Ultrasonic Flowmeter Reflection Element Snap-In Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ultrasonic flowmeters with powder-coated measuring pipes face inaccuracy due to weakened ultrasonic signal reflections, requiring complex joining processes for separate reflection elements to ensure secure attachment without influencing fluid flow or causing turbulence.
Innovation Solution
A measuring device with a pipe arrangement featuring a reflection element fastened to the pipe wall in a positive-locking manner, using a snap-in connection and rib-like bulges for secure and simple assembly, ensuring the reflection element is flush with the inner wall to prevent flow disturbances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate reflection element is provided inside the measuring pipe, then the ultrasonic signal reflection strength is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for additional fixing elements and complex joining processes
Solution Approach 1:
The reflection element is merged with the pipe wall structure by covering a through-opening in the pipe wall. This integration eliminates the need for separate fixing elements and complex joining processes, while maintaining the signal reflection function. The reflection element becomes part of the pipe structure itself, reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The through-opening in the pipe wall serves as an intermediary structure that allows the reflection element to be attached without requiring additional fixing elements. The opening provides a natural attachment interface between the reflection element and the pipe wall, simplifying the joining process.
2Reliability
If the reflection element is securely fixed in the measuring pipe, then the reliability of the reflection element is improved, but the fluid flow may be influenced and vortex formation may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The reflection element is positioned locally at the pipe wall with a specific orientation to reflect ultrasonic signals while minimizing interference with the bulk fluid flow. The local attachment at the pipe wall perimeter allows secure fixing without extending into the flow path, thus maintaining flow quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflection element is attached in the radial dimension at the pipe wall rather than protruding into the axial flow path. This dimensional placement ensures secure attachment while keeping the element out of the main fluid flow, preventing vortex formation and flow disturbances.
3Reliability
If welding, soldering or gluing is used to fix the reflection element, then the reflection element is securely attached, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The complex thermal joining processes (welding, soldering, gluing) are replaced with a mechanical snap-in connection system. The reflection element features a snap-in connection that mechanically engages with the pipe wall structure, providing secure attachment without requiring thermal or chemical joining processes, thus simplifying manufacturing.
4Reliability
If an additional fixing element is provided to hold the reflection element, then the attachment security is improved, but the device complexity and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing function is merged into the pipe wall structure itself through the through-opening design. The pipe wall structure provides the fixing mechanism inherently, eliminating the need for separate additional fixing elements. This reduces both device complexity and assembly complexity while maintaining attachment security.
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 a secure and simple attachment method for reflection elements, enhancing measurement accuracy by maintaining signal strength and preventing flow disruptions, while avoiding complex joining processes.
Implementation Method 1
acoustic signals are coupled into the fluid by means of an ultrasonic sensor
Implementation Method 2
The flow rate of a fluid which flows through the measuring pipe can be determined from the measured transit time of the signal
Implementation Method 3
reflection points are provided between the ultrasonic sensor and the ultrasonic receiver, at which the coupled signal is reflected
Data Source
AI summary
A measuring device for determining the flow of a fluid flowing through a pipe section. The measuring device may comprise a measuring pipe arrangement with a pipe, at least one ultrasonic sensor for transmitting an acoustic signal, at least one ultrasonic receiver for receiving the acoustic signal emitted by the ultrasonic sensor, a reflection element for reflecting the acoustic signal, wherein the wall of the pipe has a through-opening, which is covered by the reflection element, wherein the reflection element is fastened in interlocking fashion to the wall of the pipe.