Vortex Flowmeter Signal Correction for Sensor Sensitivity Mismatch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vortex flowmeter devices face accuracy issues due to manufacturing tolerances causing differing sensor sensitivities, leading to residual interfering signals of the same phase and amplitude, which are difficult to eliminate and require costly calibration.
Innovation Solution
The method involves multiplying signals from the first and second sensors by correction factors v and w, respectively, to form a sum signal and a wanted signal, with the correlation between these signals minimized to eliminate interfering signals, allowing for adaptive compensation of sensor sensitivities without the need for expensive calibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional subtraction method is used to eliminate interfering signals, then same-phase interfering signals of identical amplitude can be eliminated, but residual interfering signals remain due to sensor sensitivity differences caused by manufacturing tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by introducing correction factors v and w that multiply the sensor signals x1 and x2 respectively. These correction factors adjust the signal parameters to compensate for sensitivity differences between sensors, transforming the signal processing from simple subtraction to weighted combination, thereby eliminating residual interfering signals while preserving the wanted flow signal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using the sum signal ys as a reference to minimize correlation with the wanted signal yd through adaptive adjustment of correction factors v and w. This feedback mechanism continuously optimizes the correction factors to eliminate interfering signals, improving measurement precision while maintaining reliability under varying operating conditions.
2Measurement precision
If costly calibration is performed to eliminate interfering signals, then measurement accuracy improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the vortex flowmeter to automatically determine and adjust its own correction factors v and w through the minimization of correlation between the sum signal ys and wanted signal yd. This self-calibration capability eliminates the need for external calibration equipment and procedures, reducing device complexity and cost while maintaining high measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the calibration process from a complex external procedure to a simple internal parameter adjustment by changing the correction factors v and w. This parameter-based approach allows the system to adapt to sensor sensitivity variations without requiring physical recalibration, thereby reducing device complexity while improving measurement accuracy.
3Ease of operation
If simple subtraction of sensor signals is used, then processing is straightforward, but residual interfering signals of same phase and amplitude cannot be fully eliminated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains ease of operation by using simple multiplication and addition operations with correction factors v and w, which are straightforward to implement in signal processing circuits. This parameter-based approach enhances interfering signal elimination without significantly complicating the processing methodology, as the correction factors can be determined through automatic minimization procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback-based minimization of correlation between sum signal ys and wanted signal yd to automatically determine optimal correction factors v and w. This feedback mechanism improves interfering signal elimination while keeping the processing simple, as the minimization can be implemented through straightforward computational algorithms that adapt to varying operating conditions.
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 effectively eliminates interfering signals of the same phase and amplitude, improving accuracy and allowing for continuous operation with minimal expense, while also compensating for slow sensor sensitivity changes.
Implementation Method 1
a first and a second piezoelectric sensor are arranged on the deformation spots. A mechanical excitation of sensors by a deformation caused by a pressure fluctuation produces a change in the polarization of the sensors and thus releases charge carriers in the sensors
Implementation Method 2
The measuring principle of vortex flowmeter devices is based on eddies that are generated by baffles arranged in the measuring tube and around which fluid flows. The fluid can be a gas, vapor or a liquid.
Data Source
AI summary
Method for operating a vortex flowmeter device for measuring the flow of a fluid that flows through a measuring tube in which a baffle is arranged for producing eddies in the fluid. A signal-processing device processes signals of first and sensors produced by pressure fluctuations. A first signal is obtained by multiplication of the signal of the first sensor with a correction factor, and the second signal is obtained by multiplication of the signal of the second sensor with another correction factor such that a wanted signal is obtained from the deviation between the first signal and second signals, and a sum signal is formed from the sum of the first and second signals. A correlation between the wanted signal and the sum signal is determined and the correlation is minimized by variation of the correction factors, whereby same-phase interfering signals superimposed on anti-phase sensor signals are at least minimized.