Design of a neutrally buoyant self-powered multi-parameter sensor for data logging in flow applications

Abstract

Experimental acquisition of spatially distributed parameters in large scale vessels and containers is of great interest for investigation and optimization of plants and processes such as stirred tanks, chemical reactors or bioreactors.For the measurement of process parameters in a stirred fermentation biogas reactor we developed the concept of neutrally buoyant self-powered sensor particles. The prototype sensor performs logging of temperature, absolute pressure and 3D-acceleration data and is integrated in a robust capsule which gives a balance between buoyancy and gravitation with respect to the liquid process substrate. In an initial test of the developed prototype its autonomous operation has been successfully proved showing feasibility for future application in a biogas reactor.

Autonomous sensor particle for parameter tracking in large vessels

“…The current design of the sensor particle is based on the first particle prototype [13]. The analogue and digital circuits are now mounted on two separate circular printed circuit boards (PCBs), which generally enhances the analogue signal quality.…”

“…After a careful design of the sensor particle [13] prototype, the sensor particle has been improved with regard to the performance of the power supply, signal quality and sensor handling. Besides a proof of the concept for the long-term application in a reactor, a careful calibration was carried out with uncertainty analysis following [15], which is based on individual component and cross-sensitivity analysis.…”