External Fluid Sensor Mounting on Conduit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid sensors installed within or in line with fluid conduits disrupt fluid flow, can be damaged by corrosive fluids, and require breaching the pressure barrier for installation, compromising conduit integrity and allowing potential leaks.
Innovation Solution
A fluid sensor mounted on the outer surface of a fluid conduit using a non-conductive housing with a touch sensor and snap-lock mechanism to minimize air gaps and prevent damage, allowing for non-invasive detection without compromising the conduit's integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional fluid sensor is installed within or in line with a fluid conduit, then the sensor can detect fluid presence and flow rate, but the sensor disrupts fluid flow and is susceptible to damage from corrosive fluids
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary coupling mechanism that attaches the sensor to the external surface of the fluid conduit without penetrating it. This intermediary mounting system allows the sensor to detect fluid presence through the conduit wall while avoiding direct contact with the fluid, thereby preventing corrosion damage and maintaining sensor reliability while preserving fluid flow characteristics.
2Measurement precision
If a conventional fluid sensor is installed within a fluid conduit, then the sensor can detect fluid parameters, but the installation requires breaching the pressure barrier which compromises conduit integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism serves as an intermediary that bridges the sensor and the conduit external surface without penetrating the conduit wall. This approach maintains the pressure barrier integrity while enabling sensor functionality through non-invasive attachment, eliminating the need to breach the conduit structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism utilizes flexible components including a flexible diaphragm that can conform to the external surface of the conduit. This flexible shell-based approach allows the sensor to be mounted on the outside of the conduit while maintaining structural integrity and preventing leaks.
3Measurement precision
If a conventional fluid sensor is installed within a fluid conduit, then the sensor can detect fluid parameters, but the installation cannot be performed while the conduit is in use and requires additional leak paths
Solution Approach 1:
The external coupling mechanism allows the sensor to be mounted on the outside of the conduit without penetrating the wall, enabling installation while the conduit remains in service. This eliminates the need to shut down the system or create penetration points that could become leak paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism is designed to be pre-assembled with the sensor before attachment to the conduit. This preliminary preparation allows for quick installation by simply coupling the pre-assembled unit to the conduit external surface, minimizing installation time and avoiding the need for complex in-situ assembly procedures.
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 reliable detection of fluid presence and flow rate without disturbing the fluid flow or damaging the sensor, allowing for installation on live conduits and preventing leaks, while maintaining conduit integrity.
Implementation Method 1
a touch sensor (12) associated with the inner surface of the housing (14) such that the touch sensor (12) can detect the presence of fluid within the fluid conduit (16)
Data Source
AI summary
A touch sensor is associated with a housing that is adapted for attachment to the outer perimeter of a fluid conduit. The housing can be attached to the fluid conduit such that the touch sensor can detect the presence of fluid within the fluid conduit. The output of the touch sensor can be used by an indicator or processor.