Ultrasonic Flow Meter Sensor Groove Layout for Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ultrasonic flowmeters require multiple pairs of sensors to achieve accurate measurements, increasing complexity and cost, and struggle to maintain consistent flow state measurements due to fluid profile and environmental factors.
Innovation Solution
The ultrasonic flowmeter design includes at least two pairs of ultrasonic sensors arranged in grooves on the inner wall of the pipeline with specific angular orientations and positions relative to the central axis, allowing for accurate flow rate measurement with reduced sensor count and minimal disruption to the fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple pairs of ultrasonic sensors are used to cover the entire measurement area, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity and measurement cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by arranging ultrasonic sensors in grooves on the inner wall of the fluid passage at specific locations rather than uniformly distributing them. The sensors are positioned to measure flow velocity at critical points (center and walls of pipeline) where fluid profile characteristics are most representative, achieving accurate flow measurement with fewer sensors
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the measurement function by using multiple pairs of ultrasonic sensors at different angular positions (e.g., 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°) around the pipeline circumference. Each sensor pair measures flow velocity at its specific location, and the results are combined to calculate overall flow rate, distributing the measurement task across multiple localized measurement points
2Device complexity
If multiple pairs of ultrasonic sensors are activated sequentially, then measurement cost is reduced, but ability to obtain consistent flowing state measurements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by cycling through different sensor pairs at regular time intervals. Multiple ultrasonic sensor pairs are activated sequentially in a periodic manner, where each pair completes its measurement cycle before the next pair activates. This periodic activation pattern ensures that measurements are taken at consistent intervals while maintaining the ability to track flow state changes over time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning multiple ultrasonic sensor pairs at optimal locations around the pipeline before measurement begins. The sensor pairs are pre-configured at specific angular positions and depths, allowing them to be activated in sequence without requiring real-time repositioning or complex coordination during the measurement process
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 configuration achieves high measurement accuracy with fewer sensors, maintaining ±2% error for low flow rates and ±1% for higher rates without the need for upstream rectifying devices, suitable for various pipeline configurations.
Implementation Method 1
The ultrasonic flowmeter uses multiple pairs of ultrasonic sensors arranged in a pipeline, so that ultrasonic waves interact with a medium flowing in the pipeline, thereby measuring a flow velocity
Data Source
AI summary
An ultrasonic flowmeter and a fluid pipeline. The ultrasonic flowmeter includes: a housing, which defines a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet with a fluid passage therebetween; and at least two pairs of ultrasonic sensors, wherein each pair of the at least two pairs of ultrasonic sensors have a first ultrasonic sensor and a second ultrasonic sensor arranged opposite to each other; wherein at least some of the at least two pairs of ultrasonic sensors are arranged in grooves on an inner wall of the fluid passage, and center points of front end faces of at least some of the at least two pairs of ultrasonic sensors are located on a cylindrical curved surface defined by the inner wall of the fluid passage.