Vibronic Multisensor Standing-Wave Sensing for Accurate Process Variables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multisensors face challenges in achieving accurate measurement of multiple process variables due to factors such as geometric instability and signal transmission distance, leading to inaccuracies and increased energy requirements.
Innovation Solution
The method involves generating a standing wave between components of the sensor unit to determine process variables using both vibronic and ultrasonic measurement principles, allowing for independent evaluation of two received signals to enhance measurement accuracy and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If signal transmission distance is increased to improve measurement coverage, then measurement range is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to signal attenuation and geometric instability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs ultrasonic vibration to generate standing waves in the medium being measured. By exciting the medium at its resonant frequency, strong standing wave patterns are formed that provide stable reference points for measurement. This vibration-based approach enables accurate determination of process variables even over extended measurement distances, as the resonant frequency provides a stable reference that is independent of signal transmission distance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from direct signal amplitude comparison to frequency-based measurement. By measuring the resonant frequency of standing waves in the medium, the system achieves measurement precision that is independent of transmission distance. The resonant frequency serves as a stable reference parameter that does not attenuate with distance, thereby resolving the contradiction between measurement range and precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple process variables are measured simultaneously to improve functionality, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal sensor design where a single vibronic sensor system can measure multiple process variables including density, temperature, and concentration. The sensor uses standing wave resonance principles that are applicable across different measurement types, allowing one device to perform multiple functions. The same resonant frequency measurement approach is used to determine different physical properties of the medium, eliminating the need for separate specialized sensors for each parameter.
3Ease of operation
If traditional signal transmission methods are used to simplify the measurement process, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to geometric instability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses mechanical vibration to create standing waves in the medium, which provides stable reference points for measurement. The resonant frequency of the standing waves serves as a stable reference that is independent of geometric variations in the measurement path. This approach maintains measurement precision while keeping the operation simple, as the system automatically establishes standing wave patterns without requiring complex alignment or calibration procedures.
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 increases measurement accuracy and functionality by enabling the determination of multiple process variables, including density, viscosity, and sound speed, while reducing sensor size and compensating for influencing factors like temperature and concentration changes.
Implementation Method 1
The drive/receiver unit is, for example, a piezoelectric or electromagnetic drive
Implementation Method 2
the drive/receiver unit can receive the mechanical vibrations of the mechanically vibrating unit and convert them into an electrical signal
Implementation Method 3
a standing wave is generated between a first component of the sensor unit and a second component of the sensor unit, at least in a part of the medium
Implementation Method 4
The transmitted signal also passes through the medium, at least temporarily and in sections, and is influenced by the medium's physical and/or chemical properties
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 2c~2d
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for determining and/or monitoring at least a first process variable and a second process variable of a medium (M) in a container (3), wherein: a sensor unit (2) is excited by means of an excitation signal (A) in order to cause mechanical oscillations of the sensor unit; the sensor unit (2) receives the mechanical oscillations and converts them into a first receive signal (EA); the sensor unit transmits a transmit signal (S) and receives a second receive signal (ES); and a first process variable is ascertained on the basis of the first receive signal (EA) and a second process variable is ascertained on the basis of the second receive signal (ES). According to the invention, the transmit signal (S) is selected such that, between a first component of the sensor unit (2) and a second component of the sensor unit (2) or a wall of the container (3), a standing wave is produced at least in part of the medium (M).