Vibration Transducer Coupling Slits for Eigenfrequency Tuning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for adjusting the eigenfrequencies of measuring transducers with tube arrangements are complex and result in geometric deviations, such as non-ideal circular cross-sections and increased uniformity deviations, leading to potential detuning issues.

Innovation Solution

A measuring transducer with a tube arrangement featuring coupling elements having slits and connecting elements that form securement zones to adjust bending stiffness and eigenfrequencies without lasting deformation, allowing for precise tuning of eigenfrequencies during the manufacturing process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If existing methods are used to adjust eigenfrequencies of measuring transducers, then eigenfrequency adjustment is achieved, but geometric deviations occur such as non-ideal circular cross-sections and increased uniformity deviations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveeigenfrequency accuracyVSAvoidgeometric uniformity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling element is divided into multiple segments by introducing slits, allowing independent adjustment of bending stiffness in different regions. This segmentation enables precise eigenfrequency tuning without deforming the overall tube geometry, as each slit segment can be adjusted independently while maintaining the circular cross-section integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The slits are positioned specifically in the coupling elements rather than uniformly throughout the measuring transducer. This local modification allows eigenfrequency adjustment to be achieved at specific locations (the coupling zones) without affecting the geometric uniformity of the main measuring tubes, thus resolving the contradiction between eigenfrequency accuracy and geometric precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Adaptability or versatility

If complex adjustment methods are used, then eigenfrequency tuning capability is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveeigenfrequency tuning capabilityVSAvoidadjustment mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention adjusts eigenfrequencies by changing the geometric parameters of the coupling elements—specifically, by varying the slit dimensions (width, length, depth) and positions. This parameter-based adjustment method is simpler than mechanical deformation techniques, as it involves straightforward geometric modifications that can be easily manufactured and tuned without complex adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If connecting elements are used to form securement zones in slits, then bending stiffness can be adjusted to tune eigenfrequencies, but the coupling element structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveeigenfrequency tuning precisionVSAvoidcoupling element structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting elements within the slits create a dynamic structure where the bending stiffness can be adjusted by changing the position, number, or configuration of these connectors. This dynamic adjustability allows precise eigenfrequency tuning while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure, as the complexity is localized to small connecting elements rather than the entire coupling element.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 precise and simple adjustment of eigenfrequencies, minimizing imbalances and detuning risks, while maintaining the ideal geometry of the tubes, thus ensuring accurate measurements.

Implementation Method 1

coupling elements having slits and connecting elements that form securement zones to adjust bending stiffness and eigenfrequencies

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBending stiffness adjustment: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

measuring transducer of vibration-type... causing the at least two tubes to vibrate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVibration: Vibration

Implementation Method 3

tuning at least one characteristic eigenfrequency of a tube arrangement

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectEigenfrequency: Resonance

Data Source

PatentUS9097570B2Measuring transducer of a vibration-type having slits in the coupling elements for tuning eigenfrequency of the measuring tubes
Publication Date: 2015.08.04 ENDRESS HAUSER FLOWTEC AG
  • US9097570B2 patent drawing
  • US9097570B2 patent drawing
  • US9097570B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A measuring transducer serves for producing vibration signals corresponding to parameters of a flowing medium comprises a measuring transducer housing having housing ends and, extending within the measuring transducer housing between its housing ends, a tube arrangement formed by means of at least two tubes. Of the two tubes, at least one tube serves as a measuring tube conveying flowing medium and the other tube is mechanically connected with the tube by means of a first coupling element to form an inlet-side coupling zone and by means of a second coupling element to form an outlet-side coupling zone. At least the first coupling element has in a region extending between the tubes a slit having at least one closed end. Slit has a maximal slit width and a maximal slit length, which is greater than the maximal slit width. Placed partially within the slit is a connecting element, which contacts a slit edge enclosing said slit.