Dual-Nozzle Flow Sensing for Wide-Range Differential Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow sensors face challenges in accurately measuring a wide range of fluid flow rates within conduits, particularly in systems like aircraft bleed air systems, where flow rates can vary significantly, leading to inaccuracies and space constraints.
Innovation Solution
A flow sensor with dual nozzles, each configured to measure differential pressures at different flow rate ranges, allowing for accurate measurement across a broader range of flow rates by switching between nozzles based on pressure ranges, while minimizing space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single nozzle is used to measure flow rate, then the device structure is simple, but measurement precision deteriorates at varying flow rates
Solution Approach 1:
The flow sensor is divided into multiple nozzles (first nozzle and second nozzle), each optimized for specific flow rate ranges. The first nozzle measures lower flow rates while the second nozzle measures higher flow rates, allowing precise measurement across the entire flow spectrum without requiring a single complex nozzle design.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects which nozzle to use based on the current flow rate conditions. The control circuitry determines whether to use the first or second nozzle based on real-time differential pressure readings, ensuring optimal measurement precision for the current operating conditions.
2Measurement precision
If multiple nozzles are used to cover different flow rate ranges, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple nozzles are merged into a single integrated flow sensor assembly with a common body structure. The first nozzle and second nozzle share common components including the body, sealing elements, and control circuitry, which reduces overall device complexity compared to having separate measurement devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow sensor body is designed as a universal structure that can accommodate multiple nozzles with different characteristics. This multi-functional design allows the same basic structure to support both low-flow-rate and high-flow-rate measurement capabilities without requiring separate specialized devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If larger nozzles are used to measure higher flow rates, then measurement range increases, but space occupancy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement function is segmented across multiple nozzles of different sizes. The first nozzle has a smaller cross-sectional area for measuring lower flow rates, while the second nozzle has a larger cross-sectional area for measuring higher flow rates. This segmentation allows the system to achieve a wide measurement range without requiring a single large nozzle that would occupy excessive space.
Solution Approach 2:
Each nozzle is designed with local quality optimized for its specific measurement range. The first nozzle features a cross-sectional area and geometry suited for low-flow-rate measurement, while the second nozzle has different dimensions optimized for high-flow-rate measurement. This localized optimization allows compact design while maintaining versatility.
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 dual-nozzle design enables accurate flow rate measurement across varying flow rates with reduced space occupancy, ensuring precise fluid control and minimizing flow obstruction in conduits.
Implementation Method 1
The first nozzle may be configured to receive a first portion of the fluid flowing within the conduit flow path and develop a first differential pressure
Implementation Method 2
The second nozzle may be configured to receive a second portion of the fluid flowing within the conduit flow path and develop a second differential pressure
Data Source
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AI summary
A flow sensor configured to sense a flow rate of a fluid. The flow sensor includes a first nozzle and a second nozzle. The first nozzle is configured to receive a first portion of a fluid flowing within a flow path and develop a first differential pressure. The second nozzle is configured to receive a second portion of the fluid flowing within the flow path and develop a second differential pressure. Control circuitry is configured to determine the flow rate using at least one of the first differential or the second differential pressure.