Ultrasonic Flow Meter Wedge Transducer Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
State-of-the-art ultrasonic flowmeters face challenges in maintaining signal transmission and amplitude when measuring under different conditions, such as high flow velocities or varying media properties, leading to suboptimal performance.
Innovation Solution
The use of ultrasonic transducers designed as wedge transducers with arrays of at least two active elements, where the control and evaluation unit can control the active elements separately to influence the shape and radiation angle of the measurement signal, allowing for adaptation to changes in operation conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ultrasonic transducers are arranged with fixed geometry for specific media and flow velocity ranges, then measurement precision is improved for expected conditions, but adaptability deteriorates when measuring under different conditions such as high flow velocities or varying media properties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adaptability by enabling the ultrasonic flowmeter to automatically adjust its measurement parameters and signal processing algorithms based on detected flow conditions. The system transitions from fixed geometry optimization to dynamic adaptation through real-time monitoring and parameter adjustment, allowing optimal performance across varying media properties and flow velocities without requiring physical readjustment of transducer arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying operational parameters such as ultrasonic frequency, pulse duration, and signal processing thresholds according to detected media properties and flow conditions. This allows the system to maintain measurement precision across different operating conditions by dynamically adjusting parameters rather than relying on fixed geometric arrangements optimized for specific conditions.
2Measurement precision
If the signal path geometry is adapted to expected measuring ranges, then measurement precision is improved, but the transmission of the measuring signal deteriorates when conditions change such as high flow velocities causing drag effect
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the ultrasonic flowmeter continuously monitors signal quality and transmission characteristics, then uses this information to adjust measurement parameters and compensate for deteriorating signal transmission. The system detects changes in signal amplitude, phase, or travel time and automatically compensates to maintain reliable measurements even when drag effect or other conditions interfere with optimal signal transmission.
3Measurement precision
If ultrasonic transducers are arranged for optimal signal transmission at specific sound velocities, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates when sound velocity changes due to varying media properties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by implementing initial characterization of media properties and pre-adjustment of measurement parameters before actual flow measurement begins. The system performs preliminary sound velocity detection and parameter optimization, then uses these pre-established parameters as a baseline for subsequent measurements, enabling faster adaptation when media properties change while maintaining measurement precision.
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 approach enables the ultrasonic flowmeter to maintain optimal performance across a wide range of applications by ensuring that the measurement signal is optimally directed and received, even under conditions of high flow velocities or varying media properties.
Implementation Method 1
the first ultrasonic transducer and/or the second ultrasonic transducer is/are designed as an ultrasonic transmitter and/or an ultrasonic receiver
Implementation Method 2
based on the known conventional measuring methods, in particular based on the transit time principle or on the Doppler principle
Implementation Method 3
the first ultrasonic transducer and/or the second ultrasonic transducer is/are designed as a wedge transducer
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
Described and illustrated is an ultrasonic flowmeter (1) comprising at least a first ultrasonic transducer (2) and a second ultrasonic transducer (3) and further comprising a control and evaluation unit (9), wherein the control and evaluation unit (9) is connected to the first ultrasonic transducer (2) and the second ultrasonic transducer (3), wherein the first ultrasonic transducer (2) and/or the second ultrasonic transducer (3) is/are configured as an ultrasonic transmitter and/or ultrasonic receiver, wherein the first ultrasonic transducer (2) and/or the second ultrasonic transducer (3) is/are configured as a wedge transducer, wherein the first ultrasonic transducer (2) and the second ultrasonic transducer (3) are arranged on a measuring tube (4) such that a signal path is formed between the first (2) and the second ultrasonic transducer (4), such that a measurement signal (8) emitted by the ultrasonic transmitter passes via the signal path to the ultrasonic receiver.characterized in that the first ultrasound transducer (2) has a first array (5) of at least two active elements (6) and/or that the second ultrasound transducer (3) has a second array (7) of at least two active elements (6), wherein at least one ultrasound transducer (2, 3) having an array (5, 7) of at least two active elements (6) is designed as a wedge transducer, wherein at least two active elements (6) of the array (5) arranged on the first ultrasound transducer (2) are controllable separately by the control and evaluation unit (9) and/or that at least two active elements (6) of the array (7) arranged on the second ultrasound transducer (3) are controllable separately by the control and evaluation unit (9).