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The next best thing ..... Precise Bulk Materials Inventory Measurement |
November 25, 2008 |
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Posted by Joe Lewis at November 25, 2008 09:39 AM |
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It is said that sliced bread was first invented in 1927. It was a major time saver for people, I mean it is difficult to do that yourself... isn't it? Anyway, Wonder Bread began promoting their sliced bread around 1930 and, did you know, the U.S. government outlawed sliced bread in 1943 because it was considered so wasteful? Go figure, only the government would understand this act of congress.
Some say the Internet was really "THE next best thing since sliced bread" and indeed the Internet is a milestone in human technological development that still evolves today. However, in more practical terms relating to powder and bulk solids is the invention and introduction within the past decade of surface profile measurement systems for use in determining how much stuff is in a silo, typically large silos.
Surface mapping technology has long been in use by military and aerospace. It was believed to have been first commercialized successfully by BinTech LLLP of Louisville, CO with their patent number 6,986,294 on January 17, 2006. This device uses a laser scanner to measure the top surface contours of the material within the bin. The laser is installed within the bin but is generally not in contact with the material. It uses mechanical packaging means to allow it to measure through dust effectively. Other sensor technologies can also be used.
Other companies now marketing surface mapping capabilities include:
KTek Volumetric accuracy stated as "1% typical"
APM Solutions I could not locate an accuracy statement other than in terms of distance/level (+/- 15mm)
Note that BinTech claims comparison testing between weight scales and their 3D scanner system indicates their system to be 99.5% accurate! Only a 0.5% error rate for volume/mass measurement! That's impressive, but it will cost you.
Next best thing since sliced bread? Surface mapping measurement technology for powders and bulk solids. However, they need more development and cost reduction efforts.
Joe Lewis
