Flow Meter Bias Prediction via Diagnostic Intermediaries
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current flow meter diagnostic suites cannot predict the associated flow prediction bias for malfunctioning flow meters, limiting their ability to provide accurate flow rate measurements and inform maintenance decisions.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that includes a flow analyzer with a diagnostics suite and a bias prediction module, which performs diagnostic tests on flow meter performance characteristics, identifies specific problems, quantifies their magnitude, and predicts the flow rate bias using objective and subjective diagnostic tests, allowing for real-time correction of flow rate measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a flow meter diagnostic suite is implemented to detect malfunctions, then the ability to identify problems is improved, but the ability to predict flow rate bias remains insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary computational model that bridges the gap between diagnostic test results and flow rate bias prediction. The system uses diagnostic parameters as intermediaries to infer the magnitude of malfunctions and subsequently calculate bias corrections, rather than directly measuring bias. This intermediary layer enables the system to provide quantitative bias predictions based on available diagnostic data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct physical measurement of flow rate bias with a computational approach. Instead of using additional physical sensors or measurement devices to directly quantify bias, the system substitutes a mathematical model that processes diagnostic test outputs to calculate predicted bias values. This substitution transforms a measurement problem into a computation problem.
2Measurement precision
If multiple diagnostic tests are performed to identify specific problems, then the diagnostic accuracy is improved, but the complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the diagnostic process into distinct modular components: individual diagnostic tests that measure specific parameters, a computational model that processes these parameters, and a bias prediction module. This segmentation allows each component to be independently developed, tested, and optimized, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high diagnostic accuracy through the coordinated operation of specialized sub-systems.
3Productivity
If the flow meter operates continuously without shutdown for maintenance, then productivity is maintained, but undetected bias accumulates affecting measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the computational model continuously monitors diagnostic parameters and calculates real-time bias predictions. This feedback loop allows the system to detect and quantify measurement errors during continuous operation, enabling operators to make informed decisions about maintenance timing without interrupting productivity. The feedback provides ongoing accuracy information that balances continuous operation with measurement quality.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for metering fluid flow is disclosed which has improved diagnostic capabilities. As well as informing a flow meter operator of the presence of a malfunction and its likely cause, the new systems and methods can also quantify an associated flow prediction bias.