Hybrid Flow Meter Interpolation Method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current flow measurement technologies face accuracy issues and jumps in measurement results when switching between different technologies due to varying flow conditions, leading to control and regulation problems in downstream equipment.
Innovation Solution
A method that combines measurements from at least two technologies using a reference measurement for linear or non-linear interpolation within a given interval, allowing for a smooth transition and improving measurement accuracy by incorporating the best performance of each technology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If hybrid flow meters switch from one measuring technology to another at a crossover point, then the measurement range is extended and adaptability is improved, but jumps in flow measurement results occur at the crossover point
Solution Approach 1:
A third measuring technology is introduced as an intermediary reference measurement to mediate between the two primary technologies. This reference measurement serves as a common basis for interpolation, allowing smooth transition between technologies without direct comparison that causes jumps. The reference measurement acts as a mediator that both technologies can relate to, eliminating the discontinuity problem.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the measurement parameter basis by using a reference measurement (such as level or velocity) as the interpolation variable instead of directly interpolating between the two different technology outputs. By performing linear or non-linear interpolation within intervals of the reference measurement, the system transforms the discontinuous switching problem into a continuous parameter transformation problem.
2Device complexity
If a single measuring technology is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement accuracy deteriorates under varying flow conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The hybrid flow meter system achieves multi-functionality by integrating multiple measuring technologies (such as radar, Doppler, and pressure sensors) into a single device. Each technology serves different flow conditions, making the overall system universally applicable across low flow, high flow, submerged, and non-submerged conditions, while maintaining a unified measurement output through the interpolation method.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple measuring technologies and their measurements into a unified hybrid flow measurement system. By merging the outputs of different technologies and using reference measurement-based interpolation, the system achieves continuous accurate measurement across all flow conditions, effectively combining the strengths of each individual technology.
3Stability of the object's composition
If hysteresis is used at the crossover point to avoid constant switching, then switching stability is improved, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to the inherent differences between technologies
Solution Approach 1:
The reference measurement serves as an intermediary that eliminates the need for hysteresis-based switching stabilization. By interpolating based on the reference measurement value, the system achieves continuous stable transition without the oscillations that hysteresis introduces. The reference measurement mediates the switching process, providing stability without sacrificing accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A method measures a hybrid flow rate (Q) of a fluid using simultaneously at least two measuring technologies and a reference measurement, the method includes a hybrid value, wherein the measurements of the at least two measuring technologies are combined according to a given rule to get the hybrid value by performing a linear or non-linear interpolation within a given interval of the reference measurement.