Clamp-on Ultrasonic Flowmeter Temperature Sensor Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In clamp-on type ultrasonic flowmeters, the simultaneous implementation of flow rate measurement by the ultrasonic transducer and temperature measurement by the temperature measuring unit is hindered due to misalignment of their piping contacting surfaces during clamping, leading to suboptimal performance in either flow rate or temperature measurement.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an elastic member between the device main body and the temperature measuring unit allows the piping contacting surface of the temperature measuring unit to adjust and remain coplanar with the acoustic coupler rubber, ensuring both the ultrasonic transducers and the temperature measuring unit maintain contact with the piping during clamping, thereby enabling full functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the temperature measuring unit is fixed rigidly to the device main body, then the structural stability is improved, but the piping contacting surface alignment between the temperature measuring unit and ultrasonic transducer deteriorates during clamping
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature measuring unit is made movable relative to the device main body through an elastic member (such as a spring), allowing it to dynamically adjust its position during clamping to maintain proper alignment with the piping surface, while still providing stable contact through the elastic force
Solution Approach 2:
The device is divided into separate functional modules: the device main body containing ultrasonic transducers and the temperature measuring unit as a separate component that can move independently, connected through an elastic member, allowing each module to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining relative positioning flexibility
2Manufacturing precision
If the temperature measuring unit is made movable to maintain surface alignment, then the piping contacting surface alignment is improved, but the structural stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic member provides a dynamic connection that allows the temperature measuring unit to move and adapt to surface irregularities while the elastic force itself provides structural stability, creating a balance between mobility and stability
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member changes its compression parameter during clamping, allowing the temperature measuring unit to adjust its position from an initial state to a final state where proper alignment is achieved, with the elastic force maintaining stable contact pressure
3Reliability
If both ultrasonic transducer and temperature measuring unit contact the piping, then the flow rate measurement function and temperature measurement performance are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device main body serves multiple functions: housing for ultrasonic transducers, clamping mechanism, and support for the temperature measuring unit, reducing the need for separate components and simplifying the overall device structure
Solution Approach 2:
The ultrasonic transducer and temperature measuring unit are combined in a single integrated device that contacts the piping simultaneously, allowing both measurement functions to be performed together without requiring separate devices, thereby reducing overall system complexity
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 configuration ensures that both flow rate measurement and temperature measurement performance are maintained at optimal levels, as the temperature measuring unit's surface can follow the displacement of the acoustic coupler rubber, ensuring proper contact and accurate readings.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member is disposed between a device main body and an upper end of the temperature measuring unit
Implementation Method 2
transmission and reception of ultrasonic waves is performed between a piezoelectric device disposed on the upstream side of the piping and a piezoelectric device disposed on the downstream side of the piping
Implementation Method 3
the flow rate of the fluid flowing inside the piping is measured from the difference in the propagation time of the ultrasonic waves
Implementation Method 4
a temperature measuring unit that abuts against the piping and measures a temperature of the fluid via the piping
Data Source
AI summary
A clamp-on type ultrasonic transducer that uses ultrasonic waves for measuring a flow rate of a fluid flowing inside a piping, the clamp-on type ultrasonic transducer including a temperature measuring unit that abuts against the piping and measures a temperature of the fluid via the piping. Further, an elastic member is provided between a device main body and an upper end of the temperature measuring unit, and when the piping is clamped, while a piping contacting surface of the temperature measuring unit is pressed to the piping, a lower surface of the temperature measuring unit abuts against the piping.