Daviteq Miniature Radar Level Level Sensor
RLC
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1. Introduction
Overview
RLC is an affordable and efficient radar level sensor for various liquid applications. This sensor accurately measures levels of chemicals, water, and oil in tanks. t is suitable for remote level monitoring, inventory management, and tracking mobile tanks in various industries.
This radar level sensor utilizes the 60 GHz pulse radar technology, a reliable measurement with minimal power consumption to measure the distance to surface of liquid. The principle is to measure the time of flight of the radar pulse in the air environment. The radar pulse will be ejected from radar transducer, go through the air and reaching the surface of liquid, then reflected back to the radar transducer. The measuring circuit will measure the time of flight of the Pulse then calculate the distance from transducer to the surface.
The RLC can be integrated into the wireless transmitter from Daviteq, such as Sub-GHz WS433, LoRaWAN WSLRW, and Sigfox WSSFC, to build the complete wireless radar level Sensors. The RLC is also powered by the batteries in the wireless transmitter.
Specification
Sensor Technology;Ultra-low powered 60GHz Radar Technology
Measurement range;0.2∼18m
Resolution;±1.0mm
Accuracy;±10 mm
Working process temperature;-40∼85℃
2. Principle of Operation
Radar level sensors operate based on the principle of time-of-flight (ToF) measurement. The simplified explanation of how they work:
Emission of Electromagnetic Waves: The sensor emits electromagnetic waves (usually microwaves) towards the surface of the material being measured.
Reflection of Waves: These waves travel to the material's surface and reflect back to the sensor.
Time Measurement: The sensor measures the time it takes for the waves to travel to the surface and back.
Distance Calculation: Using the speed of light and the measured time, the sensor calculates the distance to the material's surface.
Level Determination: The sensor then determines the level of the material based on this distance.
3. Calibration
The Daviteq radar level sensor measures the distance by taking the air speed of radar in the ambient air so a calibration is not required. However, in most liquid level applications, customers need to get the level value instead of distance. To do so, the coefficient A & B value is calculated from the height of the tank as per the below instructions.
DB: Dead band 0∼200mm (This is a short range in front of the ultrasonic sensor can not measure distances)
H: Maximum measuring distance (Span)
D: Distance
How to determine H value?
Method 1: Based on the design drawing of the tank or actual measurement
Method 2: Read the sensor's measurement value when the tank is empty (L0). Then H = L0
Note: a₁, b₁ of sensor must be as default when use Method 2. (Default value a₁ = 1, b₁ = 0)
How to determine the new coefficients A and B?
The calibration formula is L = a x D + b. Calibration at 2 points: L = 0 when D = H and L = H - DB when D = DB
The result is A = -1 and B = H and the level formula is L = H - D
4. Application Notes
5. Installation Notes
Key installation notes for radar level sensors:
Pre-Installation Checklist
Gather Equipment: Ensure you have the sensor, mounting brackets, calibration tools, and necessary documentation.
Safety Precautions: Wear appropriate PPE and follow safety guidelines.
Site Assessment: Check the installation site for accessibility, electrical concerns, and potential interference.
Installation Steps
Mounting:
Non-Invasive: For non-metallic tanks, use an adapter to mount the sensor without cutting a hole.
Invasive: For metallic tanks, install the sensor through an existing opening, ensuring a good seal with an O-ring.
Positioning:
Mount the sensor horizontally with a clear view of the liquid surface.
Avoid placing the sensor too close to the tank edge or near metallic objects.
Calibration:
Follow the manufacturer's guidelines to set reference points and adjust the output signal for accurate measurements.
Other considerations
Ensure the sensor is free from obstructions that could interfere with the radar signal.
Regularly check and maintain the sensor to ensure long-term accuracy and reliability.
6. Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting steps for radar level sensors:
Check Power Supply:
Ensure the sensor is receiving the correct voltage. If not, check the fuse and connections.
Inspect Sensor and Antenna:
Clean the sensor and antenna to remove any dust, moisture, or debris that might interfere with the signal.
Verify Installation:
Ensure the sensor is properly mounted and positioned. Avoid obstructions that could block the radar waves.
Check Communication:
Verify that the communication equipment is functioning correctly. Use radar debugging software to monitor the sensor's status.
Calibrate the Sensor:
Recalibrate the sensor according to the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure accurate readings.
Address Environmental Factors:
Consider factors like temperature, pressure, and the presence of vapors or dust that might affect sensor performance.
Inspect for Physical Damage:
Check for any physical damage to the sensor or its components and replace if necessary.
Review Configuration Settings:
Ensure the sensor's configuration settings are correct and match the application requirements.
These steps should help resolve common issues with radar level sensors. If problems persist, consult the manufacturer's support for further assistance.
7. Maintenance
Key maintenance tips for radar level sensors:
Regular Cleaning:
Clean the sensor and antenna to remove dust, moisture, or debris that might interfere with the signal.
Check Power Supply:
Ensure the sensor is receiving the correct voltage. Inspect fuses and connections regularly.
Inspect Installation:
Verify that the sensor is properly mounted and positioned. Ensure there are no obstructions blocking the radar waves.
Calibration:
Recalibrate the sensor periodically according to the manufacturer's guidelines to maintain accuracy.
Monitor Environmental Conditions:
Be aware of temperature, pressure, and the presence of vapors or dust that might affect sensor performance.
Inspect for Physical Damage:
Regularly check for any physical damage to the sensor or its components and replace if necessary.
Review Configuration Settings:
Ensure the sensor's configuration settings are correct and match the application requirements.
Communication Check:
Verify that the communication equipment is functioning correctly. Use radar debugging software to monitor the sensor's status.
By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure the long-term accuracy and reliability of your radar level sensor.
8. Default Configuration
This RLC radar level sensor has the default configuration. The user can change the configuration on the wireless transmitter so that the complete sensor (transducer + wireless) delivers the proper output value.