Rotating Sensor Flow Meter Using Magnetic Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow measurement technologies face challenges in achieving precise, dynamic, and robust measurements, especially in corrosive or moisture-saturated environments, and are often costly and not suitable for disposable applications.
Innovation Solution
A flow measuring device with a measuring element and drive device, featuring a sensor element that rotates within a flow channel, utilizing magnetic forces to hold the sensor in place and measure forces or displacements caused by fluid flow, allowing for accurate determination of flow rates without mechanical components inside the channel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If mechanical sensors are used in flow measurement, then measurement precision can be achieved, but the device becomes vulnerable to corrosion and moisture damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical sensors with a magnetic field-based sensor element that rotates within the flow channel. The sensor element is driven by magnetic forces from external magnets, eliminating the need for mechanical components inside the flow channel that would be exposed to corrosive fluids and moisture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the external drive mechanism and the sensor element. The magnets are positioned outside the flow channel, transmitting rotational motion through magnetic interaction without physical contact, thus protecting the sensing mechanism from direct exposure to harsh environments.
2Measurement precision
If complex sensor technologies are used to achieve accurate measurements, then measurement precision improves, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent describes embodiments where the flow channel with the sensor element can be designed as a disposable component. This allows the use of simpler, more cost-effective materials and manufacturing methods for the flow channel while maintaining measurement accuracy through the magnetic sensing mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
By replacing complex mechanical sensor assemblies with a simpler magnetic field-based rotation sensing system, the patent reduces manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining or improving measurement precision.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the sensor element is held mechanically inside the flow channel, then positioning stability is achieved, but contamination risk and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical holding mechanisms with magnetic fields generated by external magnets to position and rotate the sensor element. This eliminates mechanical bearings, shafts, or other internal support structures, reducing device complexity and eliminating contamination pathways associated with mechanical seals and joints.
Solution Approach 2:
Magnetic fields serve as an intermediary to provide both rotational drive and positional stability to the sensor element without requiring physical contact or mechanical support structures inside the flow channel.
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
Enables quick, accurate, and robust flow measurements in corrosive or moisture-saturated fluids, with the option for disposable flow channels and reduced contamination risk, while maintaining precision and scalability for various flow rates.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor element can be held or retained in the flow channel by magnetic force
Implementation Method 2
The fluid flowing around the probe interacts with the probe to cause an oscillating Magnus force
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a flow rate measuring device comprising a measuring element, wherein the measuring element has a flow channel in which a sensor element is arranged. The sensor element can be driven by a drive device such that it rotates about an axis of rotation. The flow rate measuring device according to the invention also comprises a force measuring device, with which a force on the sensor element or a shifting of the sensor element against a counter force or a force brought about by the sensor element can be measured. The invention also relates to a corresponding measuring element and a method for measuring a flow rate.