Flow Measurement Intermediary for Hose Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow measurement devices in hose and plastic pipe systems face inaccuracies due to fluctuations in hose density and thickness, as well as potential deformation and bending, leading to measurement inaccuracies and calibration challenges.
Innovation Solution
A flow-through plastic device with a deformable area and rectangular cross-section, featuring sensor contact surfaces and pressure areas, which allows for precise attachment of sensors without direct deformation of the hose or pipe, ensuring optimal contact and signal transmission through compressive force, thereby minimizing measurement errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If clamp-on systems are used to measure flow in hoses, then the flow profile can be converted into an almost rectangular profile, but fluctuations in the density and thickness of the hoses lead to serious measurement inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a clamp-on device with a rigid hollow body as an intermediary between the hose and the measurement system. This hollow body has a defined internal cross-section that is independent of hose variations, serving as a stable reference for flow measurement while the hose connects to it. The intermediary structure isolates the measurement from hose density and thickness fluctuations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from direct hose deformation to flow through a rigid structure with defined geometry. By measuring flow through the rigid hollow body rather than relying on hose deformation characteristics, the system achieves stable rectangular flow profile conversion without being affected by hose parameter variations.
2Stability of the object's composition
If clamp-on systems deform the hose to achieve measurement, then the flow profile can be standardized, but the hose can bend or twist within the measuring unit, leading to measurement inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid hollow body acts as an intermediary that provides a stable measurement chamber. The hose connects to this rigid structure rather than being deformed within the measurement zone, preventing bending and twisting while maintaining consistent flow profile through the defined internal geometry of the hollow body.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the measurement system into a rigid hollow body with defined geometry and the flexible hose connection. The rigid portion provides stable flow profile conversion while the hose connects externally, separating the functions of flexibility and measurement stability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid components are used for pipe systems, then structural stability is achieved, but the abrupt transition from round to angular flow profile results in turbulent flows that negatively affect measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates flow profile transition elements within the rigid hollow body that gradually convert the round hose flow profile to the rectangular measurement profile. This preliminary gradual transition occurs before the main measurement section, preventing abrupt changes and reducing turbulence in the measurement zone.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid hollow body has different local geometries: the inlet section is designed for round hose connection with gradual transition, while the measurement section has defined rectangular cross-section. Each local region is optimized for its specific function, reducing turbulence while maintaining structural stability.
4Ease of operation
If sensors are attached directly to deformed hoses, then flow measurement can be performed, but fluctuations in hose thickness and density severely affect reproducibility and calibration
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid hollow body serves as an intermediary structure to which sensors are attached. This provides a stable, non-deforming surface with consistent geometry for sensor mounting, eliminating the problems of attaching sensors directly to fluctuating hose surfaces while maintaining ease of sensor attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid hollow body serves multiple functions: it provides a stable mounting surface for sensors, converts flow profile from round to rectangular, and defines a consistent measurement cross-section. This multi-functional design ensures both ease of sensor attachment and measurement reproducibility.
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
This solution enhances measurement accuracy by maintaining a consistent flow profile, reducing turbulent flows, and eliminating the need for additional contact aids like gel, resulting in reproducible and precise flow measurements without requiring further calibration.
Implementation Method 1
The flow-through plastic part (1) comprises a centrally arranged and deformable area (2) with a rectangular cross section... The flow-through plastic part (1) is subjected to a compressive force in the centrally arranged area by the cover (11) of the sensor housing... This compressive force causes a slight deformation of the plastic part, in which case the compressive surface, in a downward movement, causes a lateral displacement of the sensor contact surfaces (3, 4) towards the transducer in the sensor boot (10).
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The present invention relates to an apparatus which is intended to be installed in a hose and/or plastic pipe system and is intended to attach flow measuring sensors and comprises a flow plastic part as a hollow body with a centrally arranged, deformable region with a rectangular cross section. The present invention also relates to the use of the above-mentioned apparatus and to a method for measuring flow using the apparatus.