Flow Rate Measurement Device Using Valve-Controlled Liquid Rise
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow rate measurement devices often introduce pressure drops and are not suitable for low or pulsating flow rates, and require specific pipe dimensions, limiting their applicability in hydraulic systems with low pressure or zero flow conditions.
Innovation Solution
A device that measures flow rate by determining the time it takes for a liquid to rise to a predetermined level in a flow channel, using a valve to close the channel and employing upper and lower liquid level detection devices to calculate the flow rate independently of pipe dimensions and pressure, allowing for non-invasive measurements in systems with low or pulsating flows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If invasive flow rate measurement devices are used, then flow rate can be measured, but pressure drop is introduced which disturbs measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the measurement function from the flow path by using a separate measurement chamber that does not obstruct the main flow. The flow rate is measured by detecting the time for liquid to rise to a predetermined level in this separate chamber, eliminating the need for pressure drops in the measurement process itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary measurement chamber that acts as a mediator between the flow and the measurement process. This chamber allows flow rate measurement without directly interfering with the main flow path, thereby avoiding pressure drops that would disturb measurement accuracy.
2Ease of operation
If clamp-on flow rate measurement devices are used, then non-invasive measurement is achieved, but reliable measurements are only possible within specific operating ranges (not at very low flow rates or for pulsating flow)
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a dynamic measurement approach where the measurement chamber is selectively activated by closing a valve. This allows the system to adapt to different flow conditions (including very low and pulsating flows) by controlling when measurement occurs, rather than being limited to specific continuous operating ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention performs preliminary action by closing the valve before measurement begins, creating a controlled environment where the liquid level can be accurately measured. This preliminary valve closure ensures that the measurement chamber is ready for accurate measurement regardless of the actual flow conditions in the main system.
3Measurement precision
If flow rate measurement devices requiring specific pipe dimensions are used, then measurement can be performed, but adaptability to different pipe sizes and pressure conditions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the measurement function into a separate, self-contained measurement chamber that is independent of the main pipe dimensions. This segmentation allows the device to adapt to different pipe sizes and pressure conditions without requiring specific dimensional constraints on the installation location.
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
Enables accurate flow rate measurement without introducing pressure drops, suitable for systems with low or zero flow rates and pulsating flows, and can be used in pipes under low pressure, providing reliable results across a wide range of flow rates and viscosities.
Implementation Method 1
a liquid fed to the flow channel above the valve to rise to an upper predetermined liquid level in the flow channel
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a device for measuring a flow rate of a liquid, comprising a flow channel, a valve for selectively opening and closing the flow channel, and a measuring unit configured to determine, after the valve has closed the flow channel, a time Δt which it takes a liquid fed to the flow channel above the valve to rise to an upper predetermined liquid level in the flow channel.