Coriolis Flowmeter Multiplexer Position Verification

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional Coriolis mass flow meters require suspension of measurement operations to check the operating positions of multiplexers, leading to operational restrictions.

Innovation Solution

Phase-shift the first oscillation signal by a significant amount, such as 180°, and compare the phase difference with the actual phase shift to determine if multiplexers are in the correct operating position without interrupting the measurement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional multiplexer checking method is used, then operating position verification is achieved, but measurement operation must be suspended

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemultiplexer operating position verificationVSAvoidmeasurement operation continuity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by introducing a test signal before actual measurement to verify multiplexer operating positions. The test signal is fed through the multiplexers before switching to measurement mode, allowing verification of correct operating positions without interrupting subsequent measurement operations. This preliminary verification step ensures reliability while maintaining productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses a test signal as an intermediary to verify multiplexer operating positions. Instead of directly checking the measurement signal path which would interrupt measurement, a separate test signal is introduced as a mediator to perform the verification function. This intermediary approach allows operating position confirmation without affecting the continuity of actual measurement operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If measurement operation is suspended for multiplexer checking, then operating position accuracy is ensured, but operational efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemultiplexer operating position accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement interruption time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic action by continuously or regularly introducing test signals to verify multiplexer operating positions during operation. Rather than suspending measurement for verification, the system periodically checks operating positions using test signals while measurement continues. This periodic verification maintains measurement precision while minimizing time loss by not interrupting the measurement flow.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies continuity of useful action by maintaining measurement operations continuous while performing multiplexer verification in parallel using test signals. The verification process occurs concurrently with measurement rather than sequentially, ensuring that the useful measurement action continues without interruption. This approach preserves both measurement precision and operational efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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

Enables simultaneous detection of multiplexer operating positions during ongoing measurements, enhancing operational efficiency by avoiding interruptions.

Implementation Method 1

The mass flow of a medium through the measuring tube is determined by using the Coriolis effect. For this purpose, the measuring tube through which the medium flows is set into oscillation by at least one oscillation generator

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCoriolis effect: Coriolis Force

Data Source

PatentUS20250207962A1Method for operating a coriolis mass flowmeter and corresponding coriolis mass flowmeter
Publication Date: 2025.06.26 KROHNE MESSTECHNICK GMBH & CO KG
  • US20250207962A1 patent drawing
  • US20250207962A1 patent drawing
  • US20250207962A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for operating a Coriolis mass flow meter that has at least one measuring tube. A medium can flow through the measuring tube and an oscillation generator excites the measuring tube to oscillate. A first and second oscillation sensors capture the oscillations of the measuring tube on the inlet side and on the outlet side and provide them as a first oscillation signal and as a second oscillation signal. In order to be able to continue the measurement operating position of the first multiplexer and the second multiplexer at the same time as the test for the simultaneous measurement operating position, the first oscillation signal is phase-shifted by a phase shift and the phase-shifted first oscillation signal is transmitted at least indirectly to a control and evaluation unit.