Ultrasonic flow meter flow control

Abstract

The subject matter of this specification can be implemented, especially, in a fluid flow regulation device that includes a linear fluid conduit configured to define a linear fluid flow path, a fluid inlet defining an inlet fluid flow path that is non-parallel to the linear fluid flow path, a first fluid flow regulator having a first regulator configured to receive a fluid flow along the inlet fluid flow path, regulate the fluid flow, and redirect the regulated fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path along the primary axis away from the inlet fluid flow path, a second fluid flow regulator configured to receive a fluid flow from the linear fluid flow path along the primary axis, redirect the fluid flow along an outlet fluid flow path that is non-parallel to the linear fluid flow path away from the linear fluid flow path, and regulate the fluid flow, and a fluid outlet.

Description

[0001] Priority Statement

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 062,681, filed August 7, 2021, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 162,163, filed March 17, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

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

[0004] Fluid measurement devices are used for the characterization and operation of fluid control systems. The potential applications of such devices are expanding as the dynamic bandwidth, flow range, accuracy, and reliability of flow measurement equipment increase. High dynamic bandwidth flow meters can act 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 used in aircraft turbine systems.

[0005] Existing time-of-flight ultrasonic flow meters are used in the racing and automotive industries, pipeline monitoring and delivery, industrial flow measurement, and many other applications. However, many of these applications involve steady-state flow conditions, and their respective applications allow for volumetric flow measurement. In other applications, such as those for aircraft gas turbine engines, the fluid environment conditions of fuel delivery systems present significant design challenges.

[0006] In the field of fuel flow meters (key components), the regulation of fuel flow is essential for the controllability of fuel flow entering and leaving the flow meter in order to achieve the desired flow meter performance, accuracy, and sufficient control ratio. As a general rule of thumb in fluid dynamics, for a pipe of a given diameter, after disturbance, a straight pipe length of 10 or more may be required to stabilize the fluid flow (e.g., a length-to-diameter ratio of approximately 10 or greater, L / D). Summary of the Invention

[0007] Overall, this document describes ultrasonic fluid mass flow sensors.

[0008] In a first example, a fluid flow regulating device includes: a linear fluid conduit having a first tubular body defining a main axis and extending from a conduit inlet to a conduit outlet arranged opposite to the conduit inlet, and configured to have a predetermined flow geometry to define a linear fluid flow path along the main axis; a fluid inlet defining an inlet fluid flow path that is not parallel to the linear fluid flow path; and a first fluid flow regulator having a first regulator inlet in fluid communication with the fluid inlet and a first regulator outlet in fluid communication with the conduit inlet, and configured to receive fluid flow along the inlet fluid flow path through the first regulator inlet, and through the first regulator outlet. The system includes: a regulator inlet that regulates fluid flow and redirects the regulated fluid flow away from the inlet fluid flow path and along the linear fluid flow path along the main axis through the first regulator outlet; a second fluid flow regulator having a second regulator inlet in fluid communication with the conduit outlet and a second regulator outlet, and configured to receive fluid flow from the linear fluid flow path along the main axis, redirect the fluid flow away from the linear fluid flow path and along an outlet fluid flow path not parallel to the linear fluid flow path through the second regulator outlet, and regulate the fluid flow through the second regulator outlet; and a fluid outlet configured to receive fluid flow from the second regulator outlet.

[0009] In a second embodiment according to Example 1, the first fluid flow regulator includes a second tubular body extending between a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end opposite to the first longitudinal end, wherein the first regulator inlet is arranged along the second tubular body and the second longitudinal end defines the first regulator outlet.

[0010] In a third example according to Example 2, the first regulator inlet includes a plurality of ports radially extending through the second tubular body.

[0011] In a fourth embodiment according to Example 2 or 3, the device includes a sensor device arranged proximal to the first longitudinal end.

[0012] In a fifth example according to any one of Examples 2 to 4, the device further includes a sensor device arranged proximal to the second longitudinal end.

[0013] In a sixth example according to any one of Examples 1 to 5, the second fluid flow regulator includes a tubular converging portion having a predetermined geometry proximal to the conduit outlet and configured to partially restrict fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path.

[0014] In a seventh example according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, the second fluid flow regulator includes a tubular diverging portion having a predetermined geometry proximal to the conduit outlet and configured to partially expand the fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path.

[0015] In an eighth example according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, the second fluid flow regulator includes a second tubular body extending between a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end opposite to the first longitudinal end, wherein the second regulator outlet is arranged circumferentially around the second tubular body, and the first longitudinal end defines the second regulator inlet, and the second longitudinal end includes an impact surface configured to radially deviate from the linear fluid flow path and redirect the impact fluid flow along the main axis toward the second regulator outlet.

[0016] In the ninth example according to Example 8, the impact fluid flow impacts along the main axis in a first direction, and the redirection of the impact fluid flow includes redirecting the impact fluid flow in a second direction that is at least partially opposite to the first direction.

[0017] In a tenth example according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, the second regulator outlet has a first flowable cross-sectional area perpendicular to the outlet fluid flow path, and the fluid outlet includes: a first outlet end proximal to the second regulator outlet and having a second flowable cross-sectional area smaller than the first flowable cross-sectional area perpendicular to the outlet fluid flow path; a second outlet end opposite to the first outlet end; and a tapered tubular conduit portion defining a cavity having the first flowable cross-sectional area proximal to the first outlet end and tapering to the second flowable cross-sectional area proximal to the second outlet end.

[0018] In an eleventh example, a method for regulating fluid flow includes: receiving a fluid flow flowing along a first fluid flow path; regulating the fluid flow by passing the fluid flow through a first regulator inlet of a first fluid flow regulator; redirecting the fluid flow away from the first fluid flow path and toward a linear fluid flow path via the first fluid flow regulator; passing the fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path through a first regulator outlet; passing the fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path through a fluid conduit having a first tubular body extending from a conduit inlet to a conduit outlet arranged opposite to the conduit inlet, and configured to have a predetermined flow geometry; passing the fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path through a second regulator inlet of a second fluid flow regulator; redirecting the fluid flow away from the linear fluid flow path and toward a second fluid flow path via the second fluid flow regulator; and regulating the fluid flow by passing the fluid flow through a second regulator outlet of the second fluid flow regulator.

[0019] In a twelfth example according to Example 11, the method further includes: transmitting an ultrasonic signal along the linear fluid flow path through the first regulator outlet, the fluid conduit, and the second regulator inlet; receiving the ultrasonic signal through the second regulator inlet; and determining at least one of the mass flow rate and volumetric flow rate of the fluid flow based on the received ultrasonic signal.

[0020] In a thirteenth example according to Example 11 or 12, the first fluid flow regulator includes a second tubular body extending between a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end opposite to the first longitudinal end, wherein the first regulator inlet is arranged along the second tubular body and the second longitudinal end defines the first regulator outlet.

[0021] In a fourteenth embodiment according to exemplary claim 13, the first regulator inlet includes a plurality of ports radially extending through the second tubular body, and regulating the fluid flow by allowing the fluid flow to pass through the first regulator inlet of the first fluid flow regulator further includes allowing the fluid flow to pass through the plurality of ports.

[0022] In a fifteenth example according to Example 13 or 14, the method further includes performing at least one of the following: transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals along the linear fluid flow path through the first regulator outlet and the fluid conduit via an ultrasonic transducer, wherein the first fluid flow regulator further includes the ultrasonic transducer disposed proximal to the first longitudinal end.

[0023] In a sixteenth example according to any one of Examples 11 to 15, the method further includes partially restricting the fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path by means of a tubular converging portion of the second fluid flow regulator having a predefined geometry proximal to the outlet of the conduit.

[0024] In a seventeenth example according to any one of Examples 11 to 16, the method further includes partially expanding the fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path by means of a tubular diverging portion having a predefined geometry proximal to the outlet of the conduit by the second fluid flow regulator.

[0025] In the eighteenth example according to any one of Examples 11 to 17, wherein redirecting the fluid flow away from and toward the linear fluid flow path via the second fluid flow regulator comprises: causing the fluid flow to flow through a first longitudinal end of the second fluid flow regulator, wherein the second fluid flow regulator includes a second tubular body extending between the first longitudinal end defining the inlet of the second regulator and a second longitudinal end opposite to the first longitudinal end; causing the fluid flow along the main axis of the fluid conduit to impinge on an impingement surface of the second longitudinal end; and redirecting the impingement fluid flow radially away from the linear fluid flow path and toward a second regulator outlet arranged circumferentially around the second tubular body.

[0026] In the nineteenth example according to Example 18, the impact fluid flow impacts along the main axis in a first direction, and reorienting the impact fluid flow includes reorienting the impact fluid flow in a second direction that is at least partially opposite to the first direction.

[0027] In a twentieth example according to Example 18 or 19, the method further includes performing at least one of the following: transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals along the linear fluid flow path through the outlet of the second regulator and the fluid conduit via an ultrasonic transducer, wherein the second fluid flow regulator further includes the ultrasonic transducer disposed proximal to the second longitudinal end.

[0028] In a twenty-first example according to any one of Examples 11 to 20, the method further includes: causing the fluid flow from the second regulator outlet of the second fluid flow regulator to flow along the second fluid flow path through the fluid outlet, wherein the second regulator outlet has a first flowable cross-sectional area perpendicular to the second fluid flow path, and the fluid outlet includes: a first outlet end proximal to the second regulator outlet and having a second flowable cross-sectional area perpendicular to the second fluid flow path and smaller than the first flowable cross-sectional area; a second outlet end opposite to the first outlet end; and a tapered tubular conduit portion defining a cavity having the first flowable cross-sectional area proximal to the first outlet end and tapering to the second flowable cross-sectional area proximal to the second outlet end.

[0029] In an exemplary embodiment, a fluid flow regulating device includes: a linear fluid conduit having a first tubular body defining a main axis and extending from a conduit inlet to a conduit outlet arranged opposite to the conduit inlet, and configured to have a predetermined flow geometry to define a linear fluid flow path along the main axis; a fluid inlet defining an inlet fluid flow path that is not parallel to the linear fluid flow path; and a first fluid flow regulator having a first regulator inlet in fluid communication with the fluid inlet and a first regulator outlet in fluid communication with the conduit inlet, and configured to receive fluid flow through the first regulator inlet along the inlet fluid flow path, and through the first regulator outlet. A regulator inlet regulates the fluid flow and redirects the regulated fluid flow away from the inlet fluid flow path and along the linear fluid flow path along the main axis through the first regulator outlet; a second fluid flow regulator, having a second regulator inlet in fluid communication with the conduit outlet and a second regulator outlet, and configured to receive fluid flow from the linear fluid flow path along the main axis, redirect the fluid flow away from the linear fluid flow path and along an outlet fluid flow path not parallel to the linear fluid flow path through the second regulator outlet and regulate the fluid flow through the second regulator outlet; and a fluid outlet, configured to receive fluid flow from the second regulator outlet.

[0030] Various embodiments may include some, all, or none of the following features. The first fluid flow regulator may include a second tubular body extending between a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end opposite to the first longitudinal end, wherein the first regulator inlet is disposed along the second tubular body, and the second longitudinal end defines the first regulator outlet. The first regulator inlet may include a set of ports radially through the second tubular body. The fluid flow regulator may include a sensor device disposed proximal to the first longitudinal end. The fluid flow regulator may include a sensor device disposed proximal to the second longitudinal end. The second fluid flow regulator may include a tubular converging portion having a predetermined geometry proximal to the conduit outlet and configured to partially restrict fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path. The second fluid flow regulator may include a tubular diverging portion having a predetermined geometry proximal to the conduit outlet and configured to partially expand fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path. The second fluid flow regulator may include a second tubular body extending between a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end opposite to the first longitudinal end, wherein the second regulator outlet is arranged circumferentially around the second tubular body, and the first longitudinal end defines the second regulator inlet, and the second longitudinal end has an impact surface configured to radially redirect the impact fluid flow along the main axis toward the second regulator outlet. The impact fluid flow may impact along the main axis in a first direction, and redirecting the impact fluid flow includes redirecting the impact fluid flow in a second direction at least partially opposite to the first direction. The second regulator outlet may have a first flowable cross-sectional area perpendicular to the outlet fluid flow path, and the fluid outlet may include: a first outlet end, which is proximal to the second regulator outlet and has a second flowable cross-sectional area smaller than the first flowable cross-sectional area perpendicular to the outlet fluid flow path; a second outlet end, which is opposite to the first outlet end; and a tapered tubular conduit portion defining a cavity, which has the first flowable cross-sectional area proximal to the first outlet end and tapers to the second flowable cross-sectional area proximal to the second outlet end.

[0031] In an exemplary embodiment, a method for regulating fluid flow includes: receiving a fluid flow flowing along a first fluid flow path; regulating the fluid flow by passing the fluid flow through a first regulator inlet of a first fluid flow regulator; redirecting the fluid flow away from the first fluid flow path and toward a linear fluid flow path via the first fluid flow regulator; passing the fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path through a first regulator outlet; passing the fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path through a fluid conduit having a first tubular body extending from a conduit inlet to a conduit outlet arranged opposite to the conduit inlet, and configured to have a predetermined flow geometry; passing the fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path through a second regulator inlet of a second fluid flow regulator; redirecting the fluid flow away from the linear fluid flow path and toward a second fluid flow path via the second fluid flow regulator; and regulating the fluid flow by passing the fluid flow through a second regulator outlet of the second fluid flow regulator.

[0032] Various implementations may include some, all, or none of the following features. The method may include: transmitting an ultrasonic signal along the linear fluid flow path through a first regulator outlet, the fluid conduit, and a second regulator inlet; receiving the ultrasonic signal through the second regulator inlet; and determining at least one of a mass flow rate and a volumetric flow rate of the fluid flow based on the received ultrasonic signal. The first fluid flow regulator may include a second tubular body extending between a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end opposite to the first longitudinal end, wherein the first regulator inlet is arranged along the second tubular body, and the second longitudinal end defines the first regulator outlet. The first regulator inlet may include a set of ports radially through the second tubular body, and regulating the fluid flow by allowing the fluid flow to pass through the first regulator inlet of the first fluid flow regulator further includes allowing the fluid flow to pass through the set of ports. The method may include performing at least one of the following: transmitting and receiving an ultrasonic signal along the linear fluid flow path through the first regulator outlet and the fluid conduit via an ultrasonic transducer, wherein the first fluid flow regulator includes the ultrasonic transducer arranged proximal to the first longitudinal end. The method may include partially restricting the fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path by means of a tubular converging portion having a predefined geometry proximal to the outlet of the conduit by means of a second fluid flow regulator. The method may also include partially expanding the fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path by means of a tubular diverging portion having a predefined geometry proximal to the outlet of the conduit by means of a second fluid flow regulator. Redirecting the fluid flow away from the linear fluid flow path and toward a second fluid flow path by means of the second fluid flow regulator may include: allowing the fluid flow to pass through a first longitudinal end of the second fluid flow regulator, wherein the second fluid flow regulator may include a second tubular body extending between the first longitudinal end defining the inlet of the second regulator and a second longitudinal end opposite to the first longitudinal end; causing the fluid flow along the main axis of the fluid conduit to impinge on an impingement surface of the second longitudinal end; and redirecting the impinging fluid flow radially away from the linear fluid flow path and toward a second regulator outlet arranged circumferentially around the second tubular body. The impinging fluid flow may impinge along the main axis in a first direction, and redirecting the impinging fluid flow may include redirecting the impinging fluid flow in a second direction at least partially opposite to the first direction. The method may further include performing at least one of the following: transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals along the linear fluid flow path through the outlet of the second regulator and the fluid conduit via an ultrasonic transducer, wherein the second fluid flow regulator includes the ultrasonic transducer disposed proximal to the second longitudinal end.The method may include causing the fluid flow from the second regulator outlet of the second fluid flow regulator to flow along the second fluid flow path through the fluid outlet, wherein the second regulator outlet has a first flowable cross-sectional area perpendicular to the second fluid flow path, and the fluid outlet includes: a first outlet end proximal to the second regulator outlet and having a second flowable cross-sectional area perpendicular to the second fluid flow path and smaller than the first flowable cross-sectional area; a second outlet end opposite to the first outlet end; and a tapered tubular conduit portion defining a cavity having the first flowable cross-sectional area proximal to the first outlet end and tapering to the second flowable cross-sectional area proximal to the second outlet end.

[0033] The systems and techniques described herein can provide one or more of the following advantages: First, the system can provide improved environmental survivability over a wide fluid temperature range. Second, the system can provide improved environmental survivability over a wide fluid pressure range. Third, the system can provide improved environmental survivability for harsh fluids. Fourth, the system can provide integrated fluid density sensing. Fifth, the system may be relatively unaffected by fluid flow dynamics (e.g., vortices, eddies, instabilities). Sixth, the system can be used at update rates of 100 Hz or higher while maintaining accuracy. Seventh, the system can provide increased flow meter accuracy. Eighth, the system can provide improved sensor reliability.

[0034] Details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features and advantages will become apparent from the specification, the drawings, and the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0035] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of an example ultrasonic flow measurement system.

[0036] Figure 2A yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an example ultrasonic sensor module of the system.

[0037] Figure 2B It shows Figure 2A A conceptual example of a reflective surface region in an exemplary ultrasonic sensor module.

[0038] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2A A conceptual example of incident wave propagation in a module.

[0039] Figure 4 It shows Figure 2AAn example of a concept for fluid pressure reduction in a module.

[0040] Figures 5A-5C An example of the concept of incident wave passage in an ultrasonic flow measurement system is shown.

[0041] Figure 6A and Figure 6B It is shown Figure 1 An example of incident wave and echo curves in an ultrasonic flow measurement system.

[0042] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process for determining the fluid reflection coefficient.

[0043] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process for determining the flow rate of a mass fluid.

[0044] Figure 9 This shows the resistance to fluid exposure. Figure 2A A flowchart illustrating an example of the effect of the acoustic transducer module on the process.

[0045] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of an example of a general-purpose computer system.

[0046] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of an example baseline ultrasonic flow measurement system.

[0047] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of an example ultrasonic flow measurement system with a flow insert.

[0048] Figure 13A This is a cross-sectional view of an example ultrasonic flow measurement system with a flow regulator.

[0049] Figure 13B It is a cylindrical projection view of the instance flow regulator configuration.

[0050] Figure 14A This is a cross-sectional view of another example of an ultrasonic flow measurement system with a flow regulator.

[0051] Figure 14B This is a cylindrical projection view of another instance of a flow regulator configuration.

[0052] Figure 15A This is a cross-sectional view of another example of an ultrasonic flow measurement system with a flow regulator.

[0053] Figure 15B It is a cylindrical projection view of the instance inlet flow regulator configuration.

[0054] Figure 15CThis is a cylindrical projection view of an instance of an outlet flow regulator configuration.

[0055] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of another example of an ultrasonic flow measurement system with a flow regulator.

[0056] Figure 17A yes Figure 16 A perspective view of an example ultrasonic flow measurement system.

[0057] Figure 17B yes Figure 16 A cross-sectional end view of an example ultrasonic flow measurement system.

[0058] Figure 18A It shows Figures 16-17B A cross-sectional side view (e.g., z-plane section) of an example computational fluid dynamics model of an example ultrasonic flow measurement system 1600.

[0059] Figure 18B A cross-sectional top view of an example computational fluid dynamics model of an example ultrasonic flow measurement system 1600 is shown.

[0060] Figure 18C Show Figure 16 A partial cross-sectional isometric view of an instance of a computational fluid dynamics model of an instance of an ultrasonic flow measurement system.

[0061] Figure 19 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process for regulating fluid flow in an exemplary ultrasonic flow measurement system. Detailed Implementation

[0062] This document describes an ultrasonic fluid mass flow sensor (USFM) system and the techniques used to measure the fluid flow characteristics of a fluid. In general, the USFM system described herein can be used in fluid environments that would degrade or destroy existing USFM systems. Fluid environment conditions in fuel delivery systems can present significant design challenges. For current state-of-the-art aircraft and other gas turbine engine applications, ultrasonic transducers deployed for such applications will be expected to withstand high fluid pressures (e.g., 0 psi to 4000 psi or higher) and a wide range of fluid temperatures, including high fluid temperatures (e.g., -65 degrees Fahrenheit or lower to 325 degrees Fahrenheit or higher).

[0063] These temperatures and pressures are far more challenging than those typically encountered in industrial fluid, steam, or pipeline monitoring applications. To remain effective in such applications, wet transducers must also not degrade from prolonged immersion in corrosive fluids such as aircraft fuel and / or additives at high temperatures and / or pressures. The USFM system described in this document includes features that enhance the survivability of USFMs under such conditions.

[0064] In existing industrial and monitored transport USFM systems based on time-of-flight, correlation, and phase shift, measurement results are limited in accuracy by the range of flow velocities or turnaround ratios within the flow measurement volume. For example, during low flow conditions, the difference between upstream and downstream measurements may be too insensitive to maintain target accuracy. During high flow conditions, measurement accuracy may be affected by flow instabilities, typically caused by off-axis acoustic paths relative to flow, flow separation, and / or non-axisymmetric flow conditions. Off-axis transducer configurations can also lead to sensitivity and accuracy issues. A round transducer may impose a non-uniform ultrasonic field when the wave passes diagonally through the flow, thus reducing accuracy. In existing USFM systems where the ultrasonic beam is smaller than the flow cross-section, the complete flow profile is not penetrated by sound and must therefore be estimated, typically using a single K-factor correction or a complex coefficient matrix for USFM systems using multiple acoustic paths (such as in natural gas monitored transport applications). In existing USFM designs, flow measurement accuracy may be difficult to maintain over large turnaround ratios when the flow regime is unstable or changes significantly from laminar to turbulent. For example, some existing industrial USFM systems maintain accuracy with an actual control ratio of no more than 50:1, even when the application piping system and flow regulation are ideally executed. In contrast, gas turbine fuel systems may require significantly higher control ratios, around 100:1, and in some applications, exceeding 350:1 or more. Furthermore, gas turbine flow measurement systems must be able to maintain dynamic accuracy with an update rate of 100 Hz or higher.

[0065] Mass flow rate is crucial for maintaining a safe and operable fuel-air ratio in the combustion process. An excessive fuel-air ratio can lead to compressor surge or overheating events. Conversely, an excessive air-fuel ratio can cause compressor failure. Either of these events can be detrimental to gas turbine performance and is therefore a key design driver in gas turbine engine design. Furthermore, some applications, such as gas turbine engines, are designed to operate with various fuel types at different pressures and temperatures.

[0066] A significant variable (especially in aircraft gas turbine applications) is the variation of fuel specific gravity with fuel type and temperature. In some applications, the expected fuel specific gravity can vary by approximately 25% across the expected temperature range and available fuel types. A wide range of fuel density (if unknown) will drive a wide range of mass fuel flow rates for a given volumetric flow rate. This variability can lead to large variations in the mass air to fuel flow ratio, resulting in inefficient engine design across the entire environmental range, leading to oversized engines, conservative acceleration and / or deceleration scheduling, excessive surge margins, and / or excessive knock margins.

[0067] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of an example of an ultrasonic flow measurement (USFM) system 100. The USFM system 100 includes a fluid housing 110 and two ultrasonic sensor modules 200. The fluid housing 110 includes an axial fluid housing cavity 120a defined by an inner surface 121a and an axial fluid housing cavity 120b defined by an inner surface 121b. A fluid port 122a defines a fluid path 124a connected to the fluid cavity 120a. A fluid port 122b defines a fluid path 124b connected to the fluid cavity 120b. The fluid housing 110 also defines a cavity 126 extending between the fluid cavities 120a and 120b.

[0068] The fluid housing 110 also includes a fluid control conduit 130 defining a fluid path 132 along a conduit axis 134. The fluid control conduit 130 fluidly connects fluid chambers 120a and 120b, thereby enabling fluid communication between fluid chambers 120a and 120b. The fluid control conduit 130 has a predetermined flowable region 136 and shape (e.g., square, tapered, and / or curved edges, parallel or tapered walls to influence fluid flow behavior). In some embodiments, the fluid housing 110 can be used in many applications, and the fluid control conduit 130 can be an interchangeable, dedicated sub-component (e.g., an adapter) that allows the USFM system 100 to be adapted to specific fluid types, applications, and / or operating conditions.

[0069] Now for reference Figure 2A , showing Figure 1 An enlarged cross-sectional view of an example ultrasonic sensor module 200 of the system is shown. The ultrasonic sensor module 200 includes a sensor housing 202 having an axially defined internal sensor housing cavity 204 and a sensor axis 206 defined by an inner surface 207. When the ultrasonic sensor module 200 is assembled to... Figure 1When the fluid housing 110 is in place, the sensor axis 206 is substantially aligned with the conduit axis 134. The sensor housing 202 has an axial sensor housing portion 208a having a cross-sectional area 209a perpendicular to the sensor axis 206. The sensor housing 202 also has an axial sensor housing portion 208b having a cross-sectional area 209b perpendicular to the sensor axis 206. The cross-sectional area 209b is larger in size than the cross-sectional area 209a. A surface 210 extends from the inner surface 207 of the axial sensor housing portion 208a to the inner surface 208 of the axial sensor housing portion 208b. In the illustrated example, the surface 210 is formed as a generally square shoulder or plank at the transition between the cross-sectional areas 209a and 209b. In some embodiments, the surface 210 may be a tapered or other non-square transition between the cross-sectional areas 209a and 209b.

[0070] The ultrasonic sensor module 200 also includes an acoustic transceiver element 230. The acoustic transceiver element 230 is configured to emit acoustic vibrations (e.g., ultrasonic waves) at a predetermined wavelength (λ) when energized. In some embodiments, a separate acoustic driver and acoustic receiver may be implemented as the acoustic transceiver element 230. In some embodiments, the acoustic transceiver element 230 may also be configured to detect received acoustic vibrations. In some embodiments, the acoustic transceiver element 230 may be a piezoelectric element.

[0071] The transceiver element 230 is acoustically mated or otherwise abutted to the axial end 252 of the buffer rod 250 via a bonding layer 232. In some embodiments, the bonding layer 232 may be an adhesive layer. In some embodiments, the buffer rod may be made of any suitable material or combination of materials that, when combined with matching layer materials, can provide an appropriate acoustic impedance ratio to improve or maximize measurement sensitivity, is cost-effective, can be manufactured within reasonable manufacturing tolerances, and / or provides good mechanical and chemical compatibility in the intended application environment. Examples of buffer rod materials include titanium alloys, austenitic stainless steel, aluminum, borosilicate glass, fused (e.g., amorphous) quartz, and technical ceramics (e.g., AlN, Al3O3, SiN, and dopants).

[0072] In some embodiments, the bonding layer 232 may be omitted, wherein the transceiver element 230 is in direct contact with the axial end portion 252. For example, the transceiver element 230 may be held in place by a mechanical clamp or other suitable securing assembly, or the transceiver element 230 may be held in place by a securing feature formed in the inner surface 207. In some embodiments, the bonding layer 232 may be formed of a highly ductile material, such as gold or lead, which may conform to the mating surfaces of the transceiver element 230 and the axial end portion 252.

[0073] The transceiver element 230 is supported by a backing 234. The backing 234 has a predetermined shape and is made of a material that improves the sensitivity and / or efficiency of the transceiver element 230.

[0074] A buffer rod 250 extends along the sensor axis 206 from an axial end 252 to an axial end 254 opposite to the axial end 252. The buffer rod 250 has a predetermined axial length that is an integer multiple (n / 2λ) of half the emission wavelength of the transceiver element 230. The buffer rod 250 includes an axial buffer portion 256a disposed within the axial sensor housing portion 208a and including the axial end 252. The buffer rod 250 includes an axial buffer portion 256b disposed within the axial sensor housing portion 208b and including the axial end 254. In some embodiments, the axial buffer portion 256b may directly or indirectly (e.g., through a seal, sleeve, or bonding material) contact the inner surface to substantially seal the sensor cavity 204 against fluid intrusion at the axial end 254.

[0075] The buffer rod 250 also includes an axial buffer portion 256c extending axially between the axial buffer portions 256a and 256b. The axial buffer portion 256c has a cross-sectional area 209c, which is smaller than the cross-sectional area 209a perpendicular to the sensor axis 206. A cavity 260 is defined between the inner surface 207 and the axial buffer portion 256c. The cavity 260 is partially defined by a surface 262 defined between the axial buffer portions 256a and 256c. The surface 262 is at a predetermined distance from the axial end 252. (Reference) Figure 2B The cross-sectional area 209a is approximately twice the size of the cross-sectional area 209c. In other words, the area within the axial buffer portion 256c is approximately the same as the area of ​​surface 262.

[0076] The buffer rod 250 has a predetermined acoustic impedance (Z). bufferIn the illustrated example, cavity 260 is filled with air (e.g., an air gap), fluid (e.g., oil), or a solid having an acoustic impedance completely different from that of buffer rod 250 to reflect acoustic echoes when struck by sound waves (e.g., ultrasonic pings). In some embodiments, cavity 260 is evacuated to create at least a partial vacuum.

[0077] In the illustrated example, the axial buffer portion 256a is partially tapered and covered by a cladding 270. The tapered shape has a predetermined form and is configured to improve the efficiency and / or sensitivity of the ultrasonic sensor module 200 through the propagation of directional incident waves. The cladding 270 is configured to improve the efficiency and / or sensitivity of the ultrasonic sensor module 200 through the propagation of directional incident waves, acoustically isolating the buffer rod 250 from the sensor housing 202, and / or thermally isolating the buffer rod 250 from the sensor housing 202. In some embodiments, the tapered shape, the cladding, or both may be omitted. In some embodiments, other portions of the buffer rod 250 may include a cladding.

[0078] Refer again Figure 2A The ultrasonic sensor module 200 includes a mating layer 280 that acoustically engages with, is fixed to, or otherwise abuts the axial end 252 of the buffer rod 250. In some embodiments, the mating layer 280 may be attached to the axial end 252. In some embodiments, portions of the mating layer 280 may extend into and be fixed (e.g., welded) to the sensor housing 202. In some embodiments where the mating layer 280 is fixed to the sensor housing 202, the joint between the mating layer 280 and the sensor housing 202 may substantially seal the sensor cavity 204 against fluid intrusion at the axial end 254. The mating layer 280 has an axial thickness that is an integer odd multiple (n / 4λ) of the emission wavelength of the acoustic transceiver element 230, for example, 1 / 4λ.

[0079] Refer again Figure 1 Two ultrasonic sensor modules 200 span the fluid control conduit 130 and face each other. The acoustic transducer elements of the ultrasonic sensor modules 200 are separated by a predetermined distance 150.

[0080] USFM system 100 includes controller 190. Controller 190 includes a circuit system configured to activate ultrasonic sensor module 200 such that it emits an incident acoustic wave, detects the reception of the acoustic wave at ultrasonic sensor module 200, measures the timing between the emission and reception of various combinations of direct and reflected acoustic waves, and / or determines, in part, based on those measured timings, various properties of USFM system 100 and / or the fluid, such as those described in the figure. Figures 3-9 This will be further discussed in the description.

[0081] In use, fluid flows through the USFM system 100. For example, a fluid such as fuel can be provided at fluid port 122a, where it flows along fluid path 124a into fluid chamber 120a. The fluid flows around the ultrasonic sensor module 200 to the fluid control conduit 130. The fluid flows along fluid path 132 through the fluid control conduit 130 and then around the ultrasonic sensor module 200 to the fluid chamber 120b. The fluid then flows out of fluid port 122b along fluid path 124b. (As will be...) Figures 3-9 As further discussed in the description, the ultrasonic sensor module 200 is protected from direct exposure to the fluid, and the ultrasonic sensor module 200 is used to emit sound waves through the fluid to determine the properties of the fluid, such as acoustic impedance, volumetric flow rate, and mass flow rate.

[0082] Figure 3 Show Figure 2A This is a conceptual example of incident wave propagation in an ultrasonic sensor module 200. In use, an acoustic transceiver element 230 is activated to emit an incident wave (e.g., an acoustic pulse). The incident wave is transmitted into and along a buffer rod 250. A portion of the incident wave, indicated by arrow 310, travels until it encounters a surface 262. The engagement of surface 262 and cavity 260 causes a portion of the incident wave 310 to be reflected as an echo, indicated by arrow 320. The echo 320 travels back to be detected by the acoustic transceiver element 230. In some embodiments, the ultrasonic sensor module 200 may include separate acoustic transmitters and receivers for the emission and detection of the incident wave.

[0083] Another portion of the incident wave, indicated by arrow 330, travels until it encounters the axial end 254. The engagement of the fluid 301 at the axial end and axial end 254 causes a portion of the incident wave 330 to be reflected as an echo, indicated by arrow 340. The echo 340 travels back to be detected by the acoustic transceiver element 230. Another portion of the incident wave, indicated by arrow 350, propagates into the fluid 301 at the axial end 254.

[0084] Measurement (e.g., by means of) Figure 1 The instance controller 190 measures the time between the emission of the incident wave and the detection of the echo 320 to determine a first time of flight. The time between the emission of the incident wave and the detection of the echo 320 is measured to determine a second time of flight. The amplitudes of the echoes 320 and 340 are also measured. (As will be...) Figures 6A-7As further discussed in the description, the properties of the fluid 301 at the axial end 254, such as acoustic impedance (Z), can be determined using the measured flight time, the measured echo amplitude, and predetermined information about the acoustic impedance of the buffer rod 250, as well as the predetermined distance between the transceiver element 230, the surface 262, and the axial end 254. fluid ) and / or the rate of sound in the fluid (C fluid ).

[0085] In some implementations, the ultrasonic sensor module 200 can be used in applications other than the USFM system 100. For example, the ultrasonic sensor module 200 can be in contact with a fluid (e.g., attached to or immersed in a tank, pipe, or other fluid vessel or volume) and can be sonified as part of a process for determining the acoustic impedance of the fluid, the rate of sound in the fluid, and / or the fluid density.

[0086] In some embodiments, the characteristics of the buffer rod 250 itself can be determined based on the measured flight time and / or the measured echo amplitude (e.g., to calibrate unknown buffer rod acoustic impedance and / or compensate for the effects of temperature variations on the ultrasonic sensor module 200). Similarly, in some embodiments, the distance between the transceiver element 230 and one or both of the face 262 and / or the axial end 254 can be determined based on the measured flight time, the measured echo amplitude, a known distance, a known buffer rod acoustic impedance, and / or a known buffer rod temperature.

[0087] Figure 4 Show Figure 2A An example of a concept for fluid pressure relief in an ultrasonic sensor module 200. In use, the ultrasonic sensor module 200 is at least partially exposed to fluid 301 at an axial end 254. In some embodiments, the temperature or chemical properties of the fluid 301 may damage the transceiver element 230; therefore, the ultrasonic sensor module 200 is configured to prevent direct contact between the fluid 301 and the transceiver element 230. For example, direct or indirect (e.g., via gaskets, sleeves, cladding, seals, or sealants) contact between the axial buffer portion 256b and the axial sensor housing portion 208b and / or between the buffer rod 250 and the surface 210 can substantially prevent fluid from flowing from the axial end 254 to the transceiver element 230. In some embodiments, fluid seepage obtained through the buffer rod 250 can be directed to the sensor cavity 204 without contacting the main surface of the transceiver element 230.

[0088] In use, the ultrasonic sensor module 200 is at least partially exposed to the fluid pressure indicated by arrow 410 at its axial end 254. The fluid pressure 410 is a static fluid pressure relative to the dynamic pressure caused by the acoustic signal used by the acoustic transceiver element 230. In some embodiments, direct or indirect application of the fluid pressure 410 (e.g., via the buffer rod 250) may exert a compressive force on the acoustic transceiver element 230, which may counteract or otherwise negatively affect the signal provided by the acoustic transceiver element 230 in response to the sensed acoustic signal. In some embodiments, this effect can be compensated for mathematical methods or by using an electrically offset sensor signal to recover an approximation of the true signal.

[0089] The ultrasonic sensor module 200 is configured to prevent the fluid pressure 410 from affecting the acoustic transceiver element 230. For example, the acoustic transceiver element 230 is acoustically coupled to the axial end 252. Thus, the acoustic transceiver element 230 can "float" relative to the sensor housing 202 on the buffer rod 250 and will not become compressed by the fluid pressure 410.

[0090] The transceiver element 230 is also protected from fluid pressure 410 by the mechanical configuration of the buffer rod 250 and the sensor housing 202. Fluid pressure 410 is applied to the axial end 254, which causes the buffer rod 250 to move into the sensor cavity 204. This pressure causing this movement is indicated by arrow 420. Movement of the buffer rod 250 is prevented by the contact between the axial buffer portion 256b and the surface 210 of the sensor housing 202 (as indicated by arrow 430). In this way, force 420 is prevented from reaching the transceiver element 230.

[0091] The smaller cross-sectional area 209a is sized to accommodate the acoustic transceiver element 230 and decouple the thermal expansion of the sensor housing 202 from the acoustic path. The larger cross-sectional area 209b is sized to accommodate the pressure-induced forces acting on the buffer rod 250. Transmitting forces into the sensor housing 202 essentially eliminates the pressure-induced forces acting on the acoustic transceiver element 230, essentially eliminating the design constraints of transducer components and / or wet transducers that require pressure compensation and are sized to respond to pressure-induced forces.

[0092] Several advantages have been observed by decoupling the acoustic transceiver element 230 from the fluid pressure environment. For example, fluid / fuel compatibility of the acoustic transceiver element 230 is not required. In another instance, the frequency of the acoustic transceiver element 230 is not limited by thickness requirements driven by pressure-induced forces. In yet another instance where the acoustic transceiver element 230 is a piezoelectric transducer, the piezoelectric thickness required to support the fluid pressure causes the operating frequency of the acoustic transceiver element 230 to be much lower than the operating requirements for time-of-flight measurements. In yet another instance, the operating frequency of the acoustic transceiver element 230 can be sized to improve acoustic optimization and / or accuracy in low-flow-rate measurements.

[0093] Figures 5A-5C This illustrates a conceptual example of incident wave passage in an ultrasonic flow measurement system 500. In some embodiments, the USFM system 500 may be... Figure 1 An example of a USFM system 100. The USFM system 500 includes two acoustic transmitters 510a and 510b, two acoustic receivers 512a and 512b, and a fluid control conduit 520. Fluid flows along the fluid control conduit 520 in the direction indicated by arrow 501.

[0094] The following derivation assumes that acoustic receivers 512a and 512b are perpendicular to the main axis of the fluid control conduit 520 and aligned with their corresponding acoustic transmitters 510a and 510b. Therefore, the incident angle is omitted in the following derivation. If the acoustic transmitters 510a and 510b and the acoustic receivers 512a and 512b are placed off-axis (off-axis), the following derivation can be re-derived using the incident angle. However, for simplicity, trigonometry used to compensate for such angles is not used here.

[0095] refer to Figure 5A First, consider the speed at which sound travels through a non-moving fluid:

[0096] Distance = Speed ​​× Time

[0097] or:

[0098] Length (L) = Speed ​​of sound in a fluid (C) fluid ) × time(t)

[0099] Therefore, L1 = C fluid ×t1

[0100]

[0101] Where Cfuel is the speed of sound in the fluid, L1 is the distance between the sound transmitter 510a and the sound receiver 512a, and t1 is the signal transmission time between the sound transmitter 510a and the sound receiver 512a.

[0102] Assuming that the direction 501 of the control volume (fluid) movement is the same as the direction of sound travel represented by line 502a from the sound emitter 510a to the sound receiver 512a, the speed at which the sound wave travels through the fluid will change relative to the speed of the fluid.

[0103] Therefore, L2 = V2 × t2

[0104] V2 = V fluid +C fluid

[0105] Therefore, L2=(V fluid +C fluid )t2

[0106]

[0107] Where V fluid L1 is the average velocity of the moving fluid, L2 is the distance between the acoustic transmitter 510a and the acoustic receiver 512a, and t2 is the signal transmission time between the acoustic transmitter 510a and the acoustic receiver 512a.

[0108] Now for reference Figure 5B Assume that the control volume (fluid) is opposite to the direction of sound travel from the acoustic transmitter 510b to the acoustic receiver 512b, as indicated by line 502b. The speed at which the sound wave travels through the fluid will change relative to the speed of the fluid.

[0109] Therefore, L3 = V3 × t3

[0110] V3 = -V fluid 10C fluid

[0111] Therefore, L3 = (-V fluid +C fluid )t3

[0112]

[0113] Where L3 is the distance between the acoustic transmitter 510b and the acoustic receiver 512b, and t3 is the signal transmission time between the acoustic transmitter 510b and the acoustic receiver 512b.

[0114] refer to Figure 5C For a specific set of ultrasonic sensors, the device can transmit and receive signals. This means that for a pair of signals, the following characteristics are shared:

[0115] L up =L down =L = the distance between transmitters;

[0116] D = diameter; therefore, the area of ​​the fluid control conduit 520.

[0117] A = Cross-sectional area;

[0118] C fluid = The speed of sound in a fluid;

[0119] V fluid = The velocity of the fluid;

[0120] ρ fluid = The density of the fluid;

[0121] Z fluid = Acoustic impedance of the fluid.

[0122] By sharing these properties, the time difference between upstream and downstream signals will allow for the calculation of various fluid characteristics.

[0123] The upstream and downstream transmission times become:

[0124]

[0125]

[0126] Solve for t up t down , and C fluid :

[0127]

[0128]

[0129] Since the speed of sound is common between the transducers, the speeds of sound are equal to each other, allowing for the attainment of fluid velocities:

[0130] C fluid =C fluid

[0131]

[0132] L down t up -t down t up V fluid =L up t down +t up t down V fluid

[0133] L down t up -L up t down =t up t down V fluid +tdown t up V fluid

[0134] L up =L down

[0135] L(t up -t dn ) = 2V fluid t up t down

[0136]

[0137] Knowing the fluid velocity allows us to determine the fluid volumetric flow rate (Q). fluid ), where C d It is the predetermined discharge factor of the fluid in the fluid control conduit 520:

[0138] Q fluid =C d ×A×V fluid

[0139] The properties of fluid sound velocity can also be determined. Since the fluid velocity is shared between the pair of transducers, the fluid velocity can be solved for. (Review:)

[0140]

[0141] and:

[0142]

[0143] Solve for t up and t down To obtain V fluid :

[0144] V fluid =(L down -t down C fluid ) / t down

[0145] V fluid =(-L up +t up C fluid ) / t up

[0146] Since the fluid velocity is common between the transducers, the first two equations are equal to each other and allow the solution to obtain the fluid sound velocity:

[0147] V fluid =V fluid

[0148]

[0149] L down t up -t down t up C fluid =-L up t down +t up t down C fluid

[0150] L down t up +L up t down =t up t down C fluid +t down t up C fluid

[0151] L up =L down

[0152] L(t up +t down )=-2C fluid t up t down

[0153]

[0154] Figure 6A and 6B It is shown Figure 1 An example of incident wave and echo curves in an ultrasonic flow measurement system. Figure 6A A graph 600 showing the acoustic amplitude over time is provided, the time including a sub-duration 601. Figure 6B The graph 602 is shown, where the sub-duration 601 has been extended to make it visible.

[0155] Graph 600 shows a representation of the transmission of the initial incident wave 610 (e.g., when the acoustic transceiver element 230 is activated to transmit an acoustic “sound pulse”). An echo 620 is received a few milliseconds later. In some embodiments, the echo 620 may be… Figure 3 The echo 320 is a reflection of a portion of the incident wave 310 leaving the surface 262 of the cavity 260.

[0156] Echo 630 is received a few milliseconds later. In some implementations, echo 630 may be echo 340, which is a reflection of a portion of the incident wave 330 leaving the axial end 254, which is also the fluid interface. Echoes 640, 650, and 660 represent echoes within the buffer rod 250. In operation, echoes 640-660 may be filtered out or otherwise ignored.

[0157] Incident wave 670 represents a portion of the incident wave received by an acoustic sensor (e.g., an acoustic transceiver element 230 located downstream of or otherwise opposite to the acoustic transceiver element 230 that emitted the incident wave). The amount of time taken for incident wave 670 to arrive is influenced by several variables, such as fluid density, flow rate, and the direction of fluid flow in the fluid control conduit 130, as well as a distance 150. The amount of time taken for incident wave 670 to arrive can be represented as t up or t down (For example, depending on whether the wave is traveling upstream or downstream in the fluid control conduit 130).

[0158] like Figure 4 As illustrated, the buffer rod 250 is designed to transfer pressure-induced forces to surface 210 of the sensor housing 202. This is achieved through a dual-diameter configuration of the buffer rod 250, where a smaller cross-sectional area is sized to accommodate the acoustic transceiver element 230 and decouple the thermal expansion of the sensor housing 202 from the acoustic path. The larger cross-sectional area of ​​the axial buffer portion 256b is sized to accommodate the pressure-induced forces acting on the buffer rod 250. Transferring forces to the sensor housing 202 substantially eliminates the pressure-induced forces acting on the acoustic transceiver element 230 and substantially eliminates the need for (e.g., piezoelectric ceramic) pressure compensation, is sized to respond to pressure-induced forces, and substantially avoids wet transducer design constraints.

[0159] Several advantages were observed by decoupling the acoustic transceiver element 230 from the fluid pressure environment. For example, fluid / fuel compatibility of the acoustic transceiver element 230 is not required, the frequency of the acoustic transceiver element 230 is not limited by the thickness requirements driven by pressure-induced forces, the thickness of the acoustic transceiver element 230 required to support fluid pressure allows the operating frequency to be much lower than the operating requirements for time-of-flight measurements, and the frequency of the acoustic transducer can be sized for acoustic optimization and low flow measurement accuracy.

[0160] For aircraft turbine fuel systems, the mass fuel flow rate can be determined to understand the combustion energy content. This is solved using the buffer rod 250. The internal design of the buffer rod 250 achieves additional acoustic benefits, which can be intentionally designed into the USFM system 100. For example, the configuration of the buffer rod 250 allows the controller 190 to determine the reflection coefficient for fuel acoustic impedance measurements. This is achieved by introducing a transducer emission amplitude response (e.g., echo 320 or 620), which is implemented using the cavity 260, which acts as a substantially ideal reflector, and this amplitude can be compared with the return echo (e.g., echo 340 or 630) of the buffer rod fluid interface. In some embodiments, the matching layer 280 further enhances the sensitivity of the axial end 254; however, this will be ignored to simplify the following equations.

[0161] The fluid acoustic impedance can be determined by setting the effective areas of the echo reflection to be equal to each other (e.g., by appropriately configuring cross-sectional areas 209a and 209c). In some embodiments, the areas may not be equal, and mathematical compensation can be integrated into the process. However, for clarity, the areas are assumed to be equal in the following equations. This enables a direct measurement of the reflection coefficient. Wave propagation within the buffer rod 250 is articulated such that, in air, the echo returning from surface 262 is equivalent to the echo from axial end 254.

[0162] The reflection coefficient is obtained using a short-time Fourier transform (STFT). A fast Fourier transform (FFT) is then performed on the two echoes to determine the peak values ​​of the returned echoes.

[0163] STFT → Amplitude == f (frequency)

[0164] therefore:

[0165]

[0166]

[0167] in:

[0168] Echo1 are respectively Figure 3 , Figure 6A and Figure 6B The echo is either 320 or 620, Echo2 is respectively Figure 3 , Figure 6A and Figure 6B The echo frequency is either 340 or 630, and f and f0 are the transducer drive frequencies. The reflection coefficient is then obtained according to the following formula:

[0169]

[0170] Furthermore, it is assumed that the buffer bar 250 is directly interfaced with the fluid or fuel (e.g., in this case, there is no matching layer 280):

[0171]

[0172] Where R is the reflection coefficient.

[0173] Z2 = Z fluid

[0174] Z1 = Z buffer

[0175]

[0176] The impedance of the buffer rod 250 can be determined through sensor-level characterization. Given the buffer rod impedance and the measured reflection coefficient, the fluid impedance can now be solved:

[0177] Z fluid =ρ fluid C fluid

[0178] Based on the above equations, the speed of sound in the fluid can be calculated. Since the fluid impedance and the speed of sound are known, the fluid density can now be determined.

[0179]

[0180] Clearly:

[0181]

[0182] Given the fluid volumetric flow rate and density, the fluid mass flow rate can be obtained:

[0183]

[0184] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process 700 for determining the fluid reflection coefficient. In some embodiments, process 700 may be combined with... Figures 1-2B It is used in conjunction with the example ultrasonic sensor module 200.

[0185] At 710, the first transmitter is activated to transmit at least one incident wave. For example, the exemplary acoustic transceiver element 230 may be activated to transmit the incident wave.

[0186] At 720, the incident wave propagates along a buffer rod having a first axial end adjacent to the first transmitter and a second axial end opposite to the first axial end. For example, the incident wave can propagate through the buffer rod 250.

[0187] At 730, the first echo of the incident wave is reflected along a gap defined by a portion of the buffer rod. For example, the portion of the incident wave 310 may encounter surface 262 of cavity 260 and be reflected as echo 320.

[0188] The first echo was detected at 740. For example, it can be detected... Figure 6A and Figure 6B The echo is 620.

[0189] At 750, the first amplitude of the first echo is determined. For example, an FFT can be performed on echo 620 to determine the amplitude of echo 620 (e.g., amplitude A, as described above).

[0190] At 760, the second echo of the incident wave is reflected by the second axial end. For example, the portion of the incident wave 330 is reflected as echo 340 away from the axial end 254. In some embodiments, the second echo may be reflected by a 1 / 4λ matching layer (e.g., matching layer 280 at the axial end 254) fixed to the second axial end.

[0191] A second echo was detected at 770. For example, it can be detected... Figure 6A and Figure 6B The echo is 630.

[0192] At 780, the second amplitude of the second echo is determined. For example, an FFT can be performed on echo 640 to determine the amplitude of echo 640 (e.g., amplitude B, as described above).

[0193] At 790, the reflection coefficient based on the first and second amplitudes can be determined. For example:

[0194]

[0195] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process 800 for determining fluid mass flow rate. In some embodiments, process 800 may be combined with... Figure 1 Used together with the instance USFM system 100.

[0196] At 805, the reflection coefficient value is received. For example, the reflection coefficient R determined at 790 can be received.

[0197] At 810, the fluid acoustic impedance at the second axial end is determined based on the determined reflection coefficient and the predetermined acoustic impedance of the buffer rod. For example, the reflection coefficient R can be related to the predetermined buffer rod impedance Z. buffer Together used to determine Z fluid As mentioned above.

[0198] At 815, a portion of the incident wave is transmitted through fluid to a sensor at the second axial end, the sensor being positioned relative to and opposite to the first transmitter at a predetermined distance, wherein the fluid is contained within a tubular fluid conduit having a predetermined cross-sectional area. For example, Figures 6A-6B The incident wave 670 can travel through the fluid from the upstream ultrasonic sensor module 200 to the downstream ultrasonic sensor module 200.

[0199] At 820, the second sensor detects the aforementioned portion of the incident wave. For example, the downstream ultrasonic sensor module 200 can detect the incident wave 670.

[0200] At 825, the first flight time of said portion of the incident wave is determined based on the detected portion of the incident wave. For example, t can be determined. down .

[0201] At 830, another incident wave is emitted via a second transmitter and reaches the first sensor through the fluid. For example, the downstream ultrasonic sensor module 200 can be activated to emit another incident wave upstream.

[0202] At 835, the first sensor detects the other incident wave, and at 840, based on the detected other incident wave, determines the second time of flight of the other incident wave. For example, t can be determined. up .

[0203] At 845, determine the velocity of the fluid within the tubular fluid conduit. For example, V fluid It can be determined as:

[0204]

[0205] Determine the speed of sound in the fluid at 850°. For example, C fluid It can be determined as:

[0206]

[0207] At 855, the fluid mass flow rate is determined based at least on a predetermined cross-sectional area, a predetermined fluid velocity, a predetermined fluid acoustic impedance, and a predetermined sound velocity. For example:

[0208]

[0209] In some embodiments, one or both of the first transmitter and the first sensor may be a piezoelectric element. In some embodiments, the piezoelectric element may include both the first transmitter and the first sensor. For example, the transmitter and sensor may be separate components, or the acoustic transceiver element 230 may implement the transmission and detection functions within the ultrasonic sensor module 200.

[0210] Figure 9 This shows the resistance to fluid exposure. Figures 1-4 The flowchart illustrates an example of the process of the acoustic transceiver element 230 in an ultrasonic sensor module 200. At 910, the sensor is provided. The sensor includes a sensor housing, a buffer rod, and an acoustic transceiver element. The sensor housing has: an inner surface defining a sensor axis and an axially internal sensor housing cavity; a first axial sensor housing portion having a first cross-sectional area perpendicular to the sensor axis; a second axial sensor housing portion arranged adjacent to the first axial sensor housing portion along the sensor axis and having a second cross-sectional area perpendicular to the sensor axis and larger than the first cross-sectional area; and a surface extending from the inner surface of the first axial housing portion to the inner surface of the second housing portion. The buffer rod has a first axial end and a second axial end opposite to the first axial end, and has: a first axial buffer portion disposed within the first housing portion and having the first axial end; a second axial buffer portion disposed within the second housing portion and adjacent to the surface and having the second axial end; and a third axial buffer portion extending axially between the first and second axial buffer portions and having a third cross-sectional area perpendicular to the sensor axis and smaller than the first cross-sectional area. The acoustic transceiver element acoustically engages with the first end. For example, an ultrasonic sensor module 200 can be provided.

[0211] At 920, fluid is provided at the second axial end. For example, fluid 301, such as fuel, can be provided in fluid chambers 120a or 120b to contact the axial end 254.

[0212] At 930, the buffer rod and sensor housing prevent fluid from flowing from the second end to the acoustic transceiver element. For example, as in Figure 4 As described in the description, the transceiver element 230 is separated from the fluid 301 by the sensor housing 202 and the buffer rod 250, and the sensor housing 202 and the buffer rod 250 are configured to prevent the fluid 301 from flowing to the transceiver element 230.

[0213] In some implementations, fluid flow from the second end to the transceiver element can be blocked by the sensor housing and the second axial buffer portion. For example, fluid 301 is prevented from flowing to the transceiver element 230 by interference between the sensor housing 202 and the axial buffer portion 256b.

[0214] At 940, fluid pressure is applied to the second axial end to generate an axial force on the buffer rod. For example, fluid force 410 can be applied to the axial end 254.

[0215] At 950, the buffer rod transmits the axial force to the sensor housing. For example, buffer rod 250 transmits force 420 to sensor housing 202.

[0216] At 960, the sensor housing prevents axial forces from being transmitted to the transceiver element. In some embodiments, process 900 may further include transmitting the axial force to the surface via a second axial portion, wherein the surface interferes with axial movement of the buffer rod toward the transceiver element. For example, the reaction force 430 generated by the contact between the axial buffer portion 256b and the surface 210 prevents any movement of the buffer rod 250 into the sensor cavity 204.

[0217] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of an example of a general-purpose computer system 1000. System 1000 can be used for operations described in association with processes 700, 800, and / or 900 according to one embodiment. For example, system 1000 may be included in controller 190.

[0218] System 1000 includes a processor 1010, a memory 1020, a storage device 1030, and an input / output device 1040. Each of components 1010, 1020, 1030, and 1040 is interconnected via a system bus 1050. Processor 1010 is capable of processing instructions for execution within system 1000. In one embodiment, processor 1010 is a single-threaded processor. In another embodiment, processor 1010 is a multi-threaded processor. Processor 1010 is capable of processing instructions stored in memory 1020 or storage device 1030 to display graphical information for a user interface on input / output device 1040.

[0219] The memory 1020 stores information within the system 1000. In one embodiment, the memory 1020 is a computer-readable medium. In one embodiment, the memory 1020 is a volatile memory cell. In another embodiment, the memory 1020 is a non-volatile memory cell.

[0220] Storage device 1030 provides large-capacity storage for system 1000. In one embodiment, storage device 1030 is a computer-readable medium. In various other embodiments, storage device 1030 may be a floppy disk device, a hard disk device, an optical disk device, or a magnetic tape device.

[0221] Input / output device 1040 provides input / output operations for system 1000. In one embodiment, input / output device 1040 includes a keyboard and / or a pointing device. In another embodiment, input / output device 1040 includes a display unit for displaying a graphical user interface. In yet another embodiment, input / output device 1040 includes a serial link (e.g., Ethernet, CAN, RS232, RS485, fiber optic), for example, to interface with a remote host and / or to send measurement results in the form of a command / response protocol or at a periodic update rate after a short initialization period (e.g., <1 second). In yet another embodiment, input / output device 1040 includes a data bus connection to a second computer system or processor.

[0222] The described features can be implemented in digital electronic circuit systems or computer hardware, firmware, software, or combinations thereof. The apparatus can be implemented in a computer program product tangibly embodied in the form of an information carrier (e.g., in a machine-readable storage device for execution by a programmable processor); and the method steps can be implemented by a programmable processor executing an instruction program to implement the functions of the described embodiment by processing input data and generating output. The described features can advantageously be implemented in one or more computer programs that can be executed on a programmable system including at least one programmable processor coupled to receive and transmit data and instructions from a data storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device. A computer program is a set of instructions that can be used directly or indirectly in a computer to perform a specific activity or produce a specific result. Computer programs can be written in any form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, and can be deployed in any form, including as a standalone program or as a module, component, subroutine, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment.

[0223] Suitable processors for executing instructions include, for example, general-purpose and special-purpose microprocessors, as well as a single processor or one of several processors in any type of computer. Typically, the processor receives instructions and data from read-only memory or random access memory, or both. Essential components of a computer are a processor for executing instructions and one or more memories for storing instructions and data. Typically, a computer will also include one or more mass storage devices for storing data files or operatively coupled to and communicating with them; such devices include disks (such as internal hard drives and removable disks), magneto-optical disks, and optical disks. Storage devices suitable for tangibly implementing computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, including, for example, semiconductor memory devices (such as EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices), disks (such as internal hard drives and removable disks), magneto-optical disks, and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM discs. The processor and memory may be supplemented by or incorporated into an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit).

[0224] To enable interaction with the user, these features can be implemented on a computer having a display device such as a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor for displaying information to the user, and a keyboard and pointing device such as a mouse or trackball through which the user can provide input to the computer.

[0225] The features can be implemented in a computer system that includes back-end components (such as data servers), or middleware components (such as application servers or internet servers), or front-end components (such as client computers with graphical user interfaces or internet browsers), or any combination thereof. The components of the system can be connected via digital data communication through any form or medium, such as a communication network. Examples of communication networks include, for example, LANs, WANs, and computers and networks that form the internet.

[0226] The computer system may include clients and servers. Clients and servers are typically geographically separated and usually interact via a network, such as the network described. The client-server relationship is generated by computer programs running on the respective computers and having a client-server relationship with each other.

[0227] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of an example baseline ultrasonic flow measurement (USFM) system 1100. In some embodiments, system 1100 may be Figure 1 This is a variation of the exemplary ultrasonic flow measurement (USFM) system 100. For comparative purposes, system 1100 is generally presented as a baseline configuration with additional flow conditioning features (e.g., in...). Figures 12-19Several instances of the USFM system described in the description can be compared with the baseline configuration.

[0228] The USFM system 1100 includes a fluid housing 1110 and two ultrasonic sensor modules 1102. In some embodiments, the sensor module 1102 may be... Figure 1 and 2A An example ultrasonic sensor module 200. A fluid housing 1110 includes an axial fluid housing cavity 1120a defined by an inner surface 1121a and an axial fluid housing cavity 1120b defined by an inner surface 1121b. A fluid port 1122a defines a fluid path 1124a connected to the fluid cavity 1120a. A fluid port 1122b defines a fluid path 1124b connected to the fluid cavity 1120b. The fluid housing 1110 also defines a cavity 1126 extending between the fluid cavities 1120a and 1120b. The cavity 1126 defines a fluid path 1132 along a conduit axis 1134. The cavity 1126 fluidly connects the fluid cavities 1120a and 1120b, thereby providing fluid communication between the fluid cavities 1120a and 1120b.

[0229] As a general rule of thumb in fluid dynamics, a straight pipe with a length-to-diameter ratio (L / D) of 10 or greater may be required to stabilize fluid flow after a disturbance. In some embodiments, flow conditioning may be based on the Reynolds number (e.g., Re, the ratio of dynamic to static viscosity), the roughness of the inner surface of the flow conduit, the displacement coefficient (e.g., Cd, representing the blockage factor of orifices or other obstructions in the flow path), and other factors that may affect fluid flow. In this case, fully developed flow may only begin to appear at a considerable distance downstream of the pipe inlet. In some embodiments, such a long pipe can promote stable flow while negatively impacting other factors. For example, the length of the cavity 1126 required to achieve stable flow may exceed the design constraints of the target application (e.g., the size of the housing 1110 required to define a sufficiently long cavity 1126 may not be suitable within the available space of the target design). In another instance, the cavity 1126 may become long enough to negatively impact the USFM measurement process (e.g., the fluid path 132 may become long enough that the transmitted signal becomes highly attenuated and difficult to process accurately).

[0230] Generally, cavity 1126 is too short to regulate fluid flow along fluid path 1132. System 1100 illustrates an exemplary fluid body design, which is an open-core concept, wherein the fluid body has open flow regions to the inlet and outlet, with the transducer located at the axial end of the housing. In this configuration, fuel flow enters and exits the fluid body through an unobstructed path. While this design is simple to manufacture, it has hydrodynamic drawbacks. The design has been evaluated within a 100:1 control ratio range. Near the low end of the control ratio, the Reynolds number is close to or within the laminar region. Conversely, at the high end of the control ratio, the Reynolds number is entirely turbulent.

[0231] As mentioned above, USFM System 1100 is provided as a baseline instance to which other USFM configurations can be compared. (The rest of the text appears to be incomplete and requires further context.) Figures 12-19 The description further discusses examples of flow regulation USFM configurations with additional structures for regulating fluid flow.

[0232] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary ultrasonic flow measurement system 1200 having a fluid control conduit 123. In some embodiments, system 1100 may be Figure 1 and Figure 11 The example ultrasonic flow measurement (USFM) system is a variant of the 100 or 1100.

[0233] The USFM system 1200 includes a fluid housing 1210 and two ultrasonic sensor modules 1202 (e.g., sensor devices). In some embodiments, the sensor module 1202 may be an ultrasonic transducer device, such as... Figure 1 and 2A An example ultrasonic sensor module 200. A fluid housing 1210 includes an axial fluid housing cavity 1220a defined by an inner surface 1221a, and an axial fluid housing cavity 1220b defined by an inner surface 1221b. A fluid port 1222a (e.g., a fluid inlet) defines a fluid path 1224a (e.g., an inlet fluid flow path) connected to the fluid cavity 1220a. A fluid port 1222b (e.g., a fluid outlet) defines a fluid path 1224b (e.g., an outlet fluid flow path) connected to the fluid cavity 1220b. The fluid housing 1210 also defines a cavity 1226 extending between the fluid cavities 1220a and 1220b.

[0234] The fluid housing 1210 also includes a fluid control conduit 1230 that defines a fluid path 1232 along a conduit axis 1234 (e.g., the main axis of the fluid control conduit 1230). The fluid control conduit 1230 has a conduit inlet 1240 and a conduit outlet 1242, and fluidly connects fluid chambers 1220a and 1220b, thereby enabling fluid communication between fluid chambers 1220a and 1220b. The fluid control conduit 1230 is configured to have a predetermined flow geometry to define a linear fluid flow path along the main axis.

[0235] In use, fluid flows in through fluid port 1222a, where it flows along fluid path 1224a. The fluid flow is then redirected to flow along fluid path 1232, which is not parallel to fluid path 1224a. The fluid flow exiting fluid control conduit 1230 is redirected to flow along fluid path 1224b, which is also not parallel to fluid control conduit 1230.

[0236] The fluid control conduit 1230 has a predetermined flowable area 1236 and shape (e.g., square, tapered, and / or curved edges, parallel or tapered walls to influence fluid flow behavior). In some embodiments, the fluid housing 1210 can be used in many applications, and the fluid control conduit 1230 can be an interchangeable dedicated sub-component (e.g., an adapter) that can adapt the USFM system 1200 to a specific fluid type, application, and / or operating conditions.

[0237] A set of fluid seals 1238 are arranged to provide a sealing contact between the fluid control conduit 1230 and the fluid housing 1210. The fluid seals 1238 are configured to prevent fluid leakage parallel to the flowable region 1236. In some embodiments, the fluid seals 1238 may suppress the propagation of vibrations between the fluid control conduit 1230 and the fluid housing 1210. In some embodiments, the fluid seals 1238 may modify the acoustic interface. For example, the fluid seals may buffer acoustic impedance mismatches that might otherwise occur when the fluid control conduit 1230 is arranged in direct contact with the fluid housing 1210 (e.g., the fluid control conduit 1230 may float within the fluid seals 1238 in the fluid housing 1210).

[0238] In some embodiments, the inner bore and / or outer surface of the fluid control conduit 1230 may be formed with geometric features configured to reduce measurement errors caused by the propagation of higher mode harmonics of the measurement signal frequency. For example, unwanted signal energy may be scattered and / or delayed by features such as knurling, pitting, threading, grooves, bumps, roughness, or any other suitable construction that can disperse, attenuate, or otherwise reduce the propagation of ultrasonic signals.

[0239] In some embodiments, the fluid control conduit 1230 may have a predetermined inner diameter-to-length ratio, which is selected to reduce measurement errors caused by the propagation of higher-order mode harmonics of the measurement signal frequency. For example, the fluid control conduit 1230 may be configured to have a predetermined diameter and length to have a predetermined fundamental frequency, and the ultrasonic sensor module 1202 may be placed at the pressure node of the fundamental frequency such that it receives wave energy at the fundamental frequency wavelength.

[0240] In some implementations, using the fluid control conduit 1230 as a modular fluid can allow for easy integration of various manufacturing methods and feature types into the design configuration, such as an integrated axisymmetric inlet flow regulator and / or an integrated axisymmetric outlet flow regulator. In some embodiments, the fluid control conduit 1230 may be configured as a removable internal housing with a predefined geometry to facilitate modularity and simplify maintenance and / or replacement.

[0241] Figure 13A This is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary ultrasonic flow measurement system 1300 having flow regulators 1350 and 1352. In some embodiments, the USFM system 1300 may be... Figure 1 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 Examples of ultrasonic flow measurement (USFM) systems 100, 1100, or 1200 variants.

[0242] The USFM system 1300 includes a fluid housing 1210 and two ultrasonic sensor modules 1202. Generally, the USFM system 1300 is a fluid flow conditioning device configured to provide ultrasonic flow sensing for conditioned fluid flow. The fluid housing 1210 is a generally tubular outer housing including axial fluid housing cavities 1220a and axial fluid housing cavities 1220b. A fluid port 1222a defines a fluid path 1224a connected to the fluid cavity 1220a. A fluid port 1222b defines a fluid path 1224b connected to the fluid cavity 1220b. The fluid housing 1210 also defines a cavity 1226 extending between the fluid cavities 1220a and 1220b.

[0243] The fluid housing 1210 also includes a fluid control conduit 1330 (e.g., a linear fluid conduit) defining a fluid path 1332 along a conduit axis 1334 (e.g., the main axis of the fluid control conduit 1330). The fluid control conduit 1330 has a conduit inlet 1340 and a conduit outlet 1342, and fluidly connects fluid chambers 1220a and 1220b, thereby enabling fluid communication between fluid chambers 1220a and 1220b. The fluid control conduit 1330 is configured to have a predetermined flow geometry to define a linear fluid flow path along the main axis. In some embodiments, the fluid control conduit 1330 may be configured as a removable internal housing to facilitate modularity and to facilitate and simplify maintenance and / or replacement.

[0244] USFM system 1300 includes a flow regulator 1350 in fluid communication with a catheter inlet 1340. USFM system 1300 also includes a flow regulator 1352 in fluid communication with a catheter outlet 1342. Flow regulator 1350 has a body 1370 having an end 1351 remote from the catheter inlet 1340 and an end 1353 opposite to the end 1351 and defining a flow regulator outlet.

[0245] Figure 13B This is a cylindrical projection (e.g., flattened, unfolded) view of an exemplary flow regulator 1350. A body 1370 (e.g., a housing, shell) surrounds a central cavity 1372. The body 1370 includes a set of orifices 1374 (e.g., holes, conduits) that fluidly connect the central cavity to the radially outer surface of the flow regulator 1350. Projection 1376 represents the radial position of the fluid port 1222a relative to the body 1370.

[0246] exist Figure 13A and Figure 13B In the illustrated example, the exemplary flow regulator 1350 is an axisymmetric flow regulator. For example, the flow regulator 1350 is generally cylindrical, and the arrangement of the orifices 1374 is symmetrical about the axis of the cylinder. In the illustrated example, the orifices 1374 are consistently circular or cylindrical. In some embodiments, the orifices 1374 can be formed in various sizes and / or have shapes other than circular or cylindrical. For example, some orifices 1374 may have a larger or smaller diameter than others. In other embodiments, some or all of the orifices may be formed as tubular conduits with a cross-section of circular, oval, elliptical, square, triangular, polyhedral, pseudo-random, or any suitable combination of these and / or other shapes. In some embodiments, the conduction length of the orifices 1374 may be smooth and uniform, or may be formed with other suitable shapes and / or roughness (e.g., straight and smooth, spiral and patterned, tapered and rough).

[0247] In the illustrated example, flow regulator 1352 has a form substantially the same as that of exemplary flow regulator 1350. Flow regulator 1352 has a body 1370' having an end 1357 remote from catheter outlet 1342, and an end 1355 opposite to end 1357 and defining a fluid regulator inlet. In some embodiments, the flow regulator at the catheter inlet (e.g., catheter inlet 1340) may be the same as or a mirror image of the flow regulator at the catheter outlet (e.g., catheter outlet 1342). In some other embodiments, the flow regulator at the catheter inlet (e.g., catheter inlet 1340) may differ from the flow regulator at the catheter outlet (e.g., catheter outlet 1342), as will be explained in the following description. Figures 15A-18C As discussed in the description.

[0248] Figure 14A This is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary ultrasonic flow measurement system 1400 having flow regulators 1450 and 1452. In some embodiments, the USFM system 1400 may be Figure 1 as well as Figures 11-13B Examples of ultrasonic flow measurement (USFM) system variants 100, 1100, 1200 or 1300.

[0249] The structure of the exemplary USFM 1400 is generally similar to that of the exemplary USFM system 1300, except that flow regulators 1350 and 1352 are replaced by flow regulators 1450 and 1452. Flow regulator 1450 is in fluid communication with conduit inlet 1340, and flow regulator 1452 is in fluid communication with conduit inlet 1342. Flow regulator 1450 has a body 1470, which has an end 1451 remote from conduit inlet 1340 and an end 1453 opposite to end 1451.

[0250] Figure 14B This is a cylindrical projection (e.g., flattened, unfolded) view of an exemplary flow regulator 1450. A body 1470 (e.g., a housing, shell) surrounds a central cavity 1472. The body 1470 includes a set of orifices 1474 (e.g., holes, conduits) that fluidly connect the central cavity to the radially outer surface of the flow regulator 1450. Projection 1476 represents the radial position of the fluid port 1222a relative to the body 1470.

[0251] exist Figure 14A and 14B In the illustrated example, the exemplary flow regulator 1450 is an axisymmetric flow regulator. For example, the flow regulator 1450 is generally cylindrical, and the arrangement of the orifices 1474 is symmetrical about the axis of the cylinder.

[0252] In the illustrated example, flow regulator 1452 has a substantially similar form to the exemplary flow regulator 1450. In some embodiments, the flow regulator at the catheter inlet (e.g., catheter inlet 1340) may be the same as or a mirror image of the flow regulator at the catheter outlet (e.g., catheter outlet 1342). In some other embodiments, the flow regulator at the catheter inlet (e.g., catheter inlet 1340) may differ from the flow regulator at the catheter outlet (e.g., catheter outlet 1342), as will be described below. Figures 15A-15C As discussed in the description.

[0253] Figure 15A This is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary ultrasonic flow measurement system 1500 having flow regulators 1550 and 1552. In some embodiments, the USFM system 1500 may be Figure 1 as well as Figures 11-14B Examples of ultrasonic flow measurement (USFM) system variants 100, 1100, 1200, 1300 or 1400.

[0254] The structure of the exemplary USFM system 1500 is generally similar to that of the exemplary USFM system 1300, except that flow regulators 1350 and 1352 are replaced by flow regulators 1550 and 1552. Flow regulator 1550 is in fluid communication with conduit inlet 1340, and flow regulator 1552 is in fluid communication with conduit inlet 1340. Flow regulator 1550 has a body 1570 having an end 1551 remote from conduit inlet 1340 and an end 1553 opposite to end 1551. Flow regulator 1550 also includes a contoured profile 1580 tapering toward end 1553.

[0255] Figure 15B This is a cylindrical projection (e.g., flattened, unfolded) view of an exemplary flow regulator 1550. A body 1570 (e.g., a housing, shell) surrounds a central cavity 1572. The body 1570 includes a set of orifices 1574 (e.g., holes, conduits) that fluidly connect the central cavity to the radially outer surface of the flow regulator 1550. Projection 1576 represents the radial position of the fluid port 1222a relative to the body 1570.

[0256] exist Figure 15A and 15B In the illustrated example, the exemplary flow regulator 1550 is an axisymmetric flow regulator. For example, the flow regulator 1550 is generally cylindrical, and the arrangement of the orifices 1574 is symmetrical about the axis of the cylinder.

[0257] In the illustrated example, the flow regulator 1552 has a different form than the exemplary flow regulator 1550. The flow regulator 1550 has a body 1570 with an end 1557 located away from the conduit outlet 1342 and an end 1555 opposite to the end 1557. The flow regulator 1552 also includes a shaped profile 1581 tapering towards the end 1555. To promote hydrodynamic axisymmetry, the flow regulator 1552 has been configured to resist inlet / outlet coring asymmetry to promote symmetrical fuel velocity distribution.

[0258] In some embodiments, the flow regulator at the catheter inlet (e.g., catheter inlet 1340) may be the same as or a mirror image of the flow regulator at the catheter outlet (e.g., catheter outlet 1342), as previously described. Figures 13A-14B As discussed in the description.

[0259] Figure 15C This is a cylindrical projection view of an exemplary flow regulator 1552. A body 1570' surrounds a central cavity 1572'. The body 1570' includes a set of orifices 1574' that fluidly connect the central cavity to the radially outer surface of the flow regulator 1552. Projection 1576' represents the radial position of the fluid port 1222b relative to the body 1570'.

[0260] exist Figure 15A and 15C In the illustrated example, the exemplary flow regulator 1552 is an axisymmetric flow regulator. For example, the flow regulator 1552 is generally cylindrical, and the arrangement of the orifices 1574' is asymmetrical about the axis of the cylinder. Axial asymmetry can be introduced into the flow body to induce and promote axisymmetric fluid velocity distribution. The interaction of the flow body with the inlet and outlet cores introduces asymmetry in the USFM system 1500. This asymmetry at the inlet and outlet to the flow body produces asymmetric hydrodynamic behavior, similar to a nozzle baffle under non-unloaded conditions.

[0261] In the illustrated example, the flow regulator 1552 has a different form than the exemplary flow regulator 1550. In some embodiments, the flow regulator at the catheter inlet (e.g., catheter inlet 1340) may be the same as or a mirror image of the flow regulator at the catheter outlet (e.g., catheter outlet 1342), as shown in... Figures 13A-14B As discussed in the description.

[0262] In some embodiments (e.g., to further promote flow velocity symmetry), a flow profiled in the form of a curve can be incorporated into the geometry of the flow body. For example, S-shaped and logarithmic flow shaping features can be integrated at the inlet and outlet of the flow body. In some embodiments, the curve profile can improve the performance of the USFM system 1500. For example, it can improve flow symmetry at the transducer surface (e.g., time-transfer symmetry, where the integral average velocity can be centered within the flow body and velocity-matched across the flow domain), improve cavitation control, reduce flow vortices, increase the correction factor across the entire flow range, and make the minimum and maximum flow velocity distributions more consistent (e.g., thereby reducing the derivative of the Re-related K-factor).

[0263] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary ultrasonic flow measurement system 1600 having flow regulators 1650 and 1652. In some embodiments, the USFM system 1600 may be Figure 1 as well as Figures 11-15C Examples of ultrasonic flow measurement (USFM) system variants 100, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400 or 1500.

[0264] The structure of instance USFM system 1600 is roughly similar to that of instance USFM system 1500, except that flow regulator 1552 is replaced by flow regulator 1652, and flow regulator 1650 can be... Figures 15A-15B An example flow regulator 1550 is provided. A fluid housing 1610 includes a fluid port 1622a (e.g., a fluid inlet) providing a fluid path 1624a (e.g., an inlet fluid flow path) connected to a fluid cavity 1620a. A fluid port 1622b (e.g., a fluid regulator outlet) defines a fluid path 1624b (e.g., an outlet fluid flow path) connected to a fluid cavity 1620b. The fluid housing 1610 also defines a cavity 1626 extending between fluid cavities 1620a and 1620b. The fluid housing 1610 includes a fluid control conduit 1630 defining a linear fluid flow path 1632 along a conduit axis 1634 (e.g., the main axis of the fluid control conduit 1630). The fluid control conduit 1630 has a conduit inlet 1640 and a conduit outlet 1642 and fluidly connects fluid cavities 1620a and 1620b, thereby providing fluid communication between fluid cavities 1620a and 1620b.

[0265] The flow regulator 1650 has a body 1670, which has an end 1651 remote from the conduit inlet 1640 and an end 1653 opposite to the end 1651. The body 1670 (e.g., a housing, a shell) surrounds a central cavity 1672. The body 1670 includes a set of orifices 1673 (e.g., holes, conduits) that fluidly connect the central cavity to the radially outer surface of the flow regulator 1650.

[0266] In use, fluid flows in through fluid port 1622a, where it flows along fluid path 1624a. The fluid flow is redirected to flow along a linear fluid flow path 1632 that is not parallel to fluid path 1624a. The fluid flow exiting fluid control conduit 1630 is redirected to flow along a fluid path 1624b that is also not parallel to fluid control conduit 1630.

[0267] The fluid control conduit 1630 has a predetermined flowable area 1636 and shape (e.g., square, tapered, and / or curved edges, parallel or tapered walls to influence fluid flow behavior). In some embodiments, the fluid housing 1610 can be used in many applications, and the fluid control conduit 1630 can be an interchangeable dedicated sub-component (e.g., an adapter) that can adapt the USFM system 1600 to a specific fluid type, application, and / or operating conditions.

[0268] A set of fluid seals 1638 are arranged to provide a sealing contact between the fluid control conduit 1630 and the fluid housing 1610. The fluid seals 1638 are configured to prevent fluid leakage parallel to the flowable region 1636. In some embodiments, the fluid seals 1638 may suppress the propagation of vibrations between the fluid control conduit 1630 and the fluid housing 1610. In some embodiments, the fluid seals 1638 may modify the acoustic interface. For example, the fluid seals may buffer acoustic impedance mismatches that might otherwise occur when the fluid control conduit 1630 is arranged in direct contact with the fluid housing 1610 (e.g., the fluid control conduit 1630 may float within the fluid seals 1638 in the fluid housing 1610).

[0269] The fluid control conduit 1630 includes a shaped profile 1681 comprising a tubular converging portion 1660a having a predefined geometry proximal to the conduit outlet 1642. The tubular converging portion 1660a is configured to partially restrict fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path 1632. The shaped profile 1681 of the fluid control conduit 1630 also includes a tubular diverging portion 1660b having a predefined geometry proximal to the conduit outlet 1642 and configured to partially expand the fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path 1632.

[0270] In some embodiments, the inner bore and / or outer surface of the fluid control conduit 1630 may be formed with geometric features configured to reduce measurement errors caused by the propagation of higher-order mode harmonics of the measurement signal frequency. For example, unwanted signal energy may be scattered and / or delayed by features such as knurling, pitting, threading, grooves, bumps, roughness, or any other suitable construction that may disperse, attenuate, or otherwise reduce the propagation of ultrasonic signals.

[0271] In some embodiments, the fluid control conduit 1630 may have a predetermined inner diameter-to-length ratio, which is selected to reduce measurement errors caused by the propagation of higher-order mode harmonics of the measurement signal frequency. For example, the fluid control conduit 1630 may be configured to have a predetermined diameter and length to have a predetermined fundamental frequency, and the ultrasonic sensor module 1202 may be placed at the pressure node of the fundamental frequency such that it receives wave energy at the fundamental frequency wavelength.

[0272] In some implementations, using the fluid control conduit 1630 as a modular fluid can allow for easy integration of various manufacturing methods and feature types into the design configuration, such as an integrated axisymmetric inlet flow regulator and / or an integrated axisymmetric outlet flow regulator. In some embodiments, the fluid control conduit 1630 can be configured as a removable internal housing with a predefined geometry to facilitate modularity and simplify maintenance and / or replacement.

[0273] The flow regulator 1652 has a tubular body 1670 with an end 1657 remote from the conduit outlet 1642 and a longitudinal end 1655 opposite to the end 1657. The regulator outlet 1674 is arranged circumferentially around the tubular body 1670. The longitudinal end 1655 defines a regulator inlet 1676 proximal to the conduit outlet 1642. The end 1657 defines an impact surface configured to radially redirect the impact fluid flow along the conduit axis 1634 toward the regulator outlet 1674, as indicated by arrow 1690. The impact fluid flow impacts along the conduit axis 1634 in a first direction and is redirected in a second direction at least partially opposite to the first direction. In the illustrated example, the tubular body 1670 defines a cavity 1678 configured to act as a hydraulic dam or a hydraulic circulator jump. In the illustrated example, cavity 1678 is defined with a slightly mushroom- or umbrella-like concave shape to form a cylindrical diverging serpentine flow path, which causes the flow along the linear fluid flow path 1632 to make a near or full 180-degree turn before it leaves the regulator outlet 1674.

[0274] The fluid housing 1610 also defines an outlet conduit 1680, which defines a fluid path 1624b. Figures 17A-17B The description of outlet conduit 1680 is more detailed.

[0275] Figure 17A yes Figure 16 A perspective view of an example ultrasonic flow measurement system 1600. Figure 17B yes Figure 16 A cross-sectional end view of an exemplary ultrasonic flow measurement system 1600 is shown. In the illustrated example, the outlet conduit 1642 has a flowable cross-sectional area 1710 perpendicular to the flow path 1624b. The outlet end 1720 is arranged proximal to the fluid port 1622b and has a flowable cross-sectional area 1722 perpendicular to the flow path 1624b, smaller than the flowable cross-sectional area 1710. The outlet conduit 1642 has another outlet end 1730 opposite to the outlet end 1720 and also has a tapered tubular conduit portion 1750 defining a cavity 1760, which has a flowable cross-sectional area 1710 proximal to the outlet end 1730 and tapers to a flowable cross-sectional area 1722 proximal to the outlet end 1720.

[0276] Figure 18A Show Figure 16 A cross-sectional side view of an instance computational fluid dynamics model of an instance USFM system. Figure 18B Show Figure 16 A cross-sectional top view of an instance computational fluid dynamics model of an instance USFM system. Figure 18C Show Figure 16 Local cross-sectional isometric view of an instance of the computational fluid dynamics model of an instance of the USFM system.

[0277] Flow is modeled based on a fluid flow velocity of 100 feet per second. For example... Figures 18A-18C As shown, the flow exhibits significantly improved regulation. Figures 18A-18C The exemplary flow behavior shown can be attributed at least in part to the effect of flow regulators 1550 and 1652 on the fluid flow through the USFM system 1600.

[0278] Many instance flow regulator configurations have been developed by Figure 13A-18C The diagram shows that... Figures 13A-18C This will be discussed in the description. However, the flow regulator configuration is not limited to the examples illustrated. Flow regulators with different diameters, lengths, shapes, central cavity configurations, orifice sizes, orifice shapes, orifice arrangements, materials, layering, sub-configurations, and any other suitable combinations of these flow regulating configurations can be used.

[0279] Figure 19 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process 1900 for regulating fluid flow in an exemplary ultrasonic flow measurement system. In some embodiments, process 1900 may be combined with... Figures 13A-18C Any of the instantiated USFM systems 1300, 1400, 1500, and 1600 and Figures 13A-18C Use any of the instance flow regulator configurations shown.

[0280] At 1910, a fluid flow along the first fluid flow path is received. For example, fluid may flow into the USFM system 1600 along fluid path 1624a through fluid port 1622a.

[0281] At 1920, the fluid flow is regulated by allowing the fluid flow to pass through the first regulator inlet of the first fluid flow regulator. For example, the fluid flow flows from the fluid chamber 1620a through the flow regulator 1650 to the conduit inlet 1640.

[0282] In some embodiments, the first fluid flow regulator may be a second tubular body extending between a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end opposite to the first longitudinal end, wherein a first regulator inlet may be arranged along the second tubular body, and the second longitudinal end may define a first regulator outlet. For example, the flow regulator 1650 has a body 1670 having an end 1651 remote from the conduit inlet 1640, and an end 1653 opposite to the end 1651 and defining a fluid flow regulator outlet.

[0283] In some embodiments, the first regulator inlet may include a set of ports radially extending through the second tubular body, and regulating the fluid flow by allowing fluid flow through the first regulator inlet of the first fluid flow regulator may include allowing the fluid flow through the set of ports. For example, fluid may flow into the flow regulator 1650 through orifice 1673.

[0284] At 1930, the first fluid flow regulator moves away from the first fluid flow path and redirects the fluid flow toward a linear fluid flow path. For example, flow regulator 1550 moves away from fluid path 1624a and redirects the fluid flow toward fluid path 1632. In the illustrated example, the redirection is approximately 90 degrees, but in other examples, the fluid flow regulator may cause any other suitable redirection of the flow (e.g., 45 degrees, 60 degrees, 5 degrees, 85 degrees, 135 degrees, 150 degrees, 95 degrees, 175 degrees).

[0285] At 1940, the fluid flows along a linear fluid flow path past the outlet of the first regulator. For example, the fluid can exit through end 1653, which defines the outlet of the flow regulator 1650.

[0286] At 1950, fluid flows along a linear fluid flow path through a fluid conduit having a first tubular body extending from a conduit inlet to a conduit outlet arranged opposite to the inlet, and is configured to have a predetermined flow geometry. For example, fluid may flow along a fluid control conduit 1630.

[0287] At 1960, the fluid flows along a linear fluid flow path through the second regulator inlet of the second fluid flow regulator. For example, fluid can flow from the conduit outlet 1642 through the end 1655.

[0288] At 1970, the fluid flow is redirected away from the linear fluid flow path and toward the second fluid flow path by a second fluid flow regulator. For example, flow regulator 1652 can redirect the flow away from fluid path 1632 and toward fluid path 1624b.

[0289] In some embodiments, redirecting the fluid flow away from and toward the linear fluid flow path via the second fluid flow regulator may include causing the fluid flow to pass through a first longitudinal end of the second fluid flow regulator, wherein the second fluid flow regulator may include a second tubular body extending between the first longitudinal end defining the inlet of the second regulator and a second longitudinal end opposite the first longitudinal end; causing the fluid flow along the main axis of the linear fluid conduit to impinge on an impingement surface of the second longitudinal end; and redirecting the impingement fluid flow radially away from the linear fluid flow path toward a second regulator outlet arranged circumferentially around the second tubular body. For example, fluid exiting conduit outlet 1642 may impinge on end 1657 and be redirected by end 1657, and redirected toward regulator outlet 1674.

[0290] In some embodiments, the impinging fluid flow may impinge along the main axis in a first direction, and redirecting the impinging fluid flow may include redirecting the impinging fluid flow in a second direction at least partially opposite to the first direction. For example, the flow along the conduit axis 1634 may be redirected by nearly 180 degrees from the end 1657 (e.g., as indicated by arrow 1690).

[0291] At 1980, the fluid flow is regulated by causing the fluid flow through the second regulator outlet of the second fluid flow regulator. For example, fluid can flow toward fluid port 1622b through flow regulator 1652.

[0292] In some embodiments, the second fluid flow regulator may include a second tubular body extending between a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end opposite to the first longitudinal end, wherein a second regulator outlet is disposed along the second tubular body and a second regulator inlet is disposed proximal to the conduit outlet. For example, flow regulator 1652 has a body 1670 having an end 1657 remote from the conduit outlet 1642 and an end 1655 opposite to the end 1657 and defining a fluid flow regulator inlet.

[0293] In some embodiments, process 1900 may include partially restricting the fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path by means of a tubular converging portion having a predefined geometry proximal to the conduit outlet via the second fluid flow regulator. In some embodiments, process 1900 may include partially expanding the fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path by means of a tubular diverging portion having a predefined geometry proximal to the conduit outlet via the second fluid flow regulator. For example, the USFM system 1600 includes a converging portion 1660a and a diverging portion 1660b.

[0294] In some embodiments, process 1900 includes an impacting fluid flow that may impact along the main axis in a first direction, and redirecting the impacting fluid flow may include redirecting the impacting fluid flow in a second direction that is at least partially opposite to the first direction.

[0295] In some embodiments, process 1900 may further include: transmitting an ultrasonic signal along the linear fluid flow path through the first regulator outlet, the fluid conduit, and the second regulator inlet; receiving the ultrasonic signal through the second regulator inlet; and determining the mass flow rate and / or volumetric flow rate of the fluid flow based on the received ultrasonic signal. For example, ultrasonic sensor module 1202 may transmit and receive ultrasonic signals oriented along the fluid path 1632 and the conduit axis 1634.

[0296] In some embodiments, process 1900 may include at least one of transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals along the linear fluid flow path through the first regulator outlet and the fluid conduit via an ultrasonic transducer, wherein the first fluid flow regulator further includes the ultrasonic transducer disposed proximal to the first longitudinal end. For example, one of the ultrasonic sensor modules 1202 is disposed at end 1651 of the flow regulator 1650 such that the transmitted signal is directed out of end 1653 and guided along the conduit axis 1634 (e.g., the signal is transmitted downstream relative to the fluid flow).

[0297] In some embodiments, process 1900 may include at least one of transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals along the linear fluid flow path through the outlet of the second regulator and the fluid conduit via an ultrasonic transducer, wherein the second fluid flow regulator includes the ultrasonic transducer disposed proximal to the second longitudinal end. For example, one of the ultrasonic sensor modules 1202 is disposed at end 1657 of the flow regulator 1652 such that the transmitted signal is directed out of end 1655 and guided along the conduit axis 1634 (e.g., the signal is transmitted upstream relative to the fluid flow).

[0298] In some embodiments, such as flow sensors focused on aerospace, flow meter designs may have to meet size, weight, and performance constraints (e.g., aircraft UFSMs may need to be compact, lightweight, and robust to cope with challenging L / D configurations around key components). Figures 13A-18C The exemplary USFM systems 1300, 1400, 1500, and 1600 offer advantages over known technologies in the field of ultrasonic flow meters, particularly in axial configurations. For example, the exemplary USFM systems 1300, 1400, 1500, and 1600 can be implemented as integrated upstream and downstream flow regulators (e.g., compact designs) that reduce or eliminate the need for significant uninterrupted pipe lengths upstream and downstream of the flow, and the streamlined shaping features (e.g., Venturi tubes, S-shaped features, logarithmic features) of the active flow regulator after the uninterrupted pipe lengths can reduce or eliminate the need for smooth bends in the flow meter. In some embodiments, other advantages of modular fluids can be realized to improve flow sensors, such as: improved modularity / scalability, the ability to achieve specific flow range targets by adjusting fluid limits (e.g., if an application requires a slightly higher fuel flow range, the inner diameter of the fluid can be increased to meet application needs without redesigning the entire flow sensor and / or without replacing the transducer); Murphy proofing and clocking features; field-replaceable fluids; improved durability over time; the ability to replace the core rather than the entire housing; and / or an integrated circuit replaceable unit approach.

[0299] In some embodiments, exemplary USFM systems 1300, 1400, 1500, and 1600 may provide improved cavitation control and / or improved acoustic characteristic control. For example, an integral flow tube with an inner diameter-to-length ratio may be specifically selected to reduce measurement errors caused by the propagation of higher-order mode harmonics (HMHs) at the measurement signal frequency. In another example, an integral flow tube with an inner bore having embossed geometry such as knurling, pitting, threading, grooves, or bumps may be specifically selected to reduce measurement errors caused by the propagation of HMHs at the measurement signal frequency by scattering and / or delaying unwanted signal energy. In yet another example, the integral flow tube may be configured to have an inner bore having one or more layers or coatings of material having specific thickness and acoustic properties of sound velocity, density, and / or impedance relative to the flow tube material and / or other layers, each selected to reduce measurement errors caused by the propagation of HMHs at the measurement signal frequency based on the absorption and / or refraction of unwanted signal energy away from the acoustic measurement path. For example, a linear fluid conduit may be configured to attenuate ultrasonic signals.

[0300] In some embodiments, the exemplary USFM systems 1300, 1400, 1500, and 1600 can be precision machined. For example, the modular construction of the exemplary USFM systems 1300, 1400, 1500, and 1600 can facilitate improved honing, surface smoothness control, and / or feature-forming capabilities of their components during manufacturing.

[0301] While some embodiments have been described in detail above, other variations are possible. Furthermore, the logical flow illustrated in the figures does not require the specific order or sequence shown to achieve the desired result. Additionally, 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 embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A fluid flow regulating device, comprising: A linear fluid conduit having a first tubular body defining a main axis and extending from a conduit inlet to a conduit outlet arranged opposite to the conduit inlet, and configured to have a predetermined flow geometry to define a linear fluid flow path along the main axis; A fluid inlet, wherein the fluid inlet defines an inlet fluid flow path that is not parallel to the linear fluid flow path; A first fluid flow regulator, having a first regulator inlet in fluid communication with the fluid inlet and a first regulator outlet in fluid communication with the conduit inlet, and configured to... Receive fluid flow through the inlet of the first regulator along the inlet fluid flow path. The fluid flow is regulated through the inlet of the first regulator, and The regulated fluid flow is redirected away from the inlet fluid flow path and along the linear fluid flow path along the main axis through the first regulator outlet; A second fluid flow regulator, having a second regulator inlet in fluid communication with the conduit outlet and a second regulator outlet, and configured to... Receive fluid flow from the linear fluid flow path along the main axis. The redirected fluid flow moves away from the linear fluid flow path and through the second regulator outlet along an outlet fluid flow path that is not parallel to the linear fluid flow path. The fluid flow is regulated by the outlet of the second regulator; A fluid outlet configured to receive a fluid flow from the outlet of the second regulator; as well as Two ultrasonic sensor modules are configured as follows: Ultrasonic signals are transmitted along the linear fluid flow path through the first regulator outlet, the linear fluid conduit, and the second regulator inlet; The ultrasonic signal is received through the second regulator inlet; as well as The mass flow rate and volumetric flow rate of the fluid flow are determined based on the received ultrasonic signals. The second fluid flow regulator includes A tubular converging portion, having a predefined geometry proximal to the conduit outlet and configured to partially restrict fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path, and A tubular diverging portion having a predefined geometry proximal to the outlet of the conduit and configured to partially expand the fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path.

2. The fluid flow regulating device of claim 1, wherein the first fluid flow regulator includes a second tubular body extending between a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end opposite to the first longitudinal end, wherein the first regulator inlet is arranged along the second tubular body, and the second longitudinal end defines the first regulator outlet.

3. The fluid flow regulating device according to claim 2, wherein the first regulator inlet includes a plurality of ports radially extending through the second tubular body.

4. The fluid flow regulating device according to claim 2, wherein one of the ultrasonic sensor modules is arranged proximal to the first longitudinal end.

5. The fluid flow regulating device according to claim 2, wherein one of the ultrasonic sensor modules is arranged proximal to the second longitudinal end.

6. The fluid flow regulating device according to claim 3, wherein one of the ultrasonic sensor modules is arranged proximal to the first longitudinal end.

7. The fluid flow regulating device according to claim 3, wherein one of the ultrasonic sensor modules is arranged proximal to the second longitudinal end.

8. The fluid flow regulating device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the second fluid flow regulator includes a second tubular body extending between a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end opposite to the first longitudinal end, wherein the second regulator outlet is arranged circumferentially around the second tubular body, and the first longitudinal end defines the second regulator inlet, and the second longitudinal end includes an impact surface configured to radially deviate from the linear fluid flow path and redirect the impact fluid flow along the main axis toward the second regulator outlet.

9. The fluid flow regulating device of claim 8, wherein the impact fluid flow impacts along the main axis in a first direction, and the redirection of the impact fluid flow includes redirecting the impact fluid flow in a second direction at least partially opposite to the first direction.

10. The fluid flow regulating device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the second regulator outlet has a first flowable cross-sectional area perpendicular to the outlet fluid flow path, and the fluid outlet comprises: A first outlet end, which is located near the outlet of the second regulator and has a second flowable cross-sectional area that is smaller than the first flowable cross-sectional area and is perpendicular to the flow path of the outlet fluid. The second outlet end is opposite to the first outlet end; as well as A tapered tubular conduit portion defining a lumen, the lumen having a first flowable cross-sectional area proximal to the second outlet end and tapering to a second flowable cross-sectional area proximal to the first outlet end.

11. A method for regulating fluid flow, comprising: Receive the fluid flow along the first fluid flow path; The fluid flow is regulated by causing the fluid flow to pass through the first regulator inlet of the first fluid flow regulator; The fluid flow is redirected away from the first fluid flow path and toward a linear fluid flow path by the first fluid flow regulator; The fluid flow is directed to flow along the linear fluid flow path through the outlet of the first regulator; The fluid flow is directed along the linear fluid flow path through a fluid conduit having a first tubular body extending from a conduit inlet to a conduit outlet arranged opposite to the conduit inlet, and configured to have a predetermined flow geometry. The fluid flow is directed to flow along the linear fluid flow path through the second regulator inlet of the second fluid flow regulator; The second fluid flow regulator partially restricts the fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path by having a tubular converging portion with a predefined geometry near the outlet of the conduit. The fluid flow along the linear fluid flow path is partially expanded by a tubular diverging portion with a predefined geometry near the outlet of the conduit by the second fluid flow regulator. The fluid flow is redirected away from the linear fluid flow path and toward the second fluid flow path by the second fluid flow regulator; The fluid flow is regulated by causing the fluid flow to pass through the second regulator outlet of the second fluid flow regulator; Ultrasonic signals are transmitted along the linear fluid flow path through the first regulator outlet, the fluid conduit, and the second regulator inlet; The ultrasonic signal is received through the second regulator inlet; as well as The mass flow rate and volumetric flow rate of the fluid flow are determined based on the received ultrasonic signals.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the first fluid flow regulator includes a second tubular body extending between a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end opposite to the first longitudinal end, wherein the first regulator inlet is arranged along the second tubular body, and the second longitudinal end defines the first regulator outlet.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the first regulator inlet includes a plurality of ports radially extending through the second tubular body, and regulating the fluid flow by allowing the fluid flow to pass through the first regulator inlet of the first fluid flow regulator further includes allowing the fluid flow to pass through the plurality of ports.

14. The method of claim 12 or 13, further comprising at least one of: transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals along the linear fluid flow path through the first regulator outlet and the fluid conduit via an ultrasonic transducer, wherein the first fluid flow regulator further comprises the ultrasonic transducer disposed proximal to the first longitudinal end.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein redirecting the fluid flow away from the linear fluid flow path and toward the second fluid flow path via the second fluid flow regulator comprises: The fluid flow is made to flow through a first longitudinal end of the second fluid flow regulator, wherein the second fluid flow regulator includes a second tubular body extending between the first longitudinal end defining the inlet of the second regulator and a second longitudinal end opposite to the first longitudinal end; The fluid flow along the main axis of the fluid conduit impacts the impact surface at the second longitudinal end; and The impinging fluid flow is radially away from the linear fluid flow path and redirected along the main axis toward the second regulator outlet, which is arranged circumferentially around the second tubular body.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the impacting fluid flow impacts along the main axis in a first direction, and reorienting the impacting fluid flow includes reorienting the impacting fluid flow in a second direction at least partially opposite to the first direction.

17. The method of claim 15, further comprising at least one of the following: transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals along the linear fluid flow path through the outlet of the second regulator and the fluid conduit via an ultrasonic transducer, wherein the second fluid flow regulator further comprises the ultrasonic transducer disposed proximal to the second longitudinal end.

18. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising causing the fluid flow from the second regulator outlet of the second fluid flow regulator to flow along the second fluid flow path through a fluid outlet, wherein the second regulator outlet has a first flowable cross-sectional area perpendicular to the second fluid flow path, and the fluid outlet comprises: A first outlet end, which is located near the outlet of the second regulator and has a second flowable cross-sectional area that is smaller than the first flowable cross-sectional area and is perpendicular to the second fluid flow path. The second outlet end is opposite to the first outlet end; as well as A tapered tubular conduit portion defining a lumen, the lumen having a first flowable cross-sectional area proximal to the second outlet end and tapering to a second flowable cross-sectional area proximal to the first outlet end.

19. The method of claim 14, wherein redirecting the fluid flow away from the linear fluid flow path and toward the second fluid flow path via the second fluid flow regulator comprises: The fluid flow is made to flow through a first longitudinal end of the second fluid flow regulator, wherein the second fluid flow regulator includes a second tubular body extending between the first longitudinal end defining the inlet of the second regulator and a second longitudinal end opposite to the first longitudinal end; The fluid flow along the main axis of the fluid conduit impacts the impact surface at the second longitudinal end; and The impinging fluid flow is radially away from the linear fluid flow path and redirected along the main axis toward the second regulator outlet, which is arranged circumferentially around the second tubular body.

20. The method of claim 14, further comprising causing the fluid flow from the second regulator outlet of the second fluid flow regulator to flow along the second fluid flow path through a fluid outlet, wherein the second regulator outlet has a first flowable cross-sectional area perpendicular to the second fluid flow path, and the fluid outlet comprises: A first outlet end, which is located near the outlet of the second regulator and has a second flowable cross-sectional area that is smaller than the first flowable cross-sectional area and is perpendicular to the second fluid flow path. The second outlet end is opposite to the first outlet end; as well as A tapered tubular conduit portion defining a lumen, the lumen having a first flowable cross-sectional area proximal to the second outlet end and tapering to a second flowable cross-sectional area proximal to the first outlet end.

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