WO2012031323A1 - Transfert de fluide - Google Patents

Transfert de fluide Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2012031323A1
WO2012031323A1 PCT/AU2011/001151 AU2011001151W WO2012031323A1 WO 2012031323 A1 WO2012031323 A1 WO 2012031323A1 AU 2011001151 W AU2011001151 W AU 2011001151W WO 2012031323 A1 WO2012031323 A1 WO 2012031323A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
processing system
data
reader
fluid transfer
fluid
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/AU2011/001151
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Marie Louise Grimshaw
Michael Peter Vivanti
Justin Soon-Peng Thiang
Original Assignee
Orica Australia Pty Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from AU2010904005A external-priority patent/AU2010904005A0/en
Application filed by Orica Australia Pty Ltd filed Critical Orica Australia Pty Ltd
Publication of WO2012031323A1 publication Critical patent/WO2012031323A1/fr

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D7/00—Apparatus or devices for transferring liquids from bulk storage containers or reservoirs into vehicles or into portable containers, e.g. for retail sale purposes
    • B67D7/06—Details or accessories
    • B67D7/32—Arrangements of safety or warning devices; Means for preventing unauthorised delivery of liquid
    • B67D7/34—Means for preventing unauthorised delivery of liquid
    • B67D7/344—Means for preventing unauthorised delivery of liquid by checking a correct coupling or coded information
    • B67D7/348—Means for preventing unauthorised delivery of liquid by checking a correct coupling or coded information by interrogating an information transmitter, e.g. a transponder

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to identification of a condition for fluid transfer in a fluid transfer network.
  • the operator may use documentation, such as a fluid transfer plan, indicating the type of fluid to be transferred to/from the site.
  • the operator then connects conduits, such as hoses and couplers, between the reservoirs.
  • the operator then operates a fluid transfer system, including a number of valves and/or a pump to transfer the fluid to or from the on-site reservoir.
  • the incorrect fluid can still be transferred for a number of reasons, such as an error carried out by the operator, an error in the order sheet, etc. If the fluids are chemically reactive, disastrous consequences may occur. Even if the fluids are not chemically reactive, generally the mixing of fluids can result in wasted product.
  • a system for identifying a condition for fluid transfer wherein the system includes:
  • one or more reader assemblies releasably attached to the plurality of identifiers, wherein the one or more reader assemblies are configured to generate, using the plurality of identifiers, data for determining fluid transferable by the connectable portions;
  • a processing system configured to:
  • the connectable portions of the fluid transfer network include:
  • a first reservoir having at least one of the identifiers associated therewith;
  • a second reservoir having at least one of the identifiers associated therewith; and a fluid line connected between the first and second reservoir, wherein the fluid line has at least one of the identifiers associated therewith.
  • status data is stored by the processing system and indicative of a state of one or more of the reservoirs, wherein the processing system is configured to determine, using the received data and the status data, if the condition for fluid transfer exists.
  • status data is indicative of at least one of:
  • the processing system identifies that the condition for fluid transfer does not exist.
  • the processing system identifies that the condition for fluid transfer exists for receiving fluid within the respective reservoir having the washed state.
  • the processing system determines, based on the data received, if the transferable fluids of the reservoirs correspond or are compatible for fluid transfer to the respective reservoir having the unloaded state.
  • the processing system determines, based on the data received, if the transferable fluids of the reservoirs correspond or are compatible for fluid transfer from the respective reservoir having the loaded state.
  • the data received by the processing system is indicative of one or more of the connectable portions configured for transferring a dedicated fluid type, wherein the processing system determines, based on the received data, if one or more of the connectable portions are able to transfer fluid based upon the dedicated fluid type.
  • the system includes one or more valve locks, in electrical communication with the processing system, for enabling or restricting operation of a respective one or more valves to control fluid transfer via the fluid transfer network, wherein the processing system actuates one or more of the valve locks according to whether the condition for fluid transfer exists.
  • the system includes a pump, in electrical communication with the processing system, wherein the processing system enables or disables operation of the pump according to whether the condition for fluid transfer exists.
  • the identifiers are data units storing data for determining fluid which can be transferred via the associated connectable portion.
  • at least some of the data units are Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) units.
  • At least some of the RFID units are passive RFID units.
  • at least some of the reader assemblies include a plurality of readers including:
  • a primary reader including a control unit and a wireless transceiver
  • a secondary reader in data communication with the primary reader, wherein data read by the secondary reader is transferred to the primary reader for transfer to the processing system using the wireless transceiver.
  • each reader includes a clamping jaw which clamps about a portion of a respective identifier.
  • the one or more reader assemblies are configured to continue generating the data, using the plurality of identifiers, whilst fluid is transferred between the reservoir assemblies, wherein the processing system is configured to monitor the received data to determine that the condition for fluid transfer still exists.
  • the system includes a rack having a power supply for recharging the one or more reader assemblies.
  • the rack includes one or more identifiers which the one or more reader assemblies read data from when coupled to the rack to identify coupling to the rack.
  • At least some of the identifiers are directly indicative of a code representing the fluid transferable by the respective connectable portions.
  • At least some of the identifiers are indicative of an identity which is able to be used by the processing system to query a data store to determine the fluid transferable by the respective connectable portions.
  • At least some of the identifiers are at least partially indicative of an expiration date, wherein the processing system is configured to determine if the expiration date of one or more of the plurality of identifiers has been exceeded, wherein in the event that the expiration date of one or more of the plurality of identifiers has been exceeded, the condition for fluid transfer does not exist.
  • the processing system is configured to store, in a data log, one or more events indicative of use of the system.
  • the processing system is configured to store, in the data log, the event of connectable portions being connected which result in the condition for fluid transfer not being satisfied based at least partially on the received data from the one or more reader assemblies.
  • the one or more reader assemblies wirelessly communicate with the processing system.
  • the processing system is mounted to a vehicle for transporting fluid.
  • the connectable portions of the fluid transfer network include:
  • a first reservoir having at least one of the identifiers associated therewith;
  • a second reservoir having at least one of the identifiers associated therewith; and a fluid line connected between the first and second reservoir, wherein the fluid line has at least one of the identifiers associated therewith.
  • status data is stored by the processing system and indicative of a state of one or more of the reservoirs, wherein the method includes the processing system determining, using the received data and the status data, if the condition for fluid transfer exists.
  • the status data is indicative of:
  • the method includes the processing system identifying that the condition for fluid transfer does not exist in the event that the contaminated status is indicative of a contaminated state for one of the reservoirs.
  • the method includes the processing system identifying that the condition for fluid transfer exists for receiving fluid within one of the reservoirs in the event that the washed status is indicative of a washed state for the respective reservoir having the washed state.
  • the method in the event that the washed status is indicative of an unwashed state for one of the reservoirs, includes the processing system determining, based on the data received, if the transferable fluids associated with reservoirs correspond or are compatible for fluid transfer to the respective reservoir having the unwashed state.
  • the method in the event that the load status is indicative of an unloaded state for one of the reservoirs, includes the processing system determining, based on the data received, if the transferable fluids of the reservoirs correspond or are compatible for fluid transfer to the respective reservoir having the unloaded state.
  • the method in the event that the load status is indicative of a loaded state for one of the reservoirs, includes the processing system determining, based on the data received, if the transferable fluids of the reservoirs correspond or are compatible for fluid transfer from the respective reservoir having the loaded state.
  • the data received by the processing system is indicative of one or more of the connectable portions configured for transferring a dedicated fluid type
  • the method includes the processing system determining, based on the received data, if one or more of the connectable portions are able to transfer fluid based upon the dedicated fluid type.
  • the processing system is in electrical communication with one or more valve locks for enabling or restricting operation of a respective one or more valves to control fluid transfer via the fluid transfer network, wherein the method includes the processing system actuating one or more of the valve locks according to whether the condition for fluid transfer exists.
  • the processing system is in electrical communication with a pump, wherein the method includes the processing system enabling or disabling operation of the pump according to whether the condition for fluid transfer exists.
  • the method includes the one or more reader assemblies continuing to generate the data, using the plurality of identifiers, whilst fluid is transferred between the reservoir assemblies, wherein the method further includes the processing system monitoring the received data to determine that the condition for fluid transfer still exist during fluid transfer.
  • the method includes recharging one or more reader assemblies via a rack including a power supply.
  • the rack includes one or more identifiers, wherein the method includes the one or more reader assemblies reading data from the one or more identifiers to identify coupling to the rack.
  • At least some of the identifiers are at least partially indicative of an expiration date
  • the method includes the processing system determining if the expiration date of one or more of the plurality of identifiers has been exceeded, wherein in the event that the expiration date of one or more of the plurality of identifiers has been exceeded, the condition for fluid transfer does not exist.
  • the method includes the processing system storing, in a data log stored in the data store, one or more events indicative of use of the system.
  • the method includes the processing system storing, in the data log, the event of connectable portions being connected which result in the condition for fluid transfer not being satisfied based at least partially on the received data from the one or more reader assemblies.
  • the method includes a user releasably attaching at least some of the one or more readers to the plurality of identifiers once the connectable portions have been connected.
  • the method includes at least some of the reader assemblies wirelessly communicating with the processing system.
  • at least some of the identifiers are Radio Frequency Identiiiation (RFID) units, wherein the method includes at least some of the reader assemblies generating a coupling signal to obtain data stored in the RFID units, wherein the obtained data is transferred to the processing system for determining if the condition for fluid transfer exists.
  • RFID Radio Frequency Identiiiation
  • a processing system for controlling fluid transfer wherein the processing system is configured to:
  • a computer readable medium of instructions for controlling fluid transfer wherein the computer readable medium of instructions, when executed by a processing system having a processor in data communication with a data store, configure the processing system to:
  • a reader assembly for use in a system for identifying a condition for fluid transfer between connectable portions of a fluid transfer network, wherein the reader assembly includes a first reader releasably attached to a first identifier associated with one of the connectable portions and a second reader releasably attached to a second identifier associated with another of the connectable portions, wherein the reader assembly is configured to generate, using the identifiers, data for determining fluid transferable by the connectable portions, wherein the data is transferred to a processing system for determining, using the data, if a condition for fluid transfer exists.
  • each reader includes an antenna for emitting an interrogation signal to read the data from the respective identifier and wherein the reader assembly includes a control unit for controlling the antennae.
  • each identifier includes an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag, wherein each reader electromagnetically couples with the RFID tag of the respective identifier to read the data.
  • RFID Radio Frequency Identification
  • the reader assembly includes a transmitter for wirelessly transferring the data to the processing system.
  • the transmitter is a transceiver to allow the reader assembly to receive data from the processing system.
  • the reader assembly is configured to communicate with the processing system via one or more channels determined from the data generated using the at least one of the first and second identifiers.
  • each reader is configured to clamp to the respective identifier via a handle.
  • At least one of the readers includes a magnet in a first handle member and a magnetic sensor in a second handle member, wherein upon a user actuating the handle, the magnetic sensor senses a threshold magnetic field due to the magnet moving toward the magnetic sensor, wherein the magnetic sensors transfers a signal to the control unit to initiate a read operation.
  • electrical cable is tethered between the first and second reader.
  • each reader includes at least one of one or more lights and an audio emitter for providing feedback to the user.
  • control unit actuates the one or more lights and the audio emitter substantially simultaneously.
  • Other embodiments will be realised throughout the description.
  • Figure 1 A illustrates a schematic of an example system for transferring fluid between reservoirs
  • Figure I B illustrates a schematic of another example system for transferring fluid between reservoirs
  • Figure 2A illustrates a perspective view of an example of connected conduits, identifiers and a reader assembly releasably connected to the identifiers;
  • Figure 2B illustrates a perspective view of a further example of connected conduits, identifiers and a reader assembly releasably connected to the identifiers;
  • Figure 3A illustrates a perspective view of an example reader of a reader assembly
  • Figure 3B illustrates a front view of the reader of Figure 3A
  • Figure 3C illustrates a cross-section view of the reader of Figure 3 A
  • Figure 3D illustrates a perspective view of an example reader assembly including a pair of tethered readers
  • Figure 4A illustrates a perspective view of an example identifier provided as a collar for attachment to, or located adjacent to, a connectable portion of a conduit;
  • Figure 4B illustrates an end view of the collar of Figure 4A;
  • Figure 4C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the collar of Figure 4A
  • Figure 5A is a perspective top view of a further example of an identifier provided as an identifier block
  • Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view of the identifier block of Figure 5A;
  • Figure 5C is a top view of the identifier block of Figure 5A;
  • Figure 6A is an perspective top view of an example of a rack supporting a reader of Figure 3A;
  • Figure 6B is a rear perspective view of the rack and reader of Figure 6A;
  • Figure 6C is an below perspective view of the rack and reader of Figure 6A;
  • Figure 6D is a side view of the rack and reader of Figure 6A;
  • Figure 6E is a front view of the rack and reader of Figure 6A;
  • Figure 6F is top view of the rack and reader of Figure 6A;
  • Figure 6G is an perspective view of the rack of Figure 6A supporting a plurality of readers of Figure 3 A;
  • Figure 7A is a left perspective view of an example of a housing which houses a processing system and the rack supporting the reader of Figure 6A;
  • Figure 7B is a right perspective view of the housing of Figure 7A;
  • Figure 8 illustrates a block diagram representing an example of a processing system of the system of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 9 illustrates a block diagram representing portions of the system of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 10 is a flowchart representing an example method of operating the system in an active mode
  • Figure 1 1 is a flowchart representing an example method of operating the system in a hazardous area
  • Figure 12A is a block diagram representing an example of a data communication process between the processing system and reader assemblies coupled to identifiers associated with connectable portions of a fluid transfer network;
  • Figure 12B is a block diagram representing a further example of the data communication process between the processing system and reader assemblies coupled to identifiers associated with connectable portions of a fluid transfer network having connected conduits.
  • FIG. 1A there is shown a schematic of a system for identifying a condition for fluid transfer.
  • the system 1 includes a plurality of identifiers 5 associated with connectable portions C of a fluid transfer network.
  • the fluid network can include a first reservoir 50, a second reservoir 60, and a fluid line 10 connected therebetween which can include one or more connected conduits (hoses, pipes, etc).
  • the system 1 also includes one or more reader assemblies 30 which are configured to generate, using the plurality of identifiers 5, data for determining fluid transferable by the connectable portions.
  • the system also includes a processing system 40 configured to receive, from the one or more reader assemblies 30, the data, and determine, using the received data, if a condition for fluid transfer exists.
  • a condition of fluid transfer can be identified by the processing system 40 when the fluid transferable by the connectable portions corresponds (i.e. match) throughout the fluid transfer network or is at least compatible (i.e. two different fluids which can be mixed safely).
  • the system 1 further includes one or more electrically controllable valve locks 100 of a valve lockout system for enabling and disabling operation of valve actuators 105 associated with valves. Additionally, the system can further include a pump 120 (shown in Figure 9) which is electrically enabled or disabled by the processing system 40.
  • the processing system 40 is able to enable or disable operation of the valves locks 100 and/or pump 120 in accordance with whether a condition for fluid transfer is identified. For example, in the event that the fluids are identified as not corresponding and incompatible (i.e. fluids do not match and cannot be safely mixed), the valve locks 100 may be moved to or maintained in a locked position to restrict the opening of the valve actuators 105 by an operator. However, in the event that the fluids are identified as being at least compatible or the fluids correspond, the processing system 40 can electrically operate the valve locks 100 to enable the valves to be opened via actuation of the valve actuators 105 by an operator such that fluid can be transferred between the reservoirs 50, 60.
  • the pump 120 can be enabled by the processing system to allow the operator to begin the fluid transfer process.
  • the processing system 40 can present, via a display, an indication of whether the condition for fluid transfer exists.
  • the processing system 40 can be configured to indicate whether the condition for fluid transfer exists via one or more alarm peripherals 107.
  • the system 1 is particularly advantageous for use with vehicles 7 such as a trailer for transporting liquids such as chemicals, as illustrated in Figures 1 A and I B.
  • the trailer 7 generally includes a plurality of reservoir compartments 60 for containing one or more fluids respectively.
  • the trailer 7 is transportable to various sites that include one or more on-site reservoirs 50.
  • the system 1 can be used for transferring fluid from the trailer 7 to the on-site reservoir 50 and/or receiving, within the reservoir compartment 60, fluid from the on-site reservoir 50 as generally shown in Figure I B. It will thus be appreciated that reservoir compartments 60 or the on-site reservoirs 50 can be considered the first reservoir assembly or the second reservoir assembly depending upon the direction which fluid is being transferred between the trailer and the on-site reservoir.
  • Each reservoir 50, 60 includes one or more fluid ports, such as inlets or outlets. Ports of each reservoir 50, 60 are generally connected by fluid transfer equipment, such as conduits 15 and pumps 120, which extend between the reservoir assemblies 50, 60 thereby defining the fluid line 10.
  • the conduits 15 can include hoses, pipes or the like.
  • each port which is connected in the fluid transfer network has associated therewith one of the identifiers. Therefore, a connection between two ports (i.e. two ends of two hoses connected together or a port of a reservoir and an end of a hose connected together) results in a pair of identifiers 5 being located adjacently, wherein a reader assembly 30 can be used to verify that the connection C between the ports satisfies the condition for fluid transfer.
  • each data unit 70 is preferably provided as a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) unit (also known as RFID tag) that is attached to or adjacently located a connectable portion of part of the fluid transfer network, such as an end of a respective conduit 15 or a port (inlet and/or outlet) of a reservoir 50, 60.
  • RFID Radio Frequency Identification
  • the RFID unit 10, 20 can be substantially housed by a unit housing 75 containing the RFID unit 70 which is mounted to the connectable portion.
  • each port (inlet/outlet) of each reservoir 50, 60, each port of intermediary conduits, and each port of fluid transfer devices (i.e. pumps 120) is associated with (i.e.
  • the unit housing 75 can be provided as a collar 400 which can be attached adjacent a port (see Figure 2A).
  • the collar 400 can include a bracelet configuration which is located adjacent a connector providing the port.
  • the collar 400 is configured to substantially surround the perimeter of the connector.
  • the collar 400 has a generally annular cross-sectional profile. As will be discussed in more detail below, a reader 33 of one of the reader assemblies 30 is able to releasably attach and clamp about a portion of the collar 400 to at least partially surround the circumference of the collar 400 in order to read the data stored by the RFID unit 70.
  • the collar 400 includes a slit 420 to allow the collar 400 to be applied around the connectable portion of a connectable portion of the fluid transfer network.
  • the edges forming the slit 420 can be tethered together via one or more tethers such as a plurality of stainless steel high tension cable ties.
  • the collar 400 houses the RFID unit 70 within a thin recess located adjacent the inner surface of the collar 400.
  • the RFID unit 70 is encapsulated and laminated in polypropylene forming a flexible envelope.
  • the collar 400 includes a ridged surface including a first ridged surface 431 and a second ridged surface 430 which is raised relative to the first ridged surface 431 .
  • the ridged surface assists with the reader 33 griping the collar 400 via the complementary ridged surface 351 of the clamping members 35 of the reader 33.
  • the raised ridged surface 430 assists with positioning the clamp adjacent the area of the collar 400 where the RFID tag 70 is located.
  • the collar 400 also includes a plurality of protrusions 410 which are located about the circumference at opposing ends of the collar 400.
  • the protrusions 410 act as a plurality of stops to assist with maintaining the engagement of the clamping members 35 (i.e. restricting the clamping members from slipping off the ends of the collar) with the ridged surface 430 between the protrusions 410 at opposing ends of the collar 400, particularly as the respective conduit may vibrate during fluid transfer.
  • the collar 400 can also include a marker 440 at the ends of the collar 400 to indicate an area which the RFID tag 70 is located within the collar 400.
  • the collar 400 may be made from rubber such as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene Monomer) rubber.
  • EPDM ethylene propylene diene Monomer
  • the collars 400 may be flexible in order to assist with attachment to a conduit or a port.
  • the collar 400 may encircle an insulating spacer in the event that the collar 400 is attached to a metal pipe.
  • an alternate housing 75 can be provided to attach the RFID unit 70 to the connector associated with the port.
  • the housing 75 provided in the form of an identifier block 500, is attachable adjacent the connectable end portion of the conduit 1 5 (see Figure 2B).
  • the identifier block 500 houses therein the RFID unit 70 in one of a pair of channels 505. As only a single RFID unit 70 needs to be housed by the identifier block 500, one of the channels 505 may be redundant and thus is optional.
  • the channels 505 are accessible from the under surface of the identifier block 500 and the channel 505 can be sealed with a closure such as a bung 506.
  • the identifier block 500 includes a plurality of apertures 503 for attachment to the connector via use of attachment elements 504, such as screws, cables ties, tethering means or the like.
  • the identifier block 500 also includes one or more drainage holes 510 to allow for drainage of liquid such as corrosive liquid residue.
  • the identifier block 500 has recesses 501 , 502 in opposing walls for receiving ends of a respective clamping members 35 of a reader 33 of a reader assembly 30 such that the RFID unit 70 can be read. For particular sites, the identifier block 500 containing the RFID unit 70 may be removable from the connector 15 for reading.
  • the RFID unit 70 is preferably a passive device such that no battery source is required.
  • the RFID unit 70 includes an antenna 73 and a controller 72 including memory 71 , such as an integrated chip (IC).
  • the controller 72 is operative in response to an interrogation signal generated by an antenna 31 1 of a reader 33 of one of the reader assemblies 30 that is received by the antenna 73.
  • the controller 72 when operative, emits a response signal, via the antenna 73, indicative of the data stored in memory 71 of the RFID unit 70.
  • the response signal can be collected by the antenna 3 1 1 of the reader 33 and interpreted by a control unit 310 of the reader assembly 30 to obtain the data stored by the RFID unit 70.
  • the data stored by the RFID unit 70 can vary depending upon the port which the RFID unit is associated therewith and the equipment associated with the port.
  • the RFID data can include a number of data fields.
  • One of the data fields can include a port type field.
  • the port type field can be indicative of the type of port which the RFID unit 70 is associated therewith, for example whether the port is a dedicated supply point port (i.e. an outlet for a dedicated fluid type), a dedicated delivery point port (i.e. an inlet for a dedicated fluid type), a variable supply point port (i.e. an outlet which is not dedicated for a particular fluid type), a port of a trailer compartment, etc.
  • the RFID data can optionally be indicative of a fluid code indicating the type of fluid transferable through the port associated with the respective RFID unit 70.
  • the data of an RFID unit 70 associated with a port of a dedicated reservoir for containing sulphuric acid may store a data field indicative of a unique code representing sulphuric acid.
  • particular ports of connectable portions of the fluid transfer network may not be dedicated for a particular fluid, thus the fluid code can be an optional field.
  • the fluid code stored in the RFID unit 70 may be set to zero to indicate that the variable fluid port is not dedicated for a particular fluid type.
  • the RFID data can optionally be indicative of a unique asset identity associated with an asset which the respective RFID unit is associated therewith, such as a supply point of a reservoir, a delivery point of a reservoir, or the trailer.
  • the RFID data can optionally be indicative of a component identity which is used to distinguish between different components of the asset.
  • the component identity can distinguish between different hoses of the same trailer.
  • the RFID data can optionally be indicative of an expiration date.
  • the expiration date is generally a date of expiration of the equipment (generally conduits such as hoses) which the RFID unit is attached thereto, for example a hose of a pump.
  • the data transferred to the processing system from the plurality of identifiers is indicative of one or more of the connectable portions of the fluid transfer network exceeding the expiration date, the condition for fluid transfer does not exist.
  • the RFID data can optionally be indicative of a site name.
  • the data stored by the RFID unit 70 may include a data field indicative of the site.
  • the data field indicative of the site may be a unique code which can be cross-matched in a table stored in a processing system data store of site names or alternatively the data field may be directly indicative of the site name.
  • the RFID data can optionally be indicative of an identity to uniquely identify the RFID unit 70.
  • the RFID units 70 and reader assembly 30 can use a number of electromagnetic coupling techniques such as backscatter coupling, inductive coupling, or capacitive coupling as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.
  • the unit housing 75 of the RFID units 70 are preferably made of materials that are chemically resistant to corrosion and resistant to UV light.
  • the unit housing 75 of the RFID unit 70 can include a visual area including a description of the port which the RFID unit 70 is associated therewith. For example, the description may be indicative of the specific site location.
  • each reader assembly 33 is preferably portable relative to the processing system 40 and is separable to the connecting portions of the fluid transfer network.
  • each reader 33 is provided in the form of a clamp that is adapted to clamp to at least a portion of an identifier 15, specifically in direct contact with the identifier housing 75, as shown in Figures 2A and 2B.
  • the releasable attachment of the reader assembly 30 to the identifiers 5 is advantageous in situations where a particular reader assembly 30 may malfunction thus allowing for a substitute reader assembly to be easily substituted.
  • a respective reader 33 can clamp around a portion of the collar 400 to read the data from the RFID unit 70.
  • the reader assembly 30 may clamp about ends 501 , 502 of the identifier block 500 to read the data from the RFID unit 70 substantially contained therein.
  • Each reader 33 includes a pair of arms 39 that are interlinked at a pivot block 36 having pivot points 34. First ends of the arms 39 provide clamping members 35 defining a jaw 37 that is able to clamp about a portion of the housing 75 of the RFID unit 70 to thereby locate the reader 33 within close proximity thereof. Second ends of the arms 39 define an operative handle 36 which an operator is able to operate to clamp the reader 33 about the unit housing 75 of the RFID unit 70.
  • Each reader 33 preferably includes a biasing element 38 such as a spring, to bias the jaw 37 to a closed position. When an operator applies a squeezing force to the handle 36 of the reader 33, the force applied urges the jaw 37 defined by the clamping members 35 to part against the bias. The . reader 33 can then be placed over the unit housing 75 of the RFID unit 70 for the respective conduit 15, and the force applied to the handle 36 can be released by the operator, thereby allowing the biasing element 38 to urge the jaw 37 to clamp about the housing 75.
  • each reader 33 includes a printed circuit board 375 which includes the control unit 310 and a number of electrical components in electrical communication with the control unit 310.
  • Each reader 33 also includes therein an antenna 31 1 which is preferably located proximate the inner surface of the pivotable members defining the clamping jaw.
  • an antenna 31 1 is located in each clamping member 35 proximate the inner surface thereof.
  • the handle portions 36of the readers 33 include one or more lights, such as Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) 370, which can be actuated by the control unit 310 of the reader assembly 30 to provide feedback to the user.
  • LEDs Light Emitting Diodes
  • each handle member 36 includes a multi-colour LED window 370.
  • the readers 33 of the reader assembly 30 include an audio output unit 395 provided in the form of a piezoelectric audio emitter which can be controlled by the control unit 310 to provide feedback to the user.
  • the control unit 310 can actuate .the piezoelectric audio emitter 395 and the LEDs 380 substantially simultaneously.
  • the control unit 310 can also actuate the piezoelectric audio emitter 395 and the LEDs 380 to indicate a number of forms of feedback, such as RFID signal strength, battery voltage level, a number of RFID units 70 that are read by the reader 33/reader assembly 30.
  • the control unit 310 can also actuate the LEDs 380 when the battery 31 3 is being charged.
  • the LEDs 380 and/or the piezoelectric audio emitter 395 may be actuated in response to receiving feedback from the processing system 40 indicative of the whether the condition for fluid transfer exists.
  • a red light may be operative on the reader indicating that the condition for fluid transfer has not been identified, and a green light may be operative on the respective reader to indicate that the condition for fluid transfer has been identified.
  • differing noises may be emitted via the piezoelectric audio emitter 395 to indicate whether or not the condition for fluid transfer exists.
  • the first reader 33A is a primary reader and the second reader 33B is a secondary reader that is associated with the primary reader 33A.
  • the primary reader 33A includes the control unit 310 in electrical communication with the antennae 31 1. a power source 313, a battery charger 314, a wireless transmitter 315, and the antennae 3 1 1 of the secondary reader 33B via a communication medium 320.
  • the communication medium 320 is an electrical cable that extends between the primary reader 33A and the secondary reader 33B.
  • Each reader can include an electrical connection 350 which the electrical cable 320 extends therebetween.
  • each arm 39 can be manufactured using an injection molding technique, the hole present for an electrical connection in one of the arms 39 can be sealed with a bung 340.
  • the control unit 310 is generally provided in the form of a processing system including a processor, coupled to a memory, an input interface and an output interface. It will be appreciated that a wide range of processing systems 40 may be used such as microcontroller provided as an integrated chip or alternatively a custom processing unit such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA).
  • FPGA Field Programmable Gate Array
  • the electrical cable 320 that extends between the readers 33A, 33B provides the additional advantage of tethering the readers 33 together such that the physical spacing between the readers 33A, 33B is limited spatially thereby restricting the pair of readers 33 being used to erroneously monitor disconnected or unrelated connectable portions of the fluid transfer network.
  • a wireless communication medium could be alternatively used to transfer data between the first and second reader 33A, 33B.
  • RFID data is received by the control unit 310 from the antennae 31 1 of the primary reader and secondary reader 33B.
  • RFID data that is collected by the control unit 310 is transferred to the processing system 40 via the wireless transmitter 31 5.
  • the data transferred by the primary reader 33A is indicative of the RFID data of both RFID units 70.
  • the wireless transmitter 31 5 is preferably a wireless transceiver to allow duplex communication between the primary reader 33A and the processing system 40 in order for the reader assembly 30 to receive signals from the processing system 40.
  • the wireless transceiver 315 may be used by the processing system 40 to communicate with the reader assemblies 30 to actuate the lights indicative of whether a condition for fluid has been identified. Additionally or alternatively, the transceiver 315 can be used to allow the processing system 40 to transfer an update to firmware to the respective reader assembly 30.
  • the battery source 313 of the reader assembly 30 is preferably a rechargeable battery source.
  • the rechargeable battery 313 provides a substantial period of operation, such as approximately 8 hours of intermittent operation.
  • the reader assembly 30 can include a recharging interface 314 which is in communication with rechargeable battery 313.
  • the primary reader includes a sensor 364 for sensing when a clamping force has been applied to the handle of the reader 30.
  • the sensor 364 can be provided in the form of a magnetic reed switch 364 which is housed in one handle member 36, and a magnet 365 (see Figure 3C) is housed in the opposing handle member 36 of the reader 33.
  • the magnetic reed switch 364 is actuated due to a threshold magnetic field being sensed by the magnetic reed switch 364 from the magnet 365 such that an electrical signal is transferred to the control unit 310 of the reader assembly 30.
  • the control unit 310 Upon receipt of the electrical signal from the magnetic reed switch 365, the control unit 310 begins generating the interrogation signal emitted by the antennae 31 1 for a period of time such as ten seconds. In the event that the RFID data is not read by the reader assembly 30, the control unit 310 ceases emitting the interrogation signal for power conservation. In a preferable form, the reader assembly 30 is configured to cease generating an interrogation signal in the event that RFID data is read from only a single identifier unit 70 within a period of time (i.e. 10 sees) rather than from a pair of identifier units 70.
  • the readers 33 are configured to read the RFID unit 70 housed within the unit housing 75 when within a close proximity to the RFID tag contained therein.
  • the readers 33 are configured to use High Frequency RFID technology which inherently has a limited range.
  • the geometry of the antennae of the readers 33 and the respective RFID tag position are such that the RFID tag can be consistently read when clamped about the respective RFID housing 75 whilst minimising the probability of unintentionally reading an unrelated RFID tag 70 in the vicinity.
  • the wireless transceiver 315 of the primary reader 33A is preferably configured to wirelessly transmit the RFID data to the processing system 40 over a range of approximately 50 metres.
  • the reader assembly 30 is preferably made of material which is able to withstand corrosive chemicals and UV radiation from sunlight.
  • the reader assembly 30 can include a brightly coloured outer surface to provide high visibility to the operator.
  • the reader assembly 30 can include one or more reflective surfaces to provide visibility of the readers 33 to the operator in low light conditions or at night.
  • the system 1 includes a plurality of reader assemblies 30 in order to allow for data read from multiple connection points C along the fluid transfer network to be analysed by the processing system 40 to determine if the condition for fluid transfer exists.
  • FIG. 6A to 6F there is shown a rack 600 for supporting readers 33 of the reader assembly 30 for recharging the rechargeable battery.
  • FIGs 6A to 6G illustrate a single reader 33 of a reader assembly 30 with the other reader 33 of the reader assembly 30 and electrical cable 320 being omitted.
  • the rack 600 includes a base plate 630, side plates 640 extending from the base plate 630, and a power supply interface 625 supported on the sides plates 640 for providing electrical power to the recharging interface 314 of each reader 30 supported by the rack 600.
  • the power supply interface 625 is provided as a pair of electrical plates 610, 620 having a plurality of opposing tongues 61 1 , 621 , wherein the plates 610, 620 are sandwiched between a pair of insulating layers 650, 660 preferably made of plastic.
  • One or more spacers 690 arc located between the electrical plates 610, 620.
  • the reader 33 includes a pair of electrical contacts 355 provided in the form of a pair of bolt heads which protrude from opposing faces of the clamping members 35.
  • the electrical contacts 355 of the reader 33 is in electrical communication with the recharger 314 which is in turn in electrical communication with the rechargeable battery 313.
  • each reader 33 When the reader 33 is clamped to a portion of the rack 600, one of the bolt heads 355 makes contact with one of the tongues 61 1 of the first electrical plate 610 and the other bolt head 355 makes contact with a tongue 621 of the second electrical plate 620, thereby providing electrical power to the recharging interface 314 to recharge the rechargeable battery 313.
  • the recharging interface 314 of each reader 33 includes a voltage rectifier such that the reader 33 can be coupled to the rack 600 in either orientation (i.e. either electrical contact can be in contact with either electrical plate having opposing polarities) and the respective voltage rectifier rectifies the electrical power provided by the power supply.
  • the base plate 630 of the rack 600 supports thereon one or more identifier blocks 500 which the clamping members 35 of the reader 33 can engage, wherein RF1D data can be read from the identifier blocks 500.
  • the control unit 310 of the reader 30 determines, based upon the RFID data, that the reader 30 has been coupled to the rack 600. In a preferred form, the control unit 310 can determine that it is coupled to the rack based upon the asset identifier field being indicative of the trailer and other data fields being indicative of values reserved for the rack 600. The reader 30 can then listen for communication with the processing system 40 upon a particular channel determined from the RFID data.
  • the processing system 40 can communicate with the reader 30 whilst attached to the rack 600 to update firmware.
  • the rack 600 is able to support a plurality of readers 33, wherein the rack 600 includes a plurality of identifier blocks 500 provided upon the base plate 630 for allowing releasable engagement of the readers 33.
  • the processing system 40 of the system 1 is preferably mounted to the trailer 7.
  • the processing system 40 is electrically coupled to the battery source (battery source) of the trailer 7 to provide power to operate the processing system 40 and the electrically coupled peripherals of the system 1.
  • the processing system 10 is located within a housing 700 on the trailer 7, as shown in Figures 1A, I B, 7A and 7B.
  • the housing 700 includes a door 701 which can be locked via a padlock 702 or the like. When the door 701 is unlocked by the operator, the processing system 40 is accessible to the operator.
  • the housing 700 also houses the rack 600 which is electrically coupled to the processing system 40. As shown in Figures 7A and 7B, the rear wall of the housing 700 supports the rack 600.
  • the housing 700 may be made from stainless steel.
  • the housing 700 can include one or more drainage holes 703 to allow fluid that enters to drain out of the housing 700. It will be appreciated that the lid 701 may be attached to a bottom edge of the housing 700 to allow for the lid to open in a downward direction rather than an upward direction as shown in Figures 7A and 7B.
  • the processing system 40 and rack are mounted within the housing 700 via floating anti-vibration mounts.
  • FIG. 8 there is shown a block diagram representing the processing system 40 of the system 1 .
  • the processing system 40 is formed from a processor 41 coupled to a memory 42, an input/output device 43 such as a keyboard and/or stylus ( Figure 7A and 7B), and a display, such as a touch screen or the like, and an external interface 44 via a bus 45.
  • a wide range of processing systems 40 may be used such as microprocessor, a standard generalised computer system, or alternatively a custom processing unit such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA).
  • the external interface 44 of the processing system 40 may be electrically coupled to a number of electrically controllable components of the system 1.
  • the external interface 44 is in electrical communication with a wireless transceiver 47 which is in electrical communication with an antenna 48.
  • the wireless transceiver 47 enables the processing system 40 to receive wireless transmissions from the primary reader 33A. It will be appreciated that the transceiver 47 can be an integrated component of the processing system 40 or a component that is coupled to the processing system 40.
  • the wireless transceiver 47 can also enable the processing system 40 to establish data communication with one or more on-site processing systems (not shown), as will be discussed in more detail below.
  • the external interface 44 is also in electrical communication with the plurality of valve locks 100.
  • the valve locks 100 are electromechanically operable, via a signal received from the processing system 40, to enable or restrict the operation of the valves 105 by the operator.
  • the valve locks 100 can include one or more solenoids which are electrically operated by the processing system 40.
  • the external interface is able to transfer electrical signals, preferably via a wired communication medium, to the plurality of valve locks 100. Additionally, the valve locks 100 can transfer feedback, via one or more electrical signals transferred via the wired communication medium, back to the processing system 40 to allow the processing system 40 to monitor the operative position of the one or more valve locks 100.
  • the valve locks 100 may include one or more lights, such as light emitting diodes, to indicate the locked / unlocked condition to the operator easily.
  • the light may emit a particular coloured light to indicate to the operator that the respective valve lock 100 is unlocked.
  • the display of the processing system 40 for example the touchscreen, provides the indication of position of the valve locks 100 to the operator.
  • the external interface 44 is also in electrical communication with the pump 120 of the respective reservoir assembly in order to enable or disable the operation thereof. When enabled, the operator can then operate the pump 120 accordingly.
  • the pump 120 may include one or more lights which can indicate to the operator whether the pump 120 is enabled (green light) or disabled (red light). This indication is also shown on the display 43 of the processing system 40, such as the touchscreen.
  • the external interface 44 is also in electrical communication with one or more alarm peripherals 107, such as lights and/or speakers to indicate that a condition for fluid transfer has not been identified for the fluid transfer network.
  • the one or more alarm peripherals can include one or more high visibility beacons.
  • a first high visibility beacon can be provided on the roof of the trailer 7 and a second high visibility beacon can be provided on the side of the trailer 7.
  • the alarm may be presented, audibly and/or visually, via the output device(s) 43 of the processing system 40.
  • the external interface 44 also provides a number of data transfer ports to allow for data stored in the memory 42 of the processing system 40 to be transferred to another processing system (not shown), or for new data to be received from another processing system (not shown).
  • the data transfer ports may be provided in many different forms such as a USB port, a firewire port, a serial port, a parallel port, a network port (i.e. an Ethernet port) or the like.
  • the external interface 44 may include the capability to include a GSM module as well as the capability to receive and transmit analogue and/or digital inputs and/or outputs to and from various electrical peripherals.
  • the touch screen display 43 of the processing system 40 can include a chemically resistant overlay or shield.
  • the memory 42 of the processing system 40 has stored therein executable software which can be executed by the processor 40 to determine if a condition for fluid transfer exists.
  • the software may be embodied as a non-transient computer readable medium of instructions which configures the processing system 40 to determine if a condition for fluid transfer exists.
  • the memory 42 of the processing system 40 can also store therein a compartment database which stores data indicative of status data for each compartment 60 of the trailer 7 and fluid data indicative of the fluids contained by each trailer.
  • the status data can be indicative of a state of one or more compartments 60.
  • the status data can be indicative of a washed status indicating whether a compartment 60 of the trailer 7 is washed or unwashed.
  • the status data can additionally or alternatively be indicative of a load status indicating whether a compartment 60 of the trailer 7 is loaded with a fluid or has been unloaded.
  • the status data can additionally or alternatively be indicative of a contaminated status indicating whether a compartment 60 of the trailer 7 has been contaminated or is uncontaminated.
  • the processing system 40 can maintain status data for a plurality of compartments 60 accordingly in the data store.
  • the memory 42 of the processing system 40 can also store therein RFID data indicative of the one or more identifiers 70 associated with ports of compartments 60 supported on the trailer 7. As will be discussed in more detail in relation to Figure 12A and 12B, the processing system 40 can utilise the RFID data of the identifiers 5 associated with the trailer ports to listen to particular channels to receive RFID data from the one or more reader assemblies 30.
  • the processing system 40 also stores in memory 42 a data log of a recorded events performed by the system 1 . Each recorded event may be time-stamped in the data log, preferably at a 1 second resolution.
  • the processing system 40 utilises a First-In-First-Out (FIFO) recording process for recording the sequence of events in memory 42, wherein the oldest recorded events are deleted from memory 42 to allow for storage of new events in the log file. It is preferable that the processing system 40 is able to store a considerable time frame of events, such as over a period of nine-months for example. Particular operational events may be recorded in the data log by the processing system 40.
  • FIFO First-In-First-Out
  • Operational events that may be stored by the processing system 40 may include operation of the reader assembly 30, operation of the valve locks 100, operation of the pump 120, operation of the input device 42 of the processing system 40, operating modes of the system 1 , and or alarms raised by the system 1 .
  • An identity of equipment used in the operation can also be recorded in the data log such as an identity of one or more reader assemblies 30 and one or more identifiers 5.
  • the change of status of a compartment 60 of the trailer 7 can additionally be recorded as an event in the data log.
  • Each recorded event in the log file may include a category field in order to allow filtering of the log file so that errors can be easily identified and remedied. Particular category fields can be prioritised in software for viewing the log file in order to review more highly prioritised portions of the data log accordingly.
  • the memory 42 of the processing system 40 can also store therein one or more fluid compatibility rules.
  • the one or more fluid compatibility rules can be provided as a fluid compatibility matrix which can be used by the processing system 40 to determine if differing fluids transferable by the connectable portions of the fluid transfer network are compatible (i.e. the mixing of the liquids will not be dangerous) to satisfy the fluid transfer condition.
  • the memory 42 of the processing system 40 can also have stored therein a lookup table including a plurality of fluid codes and corresponding fluid descriptors.
  • the fluid code ⁇ ⁇ ' may correspond to a fluid descriptor of 'Sulphuric Acid'.
  • the fluid descriptor may be presented via the display of the processing system 40 in order for the user to review.
  • the memory 42 of the processing system 40 can also store therein a fluid transfer plan indicative of a sequence of tasks that the operator is required to follow for transferring fluid between reservoir compartments 60 of the trailer 7 and on-site reservoirs 50.
  • the fluid transfer plan may be indicative of the compartments 60 of the trailer 7 to be used for the fluid transfer process and the fluids that are to be transferred.
  • the system 1 can include a number of operative modes which can be selected by the operator via the use of the input device 43 of the processing system 40.
  • the system 1 may include an active mode, wherein the one or more reader assemblies 30 are energised and is able to read and transfer data from RFID units 70 to the processing system 40 accordingly.
  • the system 1 may also include a manual override mode which the user can select via the input device 43 of the processing system 40.
  • the manual override mode may be selected by the operator in particular circumstances, such as a malfunction of a particular component of the system 1 , decontamination of a contaminated reservoir compartment 50, or the like.
  • the selection of the manual override mode via the input device 43 of the processing system 40 preferably requires input of a code.
  • the code may be obtained by the operator from a dispatcher, such as via a phone call, wherein the operator can inform the dispatcher of the event which requires manual operation.
  • Each code may be specific for a specific trailer 7. Once the code has been provided to the operator, the code cannot be reused to manually override the system 1 again, but rather a new code must be used.
  • the operator may input the code via the input device 43, wherein the processing system 40 energises electrical components of the system 1 in the event that the processing system 40 approves the input code.
  • the selection of the manual override mode of the system 1 is generally logged within the data log by the processing system 40, and return of the system 1 to the active mode is also generally logged in order to monitor the time period which the manual override process was conducted.
  • the operator may interact with the input and output device 43 of the processing system 40 to update compartment records stored in the memory 42 of the processing system 40.
  • the operator may use the input device 43 to indicate the status of a particular compartment 60 of the trailer 7 has been washed.
  • the processing system 40 updates a respective record stored in memory 43 associated with the particular compartment 60 such that the respective record indicates that the compartment 60 contains no fluid and has been washed, and therefore available for containing another fluid if required.
  • the compartment records can be updated automatically by the processing system 40 in response to detected events. In particular, in the event that the processing system 40 detects the unloading of a fluid from a compartment of the trailer, the processing system 40 can set the load status to an unloaded state upon detecting the reader assemblies 30 are no longer transferring data to the processing system 40.
  • FIG. 10 there is shown a flowchart representing an example of a method 1000 of operating the system 1 in the active mode.
  • the method assumes that a fluid is loaded from an on-site reservoir 50 to one of the reservoir compartments 60 of a trailer 7, however it will be appreciated that the reverse (i.e. fluid being transferred from the trailer to the on-site reservoir) can also generally apply to the method.
  • the method includes the operator reading a printed fluid transfer plan to ascertain which fluid is to be received from the on-site reservoir 50 and which reservoir compartment 60 of the trailer 7 is to be used.
  • the operator interacts with the processing system 40 to verify that the selected reservoir compartment 60 is washed and clean.
  • the operator may indicate, via the display of the processing system 40, the particular compartment 60 to be used for receiving the fluid, wherein processing system 40 retrieves data from records stored in memory 42 to determine ' if the selected compartment is clean and/or compatible.
  • the operator enters, via an input device 43 of the processing system 40, product codes indicative of the fluids to be transferred, wherein the product codes are provided on the printed fluid transfer plan.
  • the processing system 40 uses the input product codes and the stored fluid transfer plan to present, via the display 43, a graphical representation of reservoir compartments 60 to be used for loading, and a particular fluid descriptor, obtained from memory 42, of the fluid to be received by the reservoir compartment 60.
  • the graphical representation may highlight the particular reservoir compartment(s) to be utilised for the loading process. The operator can then verify the fluid transfer plan against the graphical representation presented by the processing system 40.
  • the method includes the operator connecting ports of the reservoirs with fluid transfer equipment such as conduits and a pump.
  • the method includes the operator attaching a reader assembly 30 to identifiers 5 at each connection C of the fluid line between the reservoirs. If multiple connections C are present in the fluid line, a plurality of reader assemblies 30 are attached by the operator.
  • the primary reader 33A can be attached to a first RFID unit 70 located at a first port of the connection C and the respective secondary reader 33B can be attached to a second RFID unit located at a second port of the connection C.
  • each reader 33 reads the RFID data from the RFID units 70.
  • each reader 33 may be configured to automatically generate an interrogation signal periodically (i.e. every second) once the respective reed switch detects a clamping force applied to the handle 36.
  • the primary reader 33 A of each reader assembly 30 transfers the RFID data indicative of both RFID units 70 to the processing system 40 for processing.
  • the method includes the processing system 40 determining, using the RFID data and preferably the status data, if a condition for fluid transfer exists.
  • the processing system 40 can identify that the condition for fluid transfer does not exist if the status data is indicative of the compartment 60 having a contaminated status or if any of the RFID units have an expiration date which has exceeded.
  • the processing system 40 can analyse the RFID data to determine if connectable portions of fluid transfer network, including the reservoirs, conduits 15 or pump 120, are dedicated for contradictory fluids (i.e. fluids that do not match or fluids that are not at least compatible based on the one or more compatibility rules). In the event of contradictory fluids, the condition for fluid transfer does not exist.
  • the processing system 40 can then determine, based on the RFID data and optionally the status data, if the fluids transferable by the connectable portions of the fluid network correspond or are at least compatible. This determination can be performed using the one or more compatibility rules. For example, if the trailer compartment 60 has an unwashed status and contains water, whereas the on-site reservoir contains sulphuric acid, the processing system 40 can determine that a condition for fluid transfer does not exist based on the one or more compatibility rules. In another example, if the trailer compartment 60 has a washed status and the onsite reservoir 50 contains sulphuric acid, the condition for fluid transfer exists as the washed compartment 60 cannot be contaminated by the receiving fluid. In another example, if the trailer compartment 60 has an unwashed status and contains sulphuric acid and the onsite reservoir 50 contains sulphuric acid, the condition for fluid transfer exists as the fluids are compatible.
  • the processing system 40 can communicate, via the wireless transceiver 47, with a remote processing system 900 to determine the fluid (see Figure 9).
  • the on-site reservoir 50 may be located adjacent a gantry (not shown) which provides an on-site processing system 900 such as a programmable logic controller (PLC).
  • PLC programmable logic controller
  • the on-site processing system 900 may store in a data store indicative of one or more ports of the onsite reservoir and corresponding codes representing fluid(s).
  • the processing system 40 can transfer a query indicative of the identity of the port and/or reservoir associated with the sensed RFID unit 70 to the on-site processing system 900, wherein the on-site processing system 900 responds by transferring response data indicative of the code representing the fluid which can be transferred via the respective port.
  • the port is the inlet or outlet port of the reservoir
  • the fluid code is indicative of the fluid containable by the reservoir. The codes of the identified fluid(s) may then be used by the processing system 40 to determine if a condition of fluid transfer exists.
  • step 1050 the method proceeds to step 1050 wherein an alarm is raised by the processing system 40 via the external interface 44. Additionally, the processing system 40 records, in the data log, the incorrect coupling of portions of the fluid transfer network. The processing system 40 maintains the closed position of the valve locks 100 associated with the reservoir compartment 60 of the trailer 7 to restrict the operator opening the valve actuators 105. Whilst not shown in the flowchart for clarity, the operator can reconfigure the fluid transfer network (i.e. change ports that are connected) wherein new RFID data may be transferred to the processing system 40 to determine if a condition for fluid transfer has been identified, wherein upon successful operation, the valve locks 100 can be actuated to allow fluid transfer.
  • the fluid transfer network i.e. change ports that are connected
  • the method proceeds to step 1055, wherein the processing system 40 enables fluid transfer.
  • the processing system 40 may electrically actuate the unlocking of relevant valve locks 100 of the reservoir compartment 60 to enable the operator to open the valves 105 of the reservoir compartment 60 of the trailer 7.
  • the processing system 40 may electrically enable the operation of the pump 120 such that an operator can operate the pump 120 accordingly.
  • the method includes the operator operating the fluid transfer system to transfer fluid.
  • the method includes the processing system 40 monitoring data received from at least some of the primary readers 33A whilst fluid transfer is ongoing and determines whether the condition for fluid transfer still exists (step 1067).
  • the primary readers 33A may periodically transfer data, such as captured RFID data, to the processing system 40.
  • the processing system 40 may continue to confirm that the fluid can be validly transferred based upon the data received from the primary readers 33A.
  • the processing system 40 may wirelessly transfer a request to the one or more primary readers 33A whilst fluid is being transferred between the reservoirs 50, 60, wherein the one or more primary readers 33A transfer captured RFID data to the processing system 40 accordingly.
  • Step 1 175 continues to be performed by the processing system 40 until the fluid transferral process is complete.
  • the method includes at step 1 1 70 the operator ceasing operation of the pump 120, closing the valves, and disconnecting the readers 33 from the conduits 1 5.
  • the readers 33 may then be returned to the rack 600 for recharging.
  • the processing system 40 can be configured to identify the disconnection of the readers 33 with the conduits 15, wherein the processing system 40 moves the valve locks 100 to the closed position and disables operation of the pump 120 accordingly.
  • the method includes the operator disconnecting the conduits 1 .
  • the processing system 40 can update records in the compartment database according to the fluid transfer and/or the fluid plan, such as updating the fluids associated with one or more of the compartments and/or the status data of the one or more compartments accordingly.
  • the method includes the processing system 40 electrically actuating the valves locks 100 to the closed position and/or disabling operation of the pump 120 to discontinue the fluid transfer process.
  • An example of this occurring may include .FID data being received by the processing system 40 that indicates that a condition for fluid transfer does not exist. For example, one of the readers 33 was initially connected to a conduit 15 correctly but then reconnected to a different conduit 15. Another example may include a reader 33 malfunctioning for failing to transfer data to the processing system 40.
  • the processing system 40 records in memory that the respective reservoir compartment 60 has potentially been contaminated.
  • the processing system 40 restricts opening of the respective valve locks 100 in future use until the system 1 is manually overridden to decontaminate the particular reservoir compartment 60. Once the identification of the system error occurs, the method then proceeds to step 1 1 50 wherein an alarm is raised.
  • FIG. 1 1 there is shown a flowchart representing a method 1 100 for operating the system in a hazardous area when fluid is to be received by the trailer from the on-site reservoir.
  • the method includes the operator referring to the fluid transfer plan to verify which compartments 60 are to be loaded prior to entering the hazardous area.
  • the method includes the operator interacting with the input device 43 of the processing system 40 to verify the compartment(s) to be used to receive the fluid.
  • the operator can utilise the processing system 40 to determine that the compartment 60 is able to receive fluid (i.e. determining if the status indicates that the compartment is clean and washed, and/or the fluid contained therein is compatible with the fluid to be received therein).
  • the method includes the operator inputting product codes from the fluid transfer plan via the input device 43 of the processing system 40.
  • the processing system 40 in response graphically displays, via the display 43, the trailer compartment(s) 60 for receiving the fluid.
  • the method includes the operator driving the trailer 7 within the hazardous area.
  • the method includes the operator connecting conduits 1 5 of the compartment 60 of the trailer and the on-site reservoir 50.
  • the method includes the operator operating the fluid transfer system, under supervision of a site supervisor, to transfer fluid from the on-site reservoir 50 to the reservoir compartment 60.
  • the method includes the operator disconnecting the conduits 15.
  • the operator drives the trailer 7 to a non-hazardous area.
  • the method includes the operator interacting with the input device of the processing system to indicate the site which fluids were received.
  • the user indicates the specific site, a list of available fluids which are transferrable at the site are displayed to allow the operator to select the specific fluid(s) received.
  • the processing system 40 updates records in memory according to the user's interaction with the input device of the processing system 40.
  • the processing system 40 may include an indicator, such as an animation on the display of the processing system 40, which indicate to the operator that the records stored in the memory of the processing system 40 have been updated.
  • the method includes the site supervisor confirming, using the input device of the processing system, the fluids selected by the operator.
  • the site supervisor may use the input device to approve or decline the selected fluids indicated by the operator at step 1 145.
  • the site supervisor may input a security number associated for the specific site to accept input provided by the operator. This action is logged in the log file by the processing system.
  • the site supervisor can provide input indicative of the fluids he/she believes were transferred. In this situation, the processing system assumes that the particular reservoir is contaminated and updates the status of the reservoir records in memory as contaminated, wherein the log file is updated by the processing system 40 accordingly.
  • data may be relayed between reader assemblies 30 back to the processing system 40 mounted to the trailer.
  • This feature can be advantageous in situations where one or more reader assemblies 30 are unable to transfer data to the processing system 40.
  • This feature is also advantageous in instances where a limited number of communication channels are available.
  • at least some of the reader assemblies 30 may be configured to delay transferring data upstream until data is received from another reader assembly 30 downstream, wherein the respective reader assembly 30 transfers the RFID data and the received relayed data in a single transmission to the processing system 40 or another reader assembly 30 upstream. By delaying transmission, a reader assembly 30 can be configured to enter a sleep mode until data for relay is received.
  • Each reader assembly 30 can be configured to dynamically determine a channel to receive and transfer data based upon the RFID data generated from a particular RFID units 70 which the respective reader assembly 30 is attached thereto.
  • Data fields such as the port type, asset identity, component type and/or other fields discussed above which are stored by the FID unit 70 can be used to dynamically determine the channel for use by a reader assembly 30.
  • the channel can be a logical channel such that all reader assemblies 30 transfer data over the same frequency. However, in alternate embodiments, the channel may be a specific frequency within a frequency spectrum.
  • the reader assemblies 30 may use the determined channels to relay data therebetween toward the processing system 40.
  • the logical channels are derived from the above data fields of the two RFID tags of the connection which the reader assembly 30 is monitoring.
  • the control unit of each reader assembly 30 can determine a first unique logical channel for receiving data and a second unique communication logical channel for transferring data. Due to this configuration, reader assemblies 30 and hoses 15 can be swapped between trailers 7, and unrelated communications traffic from other systems 1 in the vicinity are ignored.
  • FIG. 12A there is shown a block diagram of a fluid transfer network including a conduit 15 connected between a first reservoir 60 of the trailer and a second reservoir at a site 50.
  • a first reader assembly 30A straddles across a first connection C I between a port 60A of the first reservoir 60 and a first end 16 of the conduit 15.
  • the first reader assembly 30A is connected to a first collar 70A associated with the first reservoir port 60A and a second collar 70B associated with the first end 16 of the conduit 15.
  • a second reader assembly 30B straddles across a second connection C2 between a port 50A of the second reservoir 50 and a second end 17 of the conduit 15.
  • the second reader assembly 70B is connected to a third collar 70C associated with the second end 17 of the conduit 15 and a fourth collar 70D associated with the port 50A of the second reservoir 50.
  • the processing system 40 is associated with the first reservoir 60 which is mounted to the trailer.
  • each reader assembly 30A, 30B When an operator connects the reader assemblies 30A, 30B to the identifiers 70A, 70B, 70C, 70D, each reader assembly 30A, 30B reads the RFID data from the identifiers 70A, 70B, 70C, 70D.
  • the control unit 310 of each reader assembly 30A, 30B generates a pair of channels including a transmit channel and receive channel. In one embodiment, the control unit 310 of each reader assembly 30A, 30B generates the channels based upon the port type field, asset identity field and the component type field indicated by the RFID data read from the identifiers.
  • the control unit 310 of the first reader assembly 30A uses the data read from the first identifier 70A to generate a first channel, and the data read from the second identifier 70B is used by the control unit 310 to generate a second channel.
  • the control unit 310 of the first reader assembly 30A identifies, based on the port type field indicated by the data read from the respective identifiers 70A, 70B, that the first channel is a transmit channel and the second channel is a receive channel.
  • Each control unit 310 of the reader assemblies 30 are configured to relay the data toward the reservoir 60 of the trailer 7 supporting the processing system 40.
  • the first identifier 70A has a port type indicative of a port 60A of the trailer 7, thus the first channel is considered the transmit channel.
  • the control unit 310 of the second reader assembly 30B generates the pair of channels and identifies, based on the port type fields (i.e. a conduit end; a port of a site reservoir), that a first channel generated using the data read from the third identifier 70C is the transmit channel and a second channel generated using the data read from the fourth identifier 70D is the receive channel.
  • the receive channel of the second reader assembly 30B is redundant as the second reader assembly 30B receives no data from another reader assembly 30.
  • the RFID data 1210 is transferred on the transmit channel to the first reader assembly 30A.
  • the transmit channel of the second reader assembly 30B and the receive channel of the first reader assembly 30A are the same channel due to the ends of the conduit 15 sharing similar data except for the port type field indicating the respective ends 16, 17 of the conduit 15.
  • the control unit 3 10 of the first reader assembly 30A Upon receipt of the RFID data from the second reader assembly 30B, the control unit 3 10 of the first reader assembly 30A generates and transfers an acknowledgement 1215 to the second reader assembly 30B upon the transfer channel of the second reader assembly 30B.
  • the control unit 310 of the first reader assembly 30A then combines the RFID data read from the first and second identifiers 70A, 70B with the RFID data received from the second reader assembly 30B.
  • the first reader assembly 30A relays the combined RFID data 1220 to the processing system 40 via the transfer channel for the first read assembly 30A.
  • the processing system 40 has stored in memory the channels associated with the ports of the trailer, wherein the processing system 40 is configured to listen to the channels stored in memory associated with the ports of the trailer.
  • the processing system 40 Upon receipt of the data 1220 from the first reader assembly 30A, the processing system 40 generates and transfers an acknowledgement 1225 to the first reader assembly 30A upon the transfer channel of the first reader assembly 30A. The processing system 40 can then perform processing to determine if a condition for fluid transfer exists as discussed.
  • the fluid transfer network differs from that of Figure 12A in that conduits 15A, 15B are connected together at connection C2.
  • a second reader assembly 30B is connected across to ports 17, 18 of the conduits 1 5A, 15B.
  • a third reader assembly 30C is connected across the other end 19 of the conduit 15B and the port 50A of the site reservoir 50.
  • the control unit 310 of the second reader assembly 30B is unable to identify, based on the port type fields of the identifiers 70C, 70D associated with the conduit ports 17, 18, which channel is the transmit and receive channel.
  • the second reader assembly 30B transfers data 1220, 1221 upon both channels.
  • the first reader assembly 30A is configured to transfer an acknowledgement 1225 due to receiving the data 1220 on a receive channel, however the third reader assembly 30C will not acknowledge the receipt of the data 1221 as the data 1221 has been received on a transfer channel of the third reader assembly 30C which is for transferring data from the third reader assembly 30C and tor receipt of an acknowledgement 1215.
  • the control unit 310 of the second reader assembly 30B identifies the channels accordingly so that future data transmissions are performed on the correct channels.
  • the transfer channel of one reader assembly 30 will be a receive channel for a neighbouring reader assembly 30 upstream toward the processing system 40.
  • the control units 310 of the reader assemblies 30 may be configured to manipulate the generation of either the receive channel or the transmit channel based on the data read from the identifiers 70.
  • the second reader assembly 30B may be configured to identify, based on the data read from the third identifier 70C, that the transfer channel is to be generated based on the component identity that is opposite to that which has been read (i.e. the transfer channel is generated by inferring the component identity of the opposite end of the conduit, wherein the system is configured to use conduits having two ends only).
  • the control unit 310 if the component identity read indicates that the port is a second end 17 of a conduit 15, the control unit 310 generates the transfer channel using a component identity indicative of the first end 16 of the conduit 15. Generally, this may involve decrementing or incrementing the read component identity prior to generating the channel. Therefore, the transfer channel used by the second reader assembly 30B is the same channel as the receive channel used by the first reader assembly 30B. It will be appreciated that the opposite scenario can be performed, wherein the receive channel is generated by the control unit of a reader assembly 30 inferring the component identity of the opposite end of a conduit 15.
  • each reader assembly 30 is configured to cease generating an interrogation signal in response to failing to receive an acknowledgement from another reader assembly 30 or the processing system 40 within a period of time (e.g. ten seconds) after FID data is transferred.
  • a reader assembly 30 disconnects from the RFID unit 70 which are being monitored, for example due to vibrations experienced during the fluid transfer process
  • the other reader assembly units 30 which expect to receive an acknowledgement may continue to transfer data for an extended period of time (i.e. 1 min) rather than the shortened period of time discussed above.
  • the operator is provided the extended period of time to reattach the disconnected reader assembly 30 to the respective identifiers 5 rather than restart (i.e.
  • each reader assembly 30 can be configured to read multiple blocks of RF1D data to build an image of the RF1D data of the respective clamped identifiers 5. However, after the initial read, the control unit 310 of the reader assembly 30 can be configured to determine that the same RFID unit 70 is within the vicinity. In an additional or alternative form, an initial data transfer is performed by each reader assembly 30 to provide a copy of the RFID data to the processing system 40.
  • the size of the data payload is minimised by transferring a packet of data indicative that the same RFID units 70 is within the vicinity of the reader assembly 30.
  • the period between the emission of interrogation signals is increased over time. For example, initially the period between interrogation signals is one second. However, after a successful read or when the remaining battery voltage is low, the period between interrogation signals is increased to a greater period of time such as 1.5 seconds.
  • the processing system 40 may transfer a request signal to each of the readers 33 of the system 1 in a periodic manner. In the event that the processing system 40 fails to receive an acknowledgement from one or more of the reader assemblies 30 within a predefined period of time, the processing system 40 infers that either the particular non- responding reader 33 has malfunctioned, or potentially has been left at a site. An event can be recorded in the log file by the processing system 40 that one or more of the reader assemblies 30 did not respond to the request. Additionally, the processing system 40 may raise an alarm indicating the identification of the detected issue with one or more of the reader assemblies 30.
  • the battery power supply of the vehicle may be provided in the form of a 12VDC battery power supply.
  • the supply can be provided by four 180-200 RC (reserve capacity), 925-950 CCA (cold cranking amps) batteries which are connected in parallel.
  • the battery source of the vehicle 7 is able to provide over a three hour operational period or a twelve hour non-operational (standby period) to the system.
  • the processing system 40 can require less than 10 Watts however dominant loading can depend upon a number of factors such as the number of valve locks 100 and light indicators 107 used by the system 1 .
  • the system may include the use of an RFID writer which is able to alter the data stored in an RFID unit in particular circumstances.
  • identifiers may be used which are indicative of the fluid containable in the associated reservoir assembly.
  • coded data identifiers such as bar codes could potentially be used to identify the connectable portion of the fluid transfer network and the respective reservoir in order to identify if a condition for fluid transfer exists.
  • portable reservoirs may include a coded data identifier such as a bar code.
  • the barcode is directly indicative of the fluid containable therein, or at least indicative of an identity of the portable reservoir, wherein the processing system can use the memory with the reservoir identity to determine the containable fluid.
  • the reader assembly may include a coded data reader, such as a bar code reader.
  • the reader assembly may include a primary reader which is able to read an RFID unit, and a secondary reader which is the bar code reader, wherein the bar code reader transfers the read barcode data to the primary reader for transfer to the processing system for processing.
  • the control unit of at least some reader assemblies 30 can be configured to transfer diagnostic data indicative of at least one of battery voltage, RFID signal strength and communication quality. The diagnostic data may be periodically transmitted (potentially via relay) to the processing system 40 for presentation via the display.
  • the control unit 30 can be configured to transfer an alarm status to the processing system 40 in the event that one or more reader assembly operation thresholds have been satisfied, wherein the processing system can present a warning to the operator indicative of the risk of an interruption in fluid transfer.
  • fluid codes may be stored by memory of an on-site processing system 900 which the processing system 40 of the vehicle can query. However, in some embodiments, the fluid codes may be initially transferred to the on-site processing system from a pair of identifier blocks.
  • variable fluid hose i.e. a hose which is not used for a dedicated fluid
  • a variable fluid reservoir i.e. the reservoir is not used for a dedicated fluid
  • the valve outlet has a safety interlock key which is labelled with the currently contained fluid for the variable fluid reservoir.
  • the interlock key is attached to a first identifier block 500 which stores data indicative of the current fluid contained by the variable fluid reservoir and the data stored therein is altered with the safety interlock key when the contents of the fluid are changed within the variable fluid reservoir.
  • a second identifier block 500 is fixed adjacent a valve of the variable fluid reservoir and stores data indicative of an identity indicative of an opposing end of the variable fluid hose hanging from the gantry for connection to the trailer 7.
  • the second identifier block 500 includes data further indicative of a data transfer type.
  • an operator attaches a reader assembly 30 to the first and second identifier blocks 500.
  • the control unit 310 of the reader assembly 30 collects the RFID data from the respective blocks 500 and identifies a field indicating that the data is to be transferred to the on-site processing system 900.
  • the reader assembly 30 transfers the RFID data to the onsite processing system 900 for recordal in memory.
  • the operator can then attach the one or more reader assemblies 30 to the connected portions of the reservoir assemblies, wherein the processing system 40 can then determine, based on the RFID data that a query needs to be transferred the on-site processing system 900 to determine the fluid which can be handled by the one or more ports and whether the condition for fluid transfer exists.
  • Data stored in memory by the processing system 40 may be recorded upon a removable data storage medium such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) storage medium.
  • the removable data storage medium can then be removed from the processing system and reviewed on another processing system.
  • the data log can be recorded on the removable storage medium and transferred to another processing system for review and remote storage.
  • USB Universal Serial Bus
  • the system 1 can optionally include one or more compartment level units to restrict one or compartments 60 overfilling.
  • the one or more compartment level units can transfer data to the processing system 40, wherein the processing system 40 may control the valve locks 100 and/or the pump 120 accordingly in the event that one or more compartments 60 appear to be near overfilling.
  • the system 1 can optionally include one or more conductivity measurement units for determining the period of time which a compartment 60 is washed by an operator. Data indicative of the time period of the washing process can then be transferred to the processing system 40 for recordal in the data log for review.
  • the system 1 can optionally include one or more flow metering units for monitoring outgoing fluid from one or more compartments 60. Data indicative of the flow rate can be transferred to the processing system 40 for recordal in the data log for review.
  • the processing system 40 can be optionally configured to require an operator to input, via the input device, a username and optionally a password such that events to prevent unauthorised use of the system.
  • the system 1 can also record data indicative of the operator for each event recorded in the data log.
  • the pump 120 of the system 1 can optionally provide feedback data to the processing system 40.
  • the feedback data can be compared against operating parameters to ensure that the pump is operating correctly. In the event that the comparison results in the processing system 40 identifying a pump operating failure, the processing system 40 can disable the pump 120 accordingly.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Loading And Unloading Of Fuel Tanks Or Ships (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un système, un procédé, un système de traitement, un support lisible par ordinateur et un ensemble lecteur servant à identifier une condition pour transfert de fluide. Selon un aspect, le système comprend une pluralité d'identificateurs associés à des parties raccordables d'un réseau de transfert de fluide ; un ou plusieurs ensembles lecteurs fixés amovibles à la pluralité d'identificateurs, le ou les ensembles lecteurs étant configurés pour produire, à l'aide de la pluralité d'identificateurs, des données servant à déterminer un fluide transférable par les parties raccordables ; et un système de traitement configuré pour : recevoir, en provenance du ou des ensembles lecteurs, les données ; et déterminer, à l'aide des données reçues, si une condition pour transfert de fluide existe.
PCT/AU2011/001151 2010-09-07 2011-09-06 Transfert de fluide WO2012031323A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2010904005 2010-09-07
AU2010904005A AU2010904005A0 (en) 2010-09-07 Method and apparatus for monitoring fluid delivery
NZ58937810 2010-11-18
NZ589378 2010-11-18

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2012031323A1 true WO2012031323A1 (fr) 2012-03-15

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WO (1) WO2012031323A1 (fr)

Cited By (4)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2939975A1 (fr) 2014-04-29 2015-11-04 Christeyns B.V. Procédé et système permettant de déplacer un fluide depuis un conteneur d'alimentation vers un réservoir tampon
EP2955150A1 (fr) 2014-06-06 2015-12-16 Christeyns B.V. Procédé et système permettant de déplacer un fluide depuis un conteneur d'alimentation vers un réservoir tampon
US10207912B2 (en) 2014-11-07 2019-02-19 Knappco Corporation Crossover protection system graphical user interfaces
US10787358B2 (en) 2017-10-09 2020-09-29 Knappco, LLC Control systems for liquid product delivery vehicles

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Cited By (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2939975A1 (fr) 2014-04-29 2015-11-04 Christeyns B.V. Procédé et système permettant de déplacer un fluide depuis un conteneur d'alimentation vers un réservoir tampon
NL2012707A (nl) * 2014-04-29 2016-02-04 Christeyns B V Werkwijze en systeem voor het verplaatsen van een vloeistof vanuit een voorraadhouder naar een buffervat.
EP2939975B1 (fr) 2014-04-29 2021-07-14 Christeyns B.V. Procédé et système permettant de déplacer un fluide depuis un conteneur d'alimentation vers un réservoir tampon
EP2955150A1 (fr) 2014-06-06 2015-12-16 Christeyns B.V. Procédé et système permettant de déplacer un fluide depuis un conteneur d'alimentation vers un réservoir tampon
NL2012963B1 (nl) * 2014-06-06 2016-06-27 Christeyns B V Werkwijze en systeem voor het verplaatsen van een vloeistof vanuit een voorraadhouder naar een afgiftecomponent.
EP2955150B1 (fr) 2014-06-06 2020-11-18 Christeyns B.V. Procédé et système permettant de déplacer un fluide depuis un conteneur d'alimentation vers un réservoir tampon
US10207912B2 (en) 2014-11-07 2019-02-19 Knappco Corporation Crossover protection system graphical user interfaces
US10669147B2 (en) 2014-11-07 2020-06-02 Knappco, LLC Crossover protection system graphical user interfaces
US10787358B2 (en) 2017-10-09 2020-09-29 Knappco, LLC Control systems for liquid product delivery vehicles
US11807514B2 (en) 2017-10-09 2023-11-07 Knappco, LLC Control systems for liquid product delivery vehicles

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