Tracking and properties control system for bulk materials
US8042736B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 23, 2009 |
| Grant date | Oct 25, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 23, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06Q10/0875
- WIPO fieldIT methods for management
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The invention provides a system of devices and a set of methods for accurately characterizing, tracking and controlling bulk material flows. Measurements of input material properties, dynamical measurements involving identifiable tags, and fast, discrete simulations are combined to predict and control the composition of bulk material exiting a container, such as a silo, bunker or hopper. In one embodiment, a system is provided for a coal-fired power plant where the properties of coal are assessed, then the coal is marked and tracked to provide the plant's operators improved control over the coal mixture and target bulk properties as it makes its way from a coal receiving station to delivery for combustion in a furnace.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.