Spiral Flow Path Ultrasonic Sensor Assembly for Compact Flow Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ultrasonic sensor assemblies require a long, straight flow section for accurate measurements, which is not feasible in all applications, and existing flow conditioners are expensive and cumbersome to install.
Innovation Solution
An ultrasonic sensor assembly with a sensor body featuring spiral flow paths formed by curved interior walls and vanes, allowing for accurate fluid flow measurement without the need for a long, straight flow section, and including paired ultrasonic transceivers and an electronics housing for measuring fluid parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a long, straight flow section is used to ensure stable flow velocity profile for accurate measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and installation requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs curved interior walls forming spiral flow paths instead of straight cylindrical sections. This curvature transforms the flow pattern from linear to rotational, creating stable flow conditions within a compact sensor body without requiring long straight run sections upstream or downstream.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement section is nested within the spiral flow structure, allowing the ultrasonic transducers to be positioned within the curved flow paths. This nesting enables the measurement function to be integrated within the flow-conditioning structure itself, eliminating the need for separate straight flow sections.
2Measurement precision
If flow conditioner devices are added upstream to stabilize flow profile, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the flow conditioning function with the measurement section by integrating curved interior walls that simultaneously condition the flow and define the measurement path. This eliminates the need for separate flow conditioner devices upstream, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The curved interior walls serve multiple functions: they condition the flow by creating spiral patterns, define the measurement section geometry, and guide the ultrasonic beams. This multi-functionality replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate components including flow straighteners and measurement sections.
3Ease of operation
If spiral flow paths are implemented in the sensor body, then ease of installation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The spiral flow paths are created using curved interior walls with continuous spiral geometry. This curvature design, while requiring precise manufacturing, creates self-conditioning flow patterns that are more tolerant of installation variations compared to straight-section designs, improving ease of installation.
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 accurate fluid parameter measurement in applications with non-linear flow paths, reducing installation costs and complexity by stabilizing fluid flow within the measurement section.
Implementation Method 1
ultrasonic transceivers mounted to the sensor body in spaced longitudinal relationship across the measurement section
Implementation Method 2
electronics that assess transmission (transit times, phase or frequency shifts) to determine parameters of the fluid
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
An ultrasonic sensor assembly is provided having sensor body having opposing open ends for enabling fluid flow therethrough. The body defines an interior measurement section therein. The body defines a plurality of spiral flow paths disposed about a longitudinal axis of the measurement section. The sensor assembly includes a pair of ultrasonic transceivers mounted to the tubular body in spaced longitudinal relationship across the measurement section. An electronics housing mounted to the body in a separable manner, when mounted, the electronics housing is in operable communication with the pair of ultrasonic transceivers to measure fluid parameters within the measurement section.