Self-Supporting Flow Conduit Insert for Low-Loss Ultrasonic Metering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ultrasonic flow meters face issues such as complicated assembly, low durability, and high pressure loss due to the complexity of assembling flow conduit inserts and the need for external support during installation.
Innovation Solution
A self-supporting flow conduit insert for ultrasonic flow meters, comprising a flow controlling arrangement with two symmetric parts and a fixation arrangement, which allows for easy assembly and fixation of ultrasound reflectors, ensuring a clear ultrasound path and reducing pressure loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the flow conduit insert is assembled from multiple parts, then the assembly complexity increases and durability decreases, but the flow control functionality is improved
Solution Approach 1:
The flow controlling arrangement is divided into multiple parts (first and second parts) that can be separately manufactured and then assembled together using the fixation arrangement, allowing complex flow control geometry to be achieved while maintaining manufacturing feasibility
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation arrangement integrates multiple functions: it joins the first and second parts of the flow controlling arrangement together, provides structural support to the assembled insert, and fixes the ultrasound reflector in position, thereby combining several components into a unified self-supporting structure
2Stability of the object's composition
If the flow conduit insert requires external support during installation, then the assembly process is complicated, but the structural stability is ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation arrangement is designed to provide self-supporting capability to the flow conduit insert by integrating structural support elements that enable the insert to maintain its shape and position independently during installation, eliminating the need for external support fixtures or tools
3Loss of energy
If the inner flow channel has large cross-sectional dimension, then the pressure loss is reduced, but the flow velocity enhancement is diminished
Solution Approach 1:
The inner flow channel is designed with varying cross-sectional dimensions along its length, with at least one section having a reduced cross-section to locally accelerate the fluid flow for improved ultrasonic measurement, while other sections maintain larger dimensions to minimize overall pressure loss
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 enhances flow velocity and sensitivity of ultrasonic flow meters, particularly for low velocity flows, by facilitating assembly, securing the ultrasound path, and minimizing pressure loss through a simple and durable design.
Implementation Method 1
at least one ultrasound reflector, wherein said flow controlling arrangement defines an inner flow channel having free passage along the longitudinal center axis of the flow conduit over the entire length of the flow conduit insert
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A flow conduit insert (INS) for inserting in a flow conduit (FC) of an ultrasonic flow meter (UFM) is disclosed. The flow conduit insert (INS) is adapted for increasing the flow velocity of a fluid flowing through said flow conduit (FC), wherein said flow conduit insert (INS) comprises a flow controlling arrangement (FCA), and a fixation arrangement (FXA), wherein said flow controlling arrangement (FCA) defines an inner flow channel (IFC) having free passage along the longitudinal center axis (LA) of the flow conduit (FC) over the entire length of the flow conduit insert (INS), wherein said fixation arrangement (FXA) is arranged to fixate at least one ultrasound reflector (UR), and wherein said flow conduit insert (INS) is provided as a single, self-supporting flow conduit insert (INS). Also, a further flow conduit insert (INS), ultrasonic flow meters (UFM), and methods of assembling these are disclosed.