Multiphase Flow Meter Adaptation for Intermediate Gas Volume Fractions
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is uncertainty in adjusting or adapting variables and parameters in multiphase flow models for fluid flows with a gas volume fraction (GVF) between 85% and 98%, affecting the accuracy of flow rate measurements in multiphase fluid flow meters.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that determine the stationarity of multiphase fluid flow using a nuclear source and detector, selecting appropriate variables based on gas content and stationarity to model the flow, adjusting parameters to accurately measure flow rates across different flow regimes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single flow model variable is used for all gas volume fractions, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates for intermediate GVF (85%-98%)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter being measured from a single static value to a dynamic parameter (stationarity indicator) that varies with flow conditions. By calculating the stationarity indicator from sensor data and using it to select between different flow model variables, the system adapts to intermediate GVF conditions that previously caused measurement errors, thereby improving measurement precision without excessive complexity increase
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic adaptation of flow model variables based on real-time flow regime detection. Instead of using a fixed variable for all conditions, the system dynamically selects between first and second variables based on the calculated stationarity indicator, allowing the measurement system to respond to changing flow conditions and improve accuracy across the full range of GVF values
2Measurement precision
If flow model variables are adapted for intermediate GVF (85%-98%), then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional sensors and processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing sensors multi-functional by using them both for their primary measurement purpose and for calculating the stationarity indicator. The same sensor data used for flow rate measurement is also processed to determine flow regime characteristics, eliminating the need for additional dedicated sensors and reducing the overall device complexity while still enabling improved measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own existing sensor data to self-determine the appropriate flow model variable selection. By calculating the stationarity indicator from its own measurements and automatically selecting the appropriate variable, the system eliminates the need for external control systems or additional processing equipment, thereby improving precision without proportionally increasing complexity
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
Enhances the accuracy of multiphase flow rate measurements by adapting flow model variables based on determined gas content and stationarity, effectively handling flow regimes with intermediate gas volume fractions.
Implementation Method 1
a nuclear detector operable to detect nuclear energy emitted by the nuclear source through the conduit and multiphase fluid flow
Data Source
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AI summary
A sensor of a multiphase flow meter is operated to determine a physical property attributable to multiphase fluid flow in a conduit of the multiphase flow meter. A stationarity of the multiphase fluid flow is determined based on the determined physical property in actual conditions compared to expected noise of the sensor in stationary flow conditions. A flow model variable is selected from a plurality of flow model variables based on a gas content of the multiphase fluid flow and the determined stationarity. The multiphase fluid flow is then modeled by adjusting the selected flow model variable.