Ultrasonic Flow Sensor Calibration With Adaptive Pulse Excitation

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a fixed pulse ping pattern to a dynamic, adaptive pulse pattern. The system continuously monitors the actual pulse echo signal characteristics and automatically adjusts the pulse ping pattern parameters (such as pulse width, frequency, and amplitude) in real-time. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize the excitation pattern based on actual crystal impedance and fluid properties, thereby improving signal-to-noise ratio while preventing saturation without requiring complex manual configuration.

The patent applies self-service by enabling the ultrasonic flow sensor to automatically determine its own flow tube length using the ultrasonic signals already being transmitted for flow measurement. The system uses the time-of-flight of ultrasonic pulses through the flow tube to calculate the tube length, eliminating the need for separate manual measurement steps during manufacturing. This self-determination approach maintains high measurement precision while preserving manufacturing efficiency, as the calibration data is obtained during normal operation rather than requiring additional production time.

The patent applies feedback by implementing a closed-loop control system that monitors the actual pulse echo signal characteristics during each excitation cycle. The system analyzes parameters such as signal amplitude, rise time, and noise level to assess signal quality in real-time. Based on this feedback, the controller dynamically adjusts the number and characteristics of subsequent excitation pulses. When signal quality is sufficient, the system uses fewer pulses to conserve energy; when signal quality deteriorates, the system increases the number of pulses or adjusts their parameters to improve signal-to-noise ratio, thereby optimizing energy consumption while maintaining reliable measurements.