Flow Measurement and Control by Time-Based Method

This study aimed to investigate flow measurement by using a 'bucket and stop-watch' method of flow measurement. Most flow measurement systems measure pressure or other fluid properties to infer flow rate, though time is a variable which can be easily and very accurately measured. The main principle behind the method was to fill up a reservoir until a set pressure had been reached. This reservoir would then be emptied and the cycle would repeat itself. The prototype was designed to control flow rate using the method. It made use of computer control with an analogue digital converter and fast acting solenoid valves which controlled the flow into a reservoir. Reservoirs were available with internal diameter of 1mm up to 5.5mm to cope with a range of flow rate.