A temperature probe is configured for use in gas meters. These configurations may include a thermo-well that extends through the body of the gas meter. The thermo-well may have an end proximate a center axis of the body, which corresponds with a center or middle of flow that transit the device. A temperature sensor may reside in the thermo-well at this end. In one implementation, thermo-conductive material may secure the sensor in position in the thermos-well. This material may enhance thermal conduction between the temperature sensor and the thermos-well. The other parts of the temperature probe may remain thermally-isolated to avoid corruption of the temperature readings.
G01F 15/04 - Compensating or correcting for variations in pressure, density, or temperature of gases to be measured
G01F 1/06 - 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 using mechanical effects using rotating vanes with tangential admission
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Application service provider featuring application programming interface (API) software for monitoring, collecting, processing, and displaying system information related to the operation of gas meters; Data-acquisition and collection for calibration and coordinate-measurement purposes; Data automation and collection service using proprietary software to evaluate, analyze and collect service data; Electricity and natural gas services, namely, meter data management and analysis; Gas meter reading and data analysis; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for for collecting, analyzing, and evaluating service data related to the operation of gas meters and pressure regulators; Providing temporary use of on-line non-downloadable software and applications for gas meter monitoring, reading, and data analysis; Software as a service (SAAS) services featuring software for for remote monitoring and control of natural gas flow control systems, including data collection, analysis, and reporting related thereto; Utility meter reading services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Providing temporary use of on-line non-downloadable software and applications for gas meter monitoring, reading, and data analysis; Data automation and collection service using proprietary software to collect, analyze, and evaluate service data related to the operation of gas meters and pressure regulators; Data-acquisition and collection for calibration and coordinate-measurement purposes; Application service provider featuring application programming interface (API) software for monitoring, collecting, processing, and displaying system information related to the operation of gas meters; Gas meter monitoring, reading, and data analysis; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for collecting, analyzing, and evaluating service data related to the operation of gas meters and pressure regulators; Software as a service (SAAS) services featuring software for remote monitoring and control of natural gas flow control systems, including data collection, analysis, and reporting related thereto; Utility meter reading services; Electricity and natural gas services, namely, remote meter monitoring and data collection, and meter data management and analysis
4.
SELF-LOCATING MECHANISM INTERFACE FOR A SENSOR ON A GAS METER
A sensor unit that is configured to improve the non-contact, magnetic interface on a gas meter. The configurations may include a pair of magnets that co-rotate in response to a magnet internal to the gas meter. At least one of the magnets may also move longitudinally in proximity to the internal magnet. This feature aligns the magnets with one another to ensure proper magnetic coupling with the internal magnet.
G01F 1/075 - 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 using mechanical effects using rotating vanes with tangential admission with magnetic or electromagnetic coupling to the indicating device
A sealed connection device configured to connect a pump head with a pump on an additive pump. The sealed connection device may comprise an adapter and a sealing collar that inserts into the adapter. The sealing collar may comprise a body with a bore forming open ends, a shoulder disposed between the open ends, an annular detent adjacent the shoulder, annular grooves, one being disposed on the shoulder two others found on either side of the shoulder, and o-rings disposed in the annular grooves. The pump may couple with a first side of the adapter, the pump comprising a shaft that inserts in the bore of the sealing collar. The pump head may insert into a second side of the adapter so as to contact one of o-rings on the sealing collar.
A gas meter is configured for diagnostics using differential pressure (DP) measurements. The configurations include executable instructions to actively manage the DP sensor. These instructions active the DP sensor only during stable flow and, where applicable, for a defined test time period. This feature manages power consumption to maintain battery life with acceptable standards or regulations.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Gas flow meters; gas metering equipment in the nature of electronic volume correctors for correcting volume measurements made on gas flow meters; gas metering equipment, namely, volume correctors for use with gas flow meters
A sensor unit that is configured to improve the non-contact, magnetic interface on a gas meter. The configurations may include a pair of magnets that co-rotate in response to a magnet internal to the gas meter. At least one of the magnets may also move longitudinally in proximity to the internal magnet. This feature aligns the magnets with one another to ensure proper magnetic coupling with the internal magnet.
G01F 1/075 - 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 using mechanical effects using rotating vanes with tangential admission with magnetic or electromagnetic coupling to the indicating device
G01F 1/115 - 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 using mechanical effects using rotating vanes with axial admission with magnetic or electromagnetic coupling to the indicating device
13.
Manifold for measuring differential pressure on a gas meter
A manifold assembly configured to measure differential pressure of fluid. The manifold assembly may have a monolithic body with an internally drilled fluid pathway. The body supports a differential pressure transducer that communicates, on either end, with the internally drilled fluid pathway. This configuration can generate data that defines pressure drop across impellers or other mechanisms on metrology hardware (or “gas meters”). Utilities can use this data to diagnose health or other conditions on the gas meter in the field.
G01L 13/00 - Devices or apparatus for measuring differences of two or more fluid pressure values
G01L 19/00 - Details of, or accessories for, apparatus for measuring steady or quasi-steady pressure of a fluent medium insofar as such details or accessories are not special to particular types of pressure gauges
An encoder device that is configured for use on a gas utility meter. These configurations may generate power and data concomitantly with movement of mechanics in response to flow of material through the meter. In one implementation, the meter may include a meter body with flanged ends, the meter body forming an interior cavity. Impellers may reside in the interior cavity to meter precise volume of fuel gas through the device. The encoder device may couple with the impellers, for example, using non-contact modalities, like magnetics. The encoder device may include a processor and memory, a sensor unit, and a power unit, where the sensor unit and the power unit are responsive to rotation of the impellers to generate a data signal and a power signal, respectively, without contact with the impellers.
G01F 1/075 - 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 using mechanical effects using rotating vanes with tangential admission with magnetic or electromagnetic coupling to the indicating device
15.
Determining diaphragm life on a pressure regulator
Apparatus are configured to monitor lifespan of parts on a pressure regulator. These configurations may include sensors that generate signals in response to movement of parts on the pressure regulator. Processing circuitry can process the signals to identify data that corresponds to deflection of a spring inside of the pressure regulator. This data may correlate with duty cycle of a diaphragm. In one implementation, utilities can use the duty cycle to gauge useable lifespan of the diaphragm as well as other operating conditions that may prevail on the pressure regulator.
G05D 16/06 - Control of fluid pressure without auxiliary power the sensing element being a flexible member yielding to pressure, e.g. diaphragm, bellows, capsule
A gas meter is outfit with near field communication (NFC) devices for in-situ exchange of data. The NFC devices reside in separate compartments. A first compartment houses electronics necessary to generate values for volumetric flow of material in a pipe. The gas meter includes a second compartment with an access point that allows data, including telemetry data, to transmit from the gas meter to a remote device. In operation, the NFC devices exchange data between the first compartment and the second compartment, often through a wall or barrier that prevents flow of fluid between the compartments.
H04W 4/80 - Services using short range communication, e.g. near-field communication [NFC], radio-frequency identification [RFID] or low energy communication
H04Q 9/00 - Arrangements in telecontrol or telemetry systems for selectively calling a substation from a main station, in which substation desired apparatus is selected for applying a control signal thereto or for obtaining measured values therefrom
18.
Temperature sensing system and flow metering apparatus comprised thereof
A flow metering apparatus comprising a temperature sensing system for use to measure temperature of fluid includes temperature measurement components and temperature sensing components in close proximity to one another and to the flow of fluid. The components can include a temperature measurement member close-coupled to a processor member, each disposed on a circuitized substrate. This configuration exposes a temperature sensor element to the same dynamic temperature conditions as the processor member, thus reducing measurement error that might manifest in response to different temperature gradients proximate the respective components. A storage memory may be used to permit the temperature sensing system to store and/or retain data that relates to calibration as a dynamic system over the entire operating range of the sensor element. The calibration data may then be accessed from the storage memory to improve accuracy and operation of the flow metering apparatus.
G01F 1/684 - Structural arrangementsMounting of elements, e.g. in relation to fluid flow
G01F 1/688 - Structural arrangementsMounting of elements, e.g. in relation to fluid flow using a particular type of heating, cooling or sensing element
G01F 15/02 - Compensating or correcting for variations in pressure, density, or temperature
G01F 1/696 - Circuits therefor, e.g. constant-current flow meters
An additive pump is configured to collect migrant additive that penetrates into its reciprocating shaft. These configurations may include a pump head, an actuator that penetrates into the pump head, a sealed region disposed about the actuator to form a fluid-free zone, and a fluid sensing unit coupled with the sealed region, the fluid sensing unit comprising a receptacle that is configured to retain fluid that transits from inside the sealed region.
F04B 49/025 - Stopping, starting, unloading or idling control by means of floats
F04B 23/02 - Pumping installations or systems having reservoirs
F04B 49/22 - Control of, or safety measures for, machines, pumps, or pumping installations, not otherwise provided for in, or of interest apart from, groups by means of valves
F04B 13/00 - Pumps specially modified to deliver fixed or variable measured quantities
F04B 51/00 - Testing machines, pumps, or pumping installations
20.
USING WIRELESS DATA TRANSMISSION TO MAINTAIN INTRINSIC SAFETY OF A GAS METER
in-situ in-situ exchange of data. The NFC devices reside in separate compartments. A first compartment houses electronics necessary to generate values for volumetric flow of material in a pipe. The gas meter includes a second compartment with an access point that allows data, including telemetry data, to transmit from the gas meter to a remote device. In operation, the NFC devices exchange data between the first compartment and the second compartment, often through a wall or barrier that prevents flow of fluid between the compartments.
H04W 4/80 - Services using short range communication, e.g. near-field communication [NFC], radio-frequency identification [RFID] or low energy communication
An electronic flow meter that is configured to use localized flow conditions to determine volumetric flow. The embodiments may include a body forming a pass-through channel and a by-pass channel; a semiconductor device comprising a sensor disposed proximate the by-pass channel, the sensor configured to generate a signal with data that reflects localized pressure and localized temperature of a stream in the by-pass channel; and a processing component coupled with the sensor to receive and process the signal so as to identify a flow condition for the stream, select a calculation for volumetric flow rate in response to the flow condition, use data for localized pressure and localized temperature in the calculation to generate a value for the volumetric flow rate; and generate an output with data that reflects the value for the volumetric flow rate.
G01F 5/00 - Measuring a proportion of the volume flow
G01N 33/00 - Investigating or analysing materials by specific methods not covered by groups
G01F 25/00 - Testing or calibration of apparatus for measuring volume, volume flow or liquid level or for metering by volume
G01F 7/00 - Volume-flow measuring devices with two or more measuring rangesCompound meters
G01F 1/32 - 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 using mechanical effects by detection of dynamic effects of the flow using swirl flowmeters
A power supply is configured with "smart" technology compatible with functionality on metrology hardware, like gas meters. This technology enables functions on the power supply to retain and generate data. The data may characterize discharge of an energy source, like batteries, that is resident on the power supply. Other data may indicate charge levels that are commensurate with ambient storage and use conditions, for example, to identify effects of "self-discharge" that may occur on the power supply after manufacture but before use on the gas meter. In one implementation, the gas meter may process the data from the power supply to track connection (and disconnection) of the power supply, set life expectancy of the power supply, and manage maintenance on the device as necessary to pre-empt issues that may occur at the end-of-usable life for the power supply, among other favorable functions.
A power supply is configured with “smart” technology compatible with functionality on metrology hardware, like gas meters. This technology enables functions on the power supply to retain and generate data. The data may characterize discharge of an energy source, like batteries, that is resident on the power supply. Other data may indicate charge levels that are commensurate with ambient storage and use conditions, for example, to identify effects of “self-discharge” that may occur on the power supply after manufacture but before use on the gas meter. In one implementation, the gas meter may process the data from the power supply to track connection (and disconnection) of the power supply, set life expectancy of the power supply, and manage maintenance on the device as necessary to pre-empt issues that may occur at the end-of-usable life for the power supply, among other favorable functions.
G01F 1/075 - 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 using mechanical effects using rotating vanes with tangential admission with magnetic or electromagnetic coupling to the indicating device
A sealed connection device configured to connect a pump head with a pump on an additive pump. The sealed connection device may comprise an adapter and a sealing collar that inserts into the adapter. The sealing collar may comprise a body with a bore forming open ends, a shoulder disposed between the open ends, an annular detent adjacent the shoulder, annular grooves, one being disposed on the shoulder two others found on either side of the shoulder, and o-rings disposed in the annular grooves. The pump may couple with a first side of the adapter, the pump comprising a shaft that inserts in the bore of the sealing collar. The pump head may insert into a second side of the adapter so as to contact one of o-rings on the sealing collar.
The present disclosure relates to a self-powered utility delivery system that includes an energy generator that produces electrical energy and consequently regulates a pressure of utility flowing through the self-powered utility delivery system. Additionally, the self-powered utility delivery system includes an electronic utility meter that monitors a quantity (e.g., volume) of utility that flows through the self-powered utility delivery system and toward a consumer.
G01F 15/00 - Details of, or accessories for, apparatus of groups insofar as such details or appliances are not adapted to particular types of such apparatus
A test apparatus that guides an end user through visualization of a user interface on a web browser that is easy to operate for individuals with limited knowledge of the devices or test protocols for gas meters. The test apparatus may include the executable instructions having instructions that configure the processor to, receive input data from the web browser; compare the input data to data in a data table; select an entry from the data table that reflects a match between the input data and data associated with the entry in the data table; and generate a first output that defines a configuration for a user interface that renders on the web browser, the configuration representing a stage of a test initialization process to configure operating parameters on the controller to work with a meter-under-test that couples with the fluid moving unit for purposes of conducting a meter proof.
G01F 25/00 - Testing or calibration of apparatus for measuring volume, volume flow or liquid level or for metering by volume
G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric
G06F 3/0481 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] based on specific properties of the displayed interaction object or a metaphor-based environment, e.g. interaction with desktop elements like windows or icons, or assisted by a cursor's changing behaviour or appearance
G06F 3/0482 - Interaction with lists of selectable items, e.g. menus
G06F 3/0484 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] for the control of specific functions or operations, e.g. selecting or manipulating an object, an image or a displayed text element, setting a parameter value or selecting a range
27.
Generating power from pressurized fuel gas for use on a gas meter
An energy harvester for use to provide power to metrology hardware like gas meters and flow measuring devices. The energy harvester may include a body with ends connectable to a pipe, a fluid circuit disposed in the body and coupled to the ends, the fluid circuit comprising, a flow unit configured to convert a single stream of fuel gas into a pair of streams at different temperatures, and a power unit responsive to a temperature differential between the two streams to generate an electrical signal. The electrical signal can be directed to the flow device to operate the flow device or, when necessary, replace, supplement, or recharge a power source on the flow device that powers electronics necessary to expand functions on the flow device.
H01L 35/30 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR - Details thereof operating with Peltier or Seebeck effect only characterised by the heat-exchanging means at the junction
G01F 1/66 - 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
G01F 1/684 - Structural arrangementsMounting of elements, e.g. in relation to fluid flow
A gas meter (100) and like metering systems that are configured for use underwater. The gas meter may embody a positive displacement rotary gas meter having a meter body with impellers that counter-rotate in response to material flow. The gas meter can also comprise an index unit having an electronics assembly to generate a value that equates rotation of impellers with a parameter of the material flow. The gas meter can further comprise a connective interface having a first part and a second part, one each disposed on the meter unit and the index unit, respectively, the first part and the second part coupling with one another to provide data to the electronics assembly, the data corresponding with operating conditions on the meter unit and rotation of the impellers. In one example, the first part and the second part are configured so that the meter unit and the index unit are operable underwater to generate the value.
An energy harvester for use in-line with a pipe to harness potential and kinetic energy of fluids flowing therein. Structure for the energy harvester may include a shaft and a blade extending radially therefrom. The shaft can penetrate a housing that operates as a pipe section to install the device in-line with pipe. The shaft can couple with an electrical generator. A load may connect with voltage terminals on the generator so that fluid impinging on the blades will rotate the generator to power the load, effectively harvesting power from the flowing fluid. In one implementation, a load control device that couples with the generator voltage terminals controls a pressure characteristic of the fluid, such as pressure drop, by applying an electrical load on the generator and controllably impeding rotation of the shaft.
G01F 1/08 - Adjusting, correcting, or compensating means therefor
F03B 13/00 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates
G01F 1/075 - 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 using mechanical effects using rotating vanes with tangential admission with magnetic or electromagnetic coupling to the indicating device
G01F 15/00 - Details of, or accessories for, apparatus of groups insofar as such details or appliances are not adapted to particular types of such apparatus
H02K 7/18 - Structural association of electric generators with mechanical driving motors, e.g.with turbines
An apparatus comprising a meter device with a rotating component configured to rotate in response to a flowing fluid, an indexing unit coupled with the meter device and configured to process signals from the meter device resulting in values for measured parameters of a flowing fluid, and an energy harvester coupled to the pair of impellers, the energy harvester comprising a first harvesting unit and a second harvesting unit that co-operate to generate an electrical signal, the first harvesting unit configured to co-rotate with the pair of impellers, the second harvesting unit comprising a hollow, magnetic core disposed proximate the first harvesting unit.
G01F 1/05 - 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 using mechanical effects
F01D 5/06 - Rotors for more than one axial stage, e.g. of drum or multiple-disc typeDetails thereof, e.g. shafts, shaft connections
F01D 21/00 - Shutting-down of machines or engines, e.g. in emergencyRegulating, controlling, or safety means not otherwise provided for
F03G 7/00 - Mechanical-power-producing mechanisms, not otherwise provided for or using energy sources not otherwise provided for
F03G 7/08 - Mechanical-power-producing mechanisms, not otherwise provided for or using energy sources not otherwise provided for recovering energy derived from swinging, rolling, pitching, or like movements, e.g. from the vibrations of a machine
F03B 13/00 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates
H02K 21/22 - Synchronous motors having permanent magnetsSynchronous generators having permanent magnets with stationary armatures and rotating magnets with magnets rotating around the armatures, e.g. flywheel magnetos
H02K 7/18 - Structural association of electric generators with mechanical driving motors, e.g.with turbines
31.
Reducing spring load prior to maintenance on an actuator
A safety device that is useful to release load on a spring found in an actuator. In one embodiment, the actuator can have a housing comprising a pair of housing members and a fastening device coupling the pair of housing members to one another. The embodiment can also have an output shaft extending longitudinally in the housing, the output shaft having an end configured to couple with a process device. The embodiment may also have a spring coupled with the output shaft. The embodiment can further have a safety device coupled to the spring and configured to operate to reduce loading of the spring from a first load to a second load. In one example, the safety device is in position to prevent access to the fastening device at the first load and to allow access to the fastening device at the second load so that the pair of housing members can separate to allow access to the spring in the housing.
An actuator with an override device to avoid damage to components during transition to and from manual operation and during manual operation. In one embodiment, the actuator comprises an output shaft, a drive assembly coupled with the output shaft, the drive assembly comprising a motor and a brake, an override device coupled with the output shaft, the override device comprising a gear assembly and a switch actuator, and a housing forming an enclosure about at least the gear assembly and the switch actuator. The switch actuator can be configured to modify an external input to the drive assembly in response to relocation of the gear assembly relative to the output shaft between a first position and a second position so as to disconnect the motor from the external input at the first position, disconnect both the motor and the brake from the external input at the second position, and apply the external input to the brake during transition between the first position and the second position.
F16H 19/00 - Gearings comprising essentially only toothed gears or friction members and not capable of conveying indefinitely-continuing rotary motion
F16K 31/05 - Operating meansReleasing devices electricOperating meansReleasing devices magnetic using a motor specially adapted for operating hand-operated valves or for combined motor and hand operation
F16K 31/04 - Operating meansReleasing devices electricOperating meansReleasing devices magnetic using a motor
33.
Using localized flow characteristics on electronic flow meter to quantify volumetric flow
An electronic flow meter that is configured to use localized flow conditions to determine volumetric flow. The embodiments may include a body forming a pass-through channel and a by-pass channel; a semiconductor device comprising a sensor disposed proximate the by-pass channel, the sensor configured to generate a signal with data that reflects localized pressure and localized temperature of a stream in the by-pass channel; and a processing component coupled with the sensor to receive and process the signal so as to identify a flow condition for the stream, select a calculation for volumetric flow rate in response to the flow condition, use data for localized pressure and localized temperature in the calculation to generate a value for the volumetric flow rate; and generate an output with data that reflects the value for the volumetric flow rate.
G01F 5/00 - Measuring a proportion of the volume flow
G01N 33/00 - Investigating or analysing materials by specific methods not covered by groups
G01F 25/00 - Testing or calibration of apparatus for measuring volume, volume flow or liquid level or for metering by volume
G01F 7/00 - Volume-flow measuring devices with two or more measuring rangesCompound meters
G01F 1/32 - 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 using mechanical effects by detection of dynamic effects of the flow using swirl flowmeters
G01M 3/00 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures
A gas meter is outfit with near field communication (NFC) devices for in-situ exchange of data. The NFC devices reside in separate compartments. A first compartment houses electronics necessary to generate values for volumetric flow of material in a pipe. The gas meter includes a second compartment with an access point that allows data, including telemetry data, to transmit from the gas meter to a remote device. In operation, the NFC devices exchange data between the first compartment and the second compartment, often through a wall or barrier that prevents flow of fluid between the compartments.
H04B 5/00 - Near-field transmission systems, e.g. inductive or capacitive transmission systems
H04W 4/80 - Services using short range communication, e.g. near-field communication [NFC], radio-frequency identification [RFID] or low energy communication
H04Q 9/00 - Arrangements in telecontrol or telemetry systems for selectively calling a substation from a main station, in which substation desired apparatus is selected for applying a control signal thereto or for obtaining measured values therefrom
35.
Reading and writing data to a meter that measures flow of material
A method comprising interposing an interface device in communication with both a terminal and a meter; and using the interface device for, exchanging data with the terminal and the meter using a first protocol and a second protocol, respectively, at least one of which utilizes an RF field; identifying an originating device using the data from each of the terminal and the meter; and generating an output for use over the first protocol or the second protocol in response to the originating device.
H04L 29/08 - Transmission control procedure, e.g. data link level control procedure
H04Q 9/00 - Arrangements in telecontrol or telemetry systems for selectively calling a substation from a main station, in which substation desired apparatus is selected for applying a control signal thereto or for obtaining measured values therefrom
H04W 4/80 - Services using short range communication, e.g. near-field communication [NFC], radio-frequency identification [RFID] or low energy communication
A safety device for an actuator that can modulate power to an electric motor in response to a fault condition (e.g., stall). In one embodiment, the actuator can include a motor with a shaft, a sensor disposed in proximity to the shaft, and a control processor coupled with the sensor and the motor. The control processor can be configured to receive a signal from the sensor that conveys operating data that relates to rotation of the shaft, use the operating data to identify a fault condition on the motor, and change the motor from an energized condition to a de-energized condition in response to the fault condition.
H02H 7/08 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements specially adapted for specific types of electric machines or apparatus or for sectionalised protection of cable or line systems, and effecting automatic switching in the event of an undesired change from normal working conditions for dynamo-electric motors
H02P 1/04 - Means for controlling progress of starting sequence in dependence upon time or upon current, speed, or other motor parameter
H02P 3/00 - Arrangements for stopping or slowing electric motors, generators, or dynamo-electric converters
H02P 29/10 - Arrangements for regulating or controlling electric motors, appropriate for both AC and DC motors for preventing overspeed or under speed
H02H 7/093 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements specially adapted for specific types of electric machines or apparatus or for sectionalised protection of cable or line systems, and effecting automatic switching in the event of an undesired change from normal working conditions for dynamo-electric motors against increase beyond, or decrease below, a predetermined level of rotational speed
H02K 7/116 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with gears
H02K 11/20 - Structural association of dynamo-electric machines with electric components or with devices for shielding, monitoring or protection for measuring, monitoring, testing, protecting or switching
H02K 11/21 - Devices for sensing speed or position, or actuated thereby
H02K 11/25 - Devices for sensing temperature, or actuated thereby
H02P 29/60 - Controlling or determining the temperature of the motor or of the drive
An apparatus that is configured to test operation of a gas meter. The apparatus can include a process control member with operative circuitry that provides all functionality necessary to execute the test and to analyze the resulting data. This functionality includes data processing functions and a web server to allow communication between the apparatus and a remote device via a network. In one embodiment, the operative circuitry includes a first circuitry to regulate operation of a fluid moving unit that provides fluid to a meter-under-test. The operative circuitry can also include a second circuitry to collect data from one or more sensors disposed on the meter-under-test. The operative circuitry can also have a third circuitry to perform various operations necessary to calculate, in one example, a value for an operative characteristic that relates to the accuracy of the meter-under-test.
The present disclosure relates to a self-powered utility delivery system that includes a regulator that decreases a pressure of the utility flowing through the self-powered utility delivery system while producing electrical energy as a result of pressure regulation. Additionally, the self-powered utility delivery system includes an electronic utility meter that monitors a quantity (e.g., volume) of utility that flows through the self-powered utility delivery system and toward a consumer.
H04Q 9/00 - Arrangements in telecontrol or telemetry systems for selectively calling a substation from a main station, in which substation desired apparatus is selected for applying a control signal thereto or for obtaining measured values therefrom
The present disclosure relates to a self-powered utility delivery system that includes an energy generator that produces electrical energy and consequently regulates a pressure of utility flowing through the self-powered utility delivery system. Additionally, the self-powered utility delivery system includes an electronic utility meter that monitors a quantity (e.g., volume) of utility that flows through the self-powered utility delivery system and toward a consumer.
G01F 15/00 - Details of, or accessories for, apparatus of groups insofar as such details or appliances are not adapted to particular types of such apparatus
40.
System and method for metering gas based on amplitude and/or temporal characteristics of an electrical signal
A system for metering gas includes a housing configured to allow a flow of the gas between an input port and an output port. Further, the system includes a flow manager disposed in the housing and configured to modify at least one physical characteristic of the flow of the gas in the housing. Furthermore, the system includes a flow sensor disposed in the housing and configured to generate an electrical signal in response to flow characteristics of the gas in the housing. Moreover, the system also includes a processor configured to determine at least one flow parameter of the gas based on an amplitude characteristic of the electrical signal, a temporal characteristic of the electrical signal, or both the amplitude characteristic and the temporal characteristic of the electrical signal. A method for metering the gas is also presented.
G01F 5/00 - Measuring a proportion of the volume flow
G01N 33/00 - Investigating or analysing materials by specific methods not covered by groups
G01F 7/00 - Volume-flow measuring devices with two or more measuring rangesCompound meters
G01F 1/32 - 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 using mechanical effects by detection of dynamic effects of the flow using swirl flowmeters
G01F 25/00 - Testing or calibration of apparatus for measuring volume, volume flow or liquid level or for metering by volume
A safety device for an actuator that can modulate power to an electric motor in response to a fault condition (e.g., stall). In one embodiment, the actuator can include a motor with a shaft, a sensor disposed in proximity to the shaft, and a control processor coupled with the sensor and the motor. The control processor can be configured to receive a signal from the sensor that conveys operating data that relates to rotation of the shaft, use the operating data to identify a fault condition on the motor, and change the motor from an energized condition to a de-energized condition in response to the fault condition.
H02H 7/08 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements specially adapted for specific types of electric machines or apparatus or for sectionalised protection of cable or line systems, and effecting automatic switching in the event of an undesired change from normal working conditions for dynamo-electric motors
H02H 1/04 - Arrangements for preventing response to transient abnormal conditions, e.g. to lightning
H02H 3/00 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition, with or without subsequent reconnection
H02H 7/093 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements specially adapted for specific types of electric machines or apparatus or for sectionalised protection of cable or line systems, and effecting automatic switching in the event of an undesired change from normal working conditions for dynamo-electric motors against increase beyond, or decrease below, a predetermined level of rotational speed
H02K 7/116 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with gears
H02K 11/20 - Structural association of dynamo-electric machines with electric components or with devices for shielding, monitoring or protection for measuring, monitoring, testing, protecting or switching
H02K 11/21 - Devices for sensing speed or position, or actuated thereby
H02K 11/25 - Devices for sensing temperature, or actuated thereby
42.
Temperature sensing system and flow metering apparatus comprised thereof
A flow metering apparatus comprising a temperature sensing system for use to measure temperature of fluid includes temperature measurement components and temperature sensing components in close proximity to one another and to the flow of fluid. The components can include a temperature measurement member close-coupled to a processor member, each disposed on a circuitized substrate. This configuration exposes a temperature sensor element to the same dynamic temperature conditions as the processor member, thus reducing measurement error that might manifest in response to different temperature gradients proximate the respective components. A storage memory may be used to permit the temperature sensing system to store and/or retain data that relates to calibration as a dynamic system over the entire operating range of the sensor element. The calibration data may then be accessed from the storage memory to improve accuracy and operation of the flow metering apparatus.
G01F 1/68 - 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 using thermal effects
G01F 1/684 - Structural arrangementsMounting of elements, e.g. in relation to fluid flow
G01F 1/688 - Structural arrangementsMounting of elements, e.g. in relation to fluid flow using a particular type of heating, cooling or sensing element
G01F 15/02 - Compensating or correcting for variations in pressure, density, or temperature
G01F 1/696 - Circuits therefor, e.g. constant-current flow meters
A system, comprising a first sensor that generates a first output signal representative of a first flow rate measurement in a first flow rate range of a fluid, a second sensor that generates a second output signal representative of a second flow rate measurement in a second flow rate range of the fluid that at least partially overlaps the first flow rate range of the fluid to form a partially overlapping region, a data repository storing a first calibration relationship corresponding to a first condition of the fluid and a second calibration relationship corresponding to a second condition of the fluid, wherein the first calibration relationship and the second calibration relationship correspond to the first sensor, and a processing subsystem that automatically generates a third calibration relationship when the second flow rate measurement falls in the partially overlapping region, wherein the third calibration relationship corresponds to a third condition of the fluid based at least on the first calibration relationship, the second calibration relationship, the first output signal and the second output signal.
An apparatus that is configured to test operation of a gas meter. The apparatus can include a process control member with operative circuitry that provides all functionality necessary to execute the test and to analyze the resulting data. This functionality includes data processing functions and a web server to allow communication between the apparatus and a remote device via a network. In one embodiment, the operative circuitry includes a first circuitry to regulate operation of a fluid moving unit that provides fluid to a meter-under-test. The operative circuitry can also include a second circuitry to collect data from one or more sensors disposed on the meter-under-test. The operative circuitry can also have a third circuitry to perform various operations necessary to calculate, in one example, a value for an operative characteristic that relates to the accuracy of the meter-under-test.
A chemical injection system includes a pump in fluid communication with a chemical reservoir and a pipeline; a motor coupled to the pump and adapted to drive the pump to transfer a chemical fluid from the reservoir to the pipeline; a motor controller electrically coupled to a power module and the motor and adapted to adjust a rotational speed of the motor; and a central controller communicably coupled to the motor controller and a remote computing device. The controller includes a translator adapted to receive a signal from the remote computing device in a first communication protocol and translate the signal from the remote computing device to a command in a second communication protocol distinct from the first communication protocol, where the command is operable to adjust the motor controller to adjust the rotational speed of the motor.
Systems, devices, and methods are provided for measuring and processing fuel meter measurements, such as rotary gas meter volume measurements, are generally disclosed herein. At least some aspects of the systems, devices, and methods can allow a fuel meter body to perform all processing regarding an amount of fuel dispensed from the fuel meter body and can allow the fuel meter body to provide results of the processing to an accessory configured to display data to a user. At least some aspects of the systems, devices, and methods can allow processing at the fuel meter body to be provided using one or more modules each configured to be removably and replaceably coupled to the fuel meter body.
A flow sensor system including a flow sensor assembly is provided. The sensor assembly may be configured to allow fluid flow through a flow conduit. A flow disrupter may be disposed in the flow conduit to impart disturbances to the fluid flow. A by-pass channel may be in fluid connection with the flow conduit and may be arranged to have a geometrical relationship relative to the flow conduit and the flow disrupter to affect flow characteristics in the bypass channel. One or more sensors may be disposed in the by-pass channel to generate a signal responsive to the flow characteristics in the bypass channel. In a first flow regime, the flow characteristics in the bypass channel may effect an amplitude response of the sensor, and in a second flow regime, the flow characteristics may effect a temporal response of the sensor.
G01F 1/68 - 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 using thermal effects
G01F 1/684 - Structural arrangementsMounting of elements, e.g. in relation to fluid flow
G01F 1/32 - 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 using mechanical effects by detection of dynamic effects of the flow using swirl flowmeters
48.
Device and method for distributing power at a remote pumping system
Embodiments of devices and methods distribute power in a remote pumping system to avoid charge imbalances in energy storage devices of an array. These embodiments identify certain energy storage devices in the array in which the output voltage is less than or equal to a threshold value. In one example, power from a plurality of power sources is directed to the non-performing energy storage devices to expedite re-charging of these energy storage devices.
G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)
H02J 7/35 - Parallel operation in networks using both storage and other DC sources, e.g. providing buffering with light sensitive cells
H02J 3/32 - Arrangements for balancing the load in a network by storage of energy using batteries with converting means
49.
Temperature compensated digital pressure transducer
A digital pressure transducer includes a sensor, a memory component and a microprocessor. A correction algorithm and set of correction coefficients are provided and stored in the memory. An application applies the correction coefficients to convert digitized values to pressure values. The transducer may include a read/write port adapted to communicate with a computer terminal; and at least one read-only port adapted to communicate with a host device. A method of calibrating a digital pressure transducer includes storing a correction algorithm and correction coefficients in the digital pressure transducer separate from a host device.
G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)
A locking mechanism for a stop flange is provided with a screw having a head with at least one circumferential channel, and a screw gasket disposed on the at least one circumferential channel. A bushing receives the head in a cavity that forms a housing for the head and screw gasket. The bushing may be provided with a lip that engages a shoulder on a radial bore in a stop flange.
F16L 41/16 - Joining pipes to walls or pipes, the joined pipe axis being perpendicular to the plane of a wall or to the axis of another pipe the branch pipe comprising fluid cut-off means
Apparatus and associated systems and methods relate to automated learning of a baseline differential pressure (dP) characteristic to monitor the performance of a field-installed gas flow meter by comparing on-line dP measurements to the learned baseline dP characteristic. In an exemplary embodiment, a first baseline dP characteristic may be learned in a first mode over a first predetermined period of time according to a first set of learning criteria, and a second baseline dP characteristic may be learned in a second mode over a second predetermined period of time according to a second set of learning criteria. The first period of time may be substantially shorter than the second period of time. The first set of criteria may be substantially more relaxed than the second set of criteria. During the second mode, meter performance degradation may be diagnosed by comparing measured dP against the first baseline dP characteristic.
Systems and associated apparatus, methods, and computer program products, relate to a small, portable diagnostic instrument for checking the correct operation of a gas metering system that include a gas meter, an electronic corrector, and a junction there between. Some embodiments may use calibrated sensors to check the operation of a rotary or other positive displacement type gas meter or turbine meter. For example, reference sensors may be temporarily applied to monitor gas temperature and pressure, as well as the motion of a flow-responsive element (e.g., impellers, turbine, or diaphragm) in the gas meter. Measured volume signals from the gas meter system may be compared to reference volume signals determined from the reference sensors to check operation of the junction, and/or the electronic corrector. Some embodiments may detect other failure mechanisms, such as bearing-related problems in the gas meter, for example.
Apparatus and associated systems, methods and computer program products relate to monitoring the performance of an operating gas meter by automatic and substantially continuous differential pressure (dP) measurement. Measured dP may be compared against a baseline dP characteristic to determine if the measured dP exceeds a threshold value above a baseline dP characteristic. If the threshold is exceeded, then the system may generate a signal to request repair or replacement of the meter. After installation, some embodiments collect dP data over time and/or over a range of flow rates to automatically learn a baseline dP characteristic under installation conditions. A system may switch from a default baseline dP characteristic to a learned baseline dP characteristic. Some embodiments may further correct volume or flow rate signals for line pressure and/or temperature. Further embodiments provide a passive apparatus to protect a dP sensor against transients in line pressure and/or differential pressure.
Systems and associated apparatus, methods, and computer program products, relate to a small, portable diagnostic instrument for checking the correct operation of a gas metering system that include a gas meter, an electronic corrector, and a junction there between. Some embodiments may use calibrated sensors to check the operation of a rotary or other positive displacement type gas meter or turbine meter. For example, reference sensors may be temporarily applied to monitor gas temperature and pressure, as well as the motion of a flow-responsive element (e.g., impellers, turbine, or diaphragm) in the gas meter. Measured volume signals from the gas meter system may be compared to reference volume signals determined from the reference sensors to check operation of the junction, and/or the electronic corrector. Some embodiments may detect other failure mechanisms, such as bearing-related problems in the gas meter, for example.
(1) Chemical injector pumps used for injection of chemicals used in the production of oil and natural gas; chemical injection pump systems used for injection of chemicals used in the production of oil and natural gas, namely a base, an injection pump and a power unit.
(2) Chemical injector pumps used for injection of chemicals used in the production of oil and natural gas; chemical injection pump systems used for injection of chemicals used in the production of oil and natural gas, namely a base, an injection pump and a power unit.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Gas pumps, vacuum pumps and exhausters. Rotary positive displacement gas meters; data loggers and computer software for analyzing the data generated therefrom.
A system, comprising a first sensor that generates a first output signal representative of a first flow rate measurement in a first flow rate range of a fluid, a second sensor that generates a second output signal representative of a second flow rate measurement in a second flow rate range of the fluid that at least partially overlaps the first flow rate range of the fluid to form a partially overlapping region, a data repository storing a first calibration relationship corresponding to a first condition of the fluid and a second calibration relationship corresponding to a second condition of the fluid, wherein the first calibration relationship and the second calibration relationship correspond to the first sensor, and a processing subsystem that automatically generates a third calibration relationship when the second flow rate measurement falls in the partially overlapping region, wherein the third calibration relationship corresponds to a third condition of the fluid based at least on the first calibration relationship, the second calibration relationship, the first output signal and the second output signal.
A method comprising interposing an interface device in communication with both
a terminal and a meter; and using the interface device for, exchanging data with the terminal and the meter using a first protocol and a second protocol, respectively, at least one of which utilizes an RF field; identifying an originating device using the data from each of the terminal and the meter; and generating an output for use over the first protocol or the second protocol in response to the originating device.
An actuator with an override device to avoid damage to components during transition to and from manual operation and during manual operation. In one embodiment, the actuator comprises an output shaft, a drive assembly coupled with the output shaft, the drive assembly comprising a motor and a brake, an override device coupled with the output shaft, the override device comprising a gear assembly and a switch actuator, and a housing forming an enclosure about at least the gear assembly and the switch actuator. The switch actuator can be configured to modify an external input to the drive assembly in response to relocation of the gear assembly relative to the output shaft between a first position and a second position so as to disconnect the motor from the external input at the first position, disconnect both the motor and the brake from the external input at the second position, and apply the external input to the brake during transition between the first position and the second position.
F16H 3/06 - Toothed gearings for conveying rotary motion with variable gear ratio or for reversing rotary motion without gears having orbital motion with worm and worm-wheel or gears essentially having helical or herring-bone teeth
F16H 3/20 - Toothed gearings for conveying rotary motion with variable gear ratio or for reversing rotary motion without gears having orbital motion exclusively or essentially using gears that can be moved out of gear
F16K 31/05 - Operating meansReleasing devices electricOperating meansReleasing devices magnetic using a motor specially adapted for operating hand-operated valves or for combined motor and hand operation
F16K 35/00 - Means to prevent accidental or unauthorised actuation
H01H 3/32 - Driving mechanisms, i.e. for transmitting driving force to the contacts
An energy harvester for use to provide power to metrology hardware like gas meters and flow measuring devices. The energy harvester may include an actuator that mounts to a substrate found in the gas meter or in an adjacent, collateral device like a pressure regulator. The substrate may embody a diaphragm or membrane, possibly a thin, flexible or semi- rigid member. The actuator may include piezoelectric transducers that mount to this member. In operation, the piezoelectric transducers can generate an electrical signal in response to mechanical activity (or energy) from the thin member. The electrical signal can be directed to the flow device to replace, supplement, or recharge a power source that powers electronics necessary to expand functions on the flow meter.
F16K 31/126 - Operating meansReleasing devices actuated by fluid the fluid acting on a diaphragm, bellows, or the like
F16K 31/365 - Operating meansReleasing devices actuated by fluid in which fluid from the conduit is constantly supplied to the fluid motor the fluid acting on a diaphragm
H02K 7/18 - Structural association of electric generators with mechanical driving motors, e.g.with turbines
A power supply is configured with "smart" technology compatible with functionality on metrology hardware, like gas meters. This technology enables functions on the power supply to retain and generate data. The data may characterize discharge of an energy source, like batteries, that is resident on the power supply. Other data may indicate charge levels that are commensurate with ambient storage and use conditions, for example, to identify effects of "self-discharge" that may occur on the power supply after manufacture but before use on the gas meter. In one implementation, the gas meter may process the data from the power supply to track connection (and disconnection) of the power supply, set life expectancy of the power supply, and manage maintenance on the device as necessary to pre-empt issues that may occur at the end-of-usable life for the power supply, among other favorable functions.
G01F 1/05 - 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 using mechanical effects
G01F 15/00 - Details of, or accessories for, apparatus of groups insofar as such details or appliances are not adapted to particular types of such apparatus
G01R 31/387 - Determining ampere-hour charge capacity or SoC
86.
IMPROVING OPERATION OF PUMP STATIONS WITH ADDITIVE PUMPS
An additive pump is configured to collect migrant additive that penetrates into its reciprocating shaft. These configurations may include a pump head, an actuator that penetrates into the pump head, a sealed region disposed about the actuator to form a fluid-free zone, and a fluid sensing unit coupled with the sealed region, the fluid sensing unit comprising a receptacle that is configured to retain fluid that transits from inside the sealed region.
F04B 15/04 - Pumps adapted to handle specific fluids, e.g. by selection of specific materials for pumps or pump parts the fluids being hot or corrosive
F04B 53/00 - Component parts, details or accessories not provided for in, or of interest apart from, groups or
F17D 3/12 - Arrangements for supervising or controlling working operations for injecting a composition into the line
H02H 5/08 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal non-electric working conditions with or without subsequent reconnection responsive to abnormal fluid pressure, liquid level or liquid displacement, e.g. Buchholz relays
87.
DETERMINING DIAPHRAGM LIFE ON A PRESSURE REGULATOR
Apparatus are configured to monitor lifespan of parts on a pressure regulator. These configurations may include sensors that generate signals in response to movement of parts on the pressure regulator. Processing circuitry can process the signals to identify data that corresponds to deflection of a spring inside of the pressure regulator. This data may correlate with duty cycle of a diaphragm. In one implementation, utilities can use the duty cycle to gauge useable lifespan of the diaphragm as well as other operating conditions that may prevail on the pressure regulator.
G05D 16/06 - Control of fluid pressure without auxiliary power the sensing element being a flexible member yielding to pressure, e.g. diaphragm, bellows, capsule
88.
USING LOCALIZED FLOW CHARACTERISTICS ON ELECTRONIC FLOW METER TO QUANTIFY VOLUMETRIC FLOW
An electronic flow meter that is configured to use localized flow conditions to determine volumetric flow. The embodiments may include a body forming a pass-through channel and a by-pass channel; a semiconductor device comprising a sensor disposed proximate the by-pass channel, the sensor configured to generate a signal with data that reflects localized pressure and localized temperature of a stream in the by-pass channel; and a processing component coupled with the sensor to receive and process the signal so as to identify a flow condition for the stream, select a calculation for volumetric flow rate in response to the flow condition, use data for localized pressure and localized temperature in the calculation to generate a value for the volumetric flow rate; and generate an output with data that reflects the value for the volumetric flow rate.
Flow measurement systems and techniques may allow flow information to be wirelessly transmitted. The systems and techniques may include a meter index cover and a wireless meter transmitter adapter. The meter index cover may be configured and arranged to house a meter index and include a mounting member configured and arranged to couple to a variety of wireless meter transmitter adapters. The wireless meter transmitter adapter may be configured and arranged to couple to the mounting member and to couple to a wireless meter transmitter.
An apparatus that is configured to test operation of a gas meter. The apparatus can include a process control member with operative circuitry that provides all functionality necessary to execute the test and to analyze the resulting data. This functionality includes data processing functions and a web server to allow communication between the apparatus and a remote device via a network. In one embodiment, the operative circuitry includes a first circuitry to regulate operation of a fluid moving unit that provides fluid to a meter-under-test. The operative circuitry can also include a second circuitry to collect data from one or more sensors disposed on the meter-under-test. The operative circuitry can also have a third circuitry to perform various operations necessary to calculate, in one example, a value for an operative characteristic that relates to the accuracy of the meter-under-test.
Systems, devices, and methods are provided for measuring and processing fuel meter measurements, such as rotary gas meter volume measurements, are generally disclosed herein. At least some aspects of the systems, devices, and methods can allow a fuel meter body to perform all processing regarding an amount of fuel dispensed from the fuel meter body and can allow the fuel meter body to provide results of the processing to an accessory configured to display data to a user. At least some aspects of the systems, devices, and methods can allow processing at the fuel meter body to be provided using one or more modules each configured to be removably and replaceably coupled to the fuel meter body.
A system for metering gas includes a flow sensor and a controller. The flow sensor is disposed in a conduit in fluid connection with a flow of a gas through the conduit. The flow sensor includes a heater and a temperature sensing element, and generates an electrical output based on the flow of the gas. The controller controls operation of the heater and is operable in a pre-measurement mode and multiple measurement modes. The controller in the pre-measurement mode operates the heater at a pre-measurement setting. The controller in the measurement modes operates the heater at corresponding measurement settings that have increased power levels and/or increased operating durations relative to the pre-measurement setting. The controller in the measurement modes is configured to determine a flow rate of the gas based on an amplitude characteristic and/or a temporal characteristic of the electrical output of the flow sensor.
A system for metering gas a fluid stream includes a primary conduit and a secondary conduit coupled to the primary conduit such that the secondary conduit receives a portion of a fluid stream passing through the primary conduit. A flow manager disposed in the primary conduit is configured to maintain a predetermined relationship between at least one first physical characteristic of the fluid stream and at least one second physical characteristic of the portion of the fluid stream. A sensor measures a flow characteristic of the portion of the fluid stream and a processor determines a flow parameter of the fluid stream based, at least in part, on the predetermined relationship and one of an amplitude or temporal characteristic of the electrical signal.
A metering system (100) that may find use to generate values for measured parameters of materials (104). The metering system (100) may be configured with a metrology device (112, 114) configured to generate a first signal (116) in digital format to convey information about material (104) in a conduit (102). The metering system (100) may also include an accessory (126) coupled with the metrology device (112, 114), the accessory (126) configured to use the information of the first signal (116) to generate a second signal (128), the second signal (128) conveying information that defines a measured parameter for the material (104). In one implementation, the accessory (126) comprises executable instructions that configure the accessory (126) to exchange information with the metrology device (112, 114) so as to verify a regulatory status for the metrology device (112, 114).
A safety device (122) that is useful to release load on a spring (136) found in an actuator (100). In one embodiment, the actuator (100) can have a housing (104) comprising a pair of housing members (106, 108) and a fastening device (112) coupling the pair of housing members (108, 110) to one another. The embodiment can also have an output shaft (118) extending longitudinally through the housing (104), the output shaft (118) having an end configured to couple with a process device (102). The embodiment may also have a spring (136) coupled with the output shaft (118). The embodiment may further have a safety device (122) coupled to the spring (136) and configured to operate to reduce loading of the spring (136) from a first load to a second load. In one example, the safety device (122) is in position to prevent access to the fastening device (112) at the first load and to allow access to the fastening device (112) at the second load so that the pair of housing members (108, 110) can separate to allow access to the spring in the housing.
An energy harvester for use in-line with a pipe to harness potential and kinetic energy of fluids flowing therein. Structure for the energy harvester may include a shaft and a blade extending radially therefrom. The shaft can penetrate a housing that operates as a pipe section to install the device in-line with pipe. The shaft can couple with an electrical generator. A load may connect with voltage terminals on the generator so that fluid impinging on the blades will rotate the generator to power the load, effectively harvesting power from the flowing fluid. In one implementation, a load control device that couples with the generator voltage terminals controls a pressure characteristic of the fluid, such as pressure drop, by applying an electrical load on the generator and controllably impeding rotation of the shaft.
B33Y 30/00 - Apparatus for additive manufacturingDetails thereof or accessories therefor
B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
G01F 1/34 - 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 using mechanical effects by measuring pressure or differential pressure
G01F 15/00 - Details of, or accessories for, apparatus of groups insofar as such details or appliances are not adapted to particular types of such apparatus
H02P 9/04 - Control effected upon non-electric prime mover and dependent upon electric output value of the generator
An apparatus comprising a meter device with a rotating component configured to rotate in response to a flowing fluid, an indexing unit coupled with the meter device and configured to process signals from the meter deice resulting in values for measured parameters of a flowing fluid, and an energy harvester coupled to the pair of impellers, the energy harvester comprising a first harvesting unit and a second harvesting unit that co-operate to generate an electrical signal, the first harvesting unit configured to co-rotate with the pair of impellers, the second harvesting unit comprising a hollow, magnetic core disposed proximate the first harvesting unit.
G01D 5/42 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using fluid means
G01F 15/00 - Details of, or accessories for, apparatus of groups insofar as such details or appliances are not adapted to particular types of such apparatus
H02J 7/00 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
H02K 7/18 - Structural association of electric generators with mechanical driving motors, e.g.with turbines
A test apparatus (100) to test operation of a gas meter (108). The test apparatus (100) may include metrology devices, namely, a master meter (110) and a measuring device (112), typically with a sensor to measure ambient conditions that prevail at the master meter (110) and the gas meter (108). Each of the metrology devices (110, 112) can be configured as a self-contained, independent unit that can process analog signals to generate a digital signal (114). A controller (128) may process these digital signals (114) to convey information that defines flow volume for gas (122) that flows through the gas meter (108). The controller (128) may also be configured to verify a regulatory status for the metrology devices (110, 112). These configurations can use validation data stored on the metrology devices (110, 112) separate and independent of the controller (128). In this way, the test apparatus (100) assumes a modular structure that allows the metrology devices (110, 112) to swap into and out of the test apparatus (100).
A gas meter (100) and like metering systems that are configured for use underwater. The gas meter may embody a positive displacement rotary gas meter having a meter body with impellers that counter-rotate in response to material flow. The gas meter can also comprise an index unit having an electronics assembly to generate a value that equates rotation of impellers with a parameter of the material flow. The gas meter can further comprise a connective interface having a first part and a second part, one each disposed on the meter unit and the index unit, respectively, the first part and the second part coupling with one another to provide data to the electronics assembly, the data corresponding with operating conditions on the meter unit and rotation of the impellers. In one example, the first part and the second part are configured so that the meter unit and the index unit are operable underwater to generate the value.
The present disclosure relates to a self-powered utility delivery system that includes an energy generator that produces electrical energy and consequently regulates a pressure of utility flowing through the self-powered utility delivery system. Additionally, the self-powered utility delivery system includes an electronic utility meter that monitors a quantity (e.g., volume) of utility that flows through the self-powered utility delivery system and toward a consumer.
