Journal of Sensor Science and Technology (센서학회지)

The Korean Sensors Society (한국센서학회)
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Development of Ultrasonic Sediment-level Sensor for Sewage Pipe Application

하수관 퇴적물 감지를 위한 초음파 퇴적센서 개발

  • Park, Buem-Keun (Electronic Convergence Division, Korea Institute of Ceramic Engineering & Technology) ;
  • Shin, Jeong-Hee (Electronic Convergence Division, Korea Institute of Ceramic Engineering & Technology) ;
  • Paik, Jong-Hoo (Electronic Convergence Division, Korea Institute of Ceramic Engineering & Technology) ;
  • LEE, Young-Jin (Electronic Convergence Division, Korea Institute of Ceramic Engineering & Technology)
  • 박범근 (한국세라믹기술원 전자융합본부) ;
  • 신정희 (한국세라믹기술원 전자융합본부) ;
  • 백종후 (한국세라믹기술원 전자융합본부) ;
  • 이영진 (한국세라믹기술원 전자융합본부)
  • Received : 2020.12.30
  • Accepted : 2021.01.21
  • Published : 2021.01.31
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Abstract

In this study, we successfully developed a highly reliable ultrasonic sediment sensor to detect the sediment levels in sewer pipes in harsh environments. The ultrasonic transducer employed in the ultrasonic sediment sensor was designed so as to possess a simple structure. The developed sensor was carefully optimized by simulating the electromechanical characteristics, radiated sound wave pressures, and directivity via finite element analysis. It was also designed to possess a simple mounting structure minimizing the flow disturbance in a 400-mm sewer pipe; additionally, eight ultrasonic transducers were arranged in a four-channel mode, allowing for measurement of the sediment height in five easy steps. Through experimental evaluations, we verified the performance of the ultrasonic sediment-level sensor and its industrial applicability. The results suggested that although the precision value was notably low at 15 mm, the sediment detection performance was adequate; therefore, the developed sensor can potentially be used in industrial applications.

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References

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