Wireless transmission of process data from within pressure vessels

摘要

A system collects data relating to a process performed within an autoclave, and wirelessly transmits the data to a receiver located outside the autoclave for processing. One or more sensors inside the autoclave sense process parameters such as temperature or pressure. The transmitter is housed in a protective container that protects the transmitter against the effects of autoclave heat and pressure.

主权项

1. A container configured to protect a wireless transmitter used in a high temperature, high pressure environment, comprising:
a pressure tight housing for protecting the transmitter from the effects of pressure in the environment; a compartment inside the housing, configured to contain the transmitter, said compartment comprising a cover plate, said cover plate adapted to pass antenna and sensor wires through said plate while maintaining a pressure of said compartment; and, a thermal barrier within the housing and surrounding the compartment, said thermal barrier configured to protect the transmitter from the effects of heat in the environment, said thermal barrier comprising a heat sink spaced from the interior wall of said housing and adjacent said compartment to define a vacuum chamber surrounding said heat sink, said heat sink comprising a continuous solid and/or liquid thermal mass between said vacuum chamber and said compartment, said vacuum chamber fluidly isolated from said compartment such that different pressures are maintained in said vacuum chamber and said compartment, said container configured to maintain substantially atmospheric pressure in said compartment.