Sensor, method and computer program product for fluid flow determination

Abstract

The present invention is entitled "Sensor, method and computer program product for fluid flow determination". The present invention provides sensors, methods and computer program products for bubble detection and fluid composition determination. An exemplary sensor device for use with a fluid flow system includes a force pulse generator that transmits force pulses and is connected to the fluid flow system, and a force pulse sensor that is connected to the fluid flow system. The force pulse sensor receives the force pulse emitted by the force pulse generator and determines the transient response of the fluid flow system to the force pulse. Based on the transient response, the force pulse sensor determines the operating state of the fluid flow system. The operating state may indicate the presence of bubbles in the fluid flow system, or may indicate the composition of the fluid in the fluid flow system. The force pulse sensor can also determine the amplitude and decay rate of the transient response.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to fluid systems and, more particularly, to determining an operational state of a fluid flow. Background Art

[0002] Fluid flow systems can be used in a variety of applications to transport or otherwise move a fluid from one location to another. For example, an intravenous infusion pump or other drug delivery system can deliver a drug solution (e.g., a liquid or fluid solution) to a human patient. In such fluid flow systems, the presence of other materials (e.g., bubbles, debris, etc.) may be detrimental to the operation of the fluid flow system and / or be harmful to, for example, a human patient. However, the inventors have identified many deficiencies in these prior art techniques in the art, and remedies for these deficiencies are the subject of the embodiments described herein. Summary of the invention

[0003] As mentioned above, fluid flow systems can be used in various environments or applications to convey fluids or liquids. For example, industrial applications can convey chemicals, gels, fluids, solutions, etc., which may be prone to generating bubbles therein, or may otherwise generate bubbles therein as part of a secondary reaction during operation. These bubbles may damage industrial equipment (e.g., by cavitation, pitting, etc.), and cause errors in equipment operation (e.g., inaccurate chemical composition, incorrect delivery amount, etc.). In addition, many industrial applications can convey non-uniform solutions of different compositions, combinations, mixtures, etc. It may be necessary to control the composition of these solutions to ensure the delivery of appropriate fluid solutions, such as in food processing implementations, fluid storage units, fuel mixing applications, etc. In medical applications (such as intravenous drug infusion pumps or drug delivery systems), liquid drugs can be provided to human patients at specific doses, but in doing so, the presence of any other materials, debris or bubbles in these medical applications may cause incorrect doses, and / or damage to human patients in some cases (e.g., causing embolism, etc.).

[0004] Conventional attempts to address these problems typically require separate bubble detection modules that rely on ultrasonic sensing technology or other non-invasive technologies that are often prone to false alarms (e.g., inaccurate results). In many cases, an ultrasonic signal is transmitted through the fluid, and changes in the amplitude of the received ultrasonic signal are used for detection. However, the frequencies of the ultrasonic signals used in these systems can vary greatly between applications, fluids, fluid conduit materials, etc., requiring corresponding sensors to scan a large number of ultrasonic frequencies for each detection operation. This need results in time-consuming sensing operations and increases the processing burden associated with analyzing ultrasonic signals. In addition, in the context of bubble detection, ultrasonic sensor systems may be more likely to cause false alarms due to fluctuations in the air near the sensor, disconnection of fluid flow components, etc.

[0005] To address these and other issues, an exemplary implementation of an embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a sensor configuration that employs a force pulse generator and a force pulse sensor that are configured to emit and detect mechanical waves transmitted through a fluid flow, respectively. In operation, an exemplary force pulse sensor may receive a force pulse emitted by the force pulse generator and determine a transient response (e.g., an initial amplitude and a decay rate) of a fluid flow system. The transient response may be analyzed to determine an operating state of the fluid flow system, such as the presence of bubbles and / or a fluid composition of a non-uniform solution. Specifically, an exemplary force pulse sensor may iteratively determine a transient response of a fluid flow system in response to a force pulse emitted by the force pulse generator. Differences between these transient responses (e.g., an increased initial amplitude and a decreased decay rate as described below) may indicate the presence of bubbles within the fluid flow system. In addition, an exemplary force pulse sensor may compare the determined transient response of the fluid flow system with a calibrated or determined composition threshold associated with a specific fluid composition (e.g., a mixture, a density ratio, etc.) to determine the composition of the fluid within the fluid flow. In doing so, such exemplary implementations can reliably detect and confirm the presence of bubbles and fluid composition of non-uniform solutions in a fluid flow system as part of an integrated system component (eg, without additional detection components).

[0006] The present invention provides sensors, methods, systems, devices and associated computer program products for fluid flow systems. An exemplary sensor device for use with a fluid flow system may include a force pulse generator coupled to the fluid flow system and configured to transmit a force pulse, and a force pulse sensor coupled to the fluid flow system. The force pulse sensor may be configured to receive a force pulse transmitted by the force pulse generator and determine a transient response of the fluid flow system to the force pulse. Based on the transient response of the fluid flow system, the force pulse sensor may determine an operating state of the fluid flow system based on the transient response.

[0007] In some embodiments, the force pulse sensor may be further configured to generate an alert signal including an operational status.

[0008] In some embodiments, the force pulse sensor may be further configured to determine the magnitude and decay rate of the transient response.

[0009] In some embodiments, the force pulse generator may be spaced apart from the force pulse sensor to collectively define a gap configured to receive a fluid flow conduit of the fluid flow system therebetween. In such embodiments, the operating state determined by the force pulse sensor may indicate the presence of bubbles within the fluid flow system.

[0010] In some additional embodiments, the force pulse sensor, upon determining that the operational state of the fluid flow system indicates the presence of air bubbles within the fluid flow system, may be configured to: determine a first transient response of the fluid flow system to a first force pulse emitted by the force pulse generator, and determine a second transient response of the fluid flow system to a second force pulse emitted by the force pulse generator. In such additional embodiments, the force pulse sensor may also determine a difference between the first transient response and the second transient response, compare the difference to one or more air presence thresholds, and determine the presence of air bubbles within the fluid flow system if the difference satisfies the one or more air presence thresholds.

[0011] In other embodiments, the force pulse generator may be coupled to an outer surface of a fluid flow conduit of the fluid flow system, and the force pulse sensor may be coupled to an inner surface of a fluid flow conduit of the fluid flow system. In such embodiments, the operating state determined by the force pulse sensor may indicate the composition of the fluid within the fluid flow system.

[0012] In some further embodiments, the force pulse sensor, upon determining that the operational state of the fluid flow system is indicative of the composition of the fluid within the fluid flow system, may be configured to compare the transient response of the fluid flow system to the force pulse with one or more fluid composition thresholds. If the transient response satisfies the fluid composition threshold associated with the defined composition, the force pulse sensor may determine the composition of the fluid within the fluid flow system to be the defined composition.

[0013] The above-mentioned summary of the invention is provided only for the purpose of summarizing some exemplary embodiments, to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that the above-mentioned embodiments are only examples and should not be construed as narrowing the scope or essence of the present invention in any way. It should be understood that, in addition to those in this summary of the invention, the scope of the present invention also encompasses many possible embodiments, some of which will be further described below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Having generally described certain exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure above, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings. In certain embodiments described herein, the components shown in the accompanying drawings may or may not exist. Some embodiments may include fewer (or more) components than those shown in the drawings.

[0015] Figure 1 shows an exemplary sensor device and fluid flow system according to some exemplary embodiments described herein;

[0016] Figure 2A FIG. 1 shows a first force pulse taken along line AA according to some exemplary embodiments herein. Figure 1 Cross-sectional views of devices and systems;

[0017] Figure 2B FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a flow chart with a bubble and an exemplary second force pulse taken along line AA according to some exemplary embodiments described herein. Figure 1 Cross-sectional views of devices and systems;

[0018] Figure 3A shows some exemplary embodiments described herein. Figure 2A an exemplary first transient response to a first force pulse;

[0019] Figure 3B shows some exemplary embodiments described herein. Figure 2B an exemplary second transient response of a second force pulse;

[0020] Figure 4 Another exemplary sensor device and fluid flow system according to some exemplary embodiments described herein is shown;

[0021] Figure 5 shows some exemplary embodiments described herein. Figure 4 Exemplary transient responses of devices and systems;

[0022] Figure 6 shows a schematic block diagram of exemplary circuits that can perform various operations according to some exemplary embodiments described herein;

[0023] Figure 7 shows an exemplary flow chart of operating state determination according to some exemplary embodiments described herein;

[0024] Figure 8 shows an exemplary flow chart of bubble detection according to some exemplary embodiments described herein; and

[0025] Fig. 9shows an exemplary flow chart for fluid composition determination according to some exemplary embodiments described herein; DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some embodiments of the present disclosure are shown, but not all embodiments are shown. In fact, these inventions can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; on the contrary, these embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure meets applicable legal requirements. Throughout the text, similar reference numerals refer to similar elements. As used herein, this specification may refer to a controller of an exemplary sensor device (e.g., a force pulse sensor) as an exemplary "device". However, the elements of the device described herein may also be applicable to the methods and computer program products protected by the claims. Therefore, the use of any such terms should not be understood as limiting the essence and scope of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0027] Definition of terms

[0028] As used herein, the terms "data," "content," "information," "electronic information," "signals," "commands," and similar terms may be used interchangeably to refer to data that can be sent, received, and / or stored according to embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, the use of any such terms should not be construed as limiting the essence or scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure. In addition, where a first computing device is described herein as receiving data from a second computing device, it should be understood that the data may be received directly from the second computing device or may be received indirectly via one or more intermediate computing devices (such as, for example, one or more servers, repeaters, routers, network access points, base stations, hosts, etc., sometimes referred to herein as "networks"). Similarly, where a first computing device is described herein as sending data to a second computing device, it should be understood that the data may be sent directly to the second computing device or may be sent indirectly via one or more intermediate computing devices (such as, for example, one or more servers, remote servers, cloud-based servers (e.g., cloud tools), repeaters, routers, network access points, base stations, hosts, etc.).

[0029] As used herein, the term "comprising" means including but not limited to, and should be interpreted in the manner commonly used in the patent context. It should be understood that the use of broad terms such as "comprising," "including," and "having" provides support for narrower terms such as "consisting of," "consisting essentially of," and "consisting essentially of."

[0030] As used herein, the phrases "in one embodiment," "according to one embodiment," "in some embodiments," and the like generally mean that the particular feature, structure, or characteristic following the phrase may be included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, the particular feature, structure, or characteristic may be included in more than one embodiment of the present disclosure, such that these phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment.

[0031] As used herein, the word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations.

[0032] As used herein, the terms "sensor" and "sensor device" refer to devices and associated computer hardware that are configured (physically or through the execution of software) to transmit force pulses through a fluid flow and determine the transient response of an associated fluid flow system based on the force pulses. For example, the sensor device 100 of the present disclosure may include a force pulse generator (e.g., a piezoelectric actuator, a transducer, etc.) configured to transmit force pulses or equivalent mechanical waves or inputs through a fluid flow. The sensor device 100 may also include a force pulse sensor (e.g., a pressure transducer, a sensor, etc.) configured to receive the transmitted force pulses and determine the transient response of the fluid flow system. In some embodiments, the sensor or sensor device may include a "smart device" equipped with a chip of other electronic devices, which is configured to communicate with a controller, a computing device, etc. via Bluetooth, NFC, Wi-Fi, 3G, 4G, 5G, RFID protocols, etc. In some embodiments, the sensor or sensor device may be configured to support or otherwise include a controller (e.g., the controller may be integrally formed with the sensor device or as part of the sensor device).

[0033] As used herein, the term "controller" refers to any user device, computing device, object, or system that can communicate with a force pulse generator and / or a force pulse sensor network. For example, a controller may refer to a wireless electronic device configured to perform various transient response related operations in response to force pulses emitted by a force pulse generator. The controller may be configured to communicate with the force pulse generator, force pulse sensor, etc. via Bluetooth, NFC, Wi-Fi, 3G, 4G, 5G protocols. In some cases, a controller may include a force pulse generator and / or a force pulse sensor.

[0034] As used herein, the term "computer-readable medium" refers to non-transitory storage hardware, non-transitory storage devices, or non-transitory computer system memory that can be accessed by a controller, microcontroller, computing system, or module of a computing system to encode computer-executable instructions or software programs thereon. Non-transitory "computer-readable medium" can be accessed by a computing system or module of a computing system to retrieve and / or execute computer-executable instructions or software programs encoded on the medium. Exemplary non-transitory computer-readable media may include, but are not limited to, one or more types of hardware memory, non-transitory tangible media (e.g., one or more magnetic storage disks, one or more optical disks, one or more USB flash drives), computer system memory, or random access memory (such as DRAM, SRAM, EDO RAM), etc.

[0035] After listing a series of definitions required throughout this application, the following describes an exemplary system architecture and exemplary devices for implementing exemplary embodiments and features of the present disclosure.

[0036] Device Architecture and Exemplary Apparatus

[0037] refer to Figure 1 , the fluid flow system 102 is shown together with the sensor device 100. The fluid flow system 102 may define a fluid conduit (e.g., a pipe, a delivery tube, etc.) through which a fluid may flow. As described above, the fluid flow system 102 may be associated with industrial applications, medical applications (e.g., an infusion pump, a drug delivery system, etc.), etc. Therefore, as part of the operation of such a fluid flow system 102, the fluid flow system 102 may be configured to support various gels, liquids, solutions, or other fluids. The fluid flow system 102 may define a fluid flow direction 101, which refers to the direction in which a fluid may flow in a fluid conduit. The fluid in the fluid flow system 102 may flow in the fluid flow direction 101 based on the output of the pump, positive pressure, etc. Although the present disclosure is illustrated and described with reference to the fluid flow system 102 including the fluid flow direction 101, the present disclosure contemplates that the sensor device 100 described below may operate with any fluid flow system 102, regardless of the configuration. In some cases, as described below, bubbles 103 may be present in the fluid flow system 102.

[0038] refer to Figures 1 to 2B, the sensor device 100 may include a force pulse generator 104 coupled to the fluid flow system 102, and a corresponding force pulse sensor 106 coupled to the fluid flow system 102. As shown, the sensor device 100 may also include a controller 200 operably coupled to the force pulse generator 104 and / or the force pulse sensor 106. Although the controller 200 is shown as being connected via the network 104, the present disclosure contemplates that in some embodiments, the sensor device 100 may include the controller 200 such that the controller 200 may be directly coupled (e.g., physically coupled) to the force pulse generator 104 and / or the force pulse sensor 106. For example, the sensor device 100 may define a housing or other housing configured to at least partially support one or more of the force pulse generator 104, the force pulse sensor 106, and / or the controller 200 therein. The sensor device 100 may define any housing, attachment mechanism, support structure, etc. to operably couple the force pulse generator and the force pulse sensor to the fluid flow system.

[0039] The sensor device 100 may include a force pulse generator 104 coupled to the fluid flow system 102 and configured to emit force pulses. Figures 1 to 2B As shown in the embodiment of the present invention, the force pulse generator 104 can be coupled to or otherwise attached to the outer surface of the fluid conduit of the fluid flow system 102 and oriented to emit force pulses to pass through the fluid within the fluid flow system 102. For example, the force pulse generator 104 can be oriented to emit force pulses in a transverse direction of the fluid flow system 102 (e.g., substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal flow direction 101 of the fluid flow system). The force pulse generator 104 may include any device, mechanism, etc. for generating a mechanical wave or force. For example, the force pulse generator 104 may include a piezoelectric actuator or transducer that is configured to contract or expand or otherwise contract or expand in response to a command from the controller 200 to generate a force in the direction of travel. Such an actuator or transducer may also resist contraction or expansion, such as by applying a load in the direction of travel so that the piezoelectric actuator or transducer outputs a resistance. In some embodiments, the force pulse generator 104 may emit or otherwise output a step force excitation (e.g., having a determined amplitude and duration) based on the fluid flow system 102 (e.g., diameter of the fluid conduit, the fluid conduit, etc.). The generated force pulses emitted by the force pulse generator 104 may propagate through the fluid flow system 102 as mechanical force waves and be received by an associated force pulse sensor 106 described below.

[0040] The sensor device 100 may include a force pulse sensor 106 coupled to the fluid flow system 102 and configured to receive force pulses emitted by the force pulse generator 104. Figures 1 to 2BAs shown in the embodiment of the present invention, the force pulse sensor 106 can be coupled to the outer surface of the fluid conduit of the fluid flow system 102 or otherwise attached to the outer surface in some embodiments, and is oriented to receive force pulses transmitted through the fluid within the fluid flow system. For example, the force pulse sensor 106 can be oriented to receive force pulses in a lateral direction of the fluid flow system 102 (e.g., substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal flow direction 101 of the fluid flow system). The force pulse sensor 106 may include any device, mechanism, etc. for receiving or otherwise detecting force pulses, mechanical forces, and / or mechanical waves. For example, the force pulse sensor 106 may include a pressure sensor or transducer configured to receive the transmitted force pulses and determine the transient response of the fluid flow system 102 as described below. The present disclosure contemplates that the force pulse sensor 106 may include any type of pressure sensor force collector (e.g., diaphragm, piston, Bourdon tube, bellows, etc.) that is configured to measure strain or deflection due to a force (e.g., pressure) applied on an area. For example, the force pulse sensor 106 may include one or more of a piezoresistive strain gauge, a capacitive sensor, an electromagnetic sensor, an optical sensor, a potentiometric sensor, a force balance sensor, and the like.

[0041] In some embodiments, the force pulse generator 104 and / or force pulse sensor 106 may be coupled to the fluid flow system 102 using a coupling gel or other force transmission member such that the force pulse sensor 106 detects low frequency pressure related signals as they occur within the fluid conduit. Such a gel may also act as a high pass filter, thereby allowing force pulses emitted by the force pulse generator 104 to pass through without being substantially deflected within the gel. Such a configuration allows the force pulse generator 104 to emit force pulses that pass through the fluid conduit and through the gel before reaching the force pulse sensor 106, thereby achieving the transient response function of the sensor device 100. Figures 1 to 2B As shown, the force pulse generator 104 can be spaced apart from the force pulse sensor 106 to jointly define a gap (e.g., a gap defined by the generator 104 and the sensor 106) between which a fluid flow conduit of the fluid flow system 102 can be received. In other words, Figures 1 to 2B Embodiments of the invention may be configured such that the force pulse generator 104 and the force pulse sensor 106 may be secured to an outer surface of a fluid conduit of the fluid flow system 102 via a gel or another force transmission member.

[0042] refer to Figure 2A, shows a first force pulse 108 emitted by the force pulse generator 104, wherein the fluid flow system 102 does not include the bubble 103 (e.g., only fluid is present within the fluid flow conduit). As shown, the first force pulse 108 propagates through the fluid within the fluid flow conduit, wherein minimal reflection of the first force pulse 108 occurs only due to the thickness and / or material of the fluid flow conduit. Figure 2B , shows a second force pulse 112 emitted by the force pulse generator 104, wherein the fluid flow system 102 includes a bubble 103 proximate to the sensor device 100. As shown, the second force pulse 112 propagates through the fluid, but at least a portion of the force pulse is reflected or otherwise dissipated by the bubble 103 within the fluid conduit, such that the force pulse received by the force pulse sensor 106 is reduced compared to the first force pulse 108, which can be compared to the following reference Figure 8 The described is related to the detection of the presence of bubbles in a fluid flow system.

[0043] Although described herein with reference to an exemplary first force pulse 108 and an exemplary second force pulse 112, the present disclosure contemplates that the first force pulse 108 may refer to any force pulse emitted by the force pulse generator 104. In other words, the force pulse generator 104 may iteratively emit force pulses having a determined amplitude and duration regardless of the contents of the fluid flow system 102. Thus, the first force pulse 108 may refer to a force pulse generated when no air bubbles are present within the fluid flow system 102 proximate the sensor device 100. Similarly, the second force pulse 112 may have, for example, the same amplitude and duration as the first force pulse 108, but may refer to a force pulse emitted by the force pulse generator 104 when an air bubble 103 is present within the fluid flow system proximate the sensor device 100.

[0044] As referenced below Figures 7 to 9 As described above, the force pulse received by the force pulse sensor 106 can be modeled as a mass-spring-damper system represented by the following ordinary differential equation (ODE), in which k represents the spring constant, M represents the mass, and k d represents the damping coefficient. The mass parameter of the ODE below may refer to the effective mass of the fluid conduit filled with the fluid, and the spring constant may refer to the cumulative stiffness of the fluid conduit and the fluid. The damping parameter may refer to the system resistance to displacement. Given that the fluid within the fluid conduit of the fluid flow system 102 is considered incompressible, the fluid may represent a driving factor for the overall stiffness of the system.

[0045]

[0046] For a force pulse emitted by the force pulse generator 104 as a step force excitation, a second-order non-homogeneous ODE may be modeled by the following equation.

[0047]

[0048] The step force is expressed as:

[0049] F(t)=0,t<0

[0050] →=1,t>0+

[0051] The natural frequency of the system oscillation is expressed as:

[0052]

[0053] The damping ratio of the system is expressed as:

[0054]

[0055] The damped natural frequency of the system is expressed as:

[0056]

[0057] Phi is represented by:

[0058]

[0059] refer to Figure 3A , showing the fluid flow system 102 in response to Figure 2A An exemplary transient response of the first force pulse 108 is shown. As described above, Figure 2A An example of a fluid conduit of a fluid flow system 102 including only fluid (eg, without air bubbles 103) is shown. The incompressible nature of the fluid results in a relative Figure 2B The configuration increases the spring force so that the transient response (e.g., the response of a fluid flow system from equilibrium to steady state) has a relatively small transient motion (e.g., transient response amplitude) and a relatively long decay rate. Figure 3B , showing the fluid flow system 102 in response to Figure 2B An exemplary transient response of the second force pulse 112 is shown. As described above, Figure 2B An example is shown in which the fluid conduit of the fluid flow system 102 includes an air bubble 103 near the sensor device 100. Unlike the fluid, the air in the fluid conduit of the fluid flow system 102 is compressible, so that the effective spring constant of the spring-mass-damper model is greatly reduced. In other words, the cumulative stiffness reduction of the air bubble in the fluid flow conduit can be expressed as (Kbubble*Kliquid) / (Kbubble+Kliquid). Figure 3A The transient response is different. Figure 3BThe transient response of the fluid flow system 102 includes a relatively large transient motion (e.g., transient response amplitude) and a relatively short decay rate. In other words, the transient response determined by the force pulse sensor 106 and / or the controller 200, for example, for a fluid conduit containing only fluid includes a different amplitude and decay rate than the transient response of the fluid conduit containing the gas bubble 103, so that the analysis of the transient response of the fluid flow system 102 can be used to determine the operating state of the fluid flow system 102 as described below.

[0060] refer to Figure 4 , another exemplary sensor device 100 and fluid flow system 102 are shown. Figure 1 In the sensor device 100, the fluid flow system 102 may define a fluid conduit to which the sensor device 100 is coupled. Figure 4 In some embodiments, the force pulse sensor 106 may be coupled to an inner surface of a fluid flow conduit of the fluid flow system 102. As shown, in some embodiments, the sensor device 100 may be configured to determine an operating state of the fluid flow system indicating the composition of the fluid within the system 102. Figure 1 In the sensor device 100 configuration of FIG. 1 , the fluid interface between the force pulse sensor 106 and the fluid within the fluid conduit is removed (e.g., the force pulse sensor 106 is coupled to the outer surface of the fluid conduit) to prevent any effect of the fluid interface on any transient response determination due to potential risks associated with incorrect determinations (e.g., risks associated with failure to detect the bubble 103). However, in the case of FIG. 1 , as described below with reference to FIG. Fig. 9 In the determination of the composition of the fluid, the determination of the composition of the fluid within the fluid flow system 102 may be calibrated, for example as described below, to account for any effects of the fluid interface on the determination of the transient response of the force pulse sensor 106. Thus, in some embodiments, the force pulse sensor 106 may be coupled to an inner surface of a fluid conduit of the fluid flow system 102.

[0061] refer to Figure 5 , showing Figure 41 and 10. Example transient responses of sensor device 100 and fluid flow system 102. A transient response of a first fluid 502 and a transient response of a second fluid 504 are shown. For example, as described below, the density of first fluid 502 may be greater than that of second fluid 504. As described above with reference to the ODE, the mass term of the equation may be affected by density (e.g., density = mass / volume) such that a denser fluid (e.g., fluid 502) may have a transient response with a relatively larger amplitude and a longer decay rate. In other words, the effect of the effective spring constant of the ODE may not be as significant as the effect of mass changes when determining the transient response of the fluid flow system, but changes in the density of the fluid within the fluid flow system 102 may alter the transient response determined by force pulse sensor 106 to indicate the composition of the fluid within the system 102 (e.g., mixing ratio, etc.). In other words, changes in the effective spring constant may occur, but any such changes will be substantially negligible relative to mass changes for determining the transient response of this specific implementation.

[0062] Back to Figure 1 and Figure 4 , the controller 200 of the sensor device 100 may include circuits, networked processors, etc. configured to perform some or all of the device-based (e.g., sensor device-based) processes described herein, and may be any suitable processing device and / or network server. In this regard, the controller 200 may be embodied by any of a variety of devices. For example, the controller 200 may be configured to receive / transmit data (e.g., data associated with force pulses and / or transient responses), and may include any of a variety of fixed terminals, such as a server, a desktop computer, or an information kiosk, or may include any of a variety of mobile terminals, such as a portable digital assistant (PDA), a mobile phone, a smart phone, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, or in some embodiments, a peripheral device connected to one or more fixed or mobile terminals. The exemplary embodiments contemplated herein may have various form factors and designs, but will still include at least Figure 6 Components shown and described in conjunction with the figure. In some embodiments, the controller 200 may be located remotely from the force pulse generator 104 and / or the force pulse sensor 106, but in other embodiments, the controller 200 may include all or part of the force pulse generator 104 and / or the force pulse sensor 106. In some embodiments, the controller 200 may include several servers or computing devices that perform interconnected and / or distributed functions. Although many arrangements are contemplated herein, the controller 200 is shown and described herein as a single computing device to avoid unnecessarily complicating the present disclosure. In some embodiments, one or more components of the controller 200 may be fully or partially housed within one or more of the sensor device 100 and / or the fluid flow system 102.

[0063] The network 104 may include one or more wired or wireless communication networks, including, for example, wired and / or wireless local area networks (LANs), personal area networks (PANs), metropolitan area networks (MANs), wide area networks (WANs), etc., and any hardware, software, and / or firmware (such as network routers, switches, hubs, etc.) for implementing the one or more networks. For example, the network 104 may include cellular, mobile broadband, long term evolution (LTE), GSM / EDGE, UMTS / HSPA, IEEE802.11, IEEE 802.16, IEEE802.20, Wi-Fi, dial-up, and / or WiMAX networks. In addition, the network 104 may include a public network (such as the Internet), a private network (such as an intranet), or a combination thereof, and may utilize a variety of networking protocols now available or later developed, including but not limited to TCP / IP-based networking protocols.

[0064] like Figure 6 As shown, the controller 200 may include a processor 202, a memory 204, an input / output circuit 206, and a communication circuit 208. In addition, the controller 200 may include a response analysis circuit 210 and / or a composition circuit 212. The controller 200 may be configured to perform the following combined Figures 7 to 9 operations described herein. Although in some cases functional language is used to describe components 202 to 212, it should be understood that a particular implementation necessarily includes the use of specific hardware. It should also be understood that certain of these components 202 to 212 may include similar or common hardware. For example, both sets of circuits may use the same processor 202, memory 204, communication circuits 208, etc. to perform their associated functions, such that each set of circuits does not require duplicate hardware. The use of the term "circuit" as used herein includes specific hardware that is configured to perform the functions associated with the corresponding circuit described herein. As described in the above examples, in some embodiments, various elements or components of the circuitry of controller 200 may be housed within sensor device 100. In this regard, it should be understood that some of the components described in conjunction with controller 200 may be housed within Figure 1 and Figure 4 The other components are contained in one or more of the devices, and the other components are contained in another of the devices, or by Figure 1 and Figure 4 Yet another device not explicitly shown accommodates.

[0065] Of course, although the term "circuit" should be broadly understood to include hardware, in some embodiments, the term "circuit" may also include software for configuring hardware. For example, although a "circuit" may include processing circuits, storage media, network interfaces, input / output devices, etc., other elements of the controller 200 may provide or supplement the functionality of a particular circuit.

[0066] In some embodiments, the processor 202 (and / or a coprocessor or any other processing circuit that assists the processor or is otherwise associated with the processor) can communicate with the memory 204 via a bus for transferring information between components of the controller 200. The memory 204 can be non-transitory and can include, for example, one or more volatile and / or non-volatile memories. In other words, for example, the memory can be an electronic storage device (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium). The memory 204 can be configured to store information, data, content, applications, instructions, etc. for enabling the controller 200 to perform various functions according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0067] The processor 202 may be embodied in a variety of different ways, and may, for example, include one or more processing devices configured to execute independently. Additionally or alternatively, the processor may include one or more processors configured in series via a bus to enable independent execution of instructions, pipelining, and / or multithreading. The use of the term "processing circuitry" may be understood to include a single-core processor, a multi-core processor, multiple processors within a computing device, and / or a remote or "cloud" processor.

[0068] In an exemplary embodiment, the processor 202 may be configured to execute instructions stored in the memory 204 or otherwise accessible to the processor 202. Alternatively or in addition, the processor 202 may be configured to perform hard-coded functions. Therefore, whether configured by hardware or by a combination of hardware and software, the processor 202 may represent an entity (e.g., physically embodied in circuits) that is capable of performing operations according to embodiments of the present invention while being configured accordingly. Alternatively, for example, when the processor 202 is embodied as an executor of software instructions, these instructions may specifically configure the processor 202 to perform the algorithms and / or operations described herein when executing these instructions.

[0069] The controller 200 also includes an input / output circuit 206, which in turn can communicate with the processor 202 to provide output to the user and receive input from the user, user device, or another source. In this regard, the input / output circuit 206 may include a display that can be manipulated by a mobile application. In some embodiments, the input / output circuit 206 may also include additional functions, including a keyboard, a mouse, a joystick, a touch screen, a touch area, soft keys, a microphone, a speaker, or other input / output mechanisms. The processor 202 and / or a user interface circuit including the processor 202 may be configured to control one or more functions of the display by computer program instructions (e.g., software and / or firmware) stored on a memory accessible to the processor (e.g., memory 204, etc.).

[0070] The communication circuit 208 may be any device, such as a device or circuit embodied in hardware or a combination of hardware and software, that is configured to receive and / or transmit data from and / or to a network and / or any other device, circuit, or module that communicates with the controller 200. In this regard, the communication circuit 208 may include, for example, a network interface for implementing communications with a wired or wireless communication network. For example, the communication circuit 208 may include one or more network interface cards, antennas, buses, switches, routers, modems, and supporting hardware and / or software, or any other device suitable for implementing communications via a network. Additionally or alternatively, the communication interface may include circuitry for interacting with one or more antennas to cause signals to be transmitted via the one or more antennas or to process signals received via the one or more antennas. These signals may be sent by the controller 200 using any of a variety of wireless personal area network (PAN) technologies, such as Version 1.0 to 3.0, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), infrared wireless (e.g., IrDA), ultra-wideband (UWB), inductive wireless transmission, etc. In addition, it should be understood that these signals can be sent using Wi-Fi, near field communication (NFC), Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX), or other proximity-based communication protocols.

[0071] The response analysis circuit 210 includes hardware components designed to determine a first transient response and a second transient response of the fluid flow system to a first force pulse and a second force pulse, respectively, emitted by the force pulse generator. The response analysis circuit 210 may utilize processing circuitry such as a processor 202 to perform its corresponding operations, and may utilize a memory 204 to store the collected information. In some cases, the response analysis circuit 210 may be configured to determine a difference between the first transient response and the second transient response, compare the difference to one or more air presence thresholds, and determine the presence of bubbles within the fluid flow system.

[0072] The composition circuit 210 includes hardware components designed to compare the transient response of the fluid flow system to the force pulse with one or more fluid composition thresholds. In some cases, the composition circuit 210 can be configured to determine the composition of the fluid within the fluid flow system as a defined composition if the transient response satisfies the fluid composition threshold associated with the defined composition. The composition circuit 210 can utilize processing circuitry (such as processor 202) to perform its corresponding operations and can utilize memory 204 to store the collected information.

[0073] It should also be understood that in some embodiments, response analysis circuit 210 and / or component circuit 212 may include separate processors, specially configured field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or application specific interface circuits (ASICs) to perform their respective functions.

[0074] In addition, computer program instructions and / or other types of code may be loaded onto a computer, processor, or other programmable circuit to produce a machine, such that the computer, processor, or other programmable circuit that executes the code on the machine forms a device for implementing various functions, including those described in conjunction with the components of the controller 200.

[0075] As described above and based on the present disclosure, it will be understood that embodiments of the present invention may be configured as sensors, methods, etc. Therefore, embodiments may include various devices, which include complete hardware or any combination of software and hardware. In addition, embodiments may take the form of a computer program product, which includes instructions stored on at least one non-transient computer-readable storage medium (e.g., computer software stored on a hardware device). Any suitable computer-readable storage medium may be used, including a non-transient hard disk, CD-ROM, flash memory, optical storage device, or magnetic storage device.

[0076] Example Operations for Bubble Detection and Fluid Composition Determination

[0077] Figure 7 A flow chart including a series of operations for bubble detection is shown. Figure 7 The operations shown may be performed, for example, by, with the assistance of, and / or under the control of a device (e.g., sensor apparatus 100 and / or controller 200), as described above. In this regard, the execution of these operations may invoke one or more of processor 202, memory 204, input / output circuitry 206, communication circuitry 208, response analysis circuitry 210, and / or component circuitry 212.

[0078] As shown at operation 702, the device (e.g., sensor device 100 and / or controller 200) includes means for receiving force pulses emitted by force pulse generator 104, such as processor 202, communication circuit 208, response analysis circuit 210, etc. As described above, sensor device 100 may include force pulse generator 104 coupled to fluid flow system 102, the force pulse generator configured to emit force pulses having a determined amplitude and duration. The generated force pulses emitted by force pulse generator 104 may propagate through fluid flow system 102 as mechanical force waves and be received by associated force pulse sensor 106 described below. As described above, force pulse sensor 106 may be coupled to fluid flow system 102 and configured to receive force pulses emitted by force pulse generator 104. For example, force pulse sensor 106 may be oriented to receive force pulses in a transverse direction of fluid flow system 102 (e.g., substantially perpendicular to longitudinal flow direction 101 of the fluid flow system). Where the force pulse sensor 106 includes a controller 200, receipt of force pulses emitted by the force pulse generator 104 by the controller 200 may occur as part of normal operation of the force pulse sensor 106. Where the controller 200 is connected to the force pulse sensor 106, such as via the network 104, the force pulse sensor 106 may be configured to iteratively transmit data indicative of received force pulses to the controller 200.

[0079] As shown in operation 704, the apparatus (e.g., sensor device 100 and / or controller 200) includes means for determining the transient response of the fluid flow system to the force pulse, such as processor 202, response analysis circuit 210, component circuit 212, etc. As described above with reference to FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B and Figure 5As described above, the force pulse received by the force pulse sensor 106 can be used to model the transient response as a spring-mass-damper model. As described above, due to the incompressible nature of the fluid, the case where the fluid flow system 102 only includes fluid increases the spring constant term in the ODE used to model the transient response. Similarly, due to the compressible nature of air, the operation of introducing the gas bubble 103 in the fluid flow system 102 can reduce the spring constant. Therefore, in some embodiments, the controller 200 can model the force pulse received at operation 702 as a transient response of the fluid flow system 102, which includes an initial transient response amplitude (e.g., the magnitude of the force detected by the force pulse sensor 106) and a decay rate (e.g., the time required for the fluid flow system 102 to return to a substantially stable state configuration) or a stabilization time. As a specific example, the controller 200 can analyze the transient response for a peak amplitude and a decay rate between 90% and 10% of the amplitude. Although described herein with reference to a particular portion of the transient response of the fluid flow system 102 , the present disclosure contemplates that the controller 200 may analyze any portion of the transient response or other metrics, parameters, properties, etc. associated with the transient response.

[0080] As shown in operation 706, the apparatus (e.g., sensor device 100 and / or controller 200) includes means for determining an operating state of the fluid flow system 102 based on the transient response, such as processor 202, communication circuit 208, response analysis circuit 210, etc. As described below with reference to Figure 8 As described, in some embodiments, the operating state may indicate the presence of bubbles 103 within the fluid flow system 102. For example, the controller 200 may iteratively determine a transient response (e.g., a first transient response) associated with a corresponding force pulse transmitted by the force pulse generator 104. Each subsequent transient response (e.g., a second transient response) may be compared to the first transient response to determine the difference between the transient response determinations at any subsequent time. The controller 200 may employ various air presence thresholds to define a set of amplitude values ​​and decay rate values ​​associated with the fluid flow (e.g., the absence of bubbles 103), the air presence thresholds defining, for example, a maximum amplitude and, for example, a minimum decay rate associated with the transient response. The controller 200 may compare the difference between the transient responses (e.g., the difference in amplitude and / or decay rate) to the air presence threshold, and determine the presence of bubbles if the difference satisfies the air presence threshold.

[0081] As referenced below Fig. 9As described, in some embodiments, the operating state may indicate the composition of the fluid within the fluid flow system 102. For example, the controller 200 may iteratively determine a transient response (e.g., a first transient response) associated with a corresponding force pulse transmitted by the force pulse generator. Each transient response may be compared to one or more fluid composition thresholds associated with a calibrated transient response of a known fluid composition. For example, the fluid flow system 102 may be supplied with non-uniform fluids each having a known composition (e.g., determined or otherwise set by the controller 200). The force pulse generator 104 may transmit a force pulse through such a non-uniform fluid, and the force pulse sensor 106 may receive the force pulse and generate a transient response for the corresponding fluid composition. Therefore, the controller may compare the transient response of the force pulse sensor 106 with one or more composition thresholds associated with a known transient response or a transient response calibrated in another way to identify, for example, a transient response that substantially matches the transient response determined by the controller 200.

[0082] In some embodiments, as shown at operation 708, the apparatus (e.g., sensor device 100 and / or controller 200) includes means for generating an alert signal including an operating status, such as a processor 202, communication circuitry 208, response analysis circuitry 210, etc. For example, the controller 200 may be communicatively coupled to a user device associated with a user or operator via the network 104. In the event that the operating status indicates the presence of bubbles 103 in the fluid flow system 102, the alert signal generated at operation 708 may display a warning to an operator of the fluid flow system 102, or in some cases, stop the operation of the fluid flow system 102. In the event that the operating status indicates the composition of the fluid of the fluid flow system 102, the alert signal generated at operation 708 may cause the fluid composition (e.g., one or more properties, parameters, etc. of the fluid within the fluid flow system 102) to be displayed to the user. Although described herein with reference to an alert signal, the present disclosure contemplates that the controller 200 may output any indication or cause any action in response to the determination of the operating status described herein.

[0083] Figure 8 A flow chart comprising a series of operations for bubble determination is shown. Figure 8 The operations shown may be performed, for example, by, with the assistance of, and / or under the control of a device (e.g., sensor apparatus 100 and / or controller 200), as described above. In this regard, the execution of these operations may invoke one or more of processor 202, memory 204, input / output circuitry 206, communication circuitry 208, response analysis circuitry 210, and / or component circuitry 212.

[0084] As shown at operation 802, an apparatus (e.g., sensor device 100 and / or controller 200) includes means for determining a first transient response of the fluid flow system 102 to a first force pulse 108 emitted by the force pulse generator 104, such as a processor 202, a communication circuit 208, a response analysis circuit 210, etc. As described above, the force pulse generator 104 may iteratively generate and emit force pulses through the fluid flow system 102. For example, at a first time, the force pulse generator 104 may generate a first force pulse 108 that is received by the force pulse sensor 106 and used to determine a first transient response of the fluid flow system 102. As described above and as Figure 3A As shown, in some cases, the first transient response may refer to the transient response of fluid flow system 102 when only fluid is in the fluid conduit proximate sensor device 100. As described above, the first transient response may be associated with, for example, a first amplitude and a first decay rate.

[0085] As shown at operation 804, the apparatus (e.g., sensor device 100 and / or controller 200) includes means, such as processor 202, communication circuit 208, response analysis circuit 210, etc., for determining a second transient response of the fluid flow system 102 to the second force pulse 112 emitted by the force pulse generator 104. As described above, the force pulse generator 104 may iteratively generate and emit force pulses through the fluid flow system 102. For example, at a second time later than the first time, the force pulse generator 104 may generate a second force pulse 112 that is received by the force pulse sensor 106 and used to determine a second transient response of the fluid flow system. As described above and as Figure 3B As shown, in some cases, second transient response may refer to a transient response of fluid flow system 102 when bubble 103 is within a fluid conduit proximate sensor device 100. As described above, the second transient response may be associated with, for example, a second amplitude and a second decay rate.

[0086] As shown at operation 806, the device (e.g., sensor device 100 and / or controller 200) includes means for determining a difference between the first transient response and the second transient response, such as processor 202, response analysis circuit 210, etc. In some embodiments, the difference determination at operation 806 may refer to a mathematical difference between the first amplitude and the second amplitude, between the first decay rate and the second decay rate, and / or between any other metrics, parameters, or properties associated with the respective transient responses. In other words, the first transient response may refer to a condition where controller 200 has determined that there are no bubbles 103 within the fluid flow system proximate sensor device 100. Thus, a condition where a transient response at a subsequent time (e.g., the second transient response) deviates from the first transient response (such as by having an increased amplitude and a decreased decay rate) may indicate the presence of bubbles 103 in the fluid flow system 102. Although described herein with reference to exemplary differences referring to mathematical differences between amplitude and / or decay rate values, the present disclosure contemplates that a difference may also refer to any detectable difference between transient responses.

[0087] As shown in operation 808, the device (e.g., sensor device 100 and / or controller 200) includes a device for comparing the difference with one or more air presence thresholds, such as processor 202, response analysis circuit 210, etc. As described above, the controller 200 may use various air presence thresholds to define a set of amplitude values ​​and decay rate values ​​associated with the fluid flow (e.g., the absence of bubbles), which define, for example, the maximum amplitude and, for example, the minimum decay rate associated with the transient response. The controller 200 may compare the differences between these transient responses (e.g., the differences in amplitude and / or decay rate) with the air presence thresholds to determine whether these differences meet one or more air presence thresholds. As a specific example, the air presence threshold may define a maximum digital amplitude value, and if the maximum digital amplitude value is exceeded, the associated air presence threshold is met. In some embodiments, the air presence threshold may alternatively define a maximum amplitude increase of the second amplitude relative to the first amplitude. In other words, the air presence threshold is operable to determine a substantial increase in the initial transient amplitude as indicating the presence of bubbles 103. In other embodiments, the air presence threshold may define a minimum digital decay value, which if not exceeded, satisfies the associated air presence threshold.

[0088] As shown at operation 810, the device (e.g., sensor device 100 and / or controller 200) includes means, such as processor 202, communication circuit 208, response analysis circuit 210, etc., for determining the presence of bubbles within the fluid flow system 102 if the difference satisfies the one or more air presence thresholds. As described above, the incompressible nature of the fluid results in a transient response that includes a smaller initial transient amplitude value and a larger decay rate relative to air. Therefore, upon determining that the difference (e.g., the mathematical difference between the amplitude, decay rate, etc.) between the first transient response and the second transient response satisfies the one or more air presence thresholds, the controller 200 may determine that the operating state indicates the presence of bubbles within the fluid flow system 102. Although described herein with reference to the presence of bubbles 103, the present disclosure contemplates that the controller 200 and / or sensor device 100 may be similarly configured to detect the absence of fluid.

[0089] Fig. 9 A flow chart comprising a series of operations for fluid composition determination is shown. Fig. 9 The operations shown may be performed, for example, by, with the assistance of, and / or under the control of a device (e.g., sensor apparatus 100 and / or controller 200), as described above. In this regard, the execution of these operations may invoke one or more of processor 202, memory 204, input / output circuitry 206, communication circuitry 208, and / or response analysis circuitry 210.

[0090] As shown in operations 902 and 904, the apparatus (e.g., sensor device 100 and / or controller 200) includes means for comparing the transient response of the fluid flow system to the force pulse with one or more fluid composition thresholds, such as processor 202, communication circuit 208, composition circuit 212, etc. As described above, force pulse generator 104 may iteratively generate and transmit force pulses through the fluid flow system 102, which may be received by force pulse sensor 106 and used to determine the transient response of the fluid flow system 102. The transient response (e.g., each iteratively determined transient response) may be compared with one or more fluid composition thresholds associated with a calibrated transient response of a known fluid composition. For example, the fluid flow system 102 may be supplied with inhomogeneous fluids each having a known (e.g., determined by controller 200 or otherwise set) composition (e.g., density, mixing ratio, etc.). Force pulse generator 104 may transmit force pulses through such inhomogeneous fluids, and force pulse sensor 106 may receive the force pulses and generate transient responses for the corresponding fluid composition. In this way, the controller 200 can determine the Figure 5 The transient response of each fluid composition is shown and stored in memory 204 or otherwise.

[0091] As a specific example, a milk processing plant may supply milk having various compositions (e.g., skim milk, 2% milk, cream, etc.) to the fluid flow system 102. As part of a calibration procedure, each composition of milk and various combinations of the compositions may be supplied to the fluid flow system 102, and the sensor device 100 may determine a transient response for each composition. In some embodiments, the controller 200 may employ various modeling techniques or regression techniques to infer transient responses for fluid compositions that are not supplied to the fluid flow system 102, but at least partially comprise one or more fluid compositions supplied to the fluid flow system 102. Thus, the controller may compare the transient response of the force pulse sensor 106 at operations 902 and 904 to one or more composition thresholds associated with a known transient response or otherwise calibrated transient response to identify, for example, a transient response that substantially matches a transient response determined by the controller 200. As a specific example, the magnitude and / or decay rate of the current transient response may be compared to magnitudes and decay rates determined for a plurality of previous fluid compositions.

[0092] Then, as shown in operation 906, the device (e.g., sensor device 100 and / or controller 200) includes means, such as processor 202, composition circuit 212, etc., for determining the composition of the fluid within the fluid flow system as the defined composition if the transient response satisfies the fluid composition threshold associated with the defined composition. As described above, the controller 200 may compare the current transient response (e.g., amplitude, decay rate, etc.) with various previously determined transient responses for known fluid compositions, such as Figure 5 In the event that the magnitude, decay rate, etc., substantially matches the transient response (eg, magnitude, decay rate, etc.) of the fluid composition threshold associated with the defined composition, the controller may determine that the fluid within the fluid flow system 102 includes the defined fluid composition.

[0093] therefore, Figures 7 to 9A flow chart describing the operation of the device, method and computer program product according to the exemplary embodiments contemplated herein is shown. It should be understood that each flowchart frame and the combination of flowchart frames can be implemented by various devices (such as hardware, firmware, processor, circuit and / or other devices associated with the execution of software including one or more computer program instructions). For example, one or more operations in the above-mentioned operations can be implemented by a device that executes computer program instructions. In this regard, the computer program instructions can be stored by the memory 204 of the controller 200 and executed by the processor 202 of the controller 200. It should be understood that any such computer program instructions can be loaded onto a computer or other programmable device (e.g., hardware) to produce a machine so that the resulting computer or other programmable device realizes the function specified in the flowchart frame. These computer program instructions can also be stored in a computer-readable memory, which can instruct a computer or other programmable device to work in a particular manner so that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce a product, and the execution of these instructions realizes the function specified in the flowchart frame. The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable apparatus to cause a series of operations to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus, thereby producing a computer-implemented process, so that the instructions executed on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide operations for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart blocks.

[0094] The flowchart blocks support the combination of devices for performing the specified functions and the combination of operations for performing the specified functions. It should be understood that one or more blocks of the flowchart and the combination of blocks in the flowchart can be implemented by a hardware-based special-purpose computer system or a combination of special-purpose hardware that performs the specified functions through computer instructions.

Claims

1. A sensor device for use with a fluid flow system, the sensor device comprising: a force pulse generator coupled to the fluid flow system and configured to emit force pulses; a force pulse sensor coupled to the fluid flow system, wherein the force pulse generator is coupled to an outer surface of a fluid flow conduit of the fluid flow system and the force pulse sensor is coupled to an inner surface of the fluid flow conduit of the fluid flow system, and wherein the force pulse sensor is configured to: receiving the force pulse emitted by the force pulse generator; determining a transient response of the fluid flow system to the force pulse; as well as An operating state of the fluid flow system is determined based on the transient response, wherein the operating state determined by the force pulse sensor indicates the presence of bubbles within the fluid flow system. 2 . The sensor device of claim 1 , wherein the force pulse sensor is further configured to generate a warning signal including the operating status.

3. The sensor device of claim 1, wherein the force pulse sensor is further configured to determine a magnitude and a decay rate of the transient response. 4 . The sensor device of claim 1 , wherein the force pulse generator is spaced apart from the force pulse sensor to collectively define a gap configured to receive a fluid flow conduit of the fluid flow system therebetween.

5. The sensor device of claim 1 , wherein the force pulse sensor, upon determining that the operating state of the fluid flow system indicates the presence of bubbles within the fluid flow system, is configured to: determining a first transient response of the fluid flow system to a first force pulse emitted by the force pulse generator; determining a second transient response of the fluid flow system to a second force pulse emitted by the force pulse generator; determining a difference between the first transient response and the second transient response; comparing the difference to one or more air presence thresholds; as well as In the event that the difference satisfies the one or more air presence thresholds, the presence of air bubbles within the fluid flow system is determined.

6. The sensor device of claim 1, wherein the operating state determined by the force pulse sensor is indicative of a composition of a fluid within the fluid flow system.

7. The sensor device of claim 6, wherein the force pulse sensor, when determining that the operating state of the fluid flow system indicates the composition of the fluid within the fluid flow system, is configured to: compare the transient response of the fluid flow system to the force pulse with one or more fluid composition thresholds.

8. The sensor device according to claim 7, wherein the force pulse sensor is further configured, when determining that the operating state of the fluid flow system indicates the composition of the fluid within the fluid flow system, to: determine the composition of the fluid within the fluid flow system as the defined composition when the transient response satisfies a fluid composition threshold associated with the defined composition.

9. A method comprising: receiving, by a force pulse sensor coupled to a fluid flow system, a force pulse emitted by a force pulse generator coupled to the fluid flow system, wherein the force pulse generator is coupled to an outer surface of a fluid flow conduit of the fluid flow system and the force pulse sensor is coupled to an inner surface of the fluid flow conduit of the fluid flow system; determining, by the force pulse sensor, a transient response of the fluid flow system to the force pulse; and An operating state of the fluid flow system is determined by the force pulse sensor based on the transient response, wherein the operating state indicates the presence of bubbles within the fluid flow system.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising generating, by the force pulse sensor, a warning signal including the operating status.

11. The method of claim 9, wherein determining the transient response further comprises determining a magnitude and a decay rate of the transient response.

12. The method of claim 9, wherein the force pulse generator is spaced apart from the force pulse sensor to collectively define a gap configured to receive a fluid flow conduit of the fluid flow system therebetween.

13. The method of claim 9, wherein determining that the operational state of the fluid flow system indicates the presence of bubbles within the fluid flow system further comprises: determining, by the force pulse sensor, a first transient response of the fluid flow system to a first force pulse emitted by the force pulse generator; determining, by the force pulse sensor, a second transient response of the fluid flow system to a second force pulse emitted by the force pulse generator; determining, by the force pulse sensor, a difference between the first transient response and the second transient response; comparing, by the force pulse sensor, the difference to one or more air presence thresholds; as well as The presence of the air bubble within the fluid flow system is determined by the force pulse sensor when the difference satisfies the one or more air presence thresholds.

14. The method of claim 9, wherein the determined operating state is indicative of a composition of a fluid within the fluid flow system.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein determining that the operational state of the fluid flow system is indicative of the composition of the fluid within the fluid flow system further comprises: comparing, by the force pulse sensor, the transient response of the fluid flow system to the force pulse to one or more fluid composition thresholds; as well as The composition of the fluid within the fluid flow system is determined by the force pulse sensor to be a defined composition when the transient response satisfies a fluid composition threshold associated with the defined composition.

16. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium for use with an apparatus, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed, cause the apparatus to: A force pulse sensor coupled to the fluid flow system receives a force pulse emitted by a force pulse generator coupled to the fluid flow system, wherein: the force pulse generator is coupled to an outer surface of a fluid flow conduit of the fluid flow system, and the force pulse sensor is coupled to an inner surface of the fluid flow conduit of the fluid flow system; determining a transient response of the fluid flow system to the force pulse; determining an operating state of the fluid flow system based on the transient response, wherein the operating state determined by the force pulse sensor indicates the presence of bubbles within the fluid flow system; as well as An alert signal is generated that includes the operating status.

17. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 16, wherein the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium stores instructions that, when executed, cause the apparatus to: determining a first transient response of the fluid flow system to a first force pulse emitted by the force pulse generator; determining a second transient response of the fluid flow system to a second force pulse emitted by the force pulse generator; determining a difference between the first transient response and the second transient response; comparing the difference to one or more air presence thresholds; as well as In the event that the difference satisfies the one or more air presence thresholds, the presence of air bubbles within the fluid flow system is determined.

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