The Observer-i from General Monitors is the first ultrasonic gas leak detector that uses real-time broadband acoustic sound processing technology based on Artificial Neural Network (ANN). The development of this technology was based on extensive studies and recordings of gas leak sounds and industrial background noise from various industry sources. The ANN algorithm has been “trained” using these recordings to automatically differentiate between unwanted acoustic background noise and dangerous gas leaks.
ANN technology allows a thorough sound spectrum analysis of as low as 12 kHz without common high-pass filters. This results in a broader range for detecting leaks and a higher sensitivity to minor gas leaks, all while avoiding interference from unwanted background noise.
Thanks to ANN technology, the Observer-i can be easily installed without any time-consuming “training” sequences. It provides an industry-leading detection distance and effectively suppresses false alarms. Moreover, the ANN technology ensures that the Observer-i has consistent gas leak detection coverage even in high and low-noise areas. The device does not require any alarm set points or trigger levels to be configured, and the alarm parameters do not need to be adjusted if background ultrasound varies over time.
The Observer-i is backwards compatible with earlier versions of the Gassonic Observer using the Classic Mode setting wherein ANN is disabled, and the legacy electrical interface is used.
The Observer-i comes with the Senssonic self-test function, a patented feature. This function performs a thorough self-test every 15 minutes and ensures the device’s electrical components and microphone work correctly. It continuously monitors the microphone and windscreen to ensure the detector maintains the optimal sensitivity and detection coverage level. This ensures that the Observer-i is operating optimally.
Applications
- Floating Production Storage and Offloading Vessels (FPSOs)
- Gas Compressor and Metering Stations
- Gas Storage Facilities
- Hydrogen Storage Facilities
- LNG / GTL Trains
- LNG Re-gasification Plants
- Offshore and Onshore Oil and Gas Installations
- Petrochemical Processing Plants