Coriolis Flowmeter Sensor Series Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Coriolis mass flowmeters face challenges in achieving high measurement accuracy while minimizing space requirements, particularly in process automation where limited space is a constraint, and existing solutions often complicate installation and disturb the medium flow with protruding elements.
Innovation Solution
The strain gauge element and temperature measuring element are electrically connected in series, allowing for voltage drop measurement across individual sensor elements with a center tap, which enhances measurement accuracy and reduces space requirements by avoiding additional electrical lines and simplifying installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate strain gauge and temperature sensors are used with individual electrical connections, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the strain gauge element and temperature measuring element into a single integrated sensor assembly that shares common electrical connections. The strain gauge bridges are electrically connected in parallel, allowing both measurement functions to be achieved through a unified electrical interface rather than separate connection systems, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor assembly serves multiple measurement functions simultaneously - both strain measurement for flow detection and temperature measurement for compensation purposes - through a single integrated structure with shared electrical connections. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated connection systems for each sensor type.
2Measurement precision
If multiple separate sensors with individual electrical lines are installed, then measurement accuracy is improved, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the strain gauge and temperature sensors into a compact integrated assembly that occupies minimal space. By combining multiple sensing functions into a single physical unit with shared mounting and electrical interfaces, the overall space requirement is significantly reduced compared to installing separate sensors with individual connection systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The temperature measuring element is positioned within or adjacent to the strain gauge structure, allowing the sensors to be nested or closely integrated. This nesting arrangement minimizes the total space occupied by the sensor assembly while maintaining the functionality of both measurement elements.
3Measurement precision
If strain gauges are temperature-compensated using bridge connections, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the temperature compensation function directly into the electrical connection structure of the strain gauge bridges. By electrically connecting the strain gauge and temperature sensors in parallel with shared connections, the system achieves temperature compensation through the inherent electrical characteristics of the combined sensor assembly rather than requiring separate complex compensation circuits.
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 configuration improves measurement accuracy by accounting for mechanical stresses and temperature effects without disturbing the medium flow, while reducing the number of electrical connections and space needed, making it suitable for compact designs.
Implementation Method 1
at least one strain measurement element for measuring mechanical stresses in the guide structure
Implementation Method 2
at least one temperature measuring element for measuring temperature effects on the guide structure
Implementation Method 3
at least one measuring tube through which a medium flows is excited by a vibration generator to oscillate
Implementation Method 4
Due to the Coriolis inertia force caused by two mutually orthogonal velocities - that of the flow and that of the measuring tube
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The meter (1) has a guide structure (2) in which a medium is flowable. Sensor elements (9) are provided for determining and monitoring a process variable that is applied to an outer surface of the guide structure. The sensor elements are partially arranged on a carrier element (12) and electrically connected in series with each other, where one of the sensor elements is a strain-measuring element (10) and the other sensor element is a temperature-measuring element. The guide structure is provided with measuring tubes (3).