Method for detecting contaminants inside a metering conduit, detection device and flow meter

Abstract

This application provides a method, device, and flow meter for detecting contaminants inside a metering pipeline. The method includes: determining that the current flow velocity within the metering pipeline meets detection conditions; acquiring the current detection signal gain value of a detection element located on a first detection path within the metering pipeline; determining a detection signal gain difference based on the current detection signal gain value and a set detection signal gain value; and determining the relationship between the detection signal gain difference and a set detection threshold. If the detection signal gain difference is greater than or equal to the set detection threshold, it is determined that there is contaminant on the first detection path within the metering pipeline; if the detection signal gain difference is less than the set detection threshold, it is determined that there is no contaminant on the first detection path within the metering pipeline. This application can detect the contamination status inside the metering pipeline of a flow meter in real time, improving the metering accuracy of the flow meter.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of detection device technology, and in particular to a method, detection device and flow meter for detecting pollutants inside a metering pipeline. Background Technology

[0002] Ultrasonic flow meters based on the time difference method measure the flow rate of various liquids or gases in a non-contact manner. The working principle is based on the transmission of ultrasonic signals along the measurement path between a pair of transducers. The flow rate of the fluid in the metering pipe is calculated based on the time difference between the downstream and upstream transmission of the ultrasonic signals in the flowing fluid.

[0003] In related technologies, the metering accuracy of ultrasonic flow meters is highly sensitive to the flow field conditions. Under ideal flow field conditions, a single-channel ultrasonic flow meter can achieve very good metering accuracy. The flow field conditions are affected by the roughness of the inner wall of the metering pipe; an increase in inner wall roughness leads to a decrease in the metering accuracy of the ultrasonic flow meter. This is generally addressed by regularly inspecting the inner wall condition of the metering pipe and promptly cleaning contaminants.

[0004] The ultrasonic flow meter using the above-mentioned technical solution has low measurement accuracy. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the above problems, this application provides a method, device and flow meter for detecting contaminants inside a metering pipeline, which can detect the contamination status inside the metering pipeline of the flow meter in real time and improve the metering accuracy of the flow meter.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this application provides the following technical solution:

[0007] A first aspect of this application provides a method for detecting contaminants inside a metering pipeline, applied in a flow meter. The method for detecting contaminants inside the metering pipeline includes:

[0008] Determine that the current flow velocity in the metering pipe of the flow meter meets the detection conditions;

[0009] Obtain the current detection signal gain value of the detection element located on the first detection path within the metering pipeline;

[0010] The difference in detection signal gain is determined based on the current detection signal gain value and the set detection signal gain value.

[0011] The relationship between the detection signal gain difference and the set detection threshold is determined. If the detection signal gain difference is greater than or equal to the set detection threshold, it is determined that there is a contaminant in the first detection path in the metering pipeline. If the detection signal gain difference is less than the set detection threshold, it is determined that there is no contaminant in the first detection path in the metering pipeline.

[0012] In one feasible implementation, the step of determining that the current flow velocity in the metering pipe of the flow meter meets the detection conditions specifically includes:

[0013] Obtain the current flow velocity value within the metering pipe of the flow meter;

[0014] Determine the relationship between the current flow rate value and the set flow rate threshold;

[0015] If the current flow rate value is greater than or equal to the set flow rate threshold, it is determined that the current flow rate in the metering pipe does not meet the detection conditions, and the detection is stopped.

[0016] If the current flow rate is less than the set flow rate threshold, it is determined that the current flow rate in the metering pipe meets the detection conditions.

[0017] In one feasible implementation, the set detection threshold includes a first set detection threshold and a second set detection threshold, wherein the first set detection threshold is greater than the second set detection threshold.

[0018] The step of determining the relationship between the detection signal gain difference and a set detection threshold, and determining that if the detection signal gain difference is greater than or equal to the set detection threshold, there is a contaminant in the first detection path within the metering pipeline; and if the detection signal gain difference is less than the set detection threshold, there is no contaminant in the first detection path within the metering pipeline, specifically includes:

[0019] Determine the relationship between the gain difference of the detection signal and the first set detection threshold;

[0020] If the difference in the detection signal gain is greater than or equal to the first set detection threshold, a first pollution warning message is issued and detection is stopped.

[0021] If the difference in the detection signal gain is less than the first preset detection threshold, determine the relationship between the difference in the detection signal gain and the second preset detection threshold;

[0022] If the difference in the detection signal gain is greater than or equal to the second set detection threshold, a second pollution warning message is issued and detection is stopped.

[0023] If the difference in the detection signal gain is less than the second set detection threshold, it is determined that there are no contaminants on the first detection path in the metering pipeline.

[0024] In one feasible implementation, at least two sets of the first detection path and at least two sets of the second detection path are provided inside the metering pipe, wherein the first detection path and the second detection path do not completely overlap, and the second detection path does not intersect with the inner wall of the metering pipe.

[0025] The detection element is located in the overlapping part of the first detection path and the second detection path;

[0026] After determining that the current flow velocity in the metering pipe of the flow meter meets the detection conditions, and before obtaining the current detection signal gain value of the detection element located on the first detection path in the metering pipe, the method further includes:

[0027] Obtain the current measurement signal gain value of the detection device located on the second detection path;

[0028] The difference in measurement signal gain is determined based on the current measurement signal gain value and the set measurement signal gain value;

[0029] Determine the relationship between the gain difference of the measured signal and the set measurement threshold;

[0030] If the difference in the measured signal gain is greater than or equal to the set measurement threshold, it is determined that there is a contaminant on the detection element on the second detection path in the metering pipeline, a measurement contamination warning message is issued, and the detection is stopped.

[0031] If the difference in measured signal gain is less than the set measurement threshold, the step of obtaining the current detection signal gain value of the detection element located on the first detection path within the metering pipeline is executed.

[0032] A second aspect of this application provides a detection device that uses the above-described method for detecting contaminants inside a metering pipeline. The detection device includes a first detection unit, an automatic gain control unit, a detection control unit, and an alarm control unit.

[0033] The first detection unit is located on the first detection path, and the first detection unit includes a pair of first detection components that serve as a detection transmitter and a detection receiver to each other;

[0034] The first detection element is electrically connected to the automatic gain control unit;

[0035] The detection control unit is electrically connected to both the automatic gain control unit and the alarm control unit.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the first detection path intersects at least one point on the inner wall of the metering pipe.

[0037] In one feasible implementation, the first detection path is parallel to the axial direction of the metering pipe.

[0038] In one possible implementation, a second detection unit is further included, which is located on the second detection path. The second detection unit includes a pair of second detection elements that are a measurement transmitter and a measurement receiver to each other, and the second detection elements are electrically connected to the automatic gain control unit.

[0039] The detection device is provided with at least two first detection units and at least two second detection units. The first detection path and the second detection path do not completely overlap, and the second detection path does not intersect with the inner wall of the metering pipe.

[0040] The first detection element and the second detection element are located in the overlapping part of the first detection path and the second detection path.

[0041] In one feasible implementation, two second detection units and two first detection units are provided to form a detection combination, wherein the two second detection units and the two first detection units of the detection combination are all located in the same detection plane;

[0042] One of the detection combinations is set up, and the detection plane of the detection combination passes through the central axis of the metering pipe;

[0043] Alternatively, multiple detection combinations may be configured, with the detection planes of the multiple detection combinations being parallel to each other and all parallel to the central axis of the metering pipe, or the detection planes of the multiple detection combinations intersecting.

[0044] A third aspect of this application provides a flow meter including the detection device described above.

[0045] This application provides a method, device, and flow meter for detecting contaminants inside a metering pipeline.

[0046] The method for detecting contaminants inside the metering pipeline first determines that the current flow velocity in the metering pipeline meets the detection conditions, eliminating the possibility that excessive current flow velocity may affect the gain value of the subsequent current detection signal, thus preventing misjudgment.

[0047] Then, the current detection signal gain value of the detector on the first detection path within the metering pipeline is obtained. Based on the current detection signal gain value and the set detection signal gain value, the detection signal gain difference is determined. If the detection signal gain difference is greater than or equal to the set detection threshold, it indicates that the current detection signal gain exceeds the normal detection signal gain range, meaning the detection signal attenuation to the detector is severe. This proves that the detection signal is affected by contaminants during transmission on the first detection path, and the attenuation is exacerbated by the presence of contaminants, confirming the presence of contaminants on the first detection path within the metering pipeline. If the detection signal gain difference is less than the set detection threshold, it indicates that the current detection signal gain value is within the normal detection signal gain range, meaning the attenuation of the detection signal to the detector is within the normal range. This proves that the transmission of the detection signal on the first detection path is not affected by contaminants, and the attenuation is normal, confirming the absence of contaminants on the first detection path within the metering pipeline.

[0048] The detection device uses the aforementioned method for detecting contaminants inside the metering pipeline, and includes a first detection unit, an automatic gain control unit, a detection control unit, and an alarm control unit. The first detection unit is located on the first detection path, and the automatic gain control unit is electrically connected to the first detection element and the detection control unit of the first detection unit.

[0049] The flow meter includes the aforementioned detection device.

[0050] Therefore, the embodiments of this application can detect the contamination status inside the metering pipe of the flow meter in real time, ensure the ideal flow field state inside the metering pipe, and improve the metering accuracy of the flow meter.

[0051] The structure of this application, as well as its other objects and beneficial effects, will become more apparent from the description of the preferred embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0052] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0053] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an ultrasonic flow meter in related technologies;

[0054] Figure 2 A schematic flowchart illustrating the method for detecting contaminants inside a metering pipeline provided in this application embodiment;

[0055] Figure 3A further schematic flowchart illustrating the method for detecting contaminants inside a metering pipeline provided in this application embodiment;

[0056] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of the device for detecting contaminants inside a metering pipeline provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0057] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the radial section where the transducer is located near the inlet flange;

[0058] Figure 6 for Figure 5 A sectional view of the upper middle plane.

[0059] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0060] 1-Ultrasonic flow meter;

[0061] 100 - Detection device; 101 - Meter body; 102 - Inlet flange; 103 - Outlet flange; 104 - Control unit; 105 - Metering pipeline;

[0062] 110 - Upper plane; 111 - First transducer; 112 - Second transducer; 113 - Third transducer; 114 - Fourth transducer;

[0063] 120 - Lower plane; 125 - Fifth transducer; 126 - Sixth transducer; 127 - Seventh transducer; 128 - Eighth transducer;

[0064] 131 - First detection path; 132 - Second detection path; 133 - Third detection path; 134 - Fourth detection path;

[0065] 145 - Fifth detection path; 146 - Sixth detection path; 147 - Seventh detection path; 148 - Eighth detection path;

[0066] d - the perpendicular distance from the upper and lower planes to the central axis;

[0067] θ - The angle between the measurement path and the central axis of the metering pipe;

[0068] D - Inner diameter of the ultrasonic flow meter;

[0069] L - Channel length;

[0070] t up -Ultrasonic downstream transmission time;

[0071] t down -Ultrasonic backflow transmission time. Detailed Implementation

[0072] In related technologies, refer to Figure 1 As shown, the metering pipe 105 of the ultrasonic flow meter 1 is horizontally arranged, and the fluid inside the metering pipe 105 flows in the direction indicated by the hollow arrow. A pair of transducers (first transducer 111 and second transducer 112) are arranged on opposite sides of the metering pipe 105. The line connecting the pair of transducers forms the measurement path, and the angle between the measurement path and the central axis of the metering pipe 105 is θ. The pair of transducers serves as the measurement transmitter and receiver for each other. The ultrasonic signal is transmitted upstream and downstream along the measurement path between the pair of transducers in the flowing fluid. Due to the influence of the fluid velocity, the upstream and downstream transmission speeds of the ultrasonic signal in the fluid are different, resulting in inconsistent transmission times of the ultrasonic signal between the pair of transducers, thus creating a time difference. The fluid velocity v inside the metering pipe can be calculated from this time difference and the structural parameters of the metering pipe 105.

[0073]

[0074] in,

[0075] v: Measuring the fluid velocity within the pipeline.

[0076] L: Channel length

[0077] θ: The angle between the measurement path and the central axis of the metering pipe.

[0078] t up Ultrasonic backflow transmission time

[0079] t down Ultrasonic wave propagation time.

[0080] The flow rate Q through the metering pipe is the sum of the cross-sectional area A and the average velocity of the cross section of the metering pipe. The product of:

[0081]

[0082] in,

[0083] Q: By measuring the flow rate in the pipeline,

[0084] A: Measuring the cross-sectional area of ​​the pipe.

[0085] D: Inner diameter of the ultrasonic flow meter

[0086] Cross-sectional average velocity.

[0087] Formula 1 calculates the fluid velocity v within the metering pipe using the time difference, not the cross-sectional average velocity required to calculate the flow rate Q through the metering pipe as in Formula 2. Under ideal flow field conditions, the cross-sectional average velocity can be accurately calculated using the fluid velocity v within the metering pipe. Under non-ideal flow field conditions, it is not possible to accurately calculate the cross-sectional average velocity simply by measuring the fluid velocity v inside the pipe. Therefore, when installing an ultrasonic flow meter on-site, it is required that the flow field at the inlet be close to the ideal flow field. This is generally achieved by designing a sufficiently long straight pipe section and a fluid rectifier, so as to make the flow field in the metering pipe reach the ideal state and improve the metering accuracy of the ultrasonic flow meter.

[0088] After a period of use, the inner wall of the metering pipe of an ultrasonic flow meter may corrode due to factors such as the quality of natural gas. Rust or contaminant buildup on the inner wall can affect the flow field, and the adhesion and deposition of contaminants can also reduce the cross-sectional area A. These changes will lead to a decrease in the metering accuracy of the ultrasonic flow meter. To reduce the impact of contaminants on the inner wall of the metering pipe on metering accuracy, current methods mainly rely on periodic inspections to identify and clean the contaminants. However, this method requires disassembling the ultrasonic flow meter, affecting its normal operation. Furthermore, this method cannot detect problems in a timely manner, failing to identify and address contaminants in real time, thus reducing the metering accuracy of the ultrasonic flow meter.

[0089] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this application provides a method, detection device, and flow meter for detecting contaminants inside a metering pipeline.

[0090] The method for detecting contaminants inside the metering pipeline first determines that the current flow velocity in the metering pipeline meets the detection conditions, eliminating the possibility that excessive current flow velocity may affect the gain value of the subsequent current detection signal, thus preventing misjudgment.

[0091] Then, the current detection signal gain value of the detector on the first detection path within the metering pipeline is obtained. Based on the current detection signal gain value and the set detection signal gain value, the detection signal gain difference is determined. If the detection signal gain difference is greater than or equal to the set detection threshold, it indicates that the current detection signal gain exceeds the normal detection signal gain range, meaning the detection signal attenuation to the detector is severe. This proves that the detection signal is affected by contaminants during transmission on the first detection path, and the attenuation is exacerbated by the presence of contaminants, confirming the presence of contaminants on the first detection path within the metering pipeline. If the detection signal gain difference is less than the set detection threshold, it indicates that the current detection signal gain value is within the normal detection signal gain range, meaning the attenuation of the detection signal to the detector is within the normal range. This proves that the transmission of the detection signal on the first detection path is not affected by contaminants, and the attenuation is normal, confirming the absence of contaminants on the first detection path within the metering pipeline.

[0092] The device for detecting contaminants inside the metering pipeline uses the aforementioned method for detecting contaminants inside the metering pipeline. It includes a first detection unit, an automatic gain control unit, a detection control unit, and an alarm control unit. The first detection unit is located on the first detection path, and the automatic gain control unit is electrically connected to the first detection element and the detection control unit of the first detection unit.

[0093] The flow meter includes the aforementioned detection device.

[0094] Therefore, the embodiments of this application can detect the contamination status inside the metering pipe of the flow meter in real time, ensure the ideal flow field state inside the metering pipe, and improve the metering accuracy of the flow meter.

[0095] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar components or components having the same or similar functions throughout. The described embodiments are some, but not all, of the embodiments of this application. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0096] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating the method for detecting contaminants inside a metering pipeline provided in this application embodiment; Figure 3 This is a further schematic flowchart illustrating the method for detecting contaminants inside a metering pipeline provided in this application embodiment.

[0097] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, in a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a method for detecting contaminants inside a metering pipeline, which is applied in a flow meter.

[0098] like Figure 2 As shown, the methods for detecting contaminants inside metering pipelines include:

[0099] S1: Determine that the current flow velocity in the metering pipe of the flow meter meets the detection conditions.

[0100] The current flow rate can be obtained by measuring the flow meter itself, or by measuring the flow rate through the measuring element located on the first or second detection path.

[0101] S2: Obtain the current detection signal gain value of the detection element located on the first detection path within the metering pipeline.

[0102] The detection signal is transmitted along the first detection path. When contaminants are present along the first detection path, the detection signal is severely attenuated. The detection element along the first detection path needs to amplify the detection signal, resulting in a signal gain value exceeding the normal range. This embodiment of the application is based on this principle to detect the presence of contaminants in the metering pipeline. The following explanation uses an ultrasonic signal as an example.

[0103] It is understandable that the ultrasonic signal is transmitted along the first detection path, which has two detection devices that act as both a transmitter and receiver of the detection signal. The ultrasonic signal can be transmitted upstream or downstream along the first detection path.

[0104] Due to differences in the diameter and installation method of ultrasonic flow meters, ultrasonic signals experience varying degrees of attenuation during transmission. The device at the end of the transmission path receives the echo signal. When the amplitude of the echo signal is very small, it needs to be amplified. The amplification factor of the echo signal is called the ultrasonic signal gain, typically expressed in decibels (dB).

[0105] In this embodiment, when the ultrasonic signal is transmitted upstream and downstream along the first detection path, the ultrasonic signal gain value on the detection device at the end of the transmission path is called the current detection signal gain value.

[0106] S3: Determine the difference in detection signal gain based on the current detection signal gain value and the set detection signal gain value.

[0107] The set detection signal gain value can be the ultrasonic signal gain value of the detection element on the first detection path obtained when the flow meter is initially installed, there are no pollutants in the metering pipe, and the fluid flow rate in the metering pipe is less than the set threshold.

[0108] S4: Determine the relationship between the gain difference of the detection signal and the set detection threshold.

[0109] S5: If the difference in detection signal gain is greater than or equal to the set detection threshold, it is determined that there is a contaminant in the first detection path within the metering pipeline.

[0110] S6: If the difference in detection signal gain is less than the set detection threshold, it is determined that there are no contaminants on the first detection path in the metering pipeline.

[0111] The method for detecting contaminants inside a metering pipeline provided in this application first determines that the current flow velocity in the metering pipeline of the flow meter meets the detection conditions, eliminating the possibility that the current flow velocity is too high and will affect the gain value of the subsequent current detection signal, thus preventing misjudgment.

[0112] Then, the current detection signal gain value of the detector on the first detection path within the metering pipeline is obtained. Based on the current detection signal gain value and the set detection signal gain value, the detection signal gain difference is determined. If the detection signal gain difference is greater than or equal to the set detection threshold, it indicates that the current detection signal gain exceeds the normal detection signal gain range, meaning the ultrasonic signal reaching the detector is severely attenuated. This proves that the ultrasonic signal is affected by contaminants during transmission on the first detection path, and the attenuation is exacerbated by the presence of contaminants, confirming the presence of contaminants on the first detection path within the metering pipeline. If the detection signal gain difference is less than the set detection threshold, it indicates that the current detection signal gain value is within the normal detection signal gain range, meaning the attenuation of the ultrasonic signal reaching the detector is within the normal range. This proves that the ultrasonic signal transmission on the first detection path is not affected by contaminants, and the attenuation is normal, confirming the absence of contaminants on the first detection path within the metering pipeline.

[0113] The embodiments of this application can detect the contamination status inside the metering pipe of the flow meter in real time, ensure the ideal flow field state inside the metering pipe, and improve the metering accuracy of the flow meter.

[0114] In one feasible implementation, refer to Figure 3 As shown, the steps to determine if the current flow velocity in the metering pipe of the flow meter meets the detection conditions specifically include:

[0115] S11: Obtain the current flow rate value in the metering pipe of the flow meter.

[0116] S12: Determine the relationship between the current flow rate value and the set flow rate threshold.

[0117] S13: If the current flow rate is greater than or equal to the set flow rate threshold, it is determined that the current flow rate in the metering pipeline does not meet the detection conditions, and the detection is stopped.

[0118] S14: If the current flow rate is less than the set flow rate threshold, determine that the current flow rate in the metering pipe meets the detection conditions.

[0119] It's worth noting that detecting whether the current flow rate exceeds the set flow rate threshold is to ensure that the current flow rate in the metering pipeline meets the testing conditions. For example, the set flow rate threshold can be set to 3 m / s. If the current flow rate is greater than 3 m / s, the intensity of the ultrasonic signal will decrease significantly during transmission, leading to an increase in the ultrasonic signal gain of the echo signal. This can easily cause a false judgment that the gain difference of the detection signal exceeds the set detection threshold, resulting in an incorrect conclusion that contaminants are present in the metering pipeline. Therefore, contaminant detection inside the metering pipeline can only be performed at low or no flow rates. If the current flow rate exceeds the set flow rate threshold, it is not advisable to perform contaminant detection inside the metering pipeline.

[0120] In one feasible implementation, setting a detection threshold includes a first set detection threshold and a second set detection threshold, wherein the first set detection threshold is greater than the second set detection threshold.

[0121] For example, the first set detection threshold can be 15dB, and the second set detection threshold can be 7dB. It is understandable that if the ultrasonic signal gain difference is greater than or equal to the first set detection threshold, compared to when the ultrasonic signal gain difference is between the second and first set detection thresholds, the attenuation of the ultrasonic signal is more severe. This indicates that the ultrasonic signal is more affected by contaminants along the transmission path, and the contamination situation within the metering pipeline is more serious.

[0122] Reference Figure 3 As shown, the steps for determining the relationship between the detection signal gain difference and a set detection threshold, and determining that there is a contaminant in the first detection path within the metering pipeline if the detection signal gain difference is greater than or equal to the set detection threshold, and that there is no contaminant in the first detection path within the metering pipeline if the detection signal gain difference is less than the set detection threshold, specifically include:

[0123] S41: Determine the relationship between the gain difference of the detection signal and the first set detection threshold.

[0124] S42: If the difference in detection signal gain is greater than or equal to the first set detection threshold, determine to issue the first pollution warning message and stop detection.

[0125] S43: If the difference in the detection signal gain is less than the first set detection threshold.

[0126] S44: Determine the relationship between the gain difference of the detection signal and the second set detection threshold.

[0127] S45: If the difference in detection signal gain is greater than or equal to the second set detection threshold, determine to issue a second pollution warning message and stop detection.

[0128] S46: If the difference in detection signal gain is less than the second set detection threshold, it is determined that there are no contaminants on the first detection path in the metering pipeline.

[0129] A first and a second preset detection threshold are set, and the difference in detection signal gain is judged by progressively decreasing thresholds. First, the difference in detection signal gain is compared with the first preset detection threshold. If the difference in detection signal gain is greater than or equal to the first preset detection threshold, it indicates severe attenuation of the ultrasonic signal, and the contaminants in the metering pipeline have a significant impact, issuing a first pollution warning message indicating severe pollution. Second, if the difference in detection signal gain is less than the first preset detection threshold, it is compared with the second preset detection threshold. If the difference in detection signal gain is greater than or equal to the second preset detection threshold, it indicates abnormal attenuation of the ultrasonic signal, and the contaminants in the metering pipeline have a relatively small impact, issuing a first pollution warning message indicating pollution. This allows for progressively decreasing risk warnings regarding pollution levels in the metering pipeline, facilitating the determination of whether timely maintenance is needed.

[0130] In one feasible implementation, at least two sets of first detection paths and at least two sets of second detection paths are provided inside the metering pipeline. The first detection paths and the second detection paths do not completely overlap, and the second detection paths do not intersect with the inner wall of the metering pipeline. The detection element is located in the overlapping part of the first detection path and the second detection path.

[0131] It is understandable that the detection signal of the second detection path can also be an ultrasonic signal. Since the second detection path does not intersect with the metering pipe, it indicates that the ultrasonic signal does not contact the inner wall of the metering pipe during transmission along the second detection path, but only propagates within the fluid in the metering pipe. Therefore, the transmission of the ultrasonic signal along the second detection path will not be affected by contaminants on the inner wall of the metering pipe.

[0132] Reference Figure 3 As shown, after determining that the current flow velocity in the metering pipe of the flow meter meets the detection conditions, and before obtaining the current detection signal gain value of the detection element located on the first detection path in the metering pipe, the process further includes:

[0133] S71: Obtain the current measurement signal gain value of the detector located on the second detection path.

[0134] It is understandable that when the ultrasonic signal is transmitted on the second detection path, the gain value of the ultrasonic signal on the detection device at the end of the transmission path is the gain value of the current measured signal.

[0135] S72: Determine the difference in measurement signal gain based on the current measurement signal gain value and the set measurement signal gain value.

[0136] It should be noted that the measurement signal gain value can be the ultrasonic signal gain value of the detection element on the second detection path obtained when the flow meter is initially installed, under the condition that there are no contaminants in the metering pipe and the fluid flow rate in the pipe is less than the set threshold.

[0137] S73: Determine the relationship between the difference in the measured signal gain and the set measurement threshold.

[0138] S74: If the difference in measurement signal gain is greater than or equal to the set measurement threshold, it is determined that there is a contaminant on the detection element in the second detection path within the metering pipeline, a measurement contamination warning message is issued, and the detection is stopped.

[0139] S75: If the difference in the measured signal gain is less than the set measurement threshold.

[0140] Perform step S2, which is to obtain the current detection signal gain value of the detection element located on the first detection path within the metering pipeline.

[0141] It is worth noting that when the detection element is located at the overlap of the first and second detection paths, contaminant detection on the second detection path can be performed first using a method similar to that used for contaminant detection on the first detection path. Since the second detection path does not intersect with the metering pipe, the measurement results only pertain to contaminant detection on the detection element itself, and do not involve contaminant detection on the inner wall of the metering pipe. Once it is determined that the detection element itself is free of contaminants, and the possibility of contamination on the detection element itself has been ruled out, then contaminant detection on the metering pipe within the first detection path can be performed. Because the detection element is located at the overlap of the first and second detection paths, the detection results are only for the first detection path, and the possibility of contamination on the detection element itself has been ruled out, which can greatly improve the accuracy of contaminant detection on the first detection path. Especially when the first detection path contacts the inner wall of the metering pipe, the contamination status on the inner wall of the metering pipe can be accurately detected.

[0142] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of the device for detecting contaminants inside a metering pipeline provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 for Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the radial section where the transducer is located near the inlet flange; Figure 6 for Figure 5 A sectional view of the upper middle plane.

[0143] Based on the above embodiments, referring to Figures 4-6 As shown, in a second aspect, embodiments of this application provide a detection device 100 that uses the above-described method for detecting contaminants inside a metering pipeline. The detection device 100 includes a first detection unit, an automatic gain control unit, a detection control unit, and an alarm control unit (the above-described control units are not shown).

[0144] The first detection unit is located on the first detection path 131. The first detection unit includes a pair of first detection components that are detection transmitters and detection receivers to each other.

[0145] The first detection element is electrically connected to the automatic gain control unit.

[0146] The detection control unit is electrically connected to both the automatic gain control unit and the alarm control unit.

[0147] like Figure 5 As shown, the detection device 100 includes a meter body 101 and an inlet flange 102 and an outlet flange 103 located at both ends of the meter body 101. The meter body 101 has a metering pipe 105 inside, and a first detection unit is installed on the metering pipe 105. The first detection element of the first detection unit may include a transducer. A control unit 104 is connected to the meter body 101, and the control unit 104 includes an automatic gain control unit, a detection control unit, and an alarm control unit.

[0148] The ultrasonic signal is transmitted alternately upstream and downstream between a pair of first detection elements. The ultrasonic signal attenuates during transmission along the first detection path 131. An automatic gain control unit, electrically connected to the first detection element, detects the degree of attenuation of the echo signal on the first detection element (which acts as the detection receiver) and amplifies the echo signal to a identifiable normal amplitude. The automatic gain control unit uses the amplification factor of the echo signal as the current detection signal gain value and sends this current detection signal gain value to the detection control unit.

[0149] The detection control unit first determines the detection signal gain difference based on the received current detection signal gain value and the set detection signal gain value. Then, it judges the relationship between the detection signal gain difference and the set detection threshold. If the detection signal gain difference is greater than or equal to the set detection threshold, it indicates that the current detection signal gain exceeds the normal detection signal gain range, meaning the ultrasonic signal attenuation reaching the detection element is severe. This proves that the ultrasonic signal is affected by contaminants during transmission along the first detection path 131, and the attenuation is exacerbated by the presence of contaminants, confirming the presence of contaminants in the first detection path 131 within the metering pipeline. The detection control unit sends the information about the contaminants in the first detection path 131 to the alarm control unit, which then issues a warning message. If the detection signal gain difference is less than the set detection threshold, it indicates that the current detection signal gain value is within the normal detection signal gain range, meaning the attenuation of the ultrasonic signal reaching the detection element is within the normal range. This proves that the ultrasonic signal transmission along the first detection path 131 is not affected by contaminants, and the attenuation is normal, confirming the absence of contaminants in the first detection path 131 within the metering pipeline. Optionally, the detection control unit sends the information about the absence of contaminants in the first detection path 131 to the alarm control unit, which then issues a message indicating a normal detection result.

[0150] Understandably, the first detection unit can also measure the current flow velocity based on the time difference between the downstream and upstream transmission of the ultrasonic signal to determine whether the current flow velocity meets the measurement conditions.

[0151] The detection device 100 provided in this application embodiment includes a first detection unit, an automatic gain control unit, a detection control unit, and an alarm control unit. The first detection unit is located on the first detection path 131, and the automatic gain control unit is electrically connected to both the first detection element and the detection control unit of the first detection unit. This detection device uses the aforementioned method for detecting contaminants inside the metering pipe to detect internal contaminants in the flowmeter's metering pipe. It can detect the contamination status inside the flowmeter's metering pipe in real time, ensuring an ideal flow field state within the metering pipe and improving the flowmeter's metering accuracy.

[0152] In one feasible implementation, refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the first detection path 131 intersects with at least one point on the inner wall of the metering pipe 105.

[0153] The first detection path 131 intersects with the inner wall of the metering pipe 105, so that the ultrasonic signal is reflected from the detection transmitter along the first detection path 131 at the intersection and reaches the detection receiver, thus detecting the contaminant situation at the intersection of the ultrasonic signal and the inner wall of the metering pipe 105.

[0154] In some embodiments, the first detection path 131 may intersect the inner wall of the metering pipe 105 multiple times, so that the ultrasonic signal is reflected multiple times from the detection transmitter along the first detection path 131 to the detection receiver, which can measure the contamination of the inner wall of the metering pipe 105 at more locations, and the efficiency is higher than that of a single reflection.

[0155] In one feasible implementation, refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the first detection path 131 is parallel to the axis of the metering pipe 105.

[0156] The first detection path 131 is parallel to the axis of the metering pipe 105. Since the ultrasonic signal propagates in the axial plane, it can detect contamination within the axial plane of the metering pipe 105. Correspondingly, when the first detection path 131 intersects the metering pipe 105 in this plane, it can detect contamination at the intersection of the ultrasonic signal and the metering pipe 105.

[0157] In some embodiments, the first detection path 131 may also be selected not to propagate in the axial plane, such as the radial plane or any plane. In this case, the ultrasonic signal propagates in the selected plane, and the contamination status of the selected plane within the metering pipe 105 can be detected. Correspondingly, when the first detection path 131 intersects with the metering pipe 105 in the selected plane, the contamination status at the intersection of the ultrasonic signal in the selected plane and the metering pipe 105 can be detected.

[0158] In one feasible implementation, refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the detection device 100 also includes a second detection unit located on the second detection path 132. The second detection unit includes a pair of second detection elements that are a measurement transmitter and a measurement receiver, respectively, and the second detection elements are electrically connected to the automatic gain control unit.

[0159] The detection device 100 is provided with at least two first detection units and at least two second detection units. The first detection path 131 and the second detection path 132 do not completely overlap, and the second detection path 132 does not intersect with the inner wall of the metering pipe 105.

[0160] The first and second detection components are located at the overlapping portion of the first detection path 131 and the second detection path 132.

[0161] A second detection unit is added to assist the first detection unit in detection. The second detection unit is located on the second detection path 132, which does not intersect with the metering pipe. This ensures that the transmission of the ultrasonic signal along the second detection path 132 occurs only in the fluid, and the ultrasonic signal is not affected by contaminants on the inner wall of the metering pipe.

[0162] First, contaminant detection is performed on the second detection path 132 using a method similar to that used for contaminant detection on the first detection path 131. Since the second detection path 132 does not intersect with the metering pipe 105, the measurement results only pertain to contaminant detection on the second detection element itself, and do not involve contaminant detection on the inner wall of the metering pipe. Once it is determined that the second detection element itself is free of contaminants, and the possibility of contamination on the second detection element itself is ruled out, contaminant detection within the metering pipe is then performed on the first detection path 131. Because the first and second detection elements are located at the overlapping portion of the first and second detection paths 131 and 132, the detection results only pertain to the first detection path 131, and the possibility of contamination on the first detection element itself has been ruled out, significantly improving the accuracy of contaminant detection on the first detection path 131. Especially when the first detection path contacts the inner wall of the metering pipe 105, the contamination status on the inner wall of the metering pipe 105 can be accurately detected.

[0163] Understandably, when the flow meter is an ultrasonic flow meter, the second detection unit can be a transducer in the original measurement path of the ultrasonic flow meter. Therefore, only the first detection unit needs to be added at a suitable location to utilize the second detection unit for auxiliary detection. Correspondingly, the second detection unit can also be used to measure the current flow velocity.

[0164] In one feasible implementation, a detection combination is formed by two second detection units and two first detection units, wherein the two second detection units and the two first detection units of the same detection combination are located in the same detection plane.

[0165] Set up a detection combination, the detection plane of which passes through the central axis of the metering pipe 105.

[0166] Alternatively, multiple detection combinations can be set up. The detection planes of the multiple detection combinations are parallel to each other and all parallel to the central axis of the metering pipe 105, or the detection planes of the multiple detection combinations intersect.

[0167] The two second detection units and two first detection units of the same detection combination are all located in the same plane, which facilitates the design of the first detection path 131 and the second detection path 132, and makes the structure more compact. The detection plane of a detection combination passes through the central axis of the metering pipe 105, which facilitates installation and allows for the measurement of whether there is contaminant accumulation on the detection path of the detection plane.

[0168] In some embodiments, multiple detection combinations can be set to form multiple different detection planes. The multiple detection planes can be arranged in parallel or intersecting each other. Setting multiple detection planes can detect more locations on the metering pipe 105, determine whether there is accumulation of contaminants at these more locations, and make the flow meter measurement results more accurate.

[0169] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the fluid in the metering pipe 105 flows in the direction indicated by the hollow arrow. The detection device 100 is equipped with two sets of detection combinations. The detection planes of the two detection combinations are parallel to each other and are both parallel to the central axis of the metering pipe 105. The two detection planes correspond to the upper plane 110 and the lower plane 120, respectively. The arrangement of the first and second detection units in the upper plane 110 and the lower plane 120 is exactly the same, and their orthographic projections on each other's planes coincide. One of the planes will be selected as an example for explanation. Figure 6 The diagram shows the structure of the upper plane 110, where the reference numerals within parentheses are the reference numerals for the corresponding components within the lower plane 120. Figure 5 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the radial section where the detection component is located near the inlet flange 102; the reference numerals in parentheses are the reference numerals of the corresponding components in the radial section near the outlet flange 103.

[0170] Four transducers are arranged in the upper plane 110, namely the first transducer 111, the second transducer 112, the third transducer 113 and the fourth transducer 114. The four transducers are arranged in a rectangular shape, and the signal transceiver terminals of the four transducers all point to the center of the rectangle.

[0171] The second transducer 112 and the fourth transducer 114 form the first detection unit, and the ultrasonic signal is reflected from the opposite sides of the second transducer 112 and the fourth transducer 114 to form... Figure 6 The first detection path 131 is formed by the first transducer 111 and the second transducer 112, which together form the second detection unit. The ultrasonic signal is transmitted linearly between the first transducer 111 and the second transducer 112 to form... Figure 6 The second detection path 132 is described above. The second detection path 132 does not intersect with the inner wall of the metering pipe 110, while the first detection path 131 intersects with the inner wall of the metering pipe 110 at one point. As can be seen from the above, the first detection path 131 and the second detection path 132 coincide at the second transducer 112, which is located on the overlapping portion of the first detection path 131 and the second detection path 132.

[0172] For the sake of distinction, the first detection unit of the other group is called the third detection unit, and the corresponding detection path is called the third detection path 133. The second detection unit of the other group is called the fourth detection unit, and the corresponding detection path is called the fourth detection path 134. The first transducer 111 and the third transducer 113 form the third detection unit. The ultrasonic signal is reflected from the opposite sides of the first transducer 111 and the third transducer 113 to form... Figure 6 The third detection path 133. The third transducer 113 and the fourth transducer 114 form the fourth detection unit, and the ultrasonic signal is transmitted linearly between the third transducer 113 and the fourth transducer 114 to form... Figure 6 The fourth detection path 134 is described above. The fourth detection path 134 does not intersect with the inner wall of the metering pipe 110, while the third detection path 133 intersects with the inner wall of the metering pipe 110 at one point. Therefore, the third detection path 133 and the fourth detection path 134 coincide at the third transducer 113, which is located at the overlapping portion of the third detection path 133 and the fourth detection path 134.

[0173] Meanwhile, the first transducer 111 is located at the overlapping part of the third detection path 133 and the second detection path 132, and the fourth transducer 114 is located at the overlapping part of the first detection path 131 and the fourth detection path 134.

[0174] Therefore, it can be seen that any one of the first transducer 111, the second transducer 112, the third transducer 113 and the fourth transducer 114 can be located in the overlapping part of one set of first detection paths 131 and one set of second detection paths 132.

[0175] Transducers arranged in the same manner are installed within the lower plane 120, forming the first detection unit and the second detection unit. For distinction, the transducers in the lower plane are respectively referred to as the fifth transducer 125, the sixth transducer 126, the seventh transducer 127, and the eighth transducer 128, forming... Figure 6 The fifth detection path 145, the sixth detection path 146, the seventh detection path 147, and the eighth detection path 148 are shown. Similarly, any one of the fifth transducers 125, the sixth transducer 126, the seventh transducer 127, and the eighth transducer 128 can be located in the overlapping part of one set of first detection paths 131 and one set of second detection paths 132.

[0176] In summary, since the transducers mentioned above are all located in the overlapping part of the first detection path 131 and the second detection path 132, the detection accuracy of pollutants on the first detection path 131 can be improved by using the two detection methods.

[0177] It is worth noting that since the transducers mentioned above can all be located on the second detection path 132, the transducers on the original ultrasonic flow meter's measurement path can be used, and a detection control unit and an alarm control unit can be added to form the detection device 100. This embodiment directly uses the original ultrasonic flow meter, without the need for additional transducers, thus avoiding additional costs and space, reducing costs and making the structure compact; moreover, it can also set up a first detection path 131 and a second detection path 132, using the second detection path 132 to detect contaminants in the second detection element itself, improving detection accuracy.

[0178] In this embodiment, both the upper plane 110 and the lower plane 120 are spaced apart from the central axis of the metering pipe 105, allowing for the detection of contaminants within these two detection planes. The vertical distance d from the upper and lower planes to the central axis is equal, and during the measurement of the current flow rate, the second detection units of the upper plane 110 and the lower plane 120 can also perform mutual calibration.

[0179] Based on the above embodiments, in a third aspect, this application provides a flow meter including the detection device 100 described above.

[0180] The detection device 100 uses the aforementioned method for detecting contaminants inside a metering pipeline, and includes a first detection unit, an automatic gain control unit, a detection control unit, and an alarm control unit. The first detection unit is located on the first detection path 131, and the automatic gain control unit is electrically connected to both the first detection element and the detection control unit of the first detection unit. Other technical features of the detection device 100 are consistent with those described above and have the same beneficial effects, and will not be repeated here.

[0181] The flow meter provided in this application embodiment can detect the contamination status inside the metering pipe in real time, ensure the ideal flow field state inside the metering pipe, and improve the metering accuracy of the flow meter.

[0182] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0183] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be understood that the terms "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on this application. In the description of this application, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise precisely specified.

[0184] The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” etc. (if present) in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a particular order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms “comprising” and “having,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0185] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A method for detecting contaminants inside a metering pipeline, characterized in that, In flow meters, the method for detecting contaminants inside the metering pipe includes: Determine that the current flow velocity in the metering pipe of the flow meter meets the detection conditions; Obtain the current detection signal gain value of the detection element located on the first detection path within the metering pipe; wherein the first detection path intersects with at least one point on the inner wall of the metering pipe, or the first detection path is parallel to the axial direction of the metering pipe; The difference in detection signal gain is determined based on the current detection signal gain value and the set detection signal gain value. Determine the relationship between the gain difference of the detection signal and a set detection threshold, wherein the set detection threshold includes a first set detection threshold and a second set detection threshold, and the first set detection threshold is greater than the second set detection threshold; Determine the relationship between the gain difference of the detection signal and the first set detection threshold; If the difference in detection signal gain is greater than or equal to the first preset detection threshold, a first pollution warning is issued and detection is stopped; if the difference in detection signal gain is less than the first preset detection threshold, the relationship between the difference in detection signal gain and the second preset detection threshold is determined; if the difference in detection signal gain is greater than or equal to the second preset detection threshold, a second pollution warning is issued and detection is stopped; if the difference in detection signal gain is less than the second preset detection threshold, it is determined that there are no pollutants on the first detection path in the metering pipeline. The step of determining that the current flow velocity in the metering pipe of the flow meter meets the detection conditions specifically includes: Obtain the current flow velocity value within the metering pipe of the flow meter; Determine the relationship between the current flow rate value and the set flow rate threshold; If the current flow rate value is greater than or equal to the set flow rate threshold, it is determined that the current flow rate in the metering pipe does not meet the detection conditions, and the detection is stopped; if the current flow rate value is less than the set flow rate threshold, it is determined that the current flow rate in the metering pipe meets the detection conditions.

2. The method for detecting contaminants inside a metering pipeline according to claim 1, characterized in that, The metering pipeline is provided with at least two sets of the first detection path and at least two sets of the second detection path. The first detection path and the second detection path do not completely overlap, and the second detection path does not intersect with the inner wall of the metering pipeline. The detection element is located in the overlapping part of the first detection path and the second detection path; After determining that the current flow velocity in the metering pipe of the flow meter meets the detection conditions, and before obtaining the current detection signal gain value of the detection element located on the first detection path in the metering pipe, the method further includes: Obtain the current measurement signal gain value of the detection device located on the second detection path; The difference in measurement signal gain is determined based on the current measurement signal gain value and the set measurement signal gain value; Determine the relationship between the gain difference of the measured signal and the set measurement threshold; If the difference in the measured signal gain is greater than or equal to the set measurement threshold, it is determined that there is a contaminant on the detection element on the second detection path in the metering pipeline, a measurement contamination warning message is issued, and the detection is stopped. If the difference in measured signal gain is less than the set measurement threshold, the step of obtaining the current detection signal gain value of the detection element located on the first detection path within the metering pipeline is executed.

3. A detection device, characterized in that, The detection device using the method for detecting contaminants inside a metering pipeline as described in claim 1 or 2 includes a first detection unit, an automatic gain control unit, a detection control unit, and an alarm control unit. The first detection unit is located on the first detection path, and the first detection unit includes a pair of first detection components that serve as a detection transmitter and a detection receiver to each other; The first detection element is electrically connected to the automatic gain control unit; The detection control unit is electrically connected to both the automatic gain control unit and the alarm control unit.

4. The detection device according to claim 3, characterized in that, It also includes a second detection unit, which is located on the second detection path. The second detection unit includes a pair of second detection elements that serve as a measurement transmitter and a measurement receiver to each other. The second detection elements are electrically connected to the automatic gain control unit. The detection device is provided with at least two first detection units and at least two second detection units. The first detection path and the second detection path do not completely overlap, and the second detection path does not intersect with the inner wall of the metering pipe. The first detection element and the second detection element are located in the overlapping part of the first detection path and the second detection path.

5. The detection device according to claim 4, characterized in that, Two second detection units and two first detection units are configured to form a detection combination, wherein the two second detection units and the two first detection units of a detection combination are all located in the same detection plane; One of the detection combinations is set up, and the detection plane of the detection combination passes through the central axis of the metering pipe; Alternatively, multiple detection combinations may be configured, with the detection planes of the multiple detection combinations being parallel to each other and all parallel to the central axis of the metering pipe, or the detection planes of the multiple detection combinations intersecting.

6. A flow meter, characterized in that, Includes the detection device as described in any one of claims 3-5.

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