Modular Coriolis Flowmeter Assembly for Zero Point Stability

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Solution Overview

Problem

The mechanical properties of replaceable measuring tube modules in Coriolis flowmeters can vary, leading to inconsistencies in the zero point during calibration and actual use, affecting measurement accuracy.

Innovation Solution

A modular Coriolis flowmeter design with a connecting element that has a defined deflection of less than 1% relative to the measuring tube's maximum deflection, ensuring mechanical contact only within specified contact portions, and a connector element that interacts exclusively within these defined areas, allowing for replaceable and reusable modules.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If replaceable measuring tube modules are used, then ease of replacement and reusability are improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to zero point variations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of replacementVSAvoidzero point stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The flowmeter is divided into separate modules: a reusable support module containing exciter and sensor components, and replaceable measuring tube modules. This segmentation allows easy replacement of measuring tubes while maintaining consistent support module components that contribute to stable zero point measurements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent specifies that the connecting element must have a deflection of less than 1% (particularly less than 0.1% and preferably less than 0.01%) relative to the maximum deflection of the measuring tube. This parameter constraint ensures that the connecting element remains sufficiently rigid to maintain stable zero point measurements while still allowing for module replacement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If the connecting element is rigidly connected to the measuring tube, then measurement precision is improved through stable zero point, but device complexity increases due to bonding requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvezero point stabilityVSAvoidconnection structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting element is integrally bonded to the measuring tube, merging these two components into a single structural unit. This integration provides stable mechanical connection that ensures consistent zero point measurements while simplifying the overall assembly process compared to multi-component connection systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connecting element is designed as a separate component that can be manufactured and pre-assembled with the measuring tube, then installed as a unit into the support module. This extraction allows for specialized manufacturing of the connecting element with precise deflection characteristics while keeping the support module reusable and modular.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Ease of manufacture

If the connecting element has high deflection, then ease of assembly is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to mechanical contact variations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly easeVSAvoidmeasurement accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent establishes a specific deflection parameter for the connecting element: less than 1% (particularly less than 0.1% and preferably less than 0.01%) of the measuring tube's maximum deflection. This parameter optimization balances the need for easy assembly with the requirement for stable, accurate measurements by ensuring the connecting element remains sufficiently rigid.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 design stabilizes the zero point, ensuring accurate measurements by minimizing mechanical contact variations and enabling easy replacement and reuse of modules, particularly suitable for single-use applications in bioprocessing and pharmaceutical plants.

Implementation Method 1

when the at least one measuring tube is excited with a mechanical vibration

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical vibration: Vibration

Implementation Method 2

Modular coriolis flowmeter for determining a process variable of a flowable medium

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCoriolis effect: Coriolis Force

Data Source

PatentUS20250347546A1Modular coriolis flowmeter

Publication Date: 2025.11.13 ENDRESS HAUSER FLOWTEC AG

AI summary

A modular Coriolis flowmeter for determining a process variable of a flowable medium includes: a measuring tube module having at least one measuring tube a connector element for detachably connecting the measuring tube module to a process line, and a connecting element for connecting the at least one measuring tube to the connector element; and a support module with a receptacle for detachably securing the measuring tube module in the support module, wherein the connecting element has a connecting element contact section which has a deflection of less than 1% relative to a maximum deflection of the at least one measuring tube, and wherein the connector element and the connecting element are configured such that a mechanical contact between the connector element and the connecting element occurs, in particular exclusively, within the connecting element contact section.