Measuring and testing – Volume or rate of flow – Thermal type
Patent
1998-05-12
2000-07-11
Oen, William
Measuring and testing
Volume or rate of flow
Thermal type
7320423, 7320425, G01F 168
Patent
active
060855886
ABSTRACT:
A flow rate sensor includes a substantially cylindrical sensor body having an inlet end and an outlet end, and a flow channel formed between the two ends of the sensor through which a liquid can flow, an ambient temperature sensing device, and a heated temperature sensing device, wherein the flow rate of the liquid in the flow channel can be calculated by measuring the temperature drop of the heated temperature sensing device. The sensor may also include: a flow equalizer for generating a known flow profile across the ambient temperature sensing device; a constrictor, located near the heated temperature sensing device, for improving the response and consistency of the measurement of the heated device; electronic circuitry for measuring the voltage readings from the ambient temperature device and the heated temperature device; and an MCU, which may be a standalone component, or which may be part of a household appliance such as a washing machine, for converting the measurements from the electronic circuitry to a flow rate. The sensor can be used alone, or in combination with other sensors to provide for a "smart" appliance.
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Caudill Eric B.
Khadkikar Prasad S.
Oen William
Therm-O-Disc Incorporated
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