Pivoting Vortex Flow Meter for Small Apertures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vortex flow meters are limited in measuring low fluid flow rates, particularly below 0.5 m/s, and require a minimum aperture diameter of 1.5 inches for insertion, which is not compatible with smaller valve and pipeline apertures commonly found in the waterworks industry.
Innovation Solution
A pivotally attached measurement cylinder with a piezoelectric sensor element that can be inserted through apertures as small as 0.5 inches, allowing detection and measurement of fluid flow velocities between 0.2 and 0.5 m/s by generating and detecting vortices within the fluid stream.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional vortex flow meter is used, then it can measure fluid flow in turbulent range (Re > 5000, velocity > 0.5 m/s), but it cannot accurately measure low fluid flow rates (velocity < 0.5 m/s) with Reynolds number below 5000
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the detection parameter from simple vortex frequency counting to analyzing the complete pressure signal waveform characteristics. By measuring pressure fluctuations and identifying characteristic wave patterns corresponding to vortex detachment, the system can detect low Reynolds number flows (below 5000) and low velocities (below 0.5 m/s) that conventional frequency-based sensors cannot detect.
2Ease of operation
If a conventional flow meter with measurement cylinder is inserted into the pipeline, then it requires a minimum aperture diameter of 1.5 inches for proper installation, but this is incompatible with smaller valve and pipeline apertures (0.5 to 1.0 inch) commonly found in waterworks industry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a mechanical insertion approach (requiring linear space along the flow axis) to a radial mounting approach. The sensor is mounted on the external surface of the pipeline or valve body, utilizing the radial dimension rather than requiring axial insertion space. This allows the sensor to be positioned close to the flow path without needing a large aperture, enabling installation in apertures as small as 0.5 to 1.0 inch.
3Volume of moving object
If the measurement cylinder is made compact to fit smaller apertures, then it can be inserted into 0.5 inch apertures, but the space between the obstacle and sensor may be insufficient for proper vortex detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a flow conditioner or obstruction element positioned upstream of the sensor that generates vortices at a location optimized for detection. This intermediary element creates the Karman vortex street at a precise distance from the sensor, ensuring adequate space for vortex development while keeping the overall sensor assembly compact enough for 0.5 inch aperture installation.
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 accurate measurement of low fluid flow rates in smaller apertures, overcoming the limitations of existing flow meters by effectively detecting fluid velocities in the range of 0.2 to 0.5 m/s and accommodating smaller insertion diameters.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor element is disposed downstream of the obstruction for detecting fluid vortices generated by the obstruction
Implementation Method 2
when fluid encounters an obstacle placed in the axis of the fluid flow, it divides and creates small eddies or vortices on alternate sides of the obstacle. The generation of a succession of alternating turbulent waves is called a Karman vortex street. The frequency of detachment of the vortices, or the generation of the vortices, is directly proportional to the velocity of the fluid.
Data Source
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AI summary
A fluid flow meter includes a fitting attachable to a waterworks valve or pipeline so as to extend at least partially through an insertion aperture thereof. A measurement cylinder is pivotally attached to the fitting, and includes a fluid vortex generating obstruction. A sensor body extends through the fitting and has a sensor element at an end thereof disposed in the measurement cylinder and generally aligned with the obstruction to detect fluid vortices generated by the obstruction. The measurement cylinder is selectively movable from a position generally aligned with the fitting, to a position generally parallel to the fluid flowing through the valve or pipeline.