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EP1728054A1 - Ultrasonic flow sensor comprising a transducer array and a reflection surface - Google Patents

Ultrasonic flow sensor comprising a transducer array and a reflection surface

Info

Publication number
EP1728054A1
EP1728054A1 EP05701594A EP05701594A EP1728054A1 EP 1728054 A1 EP1728054 A1 EP 1728054A1 EP 05701594 A EP05701594 A EP 05701594A EP 05701594 A EP05701594 A EP 05701594A EP 1728054 A1 EP1728054 A1 EP 1728054A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
ultrasonic
flow sensor
reflection surface
transducer array
sensor according
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP05701594A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Tobias Lang
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Robert Bosch GmbH
Original Assignee
Robert Bosch GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Robert Bosch GmbH filed Critical Robert Bosch GmbH
Publication of EP1728054A1 publication Critical patent/EP1728054A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N29/00—Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves; Visualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object
    • G01N29/02—Analysing fluids
    • G01N29/024—Analysing fluids by measuring propagation velocity or propagation time of acoustic waves
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01F—MEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME
    • G01F1/00—Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow
    • G01F1/66—Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01F—MEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME
    • G01F1/00—Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow
    • G01F1/66—Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters
    • G01F1/662—Constructional details
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01F—MEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME
    • G01F1/00—Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow
    • G01F1/66—Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters
    • G01F1/665—Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters of the drag-type
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N29/00—Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves; Visualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object
    • G01N29/02—Analysing fluids
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N29/00—Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves; Visualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object
    • G01N29/34—Generating the ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves, e.g. electronic circuits specially adapted therefor
    • G01N29/341—Generating the ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves, e.g. electronic circuits specially adapted therefor with time characteristics
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01P—MEASURING LINEAR OR ANGULAR SPEED, ACCELERATION, DECELERATION, OR SHOCK; INDICATING PRESENCE, ABSENCE, OR DIRECTION, OF MOVEMENT
    • G01P5/00—Measuring speed of fluids, e.g. of air stream; Measuring speed of bodies relative to fluids, e.g. of ship, of aircraft
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01P—MEASURING LINEAR OR ANGULAR SPEED, ACCELERATION, DECELERATION, OR SHOCK; INDICATING PRESENCE, ABSENCE, OR DIRECTION, OF MOVEMENT
    • G01P5/00—Measuring speed of fluids, e.g. of air stream; Measuring speed of bodies relative to fluids, e.g. of ship, of aircraft
    • G01P5/24—Measuring speed of fluids, e.g. of air stream; Measuring speed of bodies relative to fluids, e.g. of ship, of aircraft by measuring the direct influence of the streaming fluid on the properties of a detecting acoustical wave
    • G01P5/245—Measuring speed of fluids, e.g. of air stream; Measuring speed of bodies relative to fluids, e.g. of ship, of aircraft by measuring the direct influence of the streaming fluid on the properties of a detecting acoustical wave by measuring transit time of acoustical waves
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N2291/00—Indexing codes associated with group G01N29/00
    • G01N2291/02—Indexing codes associated with the analysed material
    • G01N2291/028—Material parameters
    • G01N2291/02836—Flow rate, liquid level
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N2291/00—Indexing codes associated with group G01N29/00
    • G01N2291/04—Wave modes and trajectories
    • G01N2291/044—Internal reflections (echoes), e.g. on walls or defects
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N2291/00—Indexing codes associated with group G01N29/00
    • G01N2291/10—Number of transducers
    • G01N2291/106—Number of transducers one or more transducer arrays
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N2291/00—Indexing codes associated with group G01N29/00
    • G01N2291/26—Scanned objects
    • G01N2291/263—Surfaces
    • G01N2291/2634—Surfaces cylindrical from outside

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an ultrasonic flow sensor, in particular for measuring the volume or mass flow of a fluid, according to the preamble of patent claim 1.
  • Ultrasonic flow sensors are used in particular to measure the volume or mass flow or the flow rate of a gaseous or liquid medium flowing through a pipeline.
  • a typical ultrasound flow sensor comprises two ultrasound transducers arranged offset in the flow direction, which generate ultrasound signals and send them out to the other ultrasound transducer that they are receiving. Depending on the direction of radiation, the ultrasound signals are either accelerated or slowed down by the flow. The ultrasound signals are therefore received by the two transducers after different transit times. From the transit time difference of the ultrasonic signal in the direction of flow and the
  • An ultrasound signal in the opposite direction can finally be evaluated by an electronic evaluation system the desired measured variable.
  • Another type of ultrasonic flow sensor uses the effect of the jet drift.
  • This type usually comprises two transducer arrays (a series arrangement of several transducers) arranged opposite one another on a pipeline, one of which works as a transmitting array and the other as a receiving array.
  • the transmission array sends an ultrasound signal to the opposite reception array, where the signal is detected. If a fluid flows through the pipeline at a flow velocity v, the sound waves emitted transversely to the direction of flow are carried along by the flow and thereby deflected in the direction of flow (jet drift).
  • v flow velocity
  • the construction of such an ultrasonic flow sensor with two transducer arrays is relatively complex and complicated.
  • An essential aspect of the invention is to realize an ultrasonic flow sensor with only a single transducer array and an opposite reflection surface, and to operate the flow sensor in such a way that the transducer array emits ultrasonic signals to the opposite reflection surface and receives the reflected signals again.
  • the extent of the jet drift is a measure of the flow velocity of the flowing medium.
  • transducer array is understood here in particular to mean a series arrangement of a plurality of ultrasound transducers, which are preferably arranged directly adjacent to one another.
  • the individual transducers are preferably arranged in alignment and produce e.g. flat or cylindrical
  • the converter array can also be used in this way be formed so that spherical, ellipsoidal or otherwise curved wave fronts are generated.
  • the converter array according to the invention is preferably operated in a pulsed manner. This means that the individual ultrasound transducers of the transducer array are electrically excited in a pulsed manner and generate a corresponding ultrasound signal that is received again by the transducers after its transit time - which essentially depends on the tube diameter and the speed of sound in the fluid.
  • the frequency of the suggestions per time i.e. the number of ultrasound signals that run through the measurement section at the same time is in principle freely selectable. It should only be taken into account here that conventional converters cannot send and receive at the same time, and thus transmission and reception must not coincide at one time.
  • the sensor may, according to a first mode of operation, for example, similarly as in ⁇ sing-around "(Note: sing-around refers generally to the fact that transit time measurement is performed) processes are operated, wherein the reception of an ultrasound signal at the transducer array in each case the generation of a new ultrasonic signal This causes the ultrasound signals to run back and forth continuously.
  • sing-around refers generally to the fact that transit time measurement is performed
  • the generation of the ultrasound signals is periodically triggered by an oscillator in such a way that a new ultrasound signal is only ever sent after an ultrasound signal has been received.
  • the transducer array is controlled in such a way that it sends a sequence of several ultrasound signals within one round trip time (ie the time that an ultrasound signal would need from the transducer array to the reflection surface and back).
  • a sequence of several ultrasound signals within one round trip time (ie the time that an ultrasound signal would need from the transducer array to the reflection surface and back).
  • the transducer array before the first of the ultrasound signals becomes the transducer array has reached again, coupled at least one further signal into the measuring section.
  • the number of measurements per time can be increased significantly and thus the measurement accuracy can be increased, the measurement duration being significantly shorter compared to n individual measurements.
  • the time interval between the individual ultrasound signals of a sequence is to be selected so that a transducer is ready to receive, ie does not exactly work in the transmission mode when a reflected ultrasound signal arrives at the transducer.
  • the ultrasound flow sensor preferably comprises transmission electronics with which the individual ultrasound transducers can be excited individually and independently of one another. This makes it possible to set the path differences of the individual signals emitted by the ultrasound transducers in such a way that a global ultrasound wave with a definable wavefront is generated by interference. For example, an essentially cylindrical or spherical wavefront is generated, which is reflected on the opposite reflection surface and hits the transducer array in a focused manner.
  • the reflecting surface can simply be part of the inner wall of the tube, without the wall having to be specially adapted.
  • the individual transducers of the transducer array are excited synchronously, so that a wave with a flat wavefront is produced by interference of the individual signals.
  • the reflection surface is preferably curved such that the plane wave is focused and hits the transducer array in bundles.
  • the reflection surface should also be designed in such a way that it offers little resistance to the flow and does not generate any turbulence.
  • the reflection surface can be used, for example, as a bulge located in the inner tube wall can be realized.
  • a shielding device is provided on the side of the reflection surface, which causes that part of the
  • Ultrasonic signal that strikes the dimming device is not reflected or only reflected back onto the transducer array.
  • the dimming device can e.g. be realized in such a way that the incident ultrasound signal is absorbed, scattered or reflected out of the sound path of the useful signal. As a result, an intensity pattern is mapped on the transducer array, the limits of which are relatively sharp and can therefore be detected well.
  • the dimming device can e.g. an area of
  • Inner wall surface which e.g. is roughened or provided with fine grooves in order to diffusely scatter the ultrasonic signal.
  • the grooves are preferably aligned in the direction of flow.
  • the transducer array is preferably mounted flush with the inner wall of the pipeline. As a result, the flow of the fluid is not disturbed and, in particular, there is no turbulence.
  • the transducer array according to the invention is moreover preferably mounted in the upper half of a pipeline. This has the advantage that only a little dust or suspended matter can collect on the transducer array. If the transducer array and the reflection surface are arranged laterally opposite on the pipeline, both elements are contaminated relatively little.
  • the ultrasound flow sensor preferably includes a transmitter and receiver electronics that the transducer array in stimulates as desired and the reflected ultrasound signal is detected and evaluated.
  • FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of an ultrasonic flow sensor according to a first embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 2 is a schematic view of an ultrasound
  • Fig. 3 is a schematic view of an ultrasonic flow sensor according to a third embodiment of the invention.
  • the flow sensor essentially comprises an ultrasound transducer array 2 comprising a plurality of individual, strip-shaped ultrasound transducers 2a-2n arranged in parallel, each of which generates ultrasound signals and emits them to an opposite reflection surface 4. Interference of the individual signals creates a global wavefront 7, which propagates through the flowing fluid 1 transversely to the direction of flow, is reflected on the reflection surface 4 and then hits the transducer array 2 again.
  • the position of the pixel P is a measure of the flow velocity v of the fluid 1.
  • the individual ultrasound transducers 2a-2n of the transducer array 2 are controlled separately, so that, due to the path differences of the individual signals, an approximately cylindrical wavefront 7 is formed which is concavely curved in the radiation direction Edge areas 8 first meet the reflection surface 4.
  • the shaft 7 is thereby focused and strikes the transducer array 2 essentially at a point P, depending on the flow velocity v, the image point P moves more or less strongly in the direction of flow 12 (effect of the jet drift).
  • Flow velocity v is indicated by dashed lines and a pixel P '.
  • a reception electronics 6 evaluates the ultrasound signal detected at the ultrasound transducers 2a-2n and calculates the desired measurement variable therefrom.
  • the reflection surface 4 is merely a section of the inner tube wall opposite the transducer array 2.
  • the inner tube wall in the area of the reflection surface 4 could e.g. polished or provided with a special reflective layer.
  • the transducer array 2 is mounted here on the pipe 3 to prevent dust or
  • Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of another
  • the transmission and evaluation circuits 5 and _ 6 are omitted for reasons of clarity.
  • the same components are identified by the same reference symbols.
  • the individual ultrasonic transducers 2a-2n of the transducer array 2 are controlled in such a way that a plane wavefront 7, which runs in the direction of the reflection surface 4, is produced by interference of the individual signals.
  • the reflection surface 4 is curved in such a way that the ultrasound signal 7 is focused and strikes the transducer array 2 approximately in the form of a line or point. Precise pinpoint focusing is not absolutely necessary.
  • the reflection surface 4 is formed as a bulge in the tube wall of the tube 3 in order not to hinder the flow of the fluid 1 and, in particular, to cause turbulence that is as small as possible.
  • FIG. 3 shows a further embodiment of an ultrasonic flow sensor with a small transducer array 2 and an opposite reflection surface 4.
  • the extension of the reflection surface 4 is in this. Embodiment less than the length of the transducer array 2. Adjacent to
  • a reflecting device 11 is provided on the reflection surface 4, which attenuates or filters the incident sound signal. That that part of an ultrasonic signal 7 which strikes the anti-dazzle device 11 is not reflected back or only reflected back onto the transducer array 2.
  • the dimming device 11 can e.g. as a wall area with a particularly rough surface or e.g. be realized as a grooved area of the inner tube wall.
  • sicfi thus produces a pattern with high sound intensity due to that on reflection surface 4 reflected part of signal 7 and lower
  • the limits of this pattern in turn shift depending on the flow velocity v of the fluid 1.
  • the desired measured variable can again be determined from the position of the pattern.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Immunology (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Analytical Chemistry (AREA)
  • Biochemistry (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Acoustics & Sound (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Pathology (AREA)
  • Electromagnetism (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Aviation & Aerospace Engineering (AREA)
  • Multimedia (AREA)
  • Measuring Volume Flow (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to an ultrasonic flow sensor, in particular for measuring the volumetric or mass flow of a fluid (1) in a conduit (3). Said sensor comprises at least one ultrasonic transducer (2a-2n), which emits and receives ultrasonic signals (7). The aim of the invention is to provide an ultrasonic flow sensor that has a particularly simple, cost-effective construction and that functions according to the principle of beam drift. To achieve this, the sensor comprises an array (2), consisting of several ultrasonic transducers (2a-2n), which is positioned on one side of the conduit (3), a reflection surface (4), which lies opposite the array (2) and by means of which the emitted ultrasonic signals (7) are reflected and a receiver electronics system (6), which evaluates the ultrasonic signal (9) that has been received by the ultrasonic transducers (2a-2n).

Description

Beschreibungdescription
Ultraschall-Strömungssensor mit Wandlerarray und ReflexionsflächeUltrasonic flow sensor with transducer array and reflection surface
Die Erfindung betrifft einen Ultraschall-Strömungssensor, insbesondere zum Messen des Volumen- oder Massestroms eines Fluids, gemäß dem Oberbegriff des Patentanspruchs 1.The invention relates to an ultrasonic flow sensor, in particular for measuring the volume or mass flow of a fluid, according to the preamble of patent claim 1.
Ultraschall-Strömungssensoren werden insbesondere eingesetzt, um den Volumen- oder Massestrom oder die Strömungsgeschwin- digkeit eines gasförmigen oder flüssigen Mediums zu messen, das durch eine Rohrleitung fließt. Ein typischer Ultraschall- Strömungssensor umfasst zwei in Strömungsrichtung versetzt angeordnete Ultraschallwandler, die Ultraschallsignale erzeugen und diese an den jeweils anderen Ultraschallwandler aussenden, d§r sie empfängt. Je nach Ausstrahlungsrichtung werden die Ultraschallsignale von der Strömung entweder beschleunigt oder verlangsamt. Die Ultraschallsignale werden daher von den beiden Wandlern nach unterschiedlichen Laufzeiten empfangen. Aus dem Laufzeitunterschied des Ultraschallsignals in Strömungsrichtung und desUltrasonic flow sensors are used in particular to measure the volume or mass flow or the flow rate of a gaseous or liquid medium flowing through a pipeline. A typical ultrasound flow sensor comprises two ultrasound transducers arranged offset in the flow direction, which generate ultrasound signals and send them out to the other ultrasound transducer that they are receiving. Depending on the direction of radiation, the ultrasound signals are either accelerated or slowed down by the flow. The ultrasound signals are therefore received by the two transducers after different transit times. From the transit time difference of the ultrasonic signal in the direction of flow and the
Ultraschallsignals in der Gegenrichtung kann eine Auswerteelektronik schließlich die gewünschte Messgröße berechnen .An ultrasound signal in the opposite direction can finally be evaluated by an electronic evaluation system the desired measured variable.
Ein anderer Typ von Ultraschall-Strömungssensoren nutzt den Effekt der Strahlverwehung. Dieser Typ umfasst in der Regel zwei an einer Rohrleitung gegenüberliegend angeordnete Wandlerarrays (Reihenanordnung mehrerer Wandler) , von denen das eine als Sendearray und das andere als Empfangsarray arbeitet. Das Sendearray sendet dabei ein Ultraschallsignal an das gegenüberliegende Empfangsarray, wo das Signal detektiert wird. Fließt durch die Rohrleitung ein Fluid mit einer Strömungsgeschwindigkeit v, so werden die quer zur Strömungsrichtung ausgesendeten Schallwellen von der Strömung mitgeführt und dadurch in Strömungsrichtung abgelenkt (Strahlverwehung) . Der Aufbau eines solchen Ultraschall- Strömungssensors mit zwei Wandlerarrays ist relativ aufwändig und kompliziert.Another type of ultrasonic flow sensor uses the effect of the jet drift. This type usually comprises two transducer arrays (a series arrangement of several transducers) arranged opposite one another on a pipeline, one of which works as a transmitting array and the other as a receiving array. The transmission array sends an ultrasound signal to the opposite reception array, where the signal is detected. If a fluid flows through the pipeline at a flow velocity v, the sound waves emitted transversely to the direction of flow are carried along by the flow and thereby deflected in the direction of flow (jet drift). The construction of such an ultrasonic flow sensor with two transducer arrays is relatively complex and complicated.
Es ist daher die Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung, einen Ultraschall-Strömungssensor, der nach dem Prinzip der Strahlverwehung arbeitet, zu schaffen, der einfach aufgebaut ist und wesentlich kostengünstiger realisiert werden kann.It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide an ultrasonic flow sensor which works on the principle of jet drift, which is simple in construction and can be implemented in a much more cost-effective manner.
Gelöst wird diese Aufgabe gemäß der Erfindung durch die im Patentanspruch 1 angegebenen Merkmale . Weitere Ausgestaltungen der Erfindung sind Gegenstand von Unteransprüchen.This object is achieved according to the invention by the features specified in claim 1. Further embodiments of the invention are the subject of dependent claims.
Ein wesentlicher Aspekt der Erfindung besteht darin, einen Ultraschall-Strömungssensor mit nur einem einzigen Wandlerarray und einer gegenüberliegenden Reflexionsfläche zu realisieren, und den Strömungssensor derart zu betreiben, dass das Wandlerarray Ultraschallsignale an die gegenüberliegende Reflexions läche aussendet und die reflektierten Signale wieder empfängt . Das Ausmaß der Strahlverwehung ist dabei ein Maß für die Strömungsgeschwindigkeit des strömenden Mediums. Ein wesentlicher Vorteil dieses Strömungssensors besteht darin, dass nur ein einziges Wandlerarray erforderlich ist und ein derartiger Sensor besonders kostengünstig hergestellt werden kann.An essential aspect of the invention is to realize an ultrasonic flow sensor with only a single transducer array and an opposite reflection surface, and to operate the flow sensor in such a way that the transducer array emits ultrasonic signals to the opposite reflection surface and receives the reflected signals again. The extent of the jet drift is a measure of the flow velocity of the flowing medium. A major advantage of this flow sensor is that only a single transducer array is required and such a sensor can be manufactured particularly inexpensively.
Unter dem Begriff "Wandlerarray" wird hier im besonderen eine Reihenanordnung von mehreren Ultraschallwandlern verstanden, die vorzugsweise unmittelbar aneinander angrenzend angeordnet sind. Die einzelnen Wandler sind vorzugsweise fluchtend angeordnet und erzeugen z.B. ebene oder zylinderförmigeThe term “transducer array” is understood here in particular to mean a series arrangement of a plurality of ultrasound transducers, which are preferably arranged directly adjacent to one another. The individual transducers are preferably arranged in alignment and produce e.g. flat or cylindrical
Ultraschallwellen. Das Wandlerarray kann aber auch derart gebildet sein, dass kugelförmige, ellipsoidförmige oder auf sonstige Weise gekrümmte Wellenfronten erzeugt werden.Ultrasonic waves. The converter array can also be used in this way be formed so that spherical, ellipsoidal or otherwise curved wave fronts are generated.
Das erfindungsgemäße Wandlerarray wird vorzugsweise gepulst betrieben. D.h., die einzelnen Ultraschallwandler des Wandlerarrays werden pulsartig elektrisch angeregt und erzeugen ein entsprechendes Ultraschallsignal, das nach seiner Laufzeit - die im wesentlichen vom Rohrdurchmesser und der Schallgeschwindigkeit im Fluid abhängig ist - wieder von den Wandlern empfangen wird.The converter array according to the invention is preferably operated in a pulsed manner. This means that the individual ultrasound transducers of the transducer array are electrically excited in a pulsed manner and generate a corresponding ultrasound signal that is received again by the transducers after its transit time - which essentially depends on the tube diameter and the speed of sound in the fluid.
Die Häufigkeit der Anregungen pro Zeit, d.h. die Anzahl der Ultraschallsignale, die gleichzeitig die Messstrecke durchlaufen, ist prinzipiell frei wählbar. Dabei ist nur zu berücksichtigen, dass herkömmliche Wandler nicht gleichzeitig senden und empfangen können und somit Senden und Empfangen nicht auf einen Zeitpunkt zusammen fallen dürfen.The frequency of the suggestions per time, i.e. the number of ultrasound signals that run through the measurement section at the same time is in principle freely selectable. It should only be taken into account here that conventional converters cannot send and receive at the same time, and thus transmission and reception must not coincide at one time.
Der Sensor kann gemäß einer ersten Betriebsart z.B. ähnlich wie im Λsing-around" (Anmerkung: sing-around bezieht sich normalerweise darauf, dass Laufzeitmessung durchgeführt wird) Verfahren betrieben werden, bei dem der Empfang eines Ultraschallsignals am Wandlerarray jeweils die Erzeugung eines neuen Ultraschallsignals auslöst. Dadurch laufen die Ultraschallsignale fortlaufend hin und her.The sensor may, according to a first mode of operation, for example, similarly as in Λ sing-around "(Note: sing-around refers generally to the fact that transit time measurement is performed) processes are operated, wherein the reception of an ultrasound signal at the transducer array in each case the generation of a new ultrasonic signal This causes the ultrasound signals to run back and forth continuously.
Gemäß einer zweiten Betriebsart wird die Erzeugung der Ultraschallsignale von einem Oszillator gesteuert periodisch so ausgelöst, dass immer erst nach dem Empfang eines Ultraschallsignals ein neues Ultraschallsignal gesendet wird.According to a second operating mode, the generation of the ultrasound signals is periodically triggered by an oscillator in such a way that a new ultrasound signal is only ever sent after an ultrasound signal has been received.
Gemäß einer dritten Betriebsart wird das Wandlerarray derart angesteuert, dass es innerhalb einer Umlaufzeit (d.h. die Zeit, die ein Ultraschallsignal vom Wandlerarray zur Reflexionsfläche und zurück benötigen würde) eine Sequenz aus mehreren Ultraschallsignalen sendet. In diesem Fall wird, noch bevor das erste der Ultras.σhallsignale das Wandlerarray wieder erreicht hat, wenigstens ein weiteres Signal in die Messstrecke eingekoppelt. Dadurch kann die Anzahl der Messungen pro Zeit wesentlich erhöht und somit auch die Messgenauigkeit gesteigert werden, wobei die Messdauer gegenüber n Einzelmessungen wesentlich kürzer ist. Der zeitliche Abstand zwischen den einzelnen Ultraschallsignalen einer Sequenz ist dabei so zu wählen, dass ein Wandler empfangsbereit ist, d.h. nicht gerade im Sendebetrieb arbeitet, wenn ein reflektiertes Ultraschallsignal am Wandler eintrifft .According to a third operating mode, the transducer array is controlled in such a way that it sends a sequence of several ultrasound signals within one round trip time (ie the time that an ultrasound signal would need from the transducer array to the reflection surface and back). In this case, before the first of the ultrasound signals becomes the transducer array has reached again, coupled at least one further signal into the measuring section. As a result, the number of measurements per time can be increased significantly and thus the measurement accuracy can be increased, the measurement duration being significantly shorter compared to n individual measurements. The time interval between the individual ultrasound signals of a sequence is to be selected so that a transducer is ready to receive, ie does not exactly work in the transmission mode when a reflected ultrasound signal arrives at the transducer.
Der Ultraschall-Strömungssensor umfasst vorzugsweise eine Sendeelektronik, mit der die einzelnen Ultraschallwandler individuell und unabhängig voneinander angeregt werden können. Dadurch wird es möglich, die Gangunterschiede der einzelnen, von den Ultraschallwandlern ausgesendeten Signale derart einzustellen, dass durch Interferenz eine globale Ultraschallwelle mit vorgebbarer Wellenfront entsteht. So kann z.B. eine im wesentlichen zylinderförmige oder kugelförmige Wellenfront erzeugt werden, die an der gegenüberliegenden Reflexionsfläche reflektiprt wird und fokussiert wieder auf das Wandlerarray trifft. Die Reflexionsfläche kann in diesem Fall einfach ein Teil der Rohrinnenwand sein, ohne dass eine spezielle Anpassung der Wand erforderlich wäre.The ultrasound flow sensor preferably comprises transmission electronics with which the individual ultrasound transducers can be excited individually and independently of one another. This makes it possible to set the path differences of the individual signals emitted by the ultrasound transducers in such a way that a global ultrasound wave with a definable wavefront is generated by interference. For example, an essentially cylindrical or spherical wavefront is generated, which is reflected on the opposite reflection surface and hits the transducer array in a focused manner. In this case, the reflecting surface can simply be part of the inner wall of the tube, without the wall having to be specially adapted.
Gemäß einer anderen Ausführungsform der Erfindung werden die einzelnen Wandler des Wandlerarrays synchron angeregt, so dass durch Interferenz der Einzelsignale eine Welle mit ebener Wellenfront entsteht. In diesem Fall ist die Reflexionsfläche vorzugsweise derart gekrümmt, dass die ebene Welle fokussiert wird und gebündelt auf das Wandlerarray trifft. Um die Strömung möglichst wenig zu behindern, sollte die Reflexionsfläche außerdem derart gestaltet sein, dass sie der Strömung wenig Widerstand bietet und keine Turbulenzen erzeugt. Die Reflexionsfläche kann zu diesem Zweck z.B. als eine in der Rohrinnenwand befindliche Ausbuchtung realisiert sein.According to another embodiment of the invention, the individual transducers of the transducer array are excited synchronously, so that a wave with a flat wavefront is produced by interference of the individual signals. In this case, the reflection surface is preferably curved such that the plane wave is focused and hits the transducer array in bundles. In order to obstruct the flow as little as possible, the reflection surface should also be designed in such a way that it offers little resistance to the flow and does not generate any turbulence. For this purpose, the reflection surface can be used, for example, as a bulge located in the inner tube wall can be realized.
Gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der Er indung ist auf der Seite der Reflexionsfläche eine Abblendeinrichtung vorgesehen, die bewirkt, dass derjenige Teil desAccording to a further embodiment of the invention, a shielding device is provided on the side of the reflection surface, which causes that part of the
Ultraschallsignals, der auf die Abblendeinrichtung trifft, nicht oder nur gedämpft auf das Wandlerarray zurück reflektiert wird. Die Abblendeinrichtung kann z.B. derart realisiert sein, dass das auftreffende Ultraschallsignal absorbiert, gestreut oder aus dem Schallweg des Nutzsignals heraus reflektiert wird. Dadurch wird auf dem Wandlerarray ein Intensitätsmuster abgebildet, dessen Grenzen relativ scharf sind und somit gut erfasst werden kann.Ultrasonic signal that strikes the dimming device, is not reflected or only reflected back onto the transducer array. The dimming device can e.g. be realized in such a way that the incident ultrasound signal is absorbed, scattered or reflected out of the sound path of the useful signal. As a result, an intensity pattern is mapped on the transducer array, the limits of which are relatively sharp and can therefore be detected well.
Die Abblendeinrichtung kann z.B. ein Bereich derThe dimming device can e.g. an area of
Innenwandfläche sein, der z.B. aufgeraut oder mit feinen Rillen versehen ist, um das Ultraschallsignal diffus zu streuen. Die Rillen sind aus strömungstechnischen Gründen vorzugsweise in Strömungsrichtung ausgerichtet.Inner wall surface which e.g. is roughened or provided with fine grooves in order to diffusely scatter the ultrasonic signal. For fluidic reasons, the grooves are preferably aligned in the direction of flow.
Das Wandlerarray ist vorzugsweise bündig mit der Innenwand der Rohrleitung montiert. Dadurch wird die Strömung des Fluids nicht gestört und es treten insbesondere keine Turbulenzen auf.The transducer array is preferably mounted flush with the inner wall of the pipeline. As a result, the flow of the fluid is not disturbed and, in particular, there is no turbulence.
Das erfindungsgemäße Wandlerarray ist darüber hinaus vorzugsweise in der oberen Hälfte einer Rohrleitung montiert, Dies hat den Vorteil, dass sich am Wandlerarray nur wenig Staub oder Schwebstoffe ansammeln können. Sofern das Wandlerarray und die Reflexionsfläche seitlich gegenüberliegend an der Rohrleitung angeordnet sind, werden beide Elemente relativ wenig verschmutzt.The transducer array according to the invention is moreover preferably mounted in the upper half of a pipeline. This has the advantage that only a little dust or suspended matter can collect on the transducer array. If the transducer array and the reflection surface are arranged laterally opposite on the pipeline, both elements are contaminated relatively little.
Der Ultraschall-Strömungssensor umfasst vorzugsweise eine Sende- und Empfangselektronik, die das Wandlerarray in gewünschter Weise anregt und das reflektierte Ultraschallsignal detektiert und auswertet.The ultrasound flow sensor preferably includes a transmitter and receiver electronics that the transducer array in stimulates as desired and the reflected ultrasound signal is detected and evaluated.
Die Erfindung wird nachstehend anhand der beigefügten Zeichnungen beispielhaft näher erläutert. Es zeigen:The invention is explained in more detail below by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. Show it:
Fig. 1 eine schematische Ansicht eines Ultraschall- Strömungssensors gemäß einer ersten Ausführungsform der Erfindung;1 shows a schematic view of an ultrasonic flow sensor according to a first embodiment of the invention;
Fig. 2 eine schematische Ansicht eines Ultraschall-2 is a schematic view of an ultrasound
Strömungssensors gemäß einer zweiten Ausführungsform der Erfindung; undFlow sensor according to a second embodiment of the invention; and
Fig. 3 eine schematische Ansicht eines Ultraschall- Strömungssensors gemäß einer dritten Ausführungsform der Erfindung.Fig. 3 is a schematic view of an ultrasonic flow sensor according to a third embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 1 zeigt einen Ultraschall-Strömungssensor zum Messen des Volumen- oder Massestroms eines Fluids 1, das durch eine Rohrleitung 3 strömt. Der Strömungssensor umfasst im wesentlichen ein Ultraschall-Wandlerarray 2 aus mehreren einzelnen, parallel angeordneten streifenförmigen Ultraschallwandlern 2a-2n, die jeweils Ultraschallsignale erzeugen und diese an eine gegenüberliegende Reflexionsfläche 4 aussenden. Durch Interferenz der Einzelsignale entsteht eine globale Wellenfront 7, die sich durch das strömende Fluid 1 quer zur Strömungsrichtung ausbreitet, an der Reflexionsfläche 4 reflektiert wird und dann wieder auf das Wandlerarray 2 trifft. Die Lage des Bildpunktes P ist dabei ein Maß für die Strömungsgeschwindigkeit v des Fluids 1.1 shows an ultrasonic flow sensor for measuring the volume or mass flow of a fluid 1 which flows through a pipeline 3. The flow sensor essentially comprises an ultrasound transducer array 2 comprising a plurality of individual, strip-shaped ultrasound transducers 2a-2n arranged in parallel, each of which generates ultrasound signals and emits them to an opposite reflection surface 4. Interference of the individual signals creates a global wavefront 7, which propagates through the flowing fluid 1 transversely to the direction of flow, is reflected on the reflection surface 4 and then hits the transducer array 2 again. The position of the pixel P is a measure of the flow velocity v of the fluid 1.
In diesem Ausführungsbeispiel werden die einzelnen Ultraschallwandler 2a-2n des Wandlerarrays 2 separat angesteuert, so dass aufgrund der Gangunterschiede der Einzelsignale eine in Strahlungsrichtung konkav gekrümmte, etwa zylinderförmige Wellenfront 7 entsteht, deren Randbereiche 8 zuerst auf die Reflexionsfläche 4 treffen. Die Welle 7 wird dadurch fokussiert und trifft im wesentlichen linienförmig an einem Punkt P auf das Wandlerarray 2. Je nach Strömungsgeschwindigkeit v wandert der Bildpunkt P mehr oder weniger stark in Strömungsrichtung 12 (Effekt der Strahlverwehung) . Der Strahlverlauf bei höhererIn this exemplary embodiment, the individual ultrasound transducers 2a-2n of the transducer array 2 are controlled separately, so that, due to the path differences of the individual signals, an approximately cylindrical wavefront 7 is formed which is concavely curved in the radiation direction Edge areas 8 first meet the reflection surface 4. The shaft 7 is thereby focused and strikes the transducer array 2 essentially at a point P, depending on the flow velocity v, the image point P moves more or less strongly in the direction of flow 12 (effect of the jet drift). The beam path at higher
Strömungsgeschwindigkeit v ist durch gestrichelte Linien und einen Bildpunkt P' gekennzeichnet.Flow velocity v is indicated by dashed lines and a pixel P '.
Fig. 1 zeigt rechts oben die Intensitätsverteilung 10 bzw.10' eines empfangenen Ultraschallsignals 9 bei unterschiedlichen Strömungsgeschwindigkeiten v. Bei geringer1 shows the intensity distribution 10 or 10 ′ of a received ultrasound signal 9 at different flow velocities v. With less
Strömungsgeschwindigkeit (bzw. ohne Strömung) ergibt sich am Wandlerarray 2 eine Intensitätsverteilung 10, deren Maximum etwa in der Mitte des Wandlerarrays 2 liegt. Bei hoher Strömungsgeschwindigkeit verschiebt sich dieses Maximum näher an den Rand des Wandlerarrays 2. Die zugehörige Intensitätsverteilung der Schallintensität ist hier mit dem Bezugszeichen 10' gekennzeichnet. Eine Empfangselektronik 6 wertet das an den Ultraschallwandlern 2a-2n detektierte Ultraschallsignal aus und berechnet daraus die gewünschte Messgröße.Flow velocity (or without flow) results in an intensity distribution 10 on the transducer array 2, the maximum of which lies approximately in the middle of the transducer array 2. At high flow velocities, this maximum shifts closer to the edge of the transducer array 2. The associated intensity distribution of the sound intensity is identified here with the reference number 10 '. A reception electronics 6 evaluates the ultrasound signal detected at the ultrasound transducers 2a-2n and calculates the desired measurement variable therefrom.
Die Reflexionsfläche 4 ist in diesem Ausführungsbeispiel lediglich ein dem Wandlerarray 2 gegenüberliegender Abschnitt der RohrInnenwand. Zur Verbesserung der Reflexionseigenschaften könnte die Rohrinnenwand im Bereich der Reflexionsfläche 4 z.B. poliert oder mit einer speziellen Reflexionsschicht versehen werden. Das Wandlerarray 2 ist hier oben auf der Rohrleitung 3 angebracht, um zu verhindern, dass sich Staub oderIn this exemplary embodiment, the reflection surface 4 is merely a section of the inner tube wall opposite the transducer array 2. To improve the reflection properties, the inner tube wall in the area of the reflection surface 4 could e.g. polished or provided with a special reflective layer. The transducer array 2 is mounted here on the pipe 3 to prevent dust or
Schwebstoffe am Wandlerarray ansammeln. Alternativ könnte das Wandlerarray 2 auch seitlich an der Rohrleitung 3 montiert werden, so dass der reflektierende Wandbereich ebenfalls seitlich an der Rohrleitung 3 liegen und folglich weniger verschmutzen würde. Fig. 2 zeigt eine schematisclie Darstellung einer anderenCollect suspended matter on the converter array. Alternatively, the transducer array 2 could also be mounted laterally on the pipeline 3, so that the reflective wall region would also lie laterally on the pipeline 3 and would therefore be less contaminated. Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of another
Ausführungsform eines Ultraschall-Strömungssensors mit einem einzelnen Wandlerarray 2 und einer gegenüberliegenden Reflexionsfläche 4. Die Sende- und Auswerteschaltungen 5 bzw _ 6 sind aus Gründen der Übersichtlichkeit weggelassen. Gleiche Bestandteile sind mit gleichen Bezugszeichen gekennzeichnet. Bei diesem Ausführungsbeispiel werden die einzelnen Ultraschallwandler 2a-2n des Wandlerarrays 2 derart angesteuert, dass durch Interferenz der Einzelsignale eine ebene Wellenfront 7 entsteht, die in Richtung der Reflexionsfläche 4 läuft. Die Reflexionsfläche 4 ist derart gekrümmt, dass das UltraschalLlsignal 7 fokussiert wird und etwa linienförmig oder punktförmig auf das Wandlerarray 2 trifft. Eine exakt punktförnrige Fokussierung ist nicht zwingend notwendig.Embodiment of an ultrasonic flow sensor with a single transducer array 2 and an opposite reflection surface 4. The transmission and evaluation circuits 5 and _ 6 are omitted for reasons of clarity. The same components are identified by the same reference symbols. In this exemplary embodiment, the individual ultrasonic transducers 2a-2n of the transducer array 2 are controlled in such a way that a plane wavefront 7, which runs in the direction of the reflection surface 4, is produced by interference of the individual signals. The reflection surface 4 is curved in such a way that the ultrasound signal 7 is focused and strikes the transducer array 2 approximately in the form of a line or point. Precise pinpoint focusing is not absolutely necessary.
Im Ausführungsbeispiel von FrLg. 2 ist die Reflexionsfläche 4 als eine Ausbuchtung in der Rohrwand des Rohres 3 gebildet, um die Strömung des Fluids 1 nicht zu behindern und insbesondere möglichst gerincge Turbulenzen hervorzurufen.In the embodiment of FrLg. 2, the reflection surface 4 is formed as a bulge in the tube wall of the tube 3 in order not to hinder the flow of the fluid 1 and, in particular, to cause turbulence that is as small as possible.
Fig. 3 zeigt eine weitere Ausführungsform eines Ultraschall- Strömungssensors mit einem erlnzigen Wandlerarray 2 und einer gegenüberliegenden ReflexionΞfläche 4. Die Ausdehnung der Reflexionsfläche 4 ist in diesem. Ausführungsbeispiel kleiner als die Länge des Wandlerarrays 2. Angrenzend an dieFIG. 3 shows a further embodiment of an ultrasonic flow sensor with a small transducer array 2 and an opposite reflection surface 4. The extension of the reflection surface 4 is in this. Embodiment less than the length of the transducer array 2. Adjacent to
Reflexionsfläche 4 ist eine Äbblendeinrichtung 11 vorgesehen, die das auftreffende Schallszignal dämpft bzw. filtert. D.h. der auf die Abblendeinrichtuπtg 11 auftreffende Teil eines Ultraschallsignals 7 wird nicht oder nur gedämpft auf das Wandlerarray 2 zurück reflektiert. Die Abblendeinrichtung 11 kann z.B. als Wandbereich mit besonderes rauher Oberfläche oder z.B. als ein mit Rillen versehener Bereich der Rohrinnenwand realisiert sein.A reflecting device 11 is provided on the reflection surface 4, which attenuates or filters the incident sound signal. That that part of an ultrasonic signal 7 which strikes the anti-dazzle device 11 is not reflected back or only reflected back onto the transducer array 2. The dimming device 11 can e.g. as a wall area with a particularly rough surface or e.g. be realized as a grooved area of the inner tube wall.
Am Wandlerarray 2 ergibt sicfi somit ein Muster mit hoher Schallintensität durch den an der Reflexionsfläche 4 reflektierten Teil des Signals 7 und mit niedrigerOn transducer array 2, sicfi thus produces a pattern with high sound intensity due to that on reflection surface 4 reflected part of signal 7 and lower
Schallintensität durch den an der Abblendeinrichtung 11 gedämpften Teil des Signals 7. Die Grenzen dieses Musters verschieben sich wiederum in Abhängigkeit von der Strömungsgeschwindigkeit v des Fluids 1. Aus der Position des Musters kann wiederum die gewünschte Messgröße ermittelt werden. Sound intensity due to the part of the signal 7 attenuated on the dimming device 11. The limits of this pattern in turn shift depending on the flow velocity v of the fluid 1. The desired measured variable can again be determined from the position of the pattern.
BezugszeichenlisteLIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS
1 Fluid1 fluid
2 Wandlerarray 2a-2n Ultraschallwandler2 transducer array 2a-2n ultrasonic transducer
3 Rohrleitung 4 Reflexionsfläche3 pipeline 4 reflection surface
5 Sendeelektronik5 transmitter electronics
6 Empfangselektronik6 receiving electronics
7 gesendete Welle7 transmitted wave
8 Wellengrenzen 9 reflektierte Welle8 wave boundaries 9 reflected wave
10,10' Intensitätsverteilung10.10 'intensity distribution
10 Abblendeinrichtung10 dimming device
11 Strömungsrichtung P,P' Bildpunkt 11 Flow direction P, P 'pixel

Claims

Patentansprüche claims
1. Ultraschall-Strömungssensor, insbesondere zum Messen des Volumen- oder Massestroms eines Fluids (1) , das in einer Rohrleitung (3) strömt, mit wenigstens einem Ultraschallwandler (2a-2n) zum Aussenden und Empfangen von Ultraschallsignalen (7,9), gekennzeichnet durch ein Array (2) aus mehreren Ultraschallwandlern (2a-2n) , das an der Rohrleitung (3) angeordnet ist und Ultraschallsignale (7) aussendet, die durch das Fluid (1) laufen, - eine dem Array (2) gegenüberliegende Reflexionsfläche (4), und eine Empfangselektronik (6) , die ein an der Reflexionsfläche (4) reflektiertes und am Array (2) empfangenes Ultraschallsignal (9) detektiert und auswertet.1. ultrasonic flow sensor, in particular for measuring the volume or mass flow of a fluid (1) flowing in a pipeline (3), with at least one ultrasonic transducer (2a-2n) for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals (7,9), characterized by an array (2) of a plurality of ultrasonic transducers (2a-2n) which is arranged on the pipeline (3) and emits ultrasonic signals (7) which pass through the fluid (1), - a reflection surface opposite the array (2) (4), and receiving electronics (6) which detect and evaluate an ultrasonic signal (9) reflected on the reflection surface (4) and received on the array (2).
2. Ultraschall-Strömungssensor nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Wandlerarray (2) gepulst betrieben wird.2. Ultrasonic flow sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that the transducer array (2) is operated in a pulsed manner.
3. Ultraschall-Strömungssensor nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass eine Sendeelektronik (5) vorgesehen ist, mit der die einzelnen Ultraschallwandler (2a- 2n) individuell und unabhängig voneinander angesteuert werden können .3. Ultrasonic flow sensor according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a transmitter electronics (5) is provided with which the individual ultrasonic transducers (2a-2n) can be controlled individually and independently of one another.
4. Ultraschall-Strömungssensor nach Anspruch 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die einzelnen Ultraschallwandler (2a-2n) derart betrieben werden, dass eine Ultraschallwelle (7) mit einer im wesentlichen zylinderförmigen, kugelförmigen, ellipsoidförmigen oder sonstig gekrümmten Wellenfront erzeugt wird.4. Ultrasonic flow sensor according to claim 3, characterized in that the individual ultrasonic transducers (2a-2n) are operated in such a way that an ultrasonic wave (7) with an essentially cylindrical, spherical, ellipsoidal or otherwise curved wavefront is generated.
5. Ultraschall-Strömungssensor nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die einzelnen Ultraschallwandler (2a-2n) derart betrieben werden, dass eine Ultraschallwelle mit einer im wesentlichen ebenen Wellenfront erzeugt wird.5. Ultrasonic flow sensor according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the individual ultrasonic transducers (2a-2n) are operated such that an ultrasonic wave is generated with an essentially flat wavefront.
6. Ultraschall-Strömungssensor nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Wandlerarray bündig mit der Innenwand der Rohrleitung (3) montiert ist.6. Ultrasonic flow sensor according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transducer array is mounted flush with the inner wall of the pipeline (3).
7. Ultraschall-Strömungssensor nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Wandlerarray in der oberen Hälfte oder seitlich an der Rohrleitung (3) montiert ist.7. Ultrasonic flow sensor according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transducer array is mounted in the upper half or laterally on the pipeline (3).
8. Ultraschall-Strömungssensor nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Reflexionsfläche (4) ein Teil der Rohrinnenwand ist, wobei die Gestalt der Reflexionsfläche gegenüber anderen Rohrabschnitten nicht modifiziert ist.8. Ultrasonic flow sensor according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the reflection surface (4) is part of the inner tube wall, the shape of the reflection surface being not modified compared to other tube sections.
9. Ultraschall-Strömungssensor nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche 1 bis 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die9. Ultrasonic flow sensor according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the
Reflexionsfläche (4) an einer Ausbuchtung der Rohrinnenwand vorgesehen ist.Reflection surface (4) is provided on a bulge of the inner tube wall.
10. Ultraschall-Strömungssensor nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass eine10. Ultrasonic flow sensor according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a
Abblendvorrichtung (11) nahe der Reflexionsfläche (4) vorgesehen ist.Dimming device (11) near the reflection surface (4) is provided.
11. Ultraschall-Strömungssensor nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Wandler (2a-2n) des Wandlerarrays (2) derart angesteuert werden, dass die an der Reflexionsfläche (4) reflektierte Welle (9) im wesentlichen punktförmig oder linienförmig -auf das Wandlerarray (2) auftrifft. 11. Ultrasonic flow sensor according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transducers (2a-2n) of the transducer array (2) are controlled such that the of the reflection surface (4) reflected wave (9) hits the transducer array (2) essentially in a point or line shape.
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US20070261501A1 (en) 2007-11-15
JP2007529725A (en) 2007-10-25
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KR20070004723A (en) 2007-01-09
US7503225B2 (en) 2009-03-17

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