Smart Gas Flow Analyzer for Fast Pressure and BTU Diagnostics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for monitoring gas flow and pressure in gas burning appliances are cumbersome to install and require manual data logging, making it difficult to quickly identify and diagnose gas supply issues.
Innovation Solution
A portable 3-in-1 gas flow meter, digital manometer, and calculator system that uses a smart device connected via short-range wireless communication to quickly install and monitor gas flow, pressure, and capacity issues, with data logging and reporting capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a manometer is installed to measure gas pressure, then pressure measurement capability is improved, but installation complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions (pressure measurement via manometer, flow measurement via flow meter, and calculations via calculator) into a single integrated analyzer device. This eliminates the need to install and coordinate multiple separate devices, thereby reducing installation complexity while maintaining comprehensive measurement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The analyzer device performs multiple functions including pressure measurement, flow measurement, BTU/hour calculation, and data logging within a single unit. This multi-functionality replaces the traditional combination of manometer, flow meter, and calculator, simplifying the overall system while improving measurement and diagnostic capabilities.
2Loss of information
If manual data logging is used by service technicians, then data recording capability is improved, but time consumption and labor intensity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The analyzer device automatically performs data logging and recording without requiring manual intervention from service technicians. The device self-monitors gas pressure, flow rate, and other parameters, automatically storing the data in its memory. This eliminates the time-consuming manual data collection process while ensuring continuous and accurate data recording.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of data logging with an automated electronic system. Sensors continuously monitor parameters and transfer data to the device's memory and display, eliminating the need for technicians to manually record data in notebooks or spreadsheets.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate devices (manometer, flow meter, calculator) are used, then measurement comprehensive is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple measurement and calculation functions into a single analyzer device with a unified interface. The device simultaneously performs pressure measurement, flow measurement, BTU/hour calculation, and data logging, allowing technicians to operate one device instead of coordinating multiple separate tools. This significantly improves ease of operation while maintaining comprehensive measurement capabilities.
4Reliability
If traditional diagnostic methods are used, then diagnostic capability is improved, but productivity and speed of diagnosis worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The analyzer device provides real-time feedback through its display, showing current gas pressure, flow rate, BTU/hour delivery, and other critical parameters. This immediate feedback allows technicians to quickly identify diagnostic issues without waiting for manual calculations or separate measurements, significantly speeding up the diagnostic process while maintaining reliable detection capabilities.
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 system streamlines the start-up and commissioning of gas burning devices, enhances diagnostic efficiency, and provides immediate data access, replacing the need for multiple devices and manual logging.
Implementation Method 1
The first signal can be generated by a differential pressure sensor
Implementation Method 2
the second signal is generated by a barometric pressure sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A system monitors gas flow and pressure to a gas appliance in a fluid network comprising an analyzer. The analyzer has a housing defining an inlet, an outlet, and an interior in fluid communication with the inlet and the outlet. At least one sensor is coupled to the analyzer and configured to generate at least one signal related to gas being supplied to the gas appliance. A smart device communicates with the analyzer, wherein the smart device has a user interface and is configured to monitor, store and display data. The smart device can present any or all of a plurality of parameters such as the flow of gas, a capacity of the flow of gas, a temperature, a pressure of the gas and the like to a user based on signals from sensors.