Spiral Throttling Flow Measurement Across Variable Channel Sizes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow rate measurement methods for spiral flow channels are inaccurate when the size of the channel changes, as they do not account for varying diameter and length, leading to significant measurement errors.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a spiral throttling component with a differential pressure sensor to measure pressure drop, using calibration datasets to determine flow coefficients and exponents, and adjusting these values to establish a credible relationship between flow coefficient and Reynolds number, allowing for adaptable flow rate calculation across different sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If empirical formulae are used for flow rate measurement in spiral flow channels, then measurement can be performed, but measurement accuracy deteriorates when channel size parameters change
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the flow rate measurement formula from a fixed empirical form to a parameterized form that explicitly includes spiral flow channel dimensions (diameter d, equivalent length L, and spiral angle β). By making the formula parameters variable rather than fixed, the measurement method adapts to different channel sizes while maintaining accuracy. The key transformation is incorporating size parameters d and L directly into the calculation formula Qv=k·(ΔP/ρ)^(1/2)·(πd²/4)·(L/d)^(m), where k, m are coefficients determined through calibration.
2Ease of manufacture
If fixed-size calibration methods are used, then calibration process is simple, but measurement accuracy deteriorates for different sized channels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal calibration method that works for spiral flow channels of various sizes by determining coefficients k and m through calibration and then applying them across different channel configurations. The calibrated formula with explicit size parameters (d, L, β) serves multiple channel sizes simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate calibration for each size while maintaining measurement accuracy. This universal approach transforms a size-specific measurement tool into a multi-functional instrument.
3Device complexity
If size parameters are excluded from flow rate formula, then formula remains simple, but adaptability to different channel sizes worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a static, fixed formula to a dynamic formula where parameters adapt based on channel dimensions. The calculation formula Qv=k·(ΔP/ρ)^(1/2)·(πd²/4)·(L/d)^(m) dynamically adjusts the flow rate calculation based on the actual diameter d and equivalent length L of the spiral channel being measured. This dynamic parameter incorporation allows the same formula structure to accurately measure different channel sizes without requiring structural changes to the measurement system.
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 method provides accurate flow rate measurements for spiral flow channels with varying sizes by establishing a credible normalization degree in flow coefficient calculations, reducing the need for individual calibrations and minimizing measurement errors.
Implementation Method 1
a differential pressure sensor is used to measure a pressure drop (DP) before and after a fluid flows through the spiral flow channel
Data Source
AI summary
A flow rate measurement method for a spiral throttling component is provided, where a spiral flow channel is formed inside the spiral throttling component, and the method includes: introducing a calibration medium into the spiral throttling component, obtaining a plurality of flow rates Qv, diameter of the spiral flow channel d, effective length L of the spiral flow channel, pressure drop DP of a fluid flowing through the spiral flow channel, and density of fluid density ρ, figuring out a relationship of k=f(Qv, d, L, DP and ρ) to obtain a calculation formula of the flow rate Qv. Through the technical solution, a calculation formula for the spiral flow channels with different sizes can be obtained by using a small amount of calibrations, thereby avoiding mismatch of flow formulae when a size of the spiral flow channel changes.