Vibronic Multisensor for Density and Sound Velocity
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vibronic sensors face challenges in accurately determining multiple process variables due to varying measurement accuracies and effects like drift and aging, which complicate comprehensive process monitoring and control.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus utilizing a sensor unit with a mechanical-vibration-capable unit and multiple piezoelectric elements to simultaneously excite and receive mechanical vibrations, as well as emit and receive transmission signals, allowing for the independent evaluation of multiple reception signals to determine multiple process variables, such as density and sound velocity, thereby increasing measurement accuracy and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate measuring devices are integrated into the process to achieve comprehensive process monitoring, then the quantity of process variables that can be determined is improved, but the device complexity and measurement precision deteriorate due to varying measurement accuracies and drift effects of different devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions (vibration-based density/viscosity measurement and ultrasonic sound velocity measurement) into a single sensor unit. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate measuring devices, reduces device complexity, and ensures consistent measurement conditions for all process variables since they are all taken from the same physical location and temporal moment.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor unit is designed as a multi-functional device that can simultaneously determine multiple process variables including density, viscosity, and sound velocity. The mechanical-vibration-capable unit and ultrasonic transmission/reception components work together within one device to provide comprehensive process monitoring capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate measuring devices are used to determine different process variables, then the quantity of process variables is improved, but the device complexity increases due to integration of multiple field devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple measurement systems into one integrated sensor unit. The vibration-based measurement system and ultrasonic measurement system are combined in a single device, eliminating the need to integrate multiple separate field devices and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor unit is designed as a universal measuring device capable of determining multiple process variables (density, viscosity, sound velocity) simultaneously, replacing the need for multiple specialized devices and simplifying the overall measurement system architecture.
3Measurement precision
If a single sensor unit uses both mechanical vibration and ultrasonic transmission, then the measurement precision is improved through multiple independent measurements, but the device complexity increases due to multiple piezoelectric elements
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor unit employs multiple piezoelectric elements that serve dual functions: some elements act as drive units for mechanical vibration while others act as reception units for both mechanical and ultrasonic signals. This multi-functional design enables multiple independent measurements within a single device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses piezoelectric elements as intermediary components that can operate in different modes (drive or reception) depending on the measurement being performed. This allows the same physical components to facilitate multiple measurement types without requiring completely separate systems.
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 comprehensive analysis of process variables with increased accuracy, allowing for reliable detection of deposits, drift, and aging, and simultaneous monitoring of multiple parameters with a single sensor unit, enhancing the precision and reliability of process monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor unit having at least one mechanical-vibration-capable unit and a first and a second piezoelectric element. The mechanical vibrations are received by the sensor unit and converted into a first reception signal
Implementation Method 2
the sensor unit emits a transmission signal and receives a second reception signal. A first process variable is determined on the basis of the first reception signal and a second process variable is determined on the basis of the second reception signal
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a method for determining and/or monitoring at least two different process variables of a medium, wherein a sensor unit is excited to vibrate mechanically by means of an excitation signal, the mechanical vibrations are received from the sensor unit and are converted into a first reception signal, the sensor unit emits a transmission signal and receives a second reception signal, and a first process variable is determined on the basis of the first reception signal and a second process variable is determined on the basis of the second reception signal. Disclosed also is an apparatus configured to carry out a method according to the invention.