Static Flow Meter Sensor Housing Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing static flow meters face challenges in maintaining reliability and accuracy due to potential leakages and sensor dislodgment, especially when exposed to moisture and foreign bodies, which can compromise their ability to meet IP68 standards for long-term use without additional fastening means.
Innovation Solution
The flow meter assembly uses sensors to both measure flow rates and securely fasten the housing to the flow tube through threaded connections, reducing the number of holes and enhancing structural integrity, thereby minimizing leakages and ensuring accurate sensor positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the housing is fixed to the flow tube using brackets and screws through holes in the flow tube, then the housing can be securely attached, but the number of holes increases the likelihood of leakage from the flow tube
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the traditional bracket-and-screw fastening system from the flow tube. Instead of drilling holes in the flow tube for screws, the housing is attached using a different mechanism that does not require penetrating the flow tube wall, thereby eliminating the leakage risk associated with multiple holes while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary fastening mechanism between the housing and flow tube. This intermediary system allows the housing to be securely attached without directly penetrating the flow tube with screws, thus maintaining structural integrity and preventing leakage pathways.
2Measurement precision
If dimples are used to position ultrasonic transducers in the flow tube, then the transducers can be positioned for flow measurement, but the dimples and transducers are vulnerable to being dislodged by flow surges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the positioning function with the housing structure itself. The housing includes integrated features that directly hold the ultrasonic transducers in place, combining the positioning function with the protective housing to prevent dislodgment by flow surges while maintaining accurate positioning for measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary securing of the transducers within the housing structure before the housing is attached to the flow tube. This preliminary positioning action ensures that the transducers are firmly held in their correct positions, preventing dislodgment by subsequent flow surges.
3Reliability
If the housing is designed to meet IP68 standards for long-term use, then the meter can protect electrical components from moisture and foreign bodies for 20 years, but additional fastening means are required to maintain sealing integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the housing to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides protection against moisture and foreign bodies, secures the ultrasonic transducers in position, and attaches to the flow tube. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate fastening means while maintaining IP68 sealing standards and long-term reliability.
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
This approach enhances the reliability and accuracy of flow rate measurements while meeting IP68 standards for long-term durability by reducing the likelihood of leaks and ensuring robust sensor positioning, leading to a more reliable and cost-effective flow meter design.
Implementation Method 1
The first transducer 232 is arranged to transmit a first ultrasonic wave through the fluid to a reflector 219. The second transducer 242 is arranged to receive the first ultrasonic wave transmitted by the first transducer 232.
Implementation Method 2
The processor executes instructions in the memory to determine a flow rate of the fluid in the flow tube 210 based on the first transit time and the second transit time.
Implementation Method 3
Each of the piezoelectric elements 290, 291 is electrically coupled to its respective wire 292, 293. The first and second AC electrical signals are applied to the first and second piezoelectric elements 290, 291, respectively.
Data Source
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AI summary
A sensor (230, 240) for measuring the flow rate of a fluid in a flow tube (210), the sensor (230, 240) comprising sensing means (232, 242) and a sensor body (231, 241), wherein a portion of the sensing means (232, 242) is located within the sensor body (231, 241) and a first portion of the sensor body (231, 241) is arranged to fasten the sensor body (231, 241) to the flow tube (210) such that the sensor (230, 240) is positioned for sensing the flow rate of the fluid in the flow tube (210).