Ultrasonic Standing Wave Flow Channelization for Precision Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing techniques for determining fluid flow characteristics in pipes, such as those using SONAR-based meters, face limitations in accurately measuring flow rate, mass flow, and density due to variations in fluid flow, which can be influenced by various factors and require more precise methods to channelize and sense flow perturbations effectively.
Innovation Solution
The method employs a modulated ultrasonic standing wave to induce flow perturbations in a pipe, using a 'comb' effect to channelize the fluid flow and a SONAR-based system to sense the resulting pressure variations, allowing for the determination of fluid flow characteristics like mass flow, flow rate, and density through spatial shifting and frequency modulation of the standing wave, and bifurcated bridge approaches to manage flow resistance and detect flow rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If SONAR-based meters are used to determine fluid flow characteristics, then flow rate, mass flow, and density can be measured, but measurement precision deteriorates due to flow variations in the fluid
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by introducing a modulated standing wave upstream in the fluid flow before the SONAR-based flowmeter. This standing wave pre-organizes the fluid into channelized flow patterns, creating stable nodes and antinodes that reduce flow variations. The frequency modulation of the ultrasonic transducer about the resonant frequency spatially shifts the standing wave, sweeping the 'comb' structure back and forth across the pipe cross-section, which imparts momentum into the flow stream and establishes predictable flow patterns before measurement occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs mechanical vibration through the use of a modulated ultrasonic standing wave that vibrates the fluid at specific frequencies. The standing wave creates periodic compression and rarefaction zones that channelize the flow, and the frequency modulation introduces controlled vibrations that sweep the standing wave pattern across the pipe. This vibrational approach imparts momentum into the flow stream and creates measurable pressure variations that enhance the precision of flow characteristic determination while reducing the impact of random flow variations.
2Measurement precision
If flow variations are induced to channelize the fluid, then measurement accuracy improves, but device complexity increases due to additional ultrasonic transducers and signal processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using the same ultrasonic transducer system for multiple functions: generating the standing wave, modulating the flow pattern, and enabling measurement. The modulated standing wave serves both to channelize the flow (improving measurement conditions) and to impart momentum that creates measurable pressure variations. This multi-functional approach allows flow rate, mass flow, and density measurements to be obtained through a single integrated system rather than requiring separate devices for each measurement type, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high measurement accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If a modulated standing wave is used to impart momentum into the flow stream, then pressure variations are enhanced for better sensing, but energy consumption increases due to the ultrasonic driver combination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action through the use of a modulated standing wave that oscillates at specific frequencies to impart momentum into the flow stream. The frequency modulation creates periodic sweeping of the standing wave pattern back and forth across the pipe cross-section, which generates rhythmic pressure variations that are easily detectable by the SONAR-based sensing system. This periodic approach is more energy-efficient than continuous high-power ultrasonic transmission because it utilizes resonance and natural flow patterns, allowing momentum transfer to occur in synchronized pulses that accumulate effect over time while consuming less total energy.
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 enables precise determination of fluid flow characteristics by imparting momentum into the fluid stream, sensing pressure variations, and adjusting flow resistance, resulting in accurate measurements of mass flow, flow rate, and density, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of fluid flow analysis in pipes.
Implementation Method 1
a strong standing wave may be generated upstream in the fluid flow (immediately prior to the SONAR-based flowmeter) by an ultrasonic signal coupled across and reflected back across the flow stream
Implementation Method 2
the motion of the comb imparts momentum into the flow stream, which is used to induce downstream pressure variation sensed by or through the SONAR-based array
Implementation Method 3
SONAR-based meters developed by the assignee of the present invention and disclosed by way of example in whole or in part in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,165,464; 7,134,320; 7,363,800; 7,367,240; and 7,343,820
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a new and unique apparatus featuring a signal processor or processing module configured to: receive signaling containing information about a fluid flow passing through a pipe that is channelized causing flow variations in the fluid flow; and determine corresponding signaling containing information about a fluid flow characteristic of the fluid flow that depends on the flow variations caused in the fluid flow channelized, based upon the signaling received. The signal processor or processing module may be configured to provide the corresponding signaling, including where the corresponding signaling contains information about the fluid flow characteristic of the fluid flow channelized.