Ultrasonic Line Control Valve for Precise Flow Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional line control fittings for hydraulic balancing in piping systems face limitations in measurement accuracy and require complex, time-consuming processes, with existing solutions either lacking precision or being cumbersome and costly.
Innovation Solution
Integration of ultrasonic sensors on the housing of line control fittings, utilizing a transit time difference method for non-invasive flow measurement, which eliminates the need for medium contact and reduces maintenance, providing accurate and quick regulation capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional measuring devices are connected separately to measure flow, then flow measurement can be performed, but the process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the ultrasonic flow measurement device directly into the line control valve housing, combining two separate functions (flow measurement and valve control) into a single integrated unit. This eliminates the need for separate external measuring devices and their complex connections, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (ultrasonic sensors positioned within the housing) that enables non-contact flow measurement through the valve structure. This intermediary approach allows measurement without direct medium contact or complex external connections, simplifying the system while preserving measurement accuracy.
2Ease of operation
If ultrasonic sensors are integrated into the housing, then flow measurement becomes simpler and maintenance is reduced, but measurement precision must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions ultrasonic sensors at specific locations within the housing where they can measure flow characteristics without being exposed to the medium directly. This localized positioning optimizes both the simplicity of operation (non-contact measurement) and measurement precision by selecting measurement points that provide accurate flow data while avoiding contamination and maintenance issues.
3Measurement precision
If separate pressure measuring lines are used, then flow measurement can be performed, but the construction becomes complex and pressure losses occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the flow measurement function from the traditional separate pressure measuring line configuration and relocates it to an integrated ultrasonic sensor system within the valve housing. This extraction eliminates the need for complex pressure line connections and associated pressure losses, while maintaining the capability to perform accurate flow measurements through a simpler construction.
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, independent flow measurement and regulation with reduced maintenance needs, avoiding pressure losses and complex constructions, while offering a large measuring range and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a transit time difference method for non-invasive flow measurement
Implementation Method 2
a first ultrasonic sensor and at least one further ultrasonic sensor, which are arranged on the housing
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a line control valve, comprising a housing (1), in which a shut-off body (9) is arranged. The line control valve has a device for measuring flow rate. The device comprises a first ultrasonic sensor (14) and at least one additional ultrasonic sensor (15), which are arranged on the housing (1).