Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to the field of fluid dynamics, and more particularly to a system and method for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter.

BACKGROUND
[0002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present disclosure. It is not an admission that any information provided herein is prior art, relevant to the presently claimed disclosure, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[0003] An ultrasonic flowmeter is a device that measures the flow rate of a fluid by using ultrasonic sound waves. The ultrasonic flowmeter operates by sending ultrasonic pulses through the fluid and measuring the time it takes for the pulses to travel between sensors, determining flow speed based on the difference in travel time. The ultrasonic flowmeter uses the transit time principle to measure the flow rate. In this principle, the time of flights is measured for upstream and downstream ultrasonic signals. Based on the difference in time of flights, the flow rate of water is calculated. Measurement of time of flights has inherent uncertainties due to various flow conditions like sudden flow, turbulence in flow profile, presence of sand, air, and other particles, and backflow. Due to the presence of sand, air, flow turbulence, and other challenges, the flow measurement may provide false direction changes Due to practical limitations, instantaneous measurement of the time of flights is not sufficient to accurately measure the flow rate.
[0004] There is therefore a need in the art to provide a method and system that can overcome the shortcomings of the existing prior art.

OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0005] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies are as listed herein below.
[0006] It is a primary object of the present disclosure to provide a system for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter that is enabled to detect change in flow direction with precision and allow for continuous, real-time monitoring and control of flow rates.
[0007] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a system for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter to eliminate the measurement of false direction changes caused by the presence of sand, air, and turbulence in the fluid.
[0008] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide a system for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter to eliminate jumps in detected flow rate caused by the presence of noise in the received upstream and downstream signal.
[0009] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a system for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter which is beneficial for applications with varying flow directions, such as in pipeline networks, where reverse flow can occur due to changes in pressure or pump operations.
[0010] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a system for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter.
[0011] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a system for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter which helps minimize measurement uncertainty by accounting for installation-specific factors (like pipe diameter and fluid properties), leading to more precise and trustworthy data for process optimization and decision-making.

SUMMARY
[0012] This section is provided to introduce certain objects and aspects of the present disclosure in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify the key features or the scope of the claimed subject matter.
[0013] The present disclosure relates to the field of fluid dynamics, and more particularly to a system and method for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter.
[0014] In an aspect of the present disclosure, a system for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter is disclosed. The system includes a processor operatively coupled with an ultrasonic flowmeter configured to enable measurement of bidirectional flow of water. The system further includes a memory coupled to the processor. The memory includes processor-executable instructions, which on execution, causes the processor to execute a sequence of tasks. The system is configured to evaluate a flow direction change based on an upstream time of flight, a downstream time of flight, a difference in time of flights, a previous N difference in time of flights, and a measurement of flow rate, in turbulent and noisy flow conditions. The system is further configured to determine a direction of flow based on the evaluation. The value N is experimentally determined. Its value depends upon the sampling frequency of the measurements. Typically 5 to 10 seconds of previous measurements is used in calculating N. The system is further configured to determine a calibrated flow rate based on the determined direction of flow. The system is further configured to calculate a forward flow volume or a backward flow volume based on the calibrated flow rate. The system is also configured to to eliminate false direction changes and high jumps in the detected flow rate due to noise in received upstream signal and downstream signal.
[0015] In another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter is disclosed. The method begins with evaluating, by the processor, a flow direction change based on an upstream time of flight, a downstream time of flight, a difference in time of flights, a previous N difference in time of flights, and a measurement of flow rate, in turbulent and noisy flow conditions. The method proceeds with determining, by the processor, a direction of flow based on the evaluation. The method proceeds with determining, by the processor, a calibrated flow rate based on the determined direction of flow. The method ends with calculating, by the processor, a forward flow volume or a backward flow volume based on the calibrated flow rate.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0016] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in, and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.
[0017] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary representation of architecture of the proposed system for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0018] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram representation of the proposed system for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0019] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary view of a flow diagram of the proposed method for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0020] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary representation of the proposed system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0021] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary diagram representation of the techniques applied by the proposed system for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0022] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit, and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[0023] The present disclosure relates to the field of fluid dynamics, and more particularly to a system and method for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter.
[0024] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a system for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter is disclosed. The system includes a processor operatively coupled with an ultrasonic flowmeter configured to enable measurement of bidirectional flow of water. The system further includes a memory coupled to the processor. The memory includes processor-executable instructions, which on execution, causes the processor to execute a sequence of tasks. The system is configured to evaluate a flow direction change based on an upstream time of flight, a downstream time of flight, a difference in time of flights, a previous N difference in time of flights, and a measurement of flow rate, in turbulent and noisy flow conditions. The system is further configured to determine a direction of flow based on the evaluation. The system is further configured to determine a calibrated flow rate based on the determined direction of flow. The system is further configured to calculate a forward flow volume or a backward flow volume based on the calibrated flow rate. The system is also configured to eliminate false direction changes and high jumps in the detected flow rate due to noise in the received upstream signal and downstream signal.
[0025] In an embodiment, the processor is configured to apply median filtering techniques and feedback techniques to perform a first level of filtering on incoming measurements for elimination of sudden noises and false measurements.
[0026] In an embodiment, the processor is configured to apply damping techniques and feedback techniques to minimize errors in calibration of the measurement of the flow rate.
[0027] In an embodiment, the processor is configured to apply jump detection techniques and feedback techniques to detect and eliminate residual jumps in measurement of the flow rate.
[0028] In an embodiment, the processor is configured to calibrate the measurement of flow rate by utilizing forward coefficients for a forward flow and backward coefficients for a backward flow.
[0029] In an embodiment, the processor is configured to calibrate the measurement of flow rate by utilizing separate calibration coefficients for a forward flow direction and a backward flow direction, incorporating corrections required from a perspective of asymmetry of the ultrasonic flowmeter in forward and reverse directions.
[0030] In an embodiment, the processor is configured to enable the ultrasonic flowmeter to store data on the forward flow volume and the backward flow volume of water and net volume of water supplied to a user.
[0031] In an embodiment, the flowmeter is designed to ensure that accurate measurements are maintained, regardless of whether the flowmeter is installed in alignment with or against the labeled flow direction, provided other standard installation practices are followed. Typically manufacturers provide the flow direction on the flowmeter indicating the prescribed direction of flow through the flowmeter.
[0032] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter is disclosed. The method begins with evaluating, by the processor, a flow direction change based on an upstream time of flight, a downstream time of flight, a difference in time of flights, a previous N difference in time of flights, and a measurement of flow rate, in turbulent and noisy flow conditions. The method proceeds with determining, by the processor, a direction of flow based on the evaluation. The method proceeds with determining, by the processor, a calibrated flow rate based on the determined direction of flow. The method ends with calculating, by the processor, a forward flow volume or a backward flow volume based on the calibrated flow rate.
[0033] The various embodiments throughout the disclosure will be explained in more detail with reference to Figs. 1-5.
[0034] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary representation of architecture of the proposed system for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0035] Illustrated in Fig. 1 is a system 102 for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter. The system 102 is connected to a network 104, one or more computing devices 106-1, 106-2…,106-N (individually referred to as one or more computing devices 106) accessible to one or more users 108-1, 108-2…,108-N (individually referred to as one or more users 108), and a centralized server 110. The system 102 comprises a processor 202 and a memory 204. The memory 204 may comprise a set of instructions, which when executed, causes the processor 202 to enable automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter that is operatively coupled to the processor 202 of the system 102. The one or more user transactions are received via one or more computing devices 106. The ultrasonic flowmeter is configured to access the centralized server 110 via the network 104. The system 102 is further configured to make the bidirectional flow rate measurement data accessible to the one or more users 108 through the centralized server 110 via the one or more computing devices 106.
[0036] As described herein, the ultrasonic transit time flowmeter capable of bidirectional flow rate measurement (hereafter referred to as an ultrasonic flowmeter) is a type of flowmeter that uses ultrasonic waves to measure the flow rate of water in a pipe, with the added capability of determining flow in both directions. The ultrasonic flowmeter is particularly valued for its accuracy, non-intrusiveness, and ability to measure both forward and reverse flow, making the ultrasonic flowmeter suitable for a wide range of industrial applications. The ultrasonic flowmeter operates on the principle of the difference in the time it takes for ultrasonic pulses to travel with and against the flow of a fluid. The ultrasonic flowmeter consists of at least two ultrasonic transducers mounted on the outside or inside of a pipe, positioned either directly opposite each other or at a specific angle. The at least two transducers alternately send and receive ultrasonic pulses through the water. While one of the at least two transducers sends a pulse downstream (with the flow direction), another of the at least two transducers sends a pulse upstream (against the flow direction). The time taken for the ultrasonic pulses to travel between the at least two transducers is measured. In a flowing fluid, the pulse traveling in the direction of the flow (downstream) will arrive faster than the pulse traveling against the flow (upstream). The ultrasonic flowmeter calculates the difference in transit times between the downstream and upstream pulses. This time difference is directly related to the flow velocity of the fluid. The greater the flow velocity, the larger the difference in transit times.
[0037] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the system 102 is configured to perform bidirectional flow measurement by continuously monitoring the transit times in both directions. If the flow changes direction, the upstream and downstream measurements switch roles, allowing the system 102 to still measure the flow rate accurately regardless of the flow direction. By comparing the transit times, the system 102 is configured to determine not only the flow rate but also the direction of the flow. If the downstream pulse arrives faster than the upstream pulse, the flow is moving in the forward direction. Conversely, if the upstream pulse arrives faster, the flow is moving in the reverse direction. The flow rate is calculated using the difference in transit times, the speed of sound in the fluid, the angle between the at least two transducers (if mounted at an angle), and the geometry of the pipe. The system 102 is configured to use these parameters to compute the flow velocity and, subsequently, the volumetric flow rate.
[0038] In an embodiment, the system 102 for enabling automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter comprises a processor 202 operatively coupled to a memory 204 that comprises a set of instructions, which upon being executed, causes the processor 202 to enable automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter.
[0039] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram representation of the proposed system for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0040] Illustrated in Fig. 2 is an exemplary block diagram representation 200 of the proposed system 102. The system 102 comprises one or more processor(s) 202. Among other capabilities, the one or more processor(s) 202 are configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in the memory 204 of the system 102. The memory 204 stores one or more computer-readable instructions or routines, which are fetched and executed to enable automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter by the system 102.
[0041] In an embodiment, the system 102 also comprises an interface(s) 206. The interface(s) 206 provides a communication pathway between the ultrasonic flowmeter and the system 102. Further, the interface 206 may be configured as a transducer interface to obtain data from the ultrasonic flowmeter for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter. In an embodiment, the processor 202 may include a processing engine 208 implemented as a combination of hardware and programming (for example, programmable instructions) to implement one or more functionalities of the system 102. There is also provided a database 220 which comprises data that is either stored or generated as a result of functionalities implemented by the ultrasonic flowmeter that is operatively coupled to the processor 202 of the system 102.
[0042] In an embodiment, the processing engine(s) 208 can include an activation module 210, a measurement module 212, a calibration module 214, a calculation module 216, and a signal processing module 218, but not limited to the likes. The data (or database 220) serves, amongst other things, as a repository for storing data processed, received, and generated by one or more of the modules.
[0043] In an embodiment, the system 102 may be configured to activate the first transducer to generate the first ultrasonic pulse and induce the second transducer to detect the first ultrasonic pulse and generate the second ultrasonic pulse via the activation module 210.
[0044] In an embodiment, the system 102 may be configured to measure the first absolute time of flight for the first ultrasonic pulse and the second absolute time of flight for the second ultrasonic pulse, estimate the difference between the first absolute time of flight and the second absolute time of flight, evaluate a flow direction change based on an upstream time of flight, a downstream time of flight, a difference in time of flights, a previous N difference in time of flights, and a measurement of flow rate, in turbulent and noisy flow conditions, and determine the direction of flow based on the evaluation via the measurement module 212 in conjunction with the signal processing module 218. Further, the system 102 may be configured to filter the measurement of upstream and downstream absolute time of flights, differential time of flight, and the measured flow rate for filtering via the measurement module 212.
[0045] In an embodiment, the system 102 may be configured to calibrate the measurement of flow rate based on the determined direction of flow via the calibration module 214. The system 102 is configured to calibrate the measurement of the flow rate for bidirectional flow to eliminate false direction changes and high jumps in the detected flow rate due to noise in the received upstream signal and the downstream signal.
[0046] In an embodiment, the system 102 may be configured to calculate the forward flow volume or the backward flow volume based on the calibrated measurement of the flow rate via the calculation module 216.
[0047] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary view of a flow diagram of the proposed method for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0048] Illustrated in Fig. 3 is a flow diagram representation of the proposed method 300 for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter. At step 302, evaluating, by the processor 202, a flow direction change based on an upstream time of flight, a downstream time of flight, a difference in time of flights, a previous N difference in time of flights, and a measurement of flow rate, in turbulent and noisy flow conditions. At step 304, determining, by the processor 202, the direction of flow based on the evaluation. At step 306, determining, by the processor 202, the calibrated flow rate based on the determined direction of flow. At step 308, calculating, by the processor 202, the forward flow volume or the backward flow volume based on the calibrated flow rate.
[0049] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary representation of the proposed system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0050] As illustrated in Fig. 4, the system 102 is integrated with an ultrasonic transit time water flowmeter which is capable of measuring bidirectional flow by applying the transit time principle. The bidirectional flow measurement is based on a sign change in the difference of transit times calculated in the upstream and downstream directions of the flow. The system 102 is configured to activate the transducer T2 which generates the first ultrasonic pulse to be detected by the transducer T1. The system 102 is further configured to activate the transducer T1 thereby making the transducer T1 generate the second ultrasonic pulse to be detected by the transducer T2. The first ultrasonic pulse and the second ultrasonic pulse may be detected by the system 102 and then the system 102 may be configured to measure the first absolute time of flight and the second absolute time of flight for transmission of the first ultrasonic pulse and the second ultrasonic pulse. The system 102 is further configured to calculate the difference between the first absolute time of flight and the second absolute time of flight. The system 102 may take into account the current, one or more previous first absolute time of flight and the second absolute time of flight, and one or more previous measurement of flow rate to determine a validity of the current measurement of the flow rate. Based on the validity of the measurement, the direction of the flow is determined by the system 102. If the valid flow rate is greater than a positive threshold, then the system 102 may be configured to detect a forward flow and if the valid flow rate is less than a negative threshold, then the system 102 may be configured to detect a backward flow. Once the direction of flow is determined, the system 102 is configured to calibrate the measurement of the flow rate. The system 102 is then configured to apply the calibrated measurement to update a plurality of parameters including the forward volume forward or the backward volume and a forward flow time or a backward flow time. After updating the plurality of parameters, the system 102 is configured to store the plurality of parameters in the database 220.
[0051] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary diagram representation of the techniques applied by the proposed system for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0052] As illustrated in Fig. 5, the system 102 is configured to receive the first absolute time of flight and the second absolute time of flight to obtain the difference between the first absolute time of flight and the second absolute time of flight. The system 102 is then configured to apply median filtering techniques for a first level of filtering on incoming measurements to eliminate any sudden noises and false measurements. There may be instances where the application of medium filtering techniques by the system 102 may fail, leading to the generation of very high or very low readings by the ultrasonic flowmeter. Further, there may be turbulence in the flow of water or sand, air, and particulate matter may be present in the water thereby hampering bidirectional flow rate measurement by the ultrasonic flowmeter. In case of invalid incoming measurements based on applying median filtering techniques, a feedback is sent to an underlying signal processing block to ensure the processed signal is captured again and processed by the system 102. After applying median filtering techniques, the measurement of difference of time of flights is subjected to damping filtering techniques and feedback techniques if required. Applying damping filtering techniques enables checking of the consistency of the measurement. Based on the consistency with previous N measurements, the current measurement is determined to be valid or invalid. If the measurement is valid, the current measurement is passed to the next stage. However, if the measurement is invalid, the current measurement is corrected by a damping filter block and sent to the next stage. Also in case of invalidity of the measurement, a feedback is sent to the underlying signal processing block to capture the raw signal again and process the same. In the next stage, jump detection techniques are applied by the system 102 to check the current measurement with the previous measurement and ensure the difference is not above a pre-configured threshold. The pre-configured threshold is obtained from experimental data. The preconfigured threshold equals to T/2, where T is the time period of ultrasonic wave used for measurements. If the measurement is valid with respect to the jump detection filter, the measurement is passed as a valid measurement, otherwise, the measurement is corrected with respect to previous measurement and a feedback is given to the underlying signal processing block to capture and process the raw signal again. The three stages of filtering are coordinated in such a way that the subsequent stage activates only when there is a certain number of continuous invalid measurements. Such an arrangement helps in reducing the processing load on the system 102 which further helps in reducing power consumption, Another advantage of the arrangement lies in the avoidance of false operation of the various filtering techniques.
[0054] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the system 102 is configured to apply median filtering and jump detection techniques to enhance the accuracy and reliability of automated bidirectional flow rate measurements by an ultrasonic flowmeter. The techniques help to mitigate noise and handle sudden changes in flow, providing stable and trustworthy readings. Median filtering is a non-linear digital filtering technique used to remove noise from a signal while preserving important details. Applying median filtering technique helps to smooth out erratic or spurious measurements that may arise due to environmental factors, fluid turbulence, or electronic noise. Further, the system 102 is configured to apply jump detection techniques to identify sudden, significant changes or "jumps" in the flow rate data. The jumps may be caused by rapid changes in flow conditions, such as the opening or closing of valves, pump start-ups or shutdowns, or flow direction reversals. The system 102 is configured to monitor the rate of change in the flow measurements over time. If a sudden change exceeds a predefined threshold, the system 102 is configured to detect the sudden change as a "jump.". In bidirectional flow measurement, it is crucial to accurately track rapid changes in flow direction or rate. Jump detection by the system 102 helps in responding correctly to these changes without delay. Sudden jumps in the data can sometimes be due to transient noise or disturbances rather than actual changes in flow. The jump detection technique helps filter out such false signals, ensuring that only true changes are recorded. Furthermore, the system 102 is configured to apply damping techniques to improve the accuracy and stability of the flow measurement, especially in environments where flow conditions can be unstable or subject to rapid changes. In turbulent or noisy flow conditions, the measurements may be affected by fluctuations or noise. The system 102 is then configured to apply the damping technique to filter out this noise, providing a more stable and reliable measurement. Further, based on incoming raw measurement of the difference of time flights, the system 102 is configured to apply median filtering techniques to validate, and if invalid, to correct the measurement of the flow rate and provide a feedback to the underlying signal processing block of the system 102. Upon receiving the feedback, the system 102 is configured to restart the ultrasonic signal capture and processing to remove the noise and turbulence captured in the previous measurement of the flow rate.
[0055] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the system 102 is configured to calibrate the measurement of the flow rate in accordance to the direction of the flow after a valid measurement is received. For the forward flow direction, the system 102 is configured to calibrate the measurement of the flow rate using forward coefficients. For the backward flow direction, the system 102 is configured to calibrate the measurement of the flow rate using backward coefficients. The forward calibration coefficient and the backward calibration coefficient are different due to built-in asymmetry of the flow tube. Further, the forward calibration coefficient and the backward calibration coefficient are separately obtained by comparing the measurement with reference measurement. Post calibration, the system 102 is configured to utilize the measurement for calculating a total forward volume or a total backward volume.
[0056] A use case of the system 102 is described herein. A water utility company of a town manages an extensive water distribution network, consisting of multiple interconnected pipelines that transport water from treatment plants to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. The network includes sections where water flow may change direction due to varying demand, pressure changes, or emergency situations such as pipe breaks or maintenance activities. Accurate measurement of both forward and reverse water flow is essential for optimizing water distribution, reducing water losses, and ensuring consistent supply to all areas. The utility company installs several ultrasonic flowmeters integrated with the system 102 for enabling automated bidirectional flow rate measurement at key points throughout the water distribution network. The system 102 is configured to continuously measure the flow rate and direction of water in the pipelines. The system 102 captures data in real time, allowing operators to monitor flow conditions instantly. The system 102 is further configured to apply median filtering techniques to the flow data to eliminate noise and erratic readings caused by turbulence, air bubbles, or transient pressure changes. This ensures accurate and stable flow measurements. The system 102 is further configured to apply jump detection techniques to identify sudden changes in flow rate or direction, such as those caused by valve operations or pressure fluctuations. This capability allows the system 102 to promptly detect and respond to flow reversals, which are critical for maintaining water balance in the network. When a significant change in flow rate or direction is detected, the system 102 is configured to automatically trigger alerts to operators. If a flow reversal is detected due to a valve malfunction or pipe burst, the system 102 is configured to automatically adjust valves or pumps to redirect water flow, minimizing service disruption. By monitoring flow rates in both directions, the system 102 is configured to detect anomalies indicative of leaks or unauthorized water usage. If a section of the pipeline shows unexpected flow reversal, there may be a leak or break. The system 102 is further configured to pinpoint the location, allowing for quick repair and reducing water loss. This use case demonstrates how the system 102 integrated with the ultrasonic flowmeter can effectively enhance the management, efficiency, and reliability of a city’s water distribution network.
[0057] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the invention is determined by the claims that follow. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions, or examples, which are comprised to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION
[0058] The present disclosure provides a system for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter that is enabled to detect change in flow direction with precision and allow for continuous, real-time monitoring and control of flow rates.
[0059] The present disclosure provides a system for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter to eliminate the measurement of false direction changes caused by the presence of sand, air, and turbulence in the fluid.
[0060] The present disclosure provides a system for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter to eliminate jumps in detected flow rate caused by the presence of noise in the received upstream and downstream signals.
[0061] The present disclosure provides a system for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter which is beneficial for applications with varying flow directions, such as in pipeline networks, where reverse flow can occur due to changes in pressure or pump operations.
[0063] The present disclosure provides a system for automated bidirectional flow rate measurement by an ultrasonic flowmeter which helps minimize measurement uncertainty by accounting for installation-specific factors (like pipe diameter and fluid properties), leading to more precise and trustworthy data for process optimization and decision-making.
, Claims:1. A system (102) for bidirectional flow rate measurement comprising:
a processor (202) operatively coupled with an ultrasonic flowmeter configured to enable measurement of bidirectional flow of water; and
a memory (204) coupled to the processor (202), wherein the memory (204) comprises processor-executable instructions, which on execution, causes the processor (202) to:
evaluate a flow direction change based on an upstream time of flight, a downstream time of flight, a difference in time of flights, a previous N difference in time of flights, and a measurement of flow rate, in turbulent and noisy flow conditions;
determine a direction of flow based on the evaluation;
determine a calibrated flow rate based on the determined direction of flow using different calibration coefficients based on the determined direction; and
calculate a forward flow volume or a backward flow volume based on the calibrated flow rate,
wherein, the processor (202) is configured to determine the measurement of the flow rate for bidirectional flow to eliminate false direction changes and high jumps in the detected flow rate.

2. The system (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processor (202) is configured to apply median filtering and feedback techniques to perform a first level of filtering on incoming measurements for elimination of sudden noises and false measurements.

3. The system (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processor (202) is configured to apply damping techniques and feedback techniques to minimize errors in calibration of the measurement of flow rate.
4. The system (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processor (202) is configured to apply jump detection and feedback techniques to detect and eliminate residual jumps in measurement of the flow rate.

5. The system (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processor (202) is configured to calibrate the measurement of flow rate by utilizing forward coefficients for a forward flow and backward coefficients for a backward flow.

6. The system (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processor (202) is configured to calibrate the measurement of flow rate by utilizing separate calibration coefficients for a forward flow direction and a backward flow direction, incorporating corrections required from a perspective of asymmetry of the ultrasonic flowmeter in forward and reverse directions.

7. The system (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processor (202) is configured to enable the ultrasonic flowmeter to store data on the forward flow or the backward flow volume of water and net volume of water supplied to a user.

8. The system (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ultrasonic flowmeter is configured to be installed in any direction irrespective of the direction of flow without disturbing accuracy of the measurement.

9. A method (300) for bidirectional flow rate measurement, the method (300) comprising steps of:
evaluating (302), by the processor (202), a flow direction change based on an upstream time of flight, a downstream time of flight, a difference in time of flights, a previous N difference in time of flights, and a measurement of flow rate, in turbulent and noisy flow conditions;
determining (304), by the processor (202), a direction of flow based on the evaluation;
determining (306), by the processor (202), a calibrated flow rate based on the determined direction of flow; and
calculating (308), by the processor (202), a forward flow volume or a backward flow volume based on the calibrated flow rate.