Method and apparatus for sensing fluid flow volume to indicate end of filter life
US4918426A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 2, 1988 |
| Grant date | Apr 17, 1990 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 2, 2008 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB01D2201/208
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A method and solid-state electronic flowmeter with no moving parts is provided for monitoring instantaneous and/or accumulated fluid flow. A preferred application for the method and flowmeter is the measurement of the total volume of filtered fluid in a fluid treatment system as an indication of end of life for a filter therein. The flowmeter employs a solid-state transducer which senses differential pressure generated by a flow restriction such as a venturi which varies depending on a rate of flow. The transducer output in integrated over time to provide a representation of total fluid flow through the filter. The meter is preferably compact and battery-powered to facilitate ease of installation and use. Battery power is conserved by periodically energizing the transducer during idle periods and by periodically energizing the end of life indicator during and end of life condition.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.