Portable Fluid Meter Testing System with Centralized Data Platform
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluid meter testing systems lack a centralized data collection platform capable of interacting with multiple test systems deployed across various locations, which hinders the generation of comprehensive meter profiles and performance predictions.
Innovation Solution
A portable test system integrated with a centralized data collection platform, utilizing advanced comparison meter technology and AI features to track equipment, prompt users for meter locations, and configure software for required tests by accessing a remote database.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a centralized data collection platform is implemented to interact with multiple test systems deployed in various locations, then the comprehensiveness of meter profiles and performance predictions is improved, but the device complexity and system integration requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular components: portable test systems deployed at various locations, a centralized data collection platform, and communication interfaces. Each test system operates independently but contributes data to the central platform, allowing the system to handle multiple locations without requiring a monolithic complex structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The centralized data collection platform serves multiple functions: collecting data from various test systems, storing meter performance data, generating profiles, and providing predictions. This multi-functional approach consolidates complexity into a single versatile system rather than requiring separate specialized systems for each function.
2Measurement precision
If multiple test systems are deployed in a plurality of locations to collect field data, then the accuracy of meter performance predictions is improved, but the loss of time and coordination requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables continuous data collection from multiple test systems operating simultaneously at different locations. The centralized platform continuously receives, processes, and analyzes data from all test systems, eliminating idle time between measurements and maintaining continuous progress toward comprehensive meter profiling.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-configures test systems with necessary parameters and protocols before deployment. The centralized platform pre-establishes data collection protocols and receives advance information about test schedules and locations, allowing for efficient coordination and minimizing time losses during actual data collection operations.
3Reliability
If laboratory data is collected under controlled conditions to establish baseline performance, then the reliability of metering is improved, but the applicability to real-world environmental conditions decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates data collection into distinct segments: controlled laboratory testing for baseline performance and field testing for real-world conditions. This segmentation allows each environment to be optimized for its specific purposes while both datasets contribute to comprehensive meter profiles that bridge the gap between controlled and real-world performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The centralized data collection platform acts as an intermediary that integrates laboratory and field data. It processes both controlled environment data and real-world field data, comparing and correlating the two datasets to create comprehensive meter profiles that account for both baseline performance and environmental variations.
Data Source
AI summary
This technology introduces a portable, mobile testing system designed to evaluate the accuracy of fluid flow meters directly at their installation sites, eliminating the need to remove meters for testing and saving time and resources. The system features an improved drain line system that ensures quick and complete removal of test fluid after testing is finished, minimizing cleanup and environmental impact. It also automates the testing process, evaluating the flow meter at various flow rates and collecting comprehensive performance data. This data is then recorded and securely transferred to a centralized database for analysis, reporting, and historical tracking. This portable system offers a convenient and efficient solution for on-site flow meter testing, improving accuracy and streamlining maintenance processes.