Monolithic Flow Tube Layout for Ultrasonic Metering and Shut-Off
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrating a fluid flow meter and a shut-off valve in a single plumbing device is technically challenging due to potential leaks at mechanical couplings, increased system size, and complex installation procedures, as well as issues with ultrasonic sensor placement affecting accuracy and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A monolithic fluid flow tube design that hosts both ultrasonic sensors and a shut-off valve, with angled secondary tubular structures for efficient invasive sensor arrangement and a wide portion for the shut-off valve, minimizing interference with fluid flow and reducing the likelihood of sensor displacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fluid flow meter and shut-off valve are integrated in a single plumbing device, then intelligent monitoring and control of fluid flow is achieved, but the device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates a flow meter, shut-off valve, and multiple sensors into a single monolithic plumbing device. The flow tube contains internal cavities that house the shut-off valve mechanism, while ultrasonic sensors are positioned on the outer surface to measure fluid flow through the tube wall, eliminating the need for separate external components and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The plumbing device performs multiple functions simultaneously: the flow tube conveys fluid, the integrated shut-off valve controls fluid flow, the ultrasonic sensors measure flow rate, and additional boreholes accommodate pressure and temperature sensors. This multi-functional integration allows a single device to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate components.
2Measurement precision
If ultrasonic sensors are placed invasively in the fluid flow tube, then accurate flow measurement is achieved, but the likelihood of sensor displacement and system failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ultrasonic sensors are extracted from the internal fluid flow path and positioned on the outer surface of the flow tube. They measure fluid flow by detecting ultrasonic signals transmitted through the tube wall, eliminating direct contact with the fluid and removing the risk of sensor displacement caused by fluid pressure while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow tube wall acts as an intermediary medium between the ultrasonic sensors and the fluid. The sensors transmit ultrasonic signals through the tube wall to measure fluid flow velocity, allowing indirect measurement without physical intrusion into the fluid stream, thus protecting the sensors from displacement while maintaining measurement precision.
3Reliability
If multiple sensors and components are integrated in the flow tube, then leak detection capability is improved, but the device size and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shut-off valve, sensors, and other components are nested within the flow tube structure. The valve mechanism is positioned in an internal cavity, while sensor mounting surfaces are integrated into the tube wall. This nested arrangement accommodates multiple functional elements within the external dimensions of a single pipe, minimizing the space required while enabling comprehensive leak detection through pressure and temperature sensors.
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 enhances the accuracy and reliability of fluid flow measurements while preventing leaks and simplifying installation by ensuring straight ultrasonic signal paths and secure sensor placement, thus effectively managing fluid flow and leak detection.
Implementation Method 1
The first cavity can have a first longitudinal axis intersecting a longitudinal axis of the fluid flow tube. The fluid flow tube can define a second cavity for receiving a second ultrasonic sensor.
Implementation Method 2
fluid flow meters can allow for monitoring fluid flow rate or cumulative fluid usage
Data Source
AI summary
According to at least one aspect, a fluid flow tube can define a first cavity for receiving a first ultrasonic sensor. The first cavity can have a first longitudinal axis intersecting a longitudinal axis of the fluid flow tube. The fluid flow tube can define a second cavity for receiving a second ultrasonic sensor. The second cavity can have a second longitudinal axis aligned with the first longitudinal axis. The fluid flow tube can define a third cavity having a first transverse cross sectional area larger than a second transverse cross sectional area of the fluid flow tube and sized to receive a shut-off valve.