Flow Sensor Disc With Strain Beam for Multi-Range Flow Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional flow meters are not multi-range and cannot effectively measure both ultra-low and moderate flowrates, and they are expensive to produce.
Innovation Solution
A flow sensor disc with a multi-directional strain sensor, comprising an outer ring, beam, flaps, and flow openings, made using a silicone-based material and reduced graphene oxide, capable of detecting and quantifying fluid flow rates from ultra-low to non-low flowrates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional flow meters are used, then they can measure moderate flowrates, but they cannot measure ultra-low flowrates and are expensive to produce
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the sensing element by using a flexible membrane with specific mechanical properties that can respond to both ultra-low and moderate flowrates. The membrane's flexibility and the beam's dimensional parameters are optimized to detect a wide range of flow conditions, enabling multi-range measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material structures including the flexible membrane, supporting beam, and strain sensor integration. This composite approach combines materials with different properties to achieve both sensitivity for ultra-low flow and robustness for moderate flow, while maintaining cost-effectiveness through material selection and manufacturing processes
2Measurement precision
If traditional low-flowrate flow meters are used, then they can detect ultra-low flowrates, but they cannot measure moderate flowrates and are expensive to produce
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal flow sensor that can perform multiple functions: detecting both ultra-low flowrates (leak detection) and moderate flowrates (usage monitoring). The single device replaces the need for separate specialized meters, achieving multi-functionality through the flexible membrane design that responds appropriately across different flow ranges
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor utilizes parameter changes in the flexible membrane and beam structure that allow it to adapt its response characteristics based on the flow condition. The mechanical parameters of the sensing elements are designed to provide appropriate sensitivity across ultra-low to moderate flowrates, enabling the device to function effectively in multiple measurement ranges
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single flow meter is designed to cover both ultra-low and moderate flowrates, then multi-range measurement is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sensing function into distinct structural components: the flexible membrane for flow interaction, the supporting beam for mechanical stability, and the strain sensor for signal detection. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to achieve multi-range measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems with a strain-based sensing approach. The flexible membrane and beam convert flow-induced mechanical stresses into measurable strain signals, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages or multiple sensing mechanisms while achieving multi-range measurement
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
The flow sensor disc can detect and quantify fluid flow rates across a wide range, from ultra-low to non-low flowrates, while being cost-effective compared to existing devices.
Implementation Method 1
a multi-directional strain sensor supported by the beam
Implementation Method 2
depositing graphene oxide into the frame; and thermally reducing the graphene oxide to reduced graphene oxide, thereby generating the flow sensor disc
Implementation Method 3
thermally reducing the graphene oxide to reduced graphene oxide
Data Source
AI summary
A flow sensor disc includes an outer ring, a beam, a first flap, a second flap, a first flow opening, a second flow opening, and a multi-directional strain sensor. The beam extends across the outer ring. The first flap extends from the beam. The second flap extends from an opposite side of the beam as the first flap. The first flow opening is defined between the first flap and the outer ring. The second flow opening is defined between the second flap and the outer ring. The multi-directional strain sensor is supported by the beam.