Methods and apparatus for fluid flow monitoring and leak detection

US10865546B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Reliance Worldwide Corporation · US

Inventors

• Michael Hammond · Port Jefferson Station, US
• Francis M. Mess · Smyrna, US
• Samuel Elia · Atlanta, US
• Jorge C. Almirall · Atlanta, US
• Brian Gestner · Atlanta, US
• Jeffrey L. Leaders · Mableton, US
• Mathew S. Smith · Mableton, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 14, 2017
• Grant date: Dec 15, 2020
• Expiry date: Aug 11, 2037

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G01F15/185
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

According to at least one aspect, a fluid flow monitoring system includes an ultrasonic sensor for generating measurement signals associated with respective ultrasonic signals propagating through the fluid in the lumen, a shut-off valve for blocking fluid flow in the lumen, and a controller. The controller can be communicatively coupled to the ultrasonic sensor and to the shut-off valve. The controller can be configured to compute a plurality of fluid flow parameter estimates based on a plurality of measurement signals generated by the ultrasonic sensor over a time window while the shut-off valve is open. The controller can obtain an offset value associated with fluid flow parameter measurements during a zero flow state of the shut-off valve. The controller can then check for presence of a fluid leak event based on the fluid flow parameter estimates over the time window and the offset value.