Compact Flow Meter and Valve Integration for Tight Fluid Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid line systems require separate installation and maintenance of individual measuring and regulating devices, which occupy large installation space and increase complexity, cost, and susceptibility to defects.
Innovation Solution
A combined measuring and regulating device that integrates both functionalities into a single unit, with a total length of up to 110 mm, allowing for installation in existing fluid lines and reducing the need for additional infrastructure and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate individual measuring device and individual regulating device are installed in the fluid line, then both measuring and regulating functionalities are provided, but the installation space requirement increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the individual measuring device and individual regulating device into a single integrated unit. The measuring device includes an ultrasonic transducer for measuring fluid flow parameters, while the regulating device includes a valve mechanism for controlling fluid flow. Both functionalities are housed within a single compact body with a total length of at most 110 mm, eliminating the need for separate installations and reducing installation space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The combined device performs multiple functions within a single unit: it measures fluid flow parameters (volume, volume flow) using ultrasonic transducers and simultaneously regulates fluid flow using an integrated valve mechanism. This multi-functional design allows one device to replace what previously required two separate devices, thereby reducing installation space and system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate individual measuring device and individual regulating device are installed in the fluid line, then both measuring and regulating functionalities are provided, but the installation work and maintenance work increase
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the measuring and regulating functionalities into a single device with a unified housing and common mounting interface, the patent reduces the number of installation steps and maintenance operations. The combined device can be installed as one unit rather than two separate devices, and maintenance personnel need to service only one device instead of two, thereby reducing installation and maintenance effort.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate individual measuring device and individual regulating device are installed in the fluid line, then both measuring and regulating functionalities are provided, but the infrastructure complexity increases and susceptibility to defects increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for additional infrastructure such as separate mounting brackets, multiple connection pipes, and extensive cable routing by integrating both functionalities into one device. The unified housing contains all necessary components (ultrasonic transducers, valve mechanism, electronics) in a compact arrangement, reducing system complexity and potential failure points.
4Area of stationary object
If the combined measuring and regulating device is designed with compact dimensions, then installation space is reduced, but the internal arrangement of components becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the ultrasonic transducers and valve mechanism are positioned concentrically around the fluid flow path. The ultrasonic transducers are mounted on the housing walls facing each other across the flow channel, while the valve mechanism is integrated into the same housing space. This nested configuration maximizes space utilization and allows both components to coexist within the compact 110 mm length.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent arranges components in three-dimensional space around the fluid flow path rather than in a linear sequence. The ultrasonic transducers are positioned on opposite walls of the housing, creating a transverse measurement path perpendicular to the flow direction. The valve mechanism is integrated axially within the same housing volume. This spatial arrangement in multiple dimensions enables compact packaging while maintaining functional performance.
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
The combined device reduces installation space, maintenance effort, and potential defects while enabling efficient data exchange and early detection of fluid consumption irregularities, thus minimizing water damage and optimizing water supply management.
Implementation Method 1
The ultrasonic measuring unit (12) comprises two ultrasonic transducers (13)
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to a combined measuring and regulating device (1) for a fluid flowing through a fluid line (2), comprising a measuring device (3) and a regulating device (4), wherein the total length (5) of the device (1) along the longitudinal axis (6) of the device (1) is a maximum total length, in particular at most 100 mm to 120 mm, preferably at most 110 mm.