Patent ID: 8950260
Filing Date: 2015-02-10
Classification: A01C,G01F,Y02P,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A particulate flow monitor for a system including a particulate flow tube defining a particulate flow path and the flow tube terminating at a particulate discharge, which flow monitor comprises: an acoustic transducer connected to the flow tube intermediate the blower and the discharge; an impact surface on said acoustic transducer adapted for being impacted by particulate matter in said flow path; said impact surface being located in said particulate flow path; an electrical signal generator connected to said acoustic transducer and adapted for generating an electrical signal in response to sound waves created by particulate matter impact; said signal generator including an output adapted for providing an electrical output signal corresponding to said sound waves; a processor connected to said signal generator output; said processor being programmed to monitor particulate flow based on said detected particulate matter impact; said acoustic transducer comprising an impact plate with said impact surface and a transducer housing mounting said impact plate and enclosing an acoustic chamber therewith; a pneumatic impulse line comprising a first end and a second end, wherein said first end is connected to said acoustic chamber; and said electrical signal generator including a microphone, wherein said microphone is connected to said second end of said impulse line.