Acoustic Fluid Flow Measurement Using Distributed Transceivers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring fluid flow, particularly in non-Newtonian liquids, face challenges due to the need for intrusive sensors that alter flow dynamics and are not suitable for all industrial applications, lacking accuracy and versatility.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a plurality of transceivers distributed around the fluid flow to form multiple acoustic paths, allowing for non-intrusive velocity mapping by measuring time intervals and fitting them to models, which can also determine viscosity, shear rate, and shear stress with minimal disturbance to the flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If intrusive sensors are used to measure fluid flow, then measurement capability is achieved, but flow dynamics are altered and measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical intrusive sensors with acoustic wave-based measurement systems. Acoustic transducers transmit sound waves through the fluid flow to measure velocity profiles and derive viscosity, eliminating the need for physical insertion into the flow path. This substitution maintains measurement capability while avoiding flow disturbance and fouling issues associated with mechanical sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses acoustic waves as an intermediary medium to probe the fluid flow without direct physical contact. The acoustic waves interact with the flowing fluid to provide measurement information about velocity and viscosity, serving as a non-intrusive mediator that bridges the measurement need and the flowing fluid without disturbing its natural state.
2Measurement precision
If NMR spectrometer is used for inline measurements, then velocity profile measurement capability is achieved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs relatively simple and inexpensive acoustic transducers instead of complex and costly NMR spectrometers. The acoustic measurement system uses standard ultrasonic or acoustic wave generators and receivers that are commercially available, easier to install, and significantly less expensive than NMR equipment, while providing sufficient measurement capability for industrial fluid flow applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the complex NMR magnetic resonance measurement system with a simpler acoustic wave-based system. The acoustic transducers and signal processing required are far less complex than NMR instrumentation, reducing both device complexity and operational complexity while maintaining the ability to measure velocity profiles through the fluid flow.
3Measurement precision
If ultrasonic Doppler measurements are used, then fluid velocity measurement is achieved, but measurement versatility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enhances measurement versatility by using acoustic transducers that can measure not only fluid velocity but also derive viscosity, density, and other rheological properties from the acoustic wave interactions. The system can handle various flow types including laminar, turbulent, and non-Newtonian flows, making it universally applicable across different industrial fluid handling scenarios beyond what traditional Doppler ultrasonic meters provide.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach provides accurate and versatile fluid flow measurements with minimal disruption, enabling effective process control in various industrial applications by mapping flow velocities and rheological properties without intrusive methods.
Implementation Method 1
The transceivers are configured to transmit and receive acoustic signals through the fluid flow there between
Implementation Method 2
different time intervals are measured between respective times of transmitting and receiving the acoustic signals along the plurality of different acoustic paths
Implementation Method 3
ultrasonic based measurements are mentioned which typically rely on measuring the fluid velocity based on the Doppler shift
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for measuring a fluid flow comprise a plurality of transceivers disposed at predetermined locations distributed along a perimeter around the fluid flow. The transceivers transmit and receive acoustic signals through the fluid flow there between. A plurality of different acoustic paths through the fluid flow are formed between different transceiver pairs. Different time intervals are measured between respective times of transmitting and receiving the acoustic signals; and along the plurality of different acoustic paths. A velocity map of the fluid flow is calculated by fitting the measured different time intervals to a model of the fluid flow. The model of the fluid flow defines a velocity map with different flow velocities in a cross-section plane transverse to the fluid flow