Closed-loop flow sensor SeeDector

radarmicrowavesap

SeeDector deploys a novel technique for measurement of the amount and speed of a flow of particulate material (e.g. seeds, mineral fertilizer, granules) or liquids moving in pipes. For many applications - e.g. seed drills, fertilizer applicators, slurry injectors - the amount and speed of a material flow becomes measurable for the first time, in real-time during the process. SeeDector is the seed blockage sensor in the SeedMon system. SeeDector is a material flow sensor based on high-frequency electromagnetic waves (microwaves, doppler radar). SeeDector is directly clamped onto a tube or pipe without alterations. Measurement data are transferred via CAN-Bus. The SeeDector technique has been applied for German and European patent. USA Patent (US 8,915,144 B2) has been granted. At the Agritechnica 2011 fair, SeeDector was awarded a silver medal from the DLG novelties commission. - Throughput measurement of a free falling or pneumatically conveyed flow of particulate material or liquid. - Covers the range from smallest (e.g. oilseed rape, grass) to the biggest kernels (e.g. beans, peas). - Enabling and optimizing monitoring, control, and closed-loop control. - Easy and simple installation, clamped with a sheet steel bracket on a plastic pipe (possibly with metal spiral inlay) or placed in a cut-out window of a metal pipe. - No cutting or alteration of a plastic pipe. - Nothing built into the pipe constricting the material flow. - No alteration of the machine's design. - By virtue of the functional principle (doppler radar) unsusceptible against dirt, dust, or incrustation inside of the pipe - contrary to all other functional principles of the competition. - Smart sensor with integrated processing and communication (microcontroller). - CAN interface for output of amount and speed of the material flow. - Enabling blockage monitoring systems detecting partial blockage with decreased throughput. - Enabling monitoring and detection of flow switching on and off when tramlining. - For installation on pipes or tubes with different diameters, a wide range of sheet steel brackets with according dimensions is available. - Sensor components: planar microwave frontend, filter amplifier, microcontroller, CAN transceiver - Power supply: 5 V DC/70 mA max - Temperature range: -20°C to +70°C operation - Output signal: CAN 2.0 B - Update rate: 2 Hz - Dimensions of the sensor: 90 mm x 47 mm x 40 (72)mm (LxWxH), less cable, less bracket - Installation: clamped on with steel sheet bracket - Warranty: 2 years