Piezoelectric Oscillator for Two-Phase Fluid Density Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for measuring the physical properties of two-phase fluids, particularly cryogenic fluids, are inaccurate due to the complexity and variability of gas and liquid fractions, and existing technologies are unsuitable for cryogenic applications, leading to poor accuracy and high costs.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus using at least one piezoelectric oscillator immersed in the two-phase fluid to measure resonant frequency over time, determining whether the oscillator is in a gas or liquid fraction, and calculating the proportion of gas to liquid to characterize the fluid, enabling the measurement of density and mass flow rate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional pressure measurement devices (elastic diaphragm with strain gauge) are used, then pressure can be measured, but the measurement is not suitable for two-phase fluids and cryogenic applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical pressure measurement systems (elastic diaphragms with strain gauges) with a piezoelectric oscillator-based measurement system. The piezoelectric oscillator's resonant frequency changes in response to fluid density and pressure, providing accurate measurements for two-phase and cryogenic fluids without the limitations of mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes changes in the resonant frequency parameter of the piezoelectric oscillator as the fluid density and pressure conditions change. By monitoring the resonant frequency shifts, the system accurately determines physical properties of two-phase and cryogenic fluids, adapting to varying fluid states.
2Measurement precision
If mechanical mass flow meters (Coriolis, diaphragm, rotary, turbine meters) are used, then mass flow rate can be measured, but the devices involve moving parts subject to wear, are less accurate, and are unsuitable for cryogenic applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical mass flow measurement systems with a piezoelectric oscillator-based system. Instead of using moving parts like turbines or diaphragms, the invention uses the resonant frequency characteristics of the piezoelectric oscillator to determine mass flow rate, eliminating wear and reducing mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The piezoelectric oscillator serves multiple functions simultaneously - it acts as both the sensing element and the measurement device. The oscillator's natural resonant properties are utilized directly to detect fluid properties and flow characteristics, eliminating the need for separate actuation and sensing systems.
3Measurement precision
If electronic flow meters (thermal and ultrasonic meters) are used, then flow rate can be measured, but significant signal processing hardware is required and costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic flow measurement systems (thermal and ultrasonic meters requiring significant signal processing hardware) with a piezoelectric oscillator-based system. The mechanical resonance of the oscillator provides direct measurement capability, reducing the need for complex electronic signal processing while maintaining measurement accuracy.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional level gauges (float gauges) are used, then liquid level can be measured, but the measurement technique is not suitable for two-phase fluids
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional float-based level gauges with a piezoelectric oscillator system. The oscillator's resonant frequency responds to the density of the surrounding fluid, enabling accurate measurement in two-phase fluids where float gauges fail, as the oscillator can detect density changes without being affected by the presence of both liquid and gas phases.
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 approach provides accurate and robust measurement of physical properties in two-phase fluids, including cryogenic fluids, by distinguishing between gas and liquid fractions, improving accuracy and reducing the complexity and cost associated with existing solutions.
Implementation Method 1
using a piezoelectric oscillator
Implementation Method 2
measuring the resonant frequency of the or each piezoelectric oscillator
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a method of measuring the physical properties of a two-phase fluid using at least one piezoelectric oscillator immersed in the two-phase fluid, the two-phase fluid comprising a gas fraction and a liquid fraction, the method comprising: a) measuring the resonant frequency of the or each piezoelectric oscillator as a function of time; and b) determining, from the or each resonant frequency, at least one physical property of the two-phase fluid to characterize the two-phase fluid.