Differential Pressure Sensor Coupling for Flow Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow measurement devices using differential pressure sensors face challenges such as increased installation effort, sensitivity to pressure conditions, mechanical loads, and complex assembly processes, often requiring system shutdown and medium leakage during installation and removal.
Innovation Solution
A device with a pressure-bearing housing part and differential pressure channels that allows for secure, easy connection and disconnection of the differential pressure sensor using a common coupling and non-return valves, enabling measurement without system downtime and medium loss, with sealing nipples and coding mechanisms for correct orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple pressure sensors are installed and galvanically connected to an evaluation device, then flow measurement capability is achieved, but installation effort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple pressure sensing functions into a single differential pressure sensor that directly measures the pressure difference between two points. This eliminates the need for multiple separate pressure sensors and their individual connections to an evaluation device, thereby reducing installation effort while maintaining flow measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The differential pressure sensor serves multiple functions simultaneously: it measures pressure difference, provides flow rate information, and integrates the sensing and signal processing functions in one component. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the overall measurement system.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If differential pressure sensors are permanently installed, then continuous measurement is possible, but sensitivity to pressure conditions and mechanical loads increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the differential pressure sensor to be dynamically installed or removed from the measuring section based on operational requirements. The sensor can be quickly coupled to or decoupled from the pressure-bearing housing part using a standardized connection, allowing continuous measurement when needed while avoiding prolonged exposure to harsh pressure conditions and mechanical loads.
3Reliability
If the device is mounted only to carry out measurement, then sensor exposure to harsh conditions is reduced, but system shutdown and medium leakage occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates non-return valves in the pressure channels that are preliminarily positioned to automatically close when the differential pressure sensor is removed. This preliminary arrangement of the valve mechanism ensures that when the sensor is decoupled, the non-return valves immediately prevent medium leakage without requiring system shutdown, thus protecting the sensor while maintaining productivity.
4Reliability
If complex assembly processes are used, then secure connection is achieved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the connection system into separate, modular components: a connection piece with standardized coupling elements, non-return valves, and sealing elements. Each component has a specific function and can be independently assembled or replaced. The connection piece features a standardized interface that simplifies assembly while maintaining secure connection through the integrated non-return valves and sealing mechanisms.
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
Facilitates easy and reliable measurement of volume or mass flow with reduced installation complexity, maintaining system operation and preventing medium loss during sensor attachment and detachment.
Implementation Method 1
The differential pressure method is based on the measurement of at least two absolute pressures that prevail in the fluid system along a measuring section. A device is usually provided in the measurement section, which changes the flow cross-section in sections. This generates a pressure difference that is dependent on the volume or mass flow and is used as a measured variable.
Implementation Method 2
In addition, non-return valves are provided in the effective pressure channels, which can be unlocked by the differential pressure sensor when connected. This prevents the medium from escaping when the differential pressure sensor is disconnected.
Implementation Method 3
the effective pressure channels can be connected to a counter-coupling of the differential pressure sensor via a common coupling
Data Source
Figure 1~3
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Figure 5
AI summary
The device (2) has a pressurized-housing part (4) with a measuring section (18), and two differential pressure channels (6, 8) provided in the measuring section. A differential pressure sensor (10) is operatively and/or position-securely connected with the differential pressure channels by a connecting unit. The differential pressure channels are connected with a counter coupling of the differential pressure sensor by a coupling unit. The differential pressure channels include a connection piece (12), and the counter coupling includes a set of measured channels (46, 48).