Meter Electronics Multi-Host Communication via Distinct Ports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems face challenges in effectively communicating data between multiple hosts and meter electronics in vibratory sensor systems, particularly in applications involving multiple meter assemblies, such as those used in LNG dispensing, where simultaneous data acquisition from multiple flow rates and conditions is necessary.
Innovation Solution
A method and system where a meter electronics communicates with two or more hosts through distinct communication ports and paths, utilizing signal converters to transmit and receive data from multiple meter assemblies, allowing simultaneous data acquisition and processing of flow rates, density, and temperature information across a communication path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single host communicates with multiple meter assemblies, then communication complexity is reduced, but data acquisition capability from multiple hosts is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The meter electronics unit is designed to perform multiple communication functions by supporting both RS-232 and RS-485 communication protocols simultaneously through different communication ports. This allows the same device to serve multiple host systems with different communication requirements, achieving multi-functionality without increasing operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The meter electronics unit acts as an intermediary between multiple host systems and meter assemblies. It receives communications from different hosts through different protocols, processes the data, and manages communication with the meter assemblies, thereby enabling multi-host data acquisition while maintaining simplified device operation
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple communication protocols are supported in the same device, then adaptability to different hosts is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The communication functionality is segmented into distinct communication ports - a first communication port for RS-232 protocol and a second communication port for RS-485 protocol. Each port is dedicated to a specific protocol, which simplifies the internal architecture and makes the device easier to configure and maintain while still supporting multiple protocols overall
Solution Approach 2:
Different communication ports are assigned different protocol specializations based on local requirements. The first communication port is optimized for RS-232 while the second is optimized for RS-485, allowing each part of the communication system to have the specific quality needed for its intended host interface
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
Enables efficient data communication and processing between multiple hosts and meter assemblies, reducing costs and enhancing data accuracy by allowing simultaneous data acquisition from multiple sources, such as supply and return lines in cryogenic applications.
Implementation Method 1
An alternating current is passed to the drive coil for vibrating the conduit(s) at a desired conduit amplitude and frequency
Implementation Method 2
Pickoffs on the conduit(s) produce sinusoidal signals representative of the motion of the conduit(s)
Implementation Method 3
As material begins to flow through the conduit(s), Coriolis forces cause each point along the conduit(s) to have a different phase
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of communicating with two or more hosts is provided. The method includes transmitting a first communication between a first host and a meter electronics and transmitting a second communication between a second host and the meter electronics.