Ultrasonic flowmeter

Abstract

The subject matter of this specification can be embodied in a fluid flow measurement device, among other things, that includes an inlet configured to flow a dynamic fluid flow; an outlet configured to flow the dynamic fluid flow; a first fluid conduit fluidically connected between the inlet and the outlet, configured with a first predetermined geometry, and configured to flow a first portion of the dynamic fluid flow; a second fluid conduit fluidically connected between the inlet and the outlet, configured with a second predetermined geometry, and configured to flow a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow; and a first flow meter configured to measure the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow.

Description

[0001] Priority requirements

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 811,889, filed March 6, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This manual relates to ultrasonic fluid mass flow and volume flow sensors. Background Technology

[0004] Fluid measurement devices are used for the characterization and operation of fluid control systems. With improvements in the dynamic bandwidth, flow range, accuracy, and reliability of flow measurement devices, their potential applications are expanding. High dynamic bandwidth flow meters can be used as feedback sensors in control systems to improve steady-state and / or transient accuracy in fuel systems. Ultrasonic flow meters (USFM) are a proven industrial technology that can be utilized in aircraft turbine systems.

[0005] Due to low speed and flight time limitations, using a single flow meter design may not always be practical or accurately executed across the entire range. In previous designs, various ultrasonic flow meters were used to cover a wide range of fuel flow rates. For example, in aircraft turbine systems, the maximum fuel flow rate for large engine applications may be approximately 50 times (or more) greater than that for smaller engines. Furthermore, some engine applications may require a fuel control ratio that operates between minimum and maximum fuel flow rates, covering the fuel flow required from engine ignition to takeoff, and this can represent a control ratio of approximately 1000:1 across various fuel control product portfolios.

[0006] In existing designs, dual-channel redundancy is achieved by encapsulating four piezoelectric transducers within a single flow channel. These are arranged at an angle to the flow path, making the acoustic signals independent of each other. This arrangement does not allow the entire cross-section of the flow path to be acoustically processed, which introduces errors in signal measurement and limits the device's control ratio. Such a design also does not propagate acoustic waves consistent with the flow path. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Generally speaking, this document describes an ultrasonic fluid mass flow sensor.

[0008] In a first aspect, the fluid flow measuring device includes: an inlet configured to allow a dynamic fluid flow; an outlet configured to allow a dynamic fluid flow; a first fluid conduit fluidly connected between the inlet and the outlet, configured with a first predetermined geometry and configured to allow a first portion of the dynamic fluid flow; a second fluid conduit fluidly connected between the inlet and the outlet, configured with a second predetermined geometry; and a first flow meter configured to measure a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow.

[0009] Secondly, according to aspect 1, the first flow meter is a time-difference ultrasonic flow meter.

[0010] Thirdly, according to aspect 1 or 2, the second fluid conduit is configured as a Venturi flow tube.

[0011] In a fourth aspect, according to any one of aspects 1 to 3, the fluid flow measuring device further includes electronic circuitry configured to determine at least one of dynamic fluid flow rate or dynamic fluid flow velocity of the dynamic fluid flow based on measurements of a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow, a first predetermined geometry, and a second predetermined geometry.

[0012] In the fifth aspect, according to any one of aspects 1 to 4, the first predetermined geometry is substantially the second predetermined geometry.

[0013] In a sixth aspect, according to any one of aspects 1 to 5, the first fluid conduit includes a plurality of fluid parallel auxiliary fluid conduits, each of which is configured with a third predetermined geometry.

[0014] In the seventh aspect, according to aspect 6, the third predetermined geometry is generally the second predetermined geometry.

[0015] In an eighth aspect, according to any one of aspects 1 to 7, the fluid flow measuring device further includes a third fluid conduit fluidly connected between an inlet and an outlet, the third fluid conduit being configured with a third predetermined geometry and configured to flow a third portion of a dynamic fluid flow, and a second flow meter configured to measure the third portion of the dynamic fluid flow.

[0016] In a ninth aspect, according to aspect 8, the fluid flow measuring device further includes electronic circuitry configured to determine at least one of a dynamic fluid flow rate or a dynamic fluid flow velocity based on measurements of a third portion, a first predetermined geometry, a second predetermined geometry, and a third predetermined geometry of the dynamic fluid flow.

[0017] In the tenth aspect, according to aspect 8 or 9, the third predetermined geometry is generally the second predetermined geometry.

[0018] In an eleventh aspect, according to any one of aspects 1 to 10, the fluid flow measuring device includes a second flow meter configured to measure a second portion of dynamic fluid flow in a first portion of a second fluid conduit, wherein the first flow meter is configured to measure a second portion of dynamic fluid flow in the second portion of the second fluid conduit remote from the first portion of the second fluid conduit.

[0019] In a twelfth aspect, according to aspect 11, the fluid flow measuring device includes a fluid interconnection that is different from at least one of the first portion of the second fluid conduit and the second portion of the second fluid conduit.

[0020] In a thirteenth aspect, the method of sensing flow includes receiving a dynamic fluid flow at an inlet; allowing a first portion of the dynamic fluid flow to flow through a first fluid conduit configured with a first predetermined geometry and fluidly connected between an inlet and an outlet; allowing a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow to flow through a second fluid conduit configured with a second predetermined geometry and fluidly connected between an inlet and an outlet; allowing the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow to flow through a first flow meter arranged along the second fluid conduit; measuring the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow by the first flow meter; and determining the dynamic fluid flow based on the measurement.

[0021] In the fourteenth aspect, according to aspect 13, determining dynamic fluid flow based on measurement includes determining at least one of dynamic fluid flow rate or dynamic fluid flow velocity based on measurements of a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow, a first predetermined geometry, and a second predetermined geometry.

[0022] In the fifteenth aspect, according to aspect 13 or 14, the first predetermined geometry is substantially equal to the second predetermined geometry, and the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow is substantially equal to the first portion of the dynamic fluid flow.

[0023] In the sixteenth aspect, according to any one of aspects 13 to 15, the first fluid conduit includes a plurality of fluid parallel additional fluid conduits, each additional fluid conduit being configured with a third predetermined geometry and fluidly connected between an inlet and an outlet, wherein allowing a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow to flow through the second fluid conduit further includes allowing the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow as a plurality of third portions of the dynamic fluid flow to flow through the plurality of fluid parallel additional fluid conduits.

[0024] In the seventeenth aspect, according to aspect 16, the third predetermined geometry is generally the second predetermined geometry.

[0025] In the eighteenth aspect, according to any one of aspects 13-17, the method further includes causing a third portion of the dynamic fluid flow to flow through a third fluid conduit configured with a third predetermined geometry and fluidly connected between an inlet and an outlet; causing the third portion of the dynamic fluid flow to flow through a second flow meter arranged along the third fluid conduit; and measuring the third portion of the dynamic fluid flow by the second flow meter.

[0026] In the nineteenth aspect, according to aspect 18, determining dynamic fluid flow based on measurement includes determining at least one of dynamic fluid flow rate or dynamic fluid flow velocity based on measurement of a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow, measurement of a third portion of the dynamic fluid flow, a first predetermined geometry, a second predetermined geometry, and a third predetermined geometry.

[0027] In the twentieth aspect, according to aspect 19, the third predetermined geometry is generally the second predetermined geometry.

[0028] In a twenty-first aspect, according to any one of aspects 13 to 20, the method further includes causing a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow to flow through a second flow meter arranged along a second fluid conduit; and measuring the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow by the second flow meter, wherein determining the dynamic fluid flow based on the measurement further includes determining the dynamic fluid flow based on the measurements of the first flow meter and the second flow meter.

[0029] In a twentieth aspect, according to aspect 21, the first fluid conduit defines a first fluid flow path, and causing a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow to flow through the second fluid conduit further includes causing the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow to flow along a second fluid flow path that is not on the same axis as the first fluid flow path, wherein the first portion of the second fluid conduit is not on the same axis as the second portion of the second fluid conduit.

[0030] In a twenty-third aspect, a method for sensing flow includes receiving a first set of information describing a first geometry of a first fluid conduit, receiving a second set of information describing a second geometry of a second fluid conduit, wherein the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit flow together along a total dynamic fluid flow path, receiving a third set of information describing a portion of the dynamic fluid flow through the second fluid conduit, and determining the total dynamic fluid flow based on the first set of information, the second set of information, and the third set of information.

[0031] In the twenty-fourth aspect, according to aspect 23, the first fluid conduit includes a plurality of fluid-parallel auxiliary fluid conduits, each of which is configured with a generally second geometry, wherein a portion of the dynamic fluid flow through the second fluid conduit is substantially the same as the other portions of the dynamic fluid flow in the plurality of fluid-parallel auxiliary fluid conduits.

[0032] In one example, the fluid flow measuring device includes: an inlet configured to allow a dynamic fluid flow; an outlet configured to allow a dynamic fluid flow; a first fluid conduit fluidly connected between the inlet and the outlet, configured with a first predetermined geometry and configured to allow a first portion of the dynamic fluid flow; a second fluid conduit fluidly connected between the inlet and the outlet, configured with a second predetermined geometry and configured to allow a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow; and a first flow meter configured to measure the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow.

[0033] Various embodiments may include some, all, or none of the following features. The first flow meter may be a time-difference ultrasonic flow meter. The second fluid conduit may be configured as a Venturi flow tube. The fluid flow measurement device may also include electronic circuitry configured to determine at least one of a dynamic fluid flow rate or a dynamic fluid flow velocity based on measurements of a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow, a first predetermined geometry, and a second predetermined geometry. The first predetermined geometry may be substantially the same as the second predetermined geometry. The first fluid conduit may include a collection of fluid-parallel additional fluid conduits, each configured with a third predetermined geometry. The third predetermined geometry may be substantially the same as the second predetermined geometry. The fluid flow measurement device may also include a third fluid conduit fluidly connected between an inlet and an outlet, configured with the third predetermined geometry and configured to flow a third portion of the dynamic fluid flow; and a second flow meter configured to measure the third portion of the dynamic fluid flow. The fluid flow measuring device may further include electronic circuitry configured to determine at least one of a dynamic fluid flow rate or a dynamic fluid flow velocity based on measurements of a third portion of the dynamic fluid flow, a first predetermined geometry, a second predetermined geometry, and a third predetermined geometry. The third predetermined geometry may be substantially the second predetermined geometry. The fluid flow measuring device may also include a second flow meter configured to measure a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow in a first portion of the second fluid conduit, wherein the first flow meter is configured to measure a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow in the second portion of the second fluid conduit that is remote from the first portion of the second fluid conduit. The fluid flow measuring device may also include a fluid interconnection that is coaxial with at least one of the first portion and the second portion of the second fluid conduit.

[0034] In another example, a method for sensing flow includes receiving a dynamic fluid flow at an inlet; allowing a first portion of the dynamic fluid flow to flow through a first fluid conduit configured with a first predetermined geometry and fluidly connected between an inlet and an outlet; allowing a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow to flow through a second fluid conduit configured with a second predetermined geometry and fluidly connected between an inlet and an outlet; allowing the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow to flow through a first flow meter arranged along the second fluid conduit; measuring the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow by the first flow meter; and determining the dynamic fluid flow based on the measurement.

[0035] Various implementations may include some, all, or none of the following features. Determining the dynamic fluid flow based on measurements may include determining at least one of the dynamic fluid flow rate or dynamic fluid flow velocity based on measurements of a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow, a first predetermined geometry, and a second predetermined geometry. The first predetermined geometry may be substantially equal to the second predetermined geometry, and the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow may be substantially equal to the first portion of the dynamic fluid flow. The first fluid conduit may include a collection of fluid-parallel additional fluid conduits, each configured with a third predetermined geometry and fluidly connected between an inlet and an outlet, wherein allowing the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow to flow through the second fluid conduit may further include allowing the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow as a collection of the third portion of the dynamic fluid flow to flow through the collection of fluid-parallel additional fluid conduits. The third predetermined geometry may be substantially equal to the second predetermined geometry. The method may further include passing a third portion of the dynamic fluid flow through a third fluid conduit configured with a third predetermined geometry and fluidly connected between an inlet and an outlet; passing the third portion of the dynamic fluid flow through a second flow meter arranged along the third fluid conduit; and measuring the third portion of the dynamic fluid flow by the second flow meter. Determining the dynamic fluid flow based on measurements may include determining at least one of the dynamic fluid flow rate or dynamic fluid flow velocity based on measurements of the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow, the third portion of the dynamic fluid flow, the first predetermined geometry, the second predetermined geometry, and the third predetermined geometry. The third predetermined geometry may be substantially the second predetermined geometry. The method may further include passing the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow through a second flow meter arranged along a second fluid conduit; and measuring the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow by the second flow meter, wherein determining the dynamic fluid flow based on measurements may further include determining the dynamic fluid flow based on measurements of the first flow meter and the second flow meter. The first fluid conduit may define a first fluid flow path, and allowing a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow to flow through the second fluid conduit may further include allowing the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow to flow along a second fluid flow path that is not on the same axis as the first fluid flow path, wherein the first portion of the second fluid conduit and the second portion of the second fluid conduit are not on the same axis.

[0036] In another example aspect, a method for sensing flow includes receiving a first set of information describing a first geometry of a first fluid conduit; receiving a second set of information describing a second geometry of a second fluid conduit, wherein the first and second fluid conduits flow together along a total dynamic fluid flow path; receiving a third set of information describing a portion of the dynamic fluid flow through the second fluid conduit; and determining the total dynamic fluid flow based on the first, second, and third sets of information.

[0037] Various implementations may include some, all, or none of the following features. The first fluid conduit may include a set of fluid-parallel additional fluid conduits, each additional fluid conduit generally configured with a second geometry, wherein a portion of the dynamic fluid flow through the second fluid conduit is substantially the same as the other portions of the dynamic fluid flow in each set of fluid-parallel additional fluid conduits.

[0038] The system and technology described herein can provide one or more of the following advantages. First, the system can provide accurate measurements of dynamically changing fluid flow while still meeting overall fluid flow requirements. Second, the system may enable the use of specific sensor configurations in a variety of different fluid flow scenarios. Third, the system can provide improved accuracy and reliability through sensor redundancy.

[0039] Details of one or more implementations are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages will become apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of an example ultrasonic mass flow sensor system according to some embodiments described in this document.

[0041] Figure 2A-2C This is a cross-sectional view of another example ultrasonic mass flow sensor system according to some embodiments described in this document.

[0042] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of another example ultrasonic mass flow sensor system according to some embodiments described in this document.

[0043] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of an example arrangement of an ultrasonic flow meter according to some embodiments described in this document.

[0044] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of another example arrangement of an ultrasonic flow meter according to some embodiments described in this document.

[0045] Figure 6This is a cross-sectional view of another example arrangement of an ultrasonic flow meter according to some embodiments described in this document.

[0046] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of another example arrangement of an ultrasonic flow meter according to some embodiments described in this document.

[0047] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of an example process for measuring dynamic fluid flow using an ultrasonic mass flow sensor system according to some embodiments described in this document.

[0048] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of another example process for measuring dynamic fluid flow using an ultrasonic mass flow sensor system according to some embodiments described in this document. Detailed Implementation

[0049] This document describes an ultrasonic fluid mass flow sensor system for implementing an ultrasonic flow meter (USFM), and the techniques used to measure the fluid flow characteristics of fluids. USFMs are currently used in the motorsports industry, regulatory transfers, domestic water flow measurement, and many other applications. Various ultrasonic flow meters are designed to cover a wide range of fuel flow rates. For example, in aircraft turbine systems, the maximum fuel flow rate in large engine applications can be approximately 50 times greater than in small engine applications (e.g., approximately 600 psi for some small engine applications, and approximately 50,000 psi for some large engine applications). Therefore, a reusable (e.g., universal, modular) platform ultrasonic flow tube is desired, where a single or reduced number of tube configurations can be used in a variety of applications. This document describes several possible example embodiments of addressing this problem by combining USFMs using various predetermined flow tube and / or venturi tube arrangements.

[0050] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of an example ultrasonic mass flow sensor system 100. System 100 is a fluid flow measurement device that includes an ultrasonic flow meter (USFM) 110 fluidly coupled in parallel to a venturi tube 150. A controller 101 (e.g., a processor, electronic circuitry) is configured to receive and process flow signals from the USFM 110.

[0051] A fluid (e.g., fuel) enters the system 100 at inlet 102 and exits at outlet 104. A portion of the fluid flows through a venturi tube 150 (indicated by arrow 106a), while another portion flows through a USFM 110 (indicated by arrow 106b). The venturi tube 150 includes a neck 152, where the cross-sectional flow area of ​​the venturi tube 150 decreases. The USFM 110 has its own separate cross-sectional flow area.

[0052] The flow restriction provided by neck 152 creates a fluid pressure difference between its upstream and downstream sides. On the upstream side, a relatively high-pressure fluid region 154 (labeled P1) is developed. On the downstream side, a relatively low-pressure fluid region 156 (labeled P2) is developed. Region 154 extends to the inlet 102 of USFM 110, and region 156 extends to the outlet 104 of USFM 110. The pressure difference between inlet 102 and outlet 104 causes fluid flow (indicated by arrow 106c) through USFM 110. The amount of fluid passing through USFM 110 is proportional to the area difference between the venturi tube 150 and USFM 110.

[0053] In some embodiments, system 100 can allow the ultrasonic flow meter to be used in a wide range of fuel flow applications. To use the same USFM 110 across a larger flow range, the geometry of the venturi tube 150 can be modified to accommodate a wide range of fuel flow rates while keeping the USFM 110 substantially unchanged (e.g., the USFM 110 can be universally used in various different venturi tube designs configured for different flow ranges). For example, the cross-sectional flow area of ​​the venturi tube 150 can be increased to accommodate relatively large fuel flow rates while maintaining the same fluid flow range for the USFM 110. In another example, the cross-sectional flow area of ​​the venturi tube 150 can be reduced to accommodate relatively small fluid flow rates while maintaining the same fuel flow range for the USFM 110. By implementing this approach, a single design configuration of the USFM 110 can be extended across a wider range of fluid flow rates without requiring the USFM 110 to be redeveloped or redesigned.

[0054] In some embodiments, the USFM 110 can be modified or replaced to use the same Venturi tube 150 across a wider range of applications, while keeping the Venturi tube 150 substantially unchanged (e.g., the Venturi tube 150 can be used universally in various different USFM designs configured for different flow ranges or sensitivities). For example, the Venturi tube 150 can be configured for a specific flow, but the USFM 110 can be replaced (e.g., for maintenance) or replaced with another USFM with a different cross-sectional flow area and / or length (e.g., to accommodate fluids of different viscosities, to change the sensor's sensitivity, bandwidth, or dynamic response).

[0055] Generally, ultrasonic flow meters coupled with dynamically balanced flow tubes allow for the implementation of a single ultrasonic sensor in a wide range of fluid flow applications. While each application can benefit from some fine-tuning and characterization, the sensor, electronics, and basic structure will be a design that can be shared or reused across multiple applications in different fluid flow ranges (e.g., a "universal" design). Reference Figure 1 The fluid flowing through the USFM 110 is generally a ratiometer representing the total dynamic flow rate from P1 to P2. To increase the flow range of the USFM 110, additional flow channels can be added. By achieving such a configuration, a single USFM design can be extended across a wider range of fluid flow without requiring a complete redesign of the USFM. Figure 2A-2C Examples of such designs are discussed in the description.

[0056] Figure 2A-2C This is a cross-sectional view of another example ultrasonic mass flow sensor system 200 according to some embodiments described in this document. In some embodiments, system 200 may be Figure 1 Modifications to the example system 100. In some embodiments, various features of systems 100 and 200 may be combined.

[0057] System 200 is a fluid flow measurement device implementing an example configuration, wherein a single flow meter design can be used across a wide range of fluid flow rate applications. System 200 includes an ultrasonic flow meter (USFM) 210 that is fluidly coupled in parallel to a mains assembly 250. Controller 201 is configured to receive flow measurement signals from USFM 210.

[0058] refer to Figure 2B It shows cross Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of the USFM 210 at section A-A', the USFM having a fluid conduit 211. The fluid conduit 211 has a predetermined cross-sectional flow area.

[0059] Now for reference Figure 2C , Figure 2C Showing cross Figure 2A The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the main assembly 250 at section A-A', which comprises an assembly of fluid conduits 251 (e.g., a venturi tube, concentric conduit, or other flowable geometry conduit). Each fluid conduit 251 has a predetermined cross-sectional flow area (e.g., the fluid conduit 251 may be a dynamically matched fluid conduit). In the illustrated example, the cross-sectional flow area of ​​each fluid conduit 251 is the same as that of the fluid conduit 211; however, in other examples, any suitable predetermined cross-sectional area(s) or any suitable other combination of predetermined geometries (e.g., cross-sectional shape, length, straight or irregular) may be used.

[0060] A fluid (e.g., fuel) enters the system 200 at inlet 202 and exits at outlet 204. Multiple portions of the fluid flow through fluid conduit 251 (indicated by arrow 206a), while another portion of the fluid flows through USFM 210 (indicated by arrow 206b).

[0061] The flow restriction provided by assembly 250 creates a fluid pressure difference between the upstream and downstream sides of assembly 250. On the upstream side, a relatively high-pressure fluid region 254 (designated P1) is developed. On the downstream side, a relatively low-pressure fluid region 256 (designated P2) is developed. Region 254 extends to the inlet 202 of USFM 210, and region 256 extends to the outlet 204 of USFM 210. The pressure difference between inlet 202 and outlet 204 causes fluid flow (indicated by arrow 206c) through USFM 210. The amount of fluid passing through USFM 210 is proportional to the area difference between fluid conduits 251 and USFM 210. In some embodiments, the fluid flow in each fluid conduit 251 is substantially equal to that in each other and / or equal to that in USFM 210. In some embodiments, the assembly of fluid conduits 251 and / or USFM 210 may be configured with one or more predetermined geometries that can dynamically balance (e.g., split, separate) the fluid flow through the USFM 210 and the assembly of fluid conduits 251.

[0062] In some embodiments, system 200 may allow ultrasonic flow meters to be used in a wide range of fuel flow applications. To use the same USFM 210 across a larger flow range, the geometry and / or number of fluid conduits 251 may be modified to accommodate a wide range of fluid flow rates while keeping the USFM 210 substantially unchanged (e.g., the USFM 210 may be universally used in various designs of the mainstream assembly 250 configured for different flow ranges).

[0063] For example, the number of fluid conduits 251 in the main flow assembly 250 can be increased to accommodate relatively large fuel flow rates while maintaining the same fluid flow range for the USFM 210. In another example, the number of fluid conduits 251 can be reduced to accommodate relatively small fluid flow rates while maintaining the same fuel flow range for the USFM 210. By implementing this approach, a single design configuration of the USFM 210 can be extended across a wider range of fluid flow rates without requiring the USFM 210 to be redeveloped or redesigned.

[0064] In another example, fluid conduit 211 can be configured to sense the lower end of the expected flow range. As flow demand increases, additional fluid conduits 251 can be added in parallel with USFM 210. The flow in each fluid conduit 251 and fluid conduit 211 (e.g., flow sensing channels) can be a ratiometer of the total dynamic flow.

[0065] By implementing multiple fluid conduits 251 in the main assembly 250, the system 200 can not only flow a predetermined amount of fluid, but also provide sensitivity to dynamic changes in flow rate (e.g., bandwidth) that were not provided in previous designs.

[0066] In typical (e.g., fluid dynamics textbook) fluid loop designs, it is known that fluid flows separated by two parallel conduits will be proportional to each other, even if one of the parallel conduits (e.g., a main fluid path large enough to meet the required flow rate) is larger than the other (e.g., a flow meter fluid path small enough to allow the flow meter to operate within a predetermined set of design parameters). However, such examples generally only apply to steady-state flow conditions. During dynamic changes in flow rate across such parallel paths, and / or during dynamic changes in pressure differential across such parallel paths, the parallel flow rates may not be perfectly proportional until the flow rate and pressure across the assembly re-stabilize. During such dynamic changes, the flow rate through the relatively small flowable region of the USFM may not accurately represent the flow rate through the relatively large flowable region of the main fluid path. Generally, in previous designs, a more restrictive flow path through the USFM would have lower dynamic sensitivity than a larger main parallel flow path.

[0067] System 200 improves the ability of USFM 210 to accurately sense the dynamic fluid flow characteristics of the main fluid flow by implementing multiple fluid conduits 251 to deliver the main flow (e.g., instead of using a single large conduit). In embodiments where the geometries of the multiple fluid conduits 251 and fluid conduit 211 are substantially identical, the dynamic behavior of the fluid flowing through fluid conduit 211 will substantially represent the dynamic behavior of the fluid flowing through each of the multiple fluid conduits 251. In embodiments where the geometries of the multiple fluid conduits 251 are predetermined but not necessarily the same as the geometry of fluid conduit 211, the dynamic behavior of the fluid flowing through the fluid conduits will proportionally represent the dynamic behavior of the fluid flowing through each of the multiple fluid conduits 251. In such examples, based on the knowledge of the predetermined geometries of fluid conduits 211 and multiple fluid conduits 251, differences in dynamic behavior can at least partially cancel each other out. Accordingly, the geometries of fluid conduits 211 and multiple fluid conduits 251 can be configured for any suitable fluid flow range and measurement tolerance.

[0068] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of another example ultrasonic mass flow sensor system 300 according to some embodiments described in this document. In some embodiments, system 300 may be Figure 2A-2C Modifications to the example system 200. In some embodiments, various features of systems 100, 200, and 300 may be combined.

[0069] System 300 is a fluid flow measurement device implementing an example configuration, wherein the dual flowmeter design can be used across a wide range of fluid flow rate applications. System 300 includes an ultrasonic flowmeter (USFM) 210 fluidly coupled in parallel to a main flow assembly 250. System 300 also includes a USFM 310 fluidly coupled in parallel to both the main flow assembly 250 and the USFM 210. Controller 301 is configured to receive and process fluid flow signals from both the USFM 210 and 310.

[0070] A fluid (e.g., fuel) enters the system 300 at inlet 302 and exits at outlet 304. Multiple portions of the fluid flow through fluid conduit 251 (indicated by arrow 206a), while another portion of the fluid flows through USFM 210 (indicated by arrow 206b) and another portion of the fluid flows through USFM 310 (indicated by arrow 306a).

[0071] The flow restriction provided by assembly 250 creates a fluid pressure difference between the upstream and downstream sides of assembly 250. On the upstream side, a relatively high-pressure fluid region 354 (labeled P1) is developed. On the downstream side, a relatively low-pressure fluid region 356 (labeled P2) is developed. Region 354 extends to inlet 312a and inlet 312b of USFM 210, and region 356 extends to outlet 314a and outlet 314b of USFM 210. The pressure difference between inlets 312a, 312b and outlets 314a, 314b causes fluid flow (indicated by arrows 206c and 306b) through USFM 210 and USFM 310. The amount of fluid passing through USFM 210 and 310 is proportional to the area difference between fluid conduit 251 and USFM 210 and 310. Furthermore, the amount of fluid passing through USFM 210 is proportional to the amount of fluid passing through USFM 310 (e.g., if the geometry and configuration of USFM 210 and USFM 310 are substantially the same, they will provide substantially the same readings).

[0072] In some embodiments, the presence of two or more parallel USFMs can improve the robustness and / or accuracy of the flow measurement system. For example, the controller can compare the sensing feedback provided by USFM 210 and USFM 310 to provide an average reading. In another example, the controller can compare the sensing feedback provided by USFM 210 and USFM 310 to identify a fault in one of USFM 210, 310 (e.g., when both readings deviate by more than a predetermined threshold, one reading changes while the other does not, and when compared with an estimated expected reading based on current operating conditions, either reading changes by more than a predetermined threshold difference).

[0073] Although the illustrated example shows two USFMs, namely USFM 210 and USFM 310, additional USFMs can be added in similar parallel arrangements. For example, when using three or more USFMs, the controller can compare various readings to determine which readings appear substantially consistent and which are inconsistent. The controller can then provide a value as a reliable measurement based on the readings provided by the maximum number of USFMs, which have substantially similar readings (e.g., voting techniques). Similarly, the controller can compare the readings of multiple USFMs to identify potentially faulty USFMs and ignore those used for operational purposes and / or identify them for maintenance or replacement.

[0074] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of an example arrangement 400 of an ultrasonic flow meter according to some embodiments described in this document. In some embodiments, arrangement 400 may be used instead of Figure 1-3 Examples include USFM 110, 210, and / or 310.

[0075] Arrangement 400 includes USFM 410a and USFM 410b connected in series via conduit 450. Fluid flows into USFM 410a and is sonified by it. Sonification propagates along path 460a, generally parallel to the direction of fluid flow through USFM 410a. The fluid then flows through conduit 450 to USFM 410b and is sonified again by it. Sonification propagates along path 460b, generally parallel to the direction of fluid flow through USFM 410b.

[0076] In some implementations, arrangement 400 can provide a redundant configuration for the USFM. For example, the controller can compare readings of USFM410a and USFM 410b to perform averaging and / or detect differences that may indicate a fault in one or both of USFM 410a and 410b.

[0077] To prevent acoustic processing pulses from propagating across USFM 410a and 410b from one to the other (e.g., this could cause signal crosstalk, noise, or otherwise affect measurements), arrangement 400 is configured such that USFM 410a is not coaxial with respect to USFM 410b. In the illustrated example, path 460a is offset and reversed relative to path 460b. The signal from the fluid injected by USFM 410a propagates along path 460a until it encounters conduit 450. A significant portion of the signal is attenuated by this junction, which reduces or substantially eliminates stray acoustic processing signals that could affect the operation of USFM 410b. Similarly, arrangement 400 prevents acoustic processing of USFM 410b from affecting the operation of USFM 410a.

[0078] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of an example arrangement 500 of an ultrasonic flow meter according to some embodiments described in this document. In some embodiments, arrangement 500 may be used instead of... Figure 1-3 Examples include USFM 110, 210, and / or 310.

[0079] Arrangement 500 includes USFM 510a and USFM 510b connected in series via conduit 550. Fluid flows into USFM 510a and is amplified by it. The acoustic treatment propagates along path 560a, generally parallel to the direction of fluid flow through USFM 510a. The fluid then flows through conduit 550 to USFM 510b and is again amplified by it. The acoustic treatment propagates along path 560b, generally parallel to the direction of fluid flow through USFM 510b.

[0080] In some implementations, arrangement 500 can provide a redundant configuration for the USFM. For example, the controller can compare readings of USFM510a and USFM 510b to perform averaging and / or detect differences that may indicate a fault in one or both of USFM 510a and 510b.

[0081] To prevent acoustic processing pulses from propagating across USFM 510a and 510b from one to the other (e.g., this could cause signal crosstalk, noise, or otherwise affect measurements), arrangement 500 is configured such that USFM 510a is not coaxial with respect to USFM 510b. In the illustrated example, path 560a is offset but generally parallel to path 560b. The signal from the fluid injected by USFM 510a propagates along path 560a until it encounters conduit 550. A significant portion of the signal is attenuated by this connection, which reduces or substantially eliminates stray acoustic processing signals that could affect the operation of USFM 510b. Similarly, arrangement 500 prevents acoustic processing of USFM 510b from affecting the operation of USFM 510a.

[0082] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of an example arrangement 600 of an ultrasonic flow meter according to some embodiments described in this document. In some embodiments, arrangement 600 may be used instead of Figure 1-3 Examples include USFM 110, 210, and / or 310.

[0083] The device 600 includes USFM 610a and USFM 610b connected in series via a conduit 650, which is curved or otherwise non-linear. Fluid flows into USFM 610a and is auralized by it. The auralization propagates along a path 660a generally parallel to the direction of fluid flow through USFM 610a. The fluid then flows through a curvature of the conduit 650 to USFM 610b and is auralized again by it. The auralization propagates along a path 660b generally parallel to the direction of fluid flow through USFM 610b.

[0084] In some implementations, arrangement 600 can provide a redundant configuration for the USFM. For example, the controller can compare readings of USFM 610a and USFM 610b to perform averaging and / or detect differences that may indicate a fault in one or both of USFM 610a and 610b.

[0085] To prevent the cross-propagation of acoustic processing pulses from one of the USFMs 610a and 610b to the other (which could cause signal crosstalk, noise, or otherwise affect measurements), arrangement 600 is configured such that path 660a is not coaxial with respect to path 660b. In the illustrated example, path 660a is aligned with path 660b; however, conduit 650 does not provide a direct coaxial path between the two USFMs 610a and 610b. The signal from the fluid injected by USFM 610a propagates along path 660a until it encounters conduit 650. A significant portion of the signal is attenuated by this connection, which reduces or substantially eliminates stray acoustic processing signals that could affect the operation of USFM 610b. Similarly, arrangement 600 prevents acoustic processing of USFM 610b from affecting the operation of USFM 610a.

[0086] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of an example arrangement 700 of an ultrasonic flow meter according to some embodiments described in this document. In some embodiments, arrangement 700 may be used instead of Figure 1-3 Examples include USFM 110, 210, and / or 310.

[0087] Arrangement 700 includes USFM 710a and USFM 710b connected in series via conduit 750, which is curved or otherwise non-linear. Fluid flows into USFM 710a and is auralized by it. The auralization propagates along a path 760a generally parallel to the direction of fluid flow through USFM 710a. The fluid then flows through a curved portion of conduit 750 to USFM 710b and is auralized again by it. The auralization propagates along a path 760b generally parallel to the direction of fluid flow through USFM 710b.

[0088] In some implementations, arrangement 700 can provide a redundant configuration for the USFM. For example, the controller can compare readings of USFM710a and USFM 710b to perform averaging and / or detect differences that may indicate a fault in one or both of USFM 710a and 710b.

[0089] To prevent the cross-propagation of acoustic processing pulses from one of the USFM 710a, 710b to the other (e.g., this could cause signal crosstalk, noise, or otherwise affect measurements), arrangement 700 is configured such that path 760a is not coaxial with respect to path 760b. However, in the illustrated example, path 760a is not parallel to path 760b, and thus conduit 750 does not provide a direct coaxial path between the two USFM 710a, 710b. The signal from the fluid injected by USFM 710a propagates along path 760a until it encounters conduit 750. A significant portion of the signal is attenuated by this connection, which reduces or substantially eliminates stray acoustic processing signals affecting the operation of USFM 710b. Similarly, arrangement 700 prevents acoustic processing of USFM 710b from affecting the operation of USFM 710a.

[0090] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of an example process 800 for measuring dynamic fluid flow using an ultrasonic mass flow sensor system according to some embodiments described in this document. In some implementations, process 800 can be used for Figure 1-3 Example systems 100, 200, or 300, and Figure 4-7 Example layouts 400-700. For example, process 800 can be executed by example controllers 101, 201, or 301.

[0091] At 810, a dynamic fluid flow is received at the inlet. For example, a dynamic, time-varying fluid flow can be received at inlet 102.

[0092] At 820, a first portion of the dynamic fluid flow flows through a first fluid conduit configured with a first predetermined geometry and fluidly connected between the inlet and outlet. For example, a portion of the fluid may flow along path 106a through a venturi tube 150 to outlet 104.

[0093] At 830, a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow passes through a second fluid conduit configured with a second predetermined geometry and fluidly connected between the inlet and outlet. For example, another portion of the fluid may flow along paths 106b and 106c to USFM 110.

[0094] At 840, a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow passes through a first flow meter arranged along a second fluid conduit. For example, fluid may flow along path 106c through USFM 110.

[0095] At 850, the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow is measured by the first flow meter. For example, the USFM 110 can be acoustically induced along path 106c to measure the fluid flow along path 106c.

[0096] At 860, the dynamic fluid flow is determined based on measurements. For example, USFM 110 can provide a measurement signal to controller 101, and controller 101 can determine the dynamic fluid flow based on the measurement signal.

[0097] In some implementations, determining dynamic fluid flow based on measurements may include determining at least one of dynamic fluid flow rate or dynamic fluid flow velocity based on measurements of a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow, a first predetermined geometry, and a second predetermined geometry. For example, based on the known flowable geometries of the Venturi tube 150 and USFM 110, the flow along paths 106a and 106c will be substantially proportional. Controller 101 may determine the fluid flow through USFM 110, and based on this determination and the known flowable geometries of the Venturi tube 150 and USFM 110, determine the fluid flow along path 106a based on the fluid flow measured along path 106c.

[0098] In some implementations, the first predetermined geometry may be substantially the same as the second predetermined geometry, and the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow may be substantially equal to the first portion of the dynamic fluid flow. For example, in system 200, fluid conduit 211 may be configured to have substantially the same flowable geometry as each fluid conduit 251.

[0099] In some implementations, the first fluid conduit may include a collection of fluid-parallel additional fluid conduits, each configured with a third predetermined geometry and fluidly connected between the inlet and outlet. Allowing a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow through the second fluid conduit may also include allowing a collection of the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow as a third portion of the dynamic fluid flow through the collection of fluid-parallel additional fluid conduits. For example, fluid can flow through system 200 from inlet 202 to outlet 204 via the collection of USFM 210 and fluid conduits 251.

[0100] In some implementations, the third predetermined geometry may be substantially the same as the second predetermined geometry. For example, in system 200, fluid conduit 211 has a flowable geometry that is substantially the same as that of each fluid conduit 251.

[0101] In some implementations, a third portion of the dynamic fluid flow may flow through a third fluid conduit configured with a third predetermined geometry and fluidly connected between an inlet and an outlet. This third portion of the dynamic fluid flow may also flow through a second flow meter arranged along the third fluid conduit, and the second flow meter may measure this third portion of the dynamic fluid flow. For example, in example system 300, a portion of the fluid may flow along paths 306a and 306b through USFM 310. USFM 310 may measure the dynamic fluid flow and provide the measurement signal to controller 301 for processing to determine a measurement value based on the fluid flow through USFM 310.

[0102] In some implementations, determining dynamic fluid flow based on measurements may include determining at least one of the dynamic fluid flow rate or dynamic fluid flow velocity based on measurements of a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow, a third portion of the dynamic fluid flow, a first predetermined geometry, a second predetermined geometry, and a third predetermined geometry. For example, controller 301 may receive measurement signals from USFM 210 and USFM 310 and determine the total fluid flow based on those measurements and the known geometries of fluid conduits 211, 311, and 251.

[0103] In some implementations, the third predetermined geometry may be substantially the same as the second predetermined geometry. For example, the flowable geometry of fluid conduit 311 may be the same as that of fluid conduit 211 (e.g., UFSM 210 and USFM 310 may be two units of the same brand and model as USFM).

[0104] In some implementations, process 800 may further include allowing a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow to pass through a second flow meter arranged along a second fluid conduit, and having the second flow meter measure the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow, wherein determining the dynamic fluid flow based on the measurement may further include determining the dynamic fluid flow based on measurements from both the first and second flow meters. For example, fluid may flow through any of example arrangements 400, 500, 600, and 700, wherein the same portion of the fluid flow may flow through two USFMs arranged in series for fluid connection.

[0105] In some implementations, the first fluid conduit may define a first fluid flow path, and allowing a second portion of the dynamic fluid flow to pass through the second fluid conduit may further include allowing the second portion of the dynamic fluid flow to flow along a second fluid flow path that is off-axis from the first fluid flow path, wherein the first portion of the second fluid conduit is off-axis from the second portion of the second fluid conduit. For example, each of arrangements 400, 500, 600, and 700 includes two USFMs with different-axis acoustic processing paths (e.g., paths 460a, 560a, 660a, and 760a are off-axis from their counterparts 460b, 560b, 660b, and 760b).

[0106] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of an example process 900 for measuring dynamic fluid flow using an ultrasonic mass flow sensor system according to some embodiments described in this document. In some implementations, process 900 can be used for Figure 1-3 Example systems 100, 200, or 300, and Figure 4-7 Example layouts 400-700. For example, process 900 can be executed by example controllers 101, 201, or 301.

[0107] At 910, a first set of information describing a first geometry of the first fluid conduit is received. For example, example controller 101 can be configured or calibrated using information describing the flowable geometry of example venturi tube 150.

[0108] At 920, a second set of information describing the second geometry of the second fluid conduit is received, wherein the first and second fluid conduits flow together in the overall dynamic fluid flow path. For example, controller 101 can be configured or calibrated using information describing the flowable geometry of example USFM 110. The flowable regions of USFM 110 and Venturi tube 150 combine to form the overall dynamic fluid flow path.

[0109] At 930, a third set of information describing a portion of the dynamic fluid flow through the second fluid conduit is received. For example, USFM 110 can provide a measurement signal representing the dynamic fluid flow, although USFM 110 can be provided to controller 110 for processing.

[0110] At 940, the total dynamic fluid flow is determined based on the first set of information, the second set of information, and the third set of information. For example, controller 110 may determine the total dynamic flow through system 100 based on the known flowable geometry of venturi tube 150 and USFM 110, as well as measurement information provided by USFM 110.

[0111] In some implementations, the first fluid conduit may include a set of fluid-parallel additional fluid conduits, each configured with a second geometry, wherein a portion of the dynamic fluid flow through the second fluid conduit is substantially the same as the other portions of the dynamic fluid flow in each of the set of fluid-parallel additional fluid conduits. For example, example fluid conduit 251 may be configured with a flowable geometry substantially the same as fluid conduit 211.

[0112] While some implementations have been described in detail above, other modifications are possible. For example, the logical flows depicted in the figures do not require the specific or sequential order shown to achieve the desired results. Furthermore, other steps may be provided, or steps may be removed from the described flow, and other components may be added to or removed from the described system. Therefore, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. An ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device for fuel flow applications, the ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device comprising: The inlet is configured to allow for dynamically changing fluid flow; The outlet is configured to allow the dynamically changing fluid flow to proceed; The component includes an assembly of first fluid conduits fluidly connected between the inlet and the outlet, each of the first fluid conduits being configured with a first predetermined geometry having a predetermined cross-sectional flow area and being configured to flow a first portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow. A second fluid conduit, fluidly connected between the inlet and the outlet, is configured with a second predetermined geometry having a cross-sectional flow area identical to the first predetermined geometry, and is configured to flow a second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow such that the dynamic behavior of the second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow represents the dynamic behavior of the first portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow. and A first ultrasonic flow meter is configured to measure the second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow.

2. The ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device according to claim 1, wherein the first ultrasonic flow meter is a time-difference ultrasonic flow meter.

3. The ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device according to claim 1, wherein the second fluid conduit is configured as a Venturi flow tube.

4. The ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device according to claim 2, wherein the second fluid conduit is configured as a Venturi flow tube.

5. The ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising electronic circuitry configured to determine at least one of dynamically changing fluid flow rate or dynamically changing fluid flow velocity of the dynamically changing fluid flow based on measurements of the second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow, the first predetermined geometry, and the second predetermined geometry.

6. The ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first fluid conduit comprises a plurality of fluid-parallel additional fluid conduits, each additional fluid conduit being configured with a third predetermined geometry.

7. The ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device according to claim 5, wherein the first fluid conduit comprises a plurality of fluid-parallel auxiliary fluid conduits, each auxiliary fluid conduit being configured with a third predetermined geometry.

8. The ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device according to claim 6, wherein the third predetermined geometry has the same cross-sectional flow area as the second predetermined geometry.

9. The ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: A third fluid conduit, which is fluidly connected between the inlet and the outlet, is configured with a third predetermined geometry and is configured to flow a third portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow; and A second flow meter is configured to measure the third portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow.

10. The ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device of claim 9, further comprising electronic circuitry configured to determine at least one of a dynamically changing fluid flow rate or a dynamically changing fluid flow velocity of the dynamically changing fluid flow based on measurements of the third portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow, the first predetermined geometry, the second predetermined geometry, and the third predetermined geometry.

11. The ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device according to claim 9, wherein the third predetermined geometry has the same cross-sectional flow area as the second predetermined geometry.

12. The ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device according to claim 10, wherein the third predetermined geometry has the same cross-sectional flow area as the second predetermined geometry.

13. The ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device according to claim 5, further comprising: A third fluid conduit, which is fluidly connected between the inlet and the outlet, is configured with a third predetermined geometry and is configured to flow a third portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow; and A second flow meter is configured to measure the third portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow.

14. The ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device of claim 13, further comprising electronic circuitry configured to determine at least one of a dynamically changing fluid flow rate or a dynamically changing fluid flow velocity of the dynamically changing fluid flow based on measurements of the third portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow, the first predetermined geometry, the second predetermined geometry, and the third predetermined geometry.

15. The ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device according to claim 13, wherein the third predetermined geometry has the same cross-sectional flow area as the second predetermined geometry.

16. The ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a second flow meter configured to measure a second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow in a first portion of the second fluid conduit, wherein the first ultrasonic flow meter is configured to measure a second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow in a second portion of the second fluid conduit remote from the first portion of the second fluid conduit.

17. The ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device of claim 16, further comprising a fluid interconnection that is coaxial with at least one of the first portion of the second fluid conduit and the second portion of the second fluid conduit.

18. The ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device of claim 5, further comprising a second flow meter configured to measure a second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow in a first portion of the second fluid conduit, wherein the first ultrasonic flow meter is configured to measure a second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow in a second portion of the second fluid conduit remote from the first portion of the second fluid conduit.

19. The ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device of claim 18, further comprising a fluid interconnection that is coaxial with at least one of the first portion of the second fluid conduit and the second portion of the second fluid conduit.

20. A method for sensing flow rate in a fuel flow application, the method comprising: Receives dynamically changing fluid flow at the inlet; A first portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is made to flow through an assembly comprising a collection of first fluid conduits, each of the first fluid conduits being configured with a first predetermined geometry having a predetermined cross-sectional flow area and being fluidly connected between the inlet and the outlet. The second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is made to flow through a second fluid conduit, the second fluid conduit being configured with a second predetermined geometry having a cross-sectional flow area identical to the first predetermined geometry and fluidly connected between the inlet and the outlet, such that the dynamic behavior of the second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow represents the dynamic behavior of the first portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow. The second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is made to flow through a first ultrasonic flow meter arranged along the second fluid conduit; The second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is measured by the first ultrasonic flow meter; and The dynamically changing fluid flow is determined based on the measurements.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein determining the dynamically changing fluid flow based on the measurement comprises determining at least one of a dynamically changing fluid flow rate or a dynamically changing fluid flow velocity of the dynamically changing fluid flow based on the measurement of the second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow, the first predetermined geometry, and the second predetermined geometry.

22. The method of claim 20, wherein the second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is equal to the first portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow.

23. The method of claim 21, wherein the second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is equal to the first portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow.

24. The method of any one of claims 20 to 23, wherein the first fluid conduit comprises a plurality of fluid-parallel additional fluid conduits, each additional fluid conduit configured with a third predetermined geometry and fluidly connected between the inlet and the outlet, wherein allowing the second portion of the dynamically altered fluid flow to flow through the second fluid conduit further comprises allowing the second portion of the dynamically altered fluid flow to flow as a plurality of third portions of the dynamically altered fluid flow through the plurality of fluid-parallel additional fluid conduits.

25. The method of claim 24, wherein the third predetermined geometry has the same cross-sectional flow area as the second predetermined geometry.

26. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 23, further comprising: A third portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is made to flow through a third fluid conduit, which is configured with a third predetermined geometry and is fluidly connected between the inlet and the outlet; The third portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is made to flow through a second flow meter arranged along the third fluid conduit; and The third portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is measured by the second flow meter.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein the first fluid conduit comprises a plurality of fluid-parallel additional fluid conduits, each additional fluid conduit configured with a third predetermined geometry and fluidly connected between the inlet and the outlet, wherein allowing the second portion of the dynamically altered fluid flow to flow through the second fluid conduit further comprises allowing the second portion of the dynamically altered fluid flow to flow as a plurality of third portions of the dynamically altered fluid flow through the plurality of fluid-parallel additional fluid conduits.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein the third predetermined geometry has the same cross-sectional flow area as the second predetermined geometry.

29. The method of claim 26, wherein determining the dynamically changing fluid flow based on the measurement comprises determining at least one of a dynamically changing fluid flow rate or a dynamically changing fluid flow velocity of the dynamically changing fluid flow based on the measurement of the second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow, the third portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow, the first predetermined geometry, the second predetermined geometry, and the third predetermined geometry.

30. The method of claim 29, wherein the third predetermined geometry has the same cross-sectional flow area as the second predetermined geometry.

31. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 23, further comprising: The second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is made to flow through a second flow meter arranged along the second fluid conduit; and The second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is measured by the second flow meter; Determining the dynamically changing fluid flow based on the measurements further includes determining the dynamically changing fluid flow based on the measurements of the first ultrasonic flow meter and the second flow meter.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the first fluid conduit defines a first fluid flow path, and causing the second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow to flow through the second fluid conduit further comprises causing the second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow to flow along a second fluid flow path that is not coaxial with the first fluid flow path, wherein the first portion of the second fluid conduit is not coaxial with the second portion of the second fluid conduit.

33. The method of claim 24, further comprising: The second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is made to flow through a second flow meter arranged along the second fluid conduit; and The second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is measured by the second flow meter; Determining the dynamically changing fluid flow based on the measurements further includes determining the dynamically changing fluid flow based on the measurements of the first ultrasonic flow meter and the second flow meter.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein the first fluid conduit defines a first fluid flow path, and causing the second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow to flow through the second fluid conduit further comprises causing the second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow to flow along a second fluid flow path that is not coaxial with the first fluid flow path, wherein the first portion of the second fluid conduit is not coaxial with the second portion of the second fluid conduit.

35. The method of claim 25, further comprising: The second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is made to flow through a second flow meter arranged along the second fluid conduit; and The second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is measured by the second flow meter; Determining the dynamically changing fluid flow based on the measurements further includes determining the dynamically changing fluid flow based on the measurements of the first ultrasonic flow meter and the second flow meter.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the first fluid conduit defines a first fluid flow path, and causing the second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow to flow through the second fluid conduit further comprises causing the second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow to flow along a second fluid flow path that is not coaxial with the first fluid flow path, wherein the first portion of the second fluid conduit is not coaxial with the second portion of the second fluid conduit.

37. The method of claim 26, further comprising: The second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is made to flow through a second flow meter arranged along the second fluid conduit; and The second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is measured by the second flow meter; Determining the dynamically changing fluid flow based on the measurements further includes determining the dynamically changing fluid flow based on the measurements of the first ultrasonic flow meter and the second flow meter.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein the first fluid conduit defines a first fluid flow path, and causing the second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow to flow through the second fluid conduit further comprises causing the second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow to flow along a second fluid flow path that is not coaxial with the first fluid flow path, wherein the first portion of the second fluid conduit is not coaxial with the second portion of the second fluid conduit.

39. The method of claim 29, further comprising: The second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is made to flow through a second flow meter arranged along the second fluid conduit; and The second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is measured by the second flow meter; Determining the dynamically changing fluid flow based on the measurements further includes determining the dynamically changing fluid flow based on the measurements of the first ultrasonic flow meter and the second flow meter.

40. The method of claim 39, wherein the first fluid conduit defines a first fluid flow path, and causing the second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow to flow through the second fluid conduit further comprises causing the second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow to flow along a second fluid flow path that is not coaxial with the first fluid flow path, wherein the first portion of the second fluid conduit is not coaxial with the second portion of the second fluid conduit.

41. The method of claim 30, further comprising: The second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is made to flow through a second flow meter arranged along the second fluid conduit; and The second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow is measured by the second flow meter; Determining the dynamically changing fluid flow based on the measurements further includes determining the dynamically changing fluid flow based on the measurements of the first ultrasonic flow meter and the second flow meter.

42. The method of claim 41, wherein the first fluid conduit defines a first fluid flow path, and causing the second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow to flow through the second fluid conduit further comprises causing the second portion of the dynamically changing fluid flow to flow along a second fluid flow path that is not coaxial with the first fluid flow path, wherein the first portion of the second fluid conduit is not coaxial with the second portion of the second fluid conduit.

43. A method for sensing flow rate using the ultrasonic fluid flow measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, the method comprising: Receive a first set of information describing the first geometry of the first fluid conduit; Receive a second set of information describing a second geometry of a second fluid conduit, wherein the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit flow together along a total dynamic fluid flow path; Receive a third set of information describing the partially dynamically changing fluid flow through the second fluid conduit; and The total dynamically changing fluid flow is determined based on the first information set, the second information set, and the third information set.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein the first fluid conduit comprises a plurality of fluid-parallel additional fluid conduits, each additional fluid conduit configured with a second geometry, wherein the fluid flow dynamically altered through the portion of the second fluid conduit is the same as the fluid flow dynamically altered through other portions of each of the plurality of fluid-parallel additional fluid conduits.

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