Mobile Fluid Meter Tester Automates Volume Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid meter test systems face challenges in achieving accurate volume measurements, particularly when testing fluid flow meters at various flow rates, as they rely on manual methods like reading fluid levels or weights, which are cumbersome and prone to errors, especially when testing multiple meters simultaneously or in field settings.
Innovation Solution
A portable mobile test bench system configured with multiple flow paths and electronically actuated valves, allowing for automatic configuration and data recording across different flow rates, and featuring a controller that transfers test data to a remote database, enabling efficient testing of fluid flow meters at various flow rates without the need for manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual methods like reading fluid levels or weights are used, then the testing process is simple in structure, but the measurement precision and efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods (reading fluid levels or weights) with an automated electronic testing system that uses sensors, processors, and software to automatically measure and calculate fluid volumes, thereby improving measurement precision while managing system complexity through integration
Solution Approach 2:
The testing system performs self-measurement and self-calculation of fluid volumes through automated sensors and processing units, eliminating the need for manual intervention and improving both precision and efficiency without proportionally increasing operational complexity
2Productivity
If multiple meters are tested simultaneously, then the productivity increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The testing system is divided into modular components including multiple flow paths, individual testing stations, and independent measurement systems that can handle multiple meters simultaneously while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized modules
Solution Approach 2:
The testing system is designed with universal components that can handle multiple meter types and configurations through a single integrated platform, allowing simultaneous testing of multiple meters without requiring separate dedicated systems for each
3Productivity
If automated testing with electronic valves and data transfer is implemented, then the productivity and measurement precision improve, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Manual testing operations are replaced with automated electronic valves, sensors, and computer-controlled data acquisition systems that automatically control fluid flow, measure volumes, and transfer data, significantly improving productivity while consolidating control functions
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automated feedback loops where sensors continuously monitor fluid flow and volume, processors analyze the data in real-time, and electronic valves automatically adjust flow rates to maintain optimal testing conditions, improving both productivity and precision through closed-loop control
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed technology is a portable/mobile test bench apparatus and method for testing the accuracy of fluid flow meters. The system comprises an improved drain line system that better removes the test fluid after testing. The system is configured to automatically test the fluid meter at a plurality of flow rates and record the test data as well as transfer the test data to a centralized database.