Differential Pressure Meter With Segmented Sensing Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Differential pressure meters in heating and cooling systems have limited detection ranges, high minimum detectable differential pressure values, and poor resolution, making them inadequate for fine adjustments and integration with management systems, leading to potential flow losses and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A differential pressure meter with a wider detection range and lower minimum detectable differential pressure, capable of accurately measuring low flow rates, integrated with electronic control systems, and ensuring fluid-tightness to prevent flow losses, featuring a sensitive element that deforms in response to pressure differences to generate precise feedback signals for flow regulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If differential pressure meters with calibrated orifices are used, then the meters are affordable and compact, but they have limited detection range and high minimum detectable differential pressure values
Solution Approach 1:
The differential pressure meter is divided into functionally independent modules: a sensing module with a membrane element that detects pressure differences, and a separate processing module that converts mechanical deformation into electrical signals. This segmentation allows optimization of each module independently, enabling high precision measurement while maintaining compact overall dimensions and affordable manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical measurement mechanisms with a combination of elastic membrane deformation and electrical signal processing. The membrane element converts pressure differences into mechanical deformation, which is then transformed into electrical signals through piezoresistive or capacitive sensing, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages and calibrated orifices, thereby improving precision while maintaining simplicity.
2Device complexity
If traditional differential pressure meters are used, then the structure is simple, but the resolution is poor making fine adjustments difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes mechanical measurement systems with electrical sensing technology. The membrane element's mechanical deformation under pressure is converted into precise electrical signals through integrated piezoresistive or capacitive sensors, enabling high-resolution measurements while keeping the overall structure simple and maintenance-free.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs high-sensitivity sensing elements that can detect minute changes in pressure, temperature, and flow parameters. By using piezoresistive or capacitive transduction mechanisms, the system converts small mechanical deformations into measurable electrical signals, achieving fine resolution for precise system adjustments without increasing structural complexity.
3Ease of manufacture
If integration with management systems is poor, then the meters are easier to manufacture, but system performance and energy efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The differential pressure meter incorporates multiple sensing capabilities (pressure, temperature, flow) and communication interfaces within a single integrated device. This multi-functionality allows the meter to serve both as a measurement instrument and as a data communication node, enabling seamless integration with building management systems while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements bidirectional communication capabilities that enable real-time feedback between the differential pressure meter and the management system. The meter not only receives control commands but also transmits measurement data and diagnostic information, allowing for closed-loop control optimization of system performance and energy efficiency without complicating the manufacturing process.
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 solution enables accurate and efficient flow rate measurement and regulation, improving system performance, energy savings, and ease of integration with heating and cooling management systems, while maintaining a compact and affordable design.
Implementation Method 1
a sensitive element (3) accommodated in said casing (2) to divide the inner volume (200) of said casing (2) at least in a first chamber (4) and in a second chamber (5)... a first pressure intake (4p) formed on said casing (2)... a second pressure intake (5p) formed on said casing (2)
Data Source
AI summary
A differential pressure meter (1) whose body (7) includes an inlet opening (7a), an outlet opening (7z), a channel (70), and a housing (16) defining an operating seat (160) separate from the channel (70) and having first and second passage openings (16p, 16s). A sealing casing (2) in the operating seat (160) defining an inner volume (200). A sensitive element (3) is in the casing (2) to divide the inner volume (200) into first and second chambers (4, 5). A first surface (3d) of the sensitive element (3) directed towards the first chamber (4), a second surface (3s) directed towards the second chamber (5). A first pressure intake (4p) formed on the casing (2), the first passage opening (16p) in communication with the first chamber (4), and a second pressure intake is formed on the casing (2), the second passage opening (16s) in communication with the second chamber (5).