Target flow meters

US7127953B1 · kind B1 · utility

Inventors

• Gordon Yowell · Boca Raton, US
• Duane Samuelson · Boca Raton, US
• David H. Gorman · Miami, US
• Thomas B. Richartz · Royal Palm Beach, US
• James A. Gayoso · Sunrise, US
• Stephen Kaylor · Pompano Beach, US
• Jun Chen · South Bend, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 20, 2005
• Grant date: Oct 31, 2006
• Expiry date: May 11, 2025

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G01F1/24
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A target flow meter has a target with a broad face attached to the free end of a rigid stalk. A fixed end of the stalk is attached to a rigid support secured in the system to be measured with the broad face of the target disposed transverse to the fluid flow. The support and the stalk may be made in one piece. Recesses in the support at the junction with the stalk, one upstream, and one downstream of the flow may reduce the thickness of the support so that bending of the support in response to flow forces is concentrated at the recesses. Strain gauges are attached to the support at the recess areas to measure target movement. The support is sealed to the fluid chamber with the gauges outside the fluid chamber. The recesses in the support may be on the fluid side or the outside of the support.