Patent ID: 6694825
Filing Date: 2004-02-24
Classification: A01C,G01F

Abstract:
A variable area flow meter positionable along a flow line for sensing the flow rate of fluid through the flow line and outputting a signal in response thereto, the flow meter comprising:a housing having an internal cavity with a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet each for interconnection with the flow line; a vane member rotatable about a shaft axis and moveable within the internal cavity in the housing in response to fluid flow to vary the flow area as a function of the flow rate through the meter, the position of the vane member within the housing being related to the flow rate through the meter; a magnet fixedly positioned on the vane member within the cavity and rotatable with the vane member about the shaft axis; a biasing member for biasing the vane member in a preselected position within the housing; and a sensor fixed to the housing exterior of the cavity for outputting a flow rate signal in response to the position of the magnet with respect to the housing, the flow rate signal being indicative of the rotational position of the vane member and thus the flow rate through the housing.