Multiphase Flow Measurement System with Sequential Sensor Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multiphase flow measurement systems suffer from cross-talking, which leads to signal degradation, propagation delay, and reading errors due to electromagnetic coupling between sensors, particularly in systems with conductive phases.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising resistive sensors based on double wire, an electronic circuit with multiplexer switches, and a demodulation method that uses sequenced exchanges between sensors, amplification, and gain estimation to eliminate cross-talking and ensure reliable measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are used simultaneously to measure multiphase flow characteristics, then measurement coverage is improved, but cross-talking occurs due to electromagnetic coupling between sensors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by sequentially activating sensors at different time intervals rather than simultaneously. The control unit activates each sensor in a predetermined sequence, ensuring that only one sensor is active at any given moment. This temporal separation eliminates electromagnetic coupling between sensors while maintaining comprehensive measurement coverage through the sequential operation of multiple sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the sensor activation state changeable over time. The system dynamically switches between different sensor activation states according to a predetermined sequence, allowing the measurement system to adapt its configuration temporally. This dynamic activation pattern enables multiple sensors to contribute to measurements without experiencing cross-talking interference.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If sensors are activated sequentially to avoid cross-talking, then electromagnetic interference is eliminated, but measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements partial action by activating only one sensor at a time rather than all sensors simultaneously. This selective activation reduces the total active sensor count to one, eliminating electromagnetic interference. The sequential activation of individual sensors maintains measurement functionality while avoiding the time loss that would result from extended measurement cycles.
3Device complexity
If standard demodulation methods are used with switched sensors, then signal processing is simplified, but measurement accuracy decreases due to cross-talking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing a predetermined activation sequence for sensors before measurement begins. The control unit is configured with a pre-defined sequence that determines which sensor activates at each time interval. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for complex real-time demodulation algorithms to compensate for cross-talking, as the interference is prevented before it occurs. The simplified signal processing directly processes signals from sequentially activated sensors without requiring complex correction methods.
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
The proposed system effectively avoids cross-talking, enhancing measurement reliability and accuracy by ensuring that only one sensor is active at a time, thus preventing electromagnetic interference between sensors.
Implementation Method 1
The phenomenon of the presence of parasitic impedances is known as cross-talking. Basically, cross-talking happens when signals from one channel interfere with signals from another adjacent channel, resulting in noise and signal distortion. This phenomenon occurs mainly in systems in which the conductors are physically close to each other, which leads to the electromagnetic coupling between the wires or tracks.
Implementation Method 2
The characteristics of the flows are measured by the electrical impedance between the wires, due to the presence of liquid and gaseous phases.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention refers to a measurement system comprising sensors, an electronic circuit and a demodulation method for a multiphase flow characteristics measurement system that measures multiphase flow characteristics based on electrical impedance measurements, avoiding the presence of cross-talking between the measurement points.