Method for Determining a Characteristic Quantity for Evaluating a Measuring Arrangement Comprising a Clamp-On Ultrasonic Flow Meter and a Pipe and/or for Evaluating the Measuring Operation of this Measuring Arrangement

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention provides a method and computer program for evaluating and improving the accuracy of clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeters attached to pipes. The core idea is to determine a key characteristic variable, specifically the angle at which the ultrasonic sound travels through the fluid inside the pipe, based on specific input parameters about the flowmeter, sensor characteristics, and pipe properties. By using mathematical modeling, the method predicts measurement errors (or deviations), enables error diagnostics, and can allow real-time correction of these errors.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Industrial process monitoring where non-invasive flow measurement is required.
• Retrofitting flow measurement on existing pipelines without process interruption, for example in water utilities or chemical plants.
• Quality assurance and calibration for flowmeter installers and service technicians.
• Automated selection or commissioning tools that analyze compatibility of a given clamp-on flowmeter to a specific pipeline before deployment.
• Early-warning systems for flow measurement faults or equipment mismatch during operation.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Greatly improves the accuracy and reliability of clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeters by predicting and compensating for installation-specific errors.
• Allows for real-time detection and correction of measurement deviations, reducing maintenance needs and operational risks.
• Non-invasive flow measurement—no need to cut or modify pipelines, reducing downtime and contamination risks.
• Enables quick compatibility analysis during meter selection or installation, saving time and avoiding costly errors.
• Provides actionable diagnostics and error alerts, supporting easier troubleshooting and maintenance.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a method for determining a characteristic variable for evaluating a measuring arrangement comprising a clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeter and a tube on which the clamp-on ultrasonic flow meter is secured, and/or for evaluating the measuring operation of the measuring arrangement, characterized by the following steps: A providing parameters with respect to excitation signals generated by the clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeter; B providing sensor-specific data with respect to the acoustic characteristics of one or multiple ultrasonic transducers of the clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeter; C inputting data with respect to the tube material and the tube wall thickness, in particular by a user; D determining the characteristic variable from the parameters and data from steps A-C based on a mathematical model, as well as a computer program product and a clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeter.