options, can be constituted by an oscillator 23 that connects with the laser emitter 10 and with a delay block 24 whose output is taken to a phase comparator 25, which it also reaches, after passing through an amplifier stage 26, the output of the optical receiver 13.
A continuación del comparador de fase 25 y conectados en serie con él, podrían encontrarse sucesiva¬ mente un filtro pasobajo 27 un amplificador 28 y un circuito detector de cruces por cero 29 cuya salida proporcionará la señal 22 de información de nivel del tanque 4.Following the phase comparator 25 and connected in series with it, a low-pass filter 27, an amplifier 28, and a zero-crossing detector circuit 29 could be found successively, the output of which will provide the tank level information signal 22.
Esta configuración del bloque láser 21 solamente es un ejemplo entre las posibilidades existentes para obtener la señal 22 de información de nivel.This configuration of the laser block 21 is only one example among the existing possibilities for obtaining the level information signal 22.
El conjunto electrónico 12 también dispone a su vez de distintos bloques. Cuenta con un multiplexor 30 al que llega la aludida señal 22 de información de nivel y las señales procedentes del sensor de presión 15 y de los sensores de temperatura 18.The electronic assembly 12 also has different blocks. It has a multiplexer 30 to which the aforementioned level information signal 22 arrives and the signals from the pressure sensor 15 and the temperature sensors 18.
El multiplexor 30 conecta con un bloque de circuitería lógica 31 que a su vez conecta con un bloque de microprocesador 32, el cual también se encuentra unido al multiplexor 30 y a un bloque 33 de adaptación a la red del sistema.The multiplexer 30 connects to a logical circuitry block 31 which in turn connects to a microprocessor block 32, which is also attached to the multiplexer 30 and to a network adaptation block 33 of the system.
Este bloque 33 proporciona las señales 34 que se envían a la red del sistema exterior al cabezal sensor 1.This block 33 provides the signals 34 that are sent to the network of the external system to the sensor head 1.
El conjunto electrónico 12 dispone además de una entrada 35 para la alimentación de sus distintos bloques y para la del bloque láser 21.The electronic assembly 12 also has an input 35 for supplying its various blocks and for the laser block 21.
Uno o varios cabezales sensores 1 pueden formar parte de un sistema más amplio configurado para una aplicación real de la invención, tal y como se muestra en la figura 3. Dicho sistema dispone de una unidad central de control 36 compuesta por dos ordenadores industriales interconectadoε por una red local. Cada ordenador maneja uno de los dos buses 37 y 38 que se encuentran conectados a todos los cabezales sensores 1 mediante cajas de distri- bución 39, consiguiéndose una total redundancia del sistema.One or more sensor heads 1 can be part of a larger system configured for a real application of the invention, as shown in Figure 3. Said system has a central unit for control 36 consisting of two industrial computers interconnected by a local network. Each computer manages one of the two buses 37 and 38 that are connected to all the sensor heads 1 by means of distribution boxes 39, achieving full system redundancy.
A la unidad central de control 36 van conecta¬ dos los periféricos de acceso al sistema, tales como monitor color 40, teclado 41, impresora 42, así como los repetidores 43 y subestaciones 44 requeridos en distintas zonas, a través de la red de área local.Peripherals for access to the system, such as color monitor 40, keyboard 41, printer 42, as well as the repeaters 43 and substations 44 required in different areas, are connected to the central control unit 36 through the area network local.
Por otra parte, y a través del interface adecuado, la unidad central de control 36 envía sus datos a una calculadora de carga 45 y a una estación de radio 46 que comunica con la unidad de radio portátil del sistema.On the other hand, and through the appropriate interface, the central control unit 36 sends its data to a load calculator 45 and to a radio station 46 that communicates with the portable radio unit of the system.
Los cabezales sensores 1 proporcionarán los datos de nivel de los distintos tanques 4, así como sus datos de temperatura y presión de gas inerte cuando así se requiera. Para los controles de presión y temperatura de tuberías de carga 47, u otros elementos, se utilizan sensores de presión 15 y de temperatura 18, vía transmiso¬ res electrónicos, que igualmente van conectados a los buses 37 y 38 a través de los adaptadores de señal correspon¬ dientes. La configuración de la figura 3 incluye, en uno de los tanques 4, sensores de alarma 48 que conectan con una unidad de alarmas 49; habiéndose previsto además unas protecciones 50 para los buses 37 y 38 anteriormente aludidos. The sensor heads 1 will provide the level data of the different tanks 4, as well as their inert gas pressure and temperature data when required. For pressure and temperature controls of load pipes 47, or other elements, pressure sensors 15 and temperature 18 are used, via electronic transmitters, which are also connected to buses 37 and 38 through the adapters of corresponding signal. The configuration of figure 3 includes, in one of the tanks 4, alarm sensors 48 that connect to an alarm unit 49; having also provided protections 50 for buses 37 and 38 previously mentioned.

Claims

REIVINDICACIONES 1.- SISTEMA MEDIDOR DE DISTANCIA CON TECNOLO¬ GÍA LÁSER PARA DETERMINACIÓN DE NIVELES; del tipo de sistemas sin contacto físico con el producto (3) a medir, que actualmente sólo emplean tecnología radar o ultrasóni¬ ca, y que se utilizan preferentemente para el cálculo y control de niveles en tanques (4) mediante la detección de la reflexión de una señal emitida sobre la superficie del producto (3) existente en el interior del tanque (4); caracterizado porque cuenta con un cabezal sensor láser (1) con entradas (17) y salidas (19) de cables, dotadas de prensas (2) que permiten una completa hermeticidad del cabezal (1), el cual se fija al correspondiente tanque (4), cuando la aplicación así lo requiera, mediante un zócalo (6) provisto de un tapón de sonda manual (8) dispuesto al mismo nivel de referencia (9) que el cabezal sensor (1), y de una escotilla de limpieza (7) que permite acceder a la superficie externa de un cristal reforzado (5) ubicado en la parte inferior del cabezal (1) al objeto de permitir el paso de las correspondientes señales ópticas de emisión (11) y de recepción (14); habiéndose previsto un sistema mecánico de nivelación con un ajuste de nivel (20) situado en el interior del cabezal sensor láser (1) .CLAIMS 1.- DISTANCE MEASURING SYSTEM WITH LASER TECHNOLOGY FOR LEVEL DETERMINATION; of the type of systems without physical contact with the product (3) to be measured, which currently only use radar technology or ultrasoni ¬ ca, and which are preferably used for the calculation and control levels in tanks (4) by detecting reflection of a signal emitted on the surface of the product (3) existing inside the tank (4); characterized in that it has a laser sensor head (1) with inputs (17) and cable exits (19), equipped with presses (2) that allow a complete tightness of the head (1), which is fixed to the corresponding tank (4 ), when the application so requires, by means of a socket (6) provided with a manual probe plug (8) arranged at the same reference level (9) as the sensor head (1), and a cleaning hatch (7 ) which allows access to the external surface of a reinforced glass (5) located in the lower part of the head (1) in order to allow the passage of the corresponding optical emission (11) and reception (14) signals; a mechanical leveling system having a level adjustment (20) located inside the laser sensor head (1) having been provided.
2.- SISTEMA MEDIDOR DE DISTANCIA CON TECNOLO- GIA LÁSER PARA DETERMINACIÓN DE NIVELES, según la reivindi¬ cación anterior, caracterizado porque el cabezal sensor (1) dispone en su interior de un bloque láser (21) que incluye un emisor láser (10) y un receptor óptico (13), y que proporciona una señal (22) con la información de la altura (H) medida desde la superficie del producto (3) hasta el nivel de referencia (9) de la parte superior del tanque (4).2.- DISTANCE METER SYSTEM WITH LASER TECHNOLOGY FOR LEVEL DETERMINATION, according to the previous claim, characterized in that the sensor head (1) has a laser block (21) inside which includes a laser emitter (10 ) and an optical receiver (13), and which provides a signal (22) with the height information (H) measured from the surface of the product (3) to the reference level (9) of the upper part of the tank ( 4).
3.- SISTEMA MEDIDOR DE DISTANCIA CON TECNOLO¬ GÍA LÁSER PARA DETERMINACIÓN DE NIVELES, según las reivin- dicaciones anteriores, caracterizado porque el interior del cabezal sensor (1) cuenta con un conjunto o equipo electró¬ nico (12) que incluye un multiplexor (30) al que llega la señal (22) proporcionada por el bloque láser (21), así como las señales provenientes de distintos sensores de tempera- tura (18) y de un sensor de presión de gas inerte (15) dispuesto opcionalmente en el cabezal sensor (1) y dotado de toma de presión atmosférica (16); habiéndose previsto que el multiplexor (30) conecte con un bloque de circuite- ría lógica (31) que a su vez conecta con un bloque micro- procesador (32) el cual se encuentra unido además al multiplexor (30) y a un bloque (33) de adaptación a la red del sistema, proporcionando este último bloque (33) la señal básica de datos (34) con la que trabaje la configura¬ ción en la que se integre el cabezal sensor láser (1) . 3.- DISTANCE METER SYSTEM WITH LASER TECHNOLOGY FOR LEVEL DETERMINATION, according to the previous claims, characterized in that the interior of the sensor head (1) has an electronic set or equipment (12) that includes a multiplexer (30) to which the signal (22) provided by the laser block (21) arrives, as well as the signals from different sensors temperature (18) and of an inert gas pressure sensor (15) optionally disposed in the sensor head (1) and provided with atmospheric pressure intake (16); having provided that the multiplexer (30) connects with a logic circuit block (31) which in turn connects with a microprocessor block (32) which is also connected to the multiplexer (30) and a block (33 ) to adapt to the system network, the latter block (33) providing the basic data signal (34) with which the configuration in which the laser sensor head (1) is integrated is worked.
PCT/ES1994/000096 1993-10-04 1994-10-03 Distance measuring system using laser technology for the determination of levels WO1995010030A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU78140/94A AU7814094A (en) 1993-10-04 1994-10-03 Distance measuring system using laser technology for the determination of levels

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
ESP9302083 1993-10-04
ES9302083A ES2077507B1 (en) 1993-10-04 1993-10-04 DISTANCE MEASURING SYSTEM WITH LASER TECHNOLOGY FOR DETERMINATION OF LEVELS.

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO1995010030A1 true WO1995010030A1 (en) 1995-04-13

Family

ID=8283222

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/ES1994/000096 WO1995010030A1 (en) 1993-10-04 1994-10-03 Distance measuring system using laser technology for the determination of levels

Country Status (3)

Country Link
AU (1) AU7814094A (en)
ES (1) ES2077507B1 (en)
WO (1) WO1995010030A1 (en)

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
ES2146546A1 (en) * 1998-07-31 2000-08-01 Univ Carlos Iii De Madrid O T Optical sensor for controlling a liquid level.
EP1039274A1 (en) * 1999-03-25 2000-09-27 Endress + Hauser Gmbh + Co. Measuring device employing a laser beam
US6407803B1 (en) 1999-03-25 2002-06-18 Endress + Hauser Gbmh + Co. Laser measuring device

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
ES2163955B2 (en) * 1998-08-10 2003-07-16 Para La Investigacion Y Desarr CAMERA FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF CONTENT IN MUD SAND.

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3475859A (en) * 1966-11-24 1969-11-04 Centre Nat Rech Metall Device for observing the contents of an enclosure
DE2305036A1 (en) * 1973-02-02 1974-10-17 Eltro Gmbh TANK DISCHARGE SYSTEM
DE3411540A1 (en) * 1984-03-29 1985-10-10 Fried. Krupp Gmbh, 4300 Essen METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DETERMINING THE QUANTITY OF CONVEYED MATERIAL FROM BAND CONVEYORS
EP0303221A1 (en) * 1987-08-13 1989-02-15 Nitto Machinery Co., Ltd. Liquid level indicator using laser beam

Family Cites Families (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
IT1192344B (en) * 1978-12-20 1988-03-31 Ceda Spa LEVEL METER
US4453083A (en) * 1981-10-26 1984-06-05 Betriebsforschungsinstitut Vdeh Institut Fur Angewandte Forschung Gmbh Apparatus for the determination of the position of a surface

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3475859A (en) * 1966-11-24 1969-11-04 Centre Nat Rech Metall Device for observing the contents of an enclosure
DE2305036A1 (en) * 1973-02-02 1974-10-17 Eltro Gmbh TANK DISCHARGE SYSTEM
DE3411540A1 (en) * 1984-03-29 1985-10-10 Fried. Krupp Gmbh, 4300 Essen METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DETERMINING THE QUANTITY OF CONVEYED MATERIAL FROM BAND CONVEYORS
EP0303221A1 (en) * 1987-08-13 1989-02-15 Nitto Machinery Co., Ltd. Liquid level indicator using laser beam

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
J.FEHRENBACH: "Füllstandsmessung mit Laser", MESSEN PRUFEN AUTOMATISIEREN. INTERNATIONALES FACHJOURNAL FUR MESS-, STEUER- UND REGELTECHNIK, vol. 27, no. 5, April 1991 (1991-04-01), BAD WORISHOFEN DE, pages 212 - 215, XP000235011 *

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
ES2146546A1 (en) * 1998-07-31 2000-08-01 Univ Carlos Iii De Madrid O T Optical sensor for controlling a liquid level.
EP1039274A1 (en) * 1999-03-25 2000-09-27 Endress + Hauser Gmbh + Co. Measuring device employing a laser beam
US6407803B1 (en) 1999-03-25 2002-06-18 Endress + Hauser Gbmh + Co. Laser measuring device

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AU7814094A (en) 1995-05-01
ES2077507A1 (en) 1995-11-16
ES2077507B1 (en) 1996-07-01

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
CN105300476B (en) Radar level gauge inclination system
US20180266874A1 (en) Monitoring system for floating roof storage tank
US6040897A (en) Remote sensor head for laser level measurement devices
US10440453B2 (en) Electronic device
AU2006208664B2 (en) Geodetic total station that can be extended in a modular manner
CN100399001C (en) Alignment device for use with a filling level measurement instrument
US9377340B2 (en) Monitoring of floating roof tank
US20210080310A1 (en) Floating roof monitoring
JP4523904B2 (en) Water level measuring device and water level measuring system using this water level measuring device
US11703410B2 (en) Pressire sensor including height determination with improved flexibility and reliability
WO1995010030A1 (en) Distance measuring system using laser technology for the determination of levels
CN115427770A (en) Sensor device with alignment device
US20240011604A1 (en) System and method for digitally monitoring a pressure vessel
US20230296209A1 (en) Digitally monitoring of composite pressure vessel
WO2022068041A1 (en) Spraying assembly, and movable platform having same
US20030221482A1 (en) Liquid volume monitor for pressurized tanks
US20040050157A1 (en) Liquid volume monitor for pressurized tanks
CN201266103Y (en) Composite detector for fluid cargo tank
JP2557600B2 (en) Construction management method for underground wall construction
CN219511572U (en) Calibration device of amphibious integrated point cloud ranging system
EP3557195A1 (en) An electronic device
EP0621942B1 (en) Surveying system using radio ranging and barometric height
CN217060508U (en) Integrated GNSS receiver
AU2018202633C1 (en) An electronic device
Poling Tellurometer manual

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AK Designated states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AU BG BR CA CN FI JP KP KR LT LV NO NZ PL RO RU SI UA US VN

AL Designated countries for regional patents

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE DK ES FR GB GR IE IT LU MC NL PT SE

121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application
122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase
NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: CA