Flow Sensor Assembly for Accurate Pipe Measurement Near Bends
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow measurement technologies face challenges in accurately measuring fluid flow rates through pipes, especially near turns, bends, and other flow path phenomena, often requiring precise spacing and complex configurations.
Innovation Solution
A flow rate assembly with a fluid flow interface portion and a sensor body that includes inlet and outlet passages, apertures, and a moving indicator, configured to measure flow rates without electronic components, and can be installed on pipes without metal fasteners, using a signal generator to control flow based on predetermined flow rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If velocity-measuring devices are used to measure fluid flow rate, then flow rate measurement is achieved, but the devices must be spaced certain distances from turns, bends, restrictions, and other flow path phenomena, which complicates installation and reduces adaptability
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the flow measurement function into two separate portions: a flow interface portion that interfaces with the fluid flow path and a sensor body portion that contains the sensing elements. This segmentation allows the flow interface portion to be positioned close to flow path phenomena while the sensor body remains protected and functional.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow interface portion acts as an intermediary element between the fluid flow path and the sensor body. It captures flow information through apertures and transmits it to the sensor body, enabling accurate measurement without requiring the sensor body to be directly exposed to complex flow conditions.
2Measurement precision
If traditional flow measurement devices are installed on pipes, then flow measurement is possible, but metal fasteners and complex configurations are required, increasing device complexity and manufacturing difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The flow interface portion and sensor body are merged into a single integrated device that can be installed on pipes without metal fasteners. The device combines flow sensing, signal generation, and indication functions in one unit, simplifying both manufacturing and installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to be universally applicable to various pipe configurations and flow conditions. It can measure flow rates in different directions and adapt to various installation locations without requiring complex custom configurations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If flow measurement is performed near turns and bends, then installation flexibility is improved, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to disturbed flow patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The flow interface portion is designed with specific local characteristics that allow it to accurately capture flow information even in disturbed flow conditions near turns and bends. The apertures are strategically positioned and sized to sample flow velocity at multiple locations, compensating for local flow disturbances.
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 solution provides accurate flow rate measurement within ±10% to ±5% accuracy across a range of 2 to 10 feet per second, enabling effective control of fluid flow systems and maintaining proper chemical levels in applications like pool or spa treatment systems.
Implementation Method 1
an inlet passage within the fluid flow interface portion and extending at least partially between the first and second ends of the fluid flow interface portion, the inlet passage having an upstream end and a downstream end; and a body inlet passage within the sensor body and extending at least partially between the first and second ends of the sensor body
Data Source
AI summary
A flow rate assembly can include a fluid flow interface portion having a front facing wall and a back facing wall. The flow interface portion can include an inlet passage within the fluid flow interface portion, an outlet passage within the fluid flow interface portion, at least one inlet aperture extending through the front facing wall of the fluid flow interface portion into the inlet passage, and at least one outlet aperture extending through the back facing wall of the fluid flow interface portion into the outlet passage. In some cases, the fluid flow interface portion includes a plug forming at least a portion of the inlet passage.