Abstract:
A system for monitoring and obtaining readings of parameters of a flowable medium within a system of conduits. At least one primary flow element is located at a predetermined position in a conduit system, wherein at least one primary flow element provides an interface for obtaining at least one flow parameter of a flowable medium within the conduit system. At least one signal processing and data transfer unit is comprised of a sensor operatively connected to the at least one primary flow element for converting readings from the at least one primary flow element to an analog electrical signal. It also includes an analog to digital converter receptively connected to the sensor for converting the analog signal received from the sensor to a digital signal. A transmission unit is connected to the analog to digital converter for transmitting the digital signal upon activation of a data transfer surface of the transmission unit. A data collection unit has an activation surface for activating the data transfer surface of the transmission unit and for receiving the digital signal from the transmission unit. A data storage unit is operatively connected to the data collection unit for storing information communicated by the digital signal concerning the at least one flow parameter.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
         [0001]    The present invention relates to a method for monitoring and collecting information on the flow characteristics of a flowable medium or fluid in a conduit or pipe system. More particularly it relates to a system and apparatus for the automated monitoring, collecting and saving of such information electronically with the aid of a computer system.  
         BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
         [0002]    Systems of conduits or pipes to contain and control the flow of fluids are ubiquitous in our world. Most modern structures, i.e. buildings, ships, factories, etc. rely on complicated conduit or pipe systems for a variety of purposes. These purposes include air conditioning systems, heating systems, plumbing systems, etc. The pipes or conduit systems can also form, in some instances, part of the primary industrial process itself such as those found in oil refineries and energy generating plants. All of these systems require some type of system to collect information on the flow characteristics of the gas or liquid which moves through the pipe or conduit system. A variety of reasons require the collecting of such information during “real time” operation of these systems. These include the need to make adjustments to the operation of the system, analyze the operation of the system and identify problems in the system before they interfere with its operation. Additionally, there is also the need in many instances to adjust the system for optimal operation. Generally the readings obtained from these systems include information on the pressure, the temperature, the flow rate, the relative humidity, as well as the energy generated or expended by the system. Essential to all of these monitoring systems are some type of interface which allows for the gathering and/or logging of the raw data during the real time operation of these systems. Primary flow elements provide the interface generally between the fluid medium in the conduits and the meters or other devices used to obtain the readings. The primary flow elements can be as simple as an appropriately placed opening in the conduit system into which a probe of a sensor such as a temperature or pressure gauge can be inserted for obtaining the appropriate readings. To obtain other types of readings such as flow rates of the medium in the conduit system, typically a more sophisticated structure is required such as a venturi flow element.  
           [0003]    [0003]FIG. 1 shows a prior art pipe section depicting a venturi primary flow element. Such venturi flow elements generally consist of a specially made pipe section  120  (FIG. 1) which connects into a typical conduit or pipe system with flanges  122  and  123  at either end of the pipe element  120 . The flowable medium in the example shown passes through the pipe element  120  in the direction of arrows  121 . Pipe element  120  generally consists of a passage  148 , coaxially aligned with an opening into the passage  136  and forms a venturi tube therebetween. The venturi tube includes a fluid inlet  150 , a converging tube portion  152 , a constricted throat  154  and a diverging tube portion  156 . The converging tube portion  152  converts pressure head to velocity head, while the diverging tube portion  156  converts velocity head to pressure head. The constricted throat  154  produces an increase in fluid velocity accompanied by a reduction in fluid pressure. The velocity is transformed back into pressure, with a slight friction loss, in the diverging tube portion  156 .  
           [0004]    The pressure differential between a fluid inlet pressure (fluid pressure in the fluid inlet  150 ) and a constricted throat pressure (fluid pressure in the constricted throat  154 ) is a flow parameter of great significance since it permits calculation of the rate of fluid flow through the pipe element  120 . More specifically, the instantaneous flow rate through the pipe element  120  is proportional to the square root of the differential pressure. A flow constant, which varies depending upon pipe size and other parameters must be utilized to determine the exact flow rates. The relationship between the pressure differential in and the rate of fluid flow through venturi tubes is well known.  
           [0005]    Completing the venturi tube primary flow element are readout or sensing ports defined in pipe element  120 . A high pressure sensing port  160  extends, through the wall of the pipe element  120 , from an appropriate location in the fluid inlet  150  to an exterior location on the pipe  170 . Similarly, a low pressure sensing port  161  extends, through the wall of pipe element  120 , from an appropriate location in the constricted throat  154  to an exterior location on the pipe  172 . As shown in FIG. 1, the high pressure sensing port  160  extends from the fluid inlet  150  through a first radially extending protrusion  162  defined in pipe element  120 . The low pressure sensing port  161  similarly extends from the constricted throat  154  through a second radially extending protrusion  164  defined in pipe element  120 . Caps  166  and  168  are formed with threaded shanks  170  and  172  receivable in threaded bores counter-sunk in the outer ends of the protrusions  162  and  164 , respectively. The caps  166  and  168  close off the high and low pressure sensing ports when the ports are not in use. With current technology caps  161  and  162  are unthreaded and appropriate probes from a standard differential pressure meter, well known in the industry and not shown, are inserted into ports  160  and  161  to obtain the appropriate differential pressure reading. Pipe element  120  depicted in FIG. 1 also has a flow rate adjustment valve  134  with a lever  152  to facilitate adjustment of the flow. However, such a flow rate adjustment valve is not necessary for the monitoring function that the venturi tube depicted in FIG. 1 would provide.  
           [0006]    A pitot tube is another well known form of primary flow element used as an interface to obtain various types of readings of the flow characteristics of a fluid medium flowing in a conduit system including differential pressure, which as noted above is used to determine flow rates. U.S. Pat. No. 4,823,615 (The inventor of this patent being one of the inventors herein.), which is incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof as if set forth herein at length, describes such a pitot tube probe and the manner in which it is used to obtain information on the flow characteristics of a fluid medium within a pipe or conduit system.  
           [0007]    The typical conduit or pipe system has numerous primary flow elements positioned at various preselected points, flow parameter collection locations, sometimes referred to as stations herein, within the system to obtain readings of flow characteristics of the fluid circulating in the system. To date, substantial efforts have been made to standardize and improve the collection and maintenance of information on the flow characteristics of conduits and pipe systems. A number of the disclosed systems provide for the taking of readings of flow characteristics at various locations in the pipe system. A number also use devices with microprocessor or computer based systems to obtain these readings. Systems also exist which provide individual units to be positioned at flow parameter collection locations and which in at least one instance can be programmed, and transmit data via cable connection, or wireless.  
           [0008]    However none of the existing systems used to measure and gather or log information on the flow characteristics of a fluid medium within a conduit system provided a simple, economical and efficient system which can be operated and maintained without a high degree of skill and knowledge. Additionally, none of the disclosed systems provide a simple and efficient system which does not need a separate power source to run the local units located at flow parameter collection locations. Nor do any of the currently disclosed systems allow them to quickly and easily be retrofitted or installed onto existing primary flow elements within an existing pipe or conduit system. Thus what is needed is an economical and efficient system for monitoring and gathering information on the flow characteristics of a fluid medium within a pipe or conduit system. A system that can easily and efficiently be adapted to and function with existing primary flow elements of most conduit or pipe systems. A system in which the local collection units do not need a separate power source and which allows the gathering of readings from a local meter in a quick and efficient manner.  
         SUMMARY  
         [0009]    It is an objective of the present invention to provide an expeditious, economical efficient method for collecting information on the flow parameters of a conduit system.  
           [0010]    It is another objective of the present invention to provide a system which is easy to maintain and be use by individuals with limited technical training.  
           [0011]    It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide a system which can easily be adapted to existing primary flow elements of a conduit or pipe system or retrofitted onto existing conduit systems.  
           [0012]    It is another objective of the present invention to provide a system and method that does not need a separate power source for the local flow parameter collection meters.  
           [0013]    It is still another objective of the present invention to provide a system that allows for the obtaining of readings from a local unit by merely touching a contact point and transmitting data via wireless communication.  
           [0014]    The invention accomplishes these and other objectives by providing a system for monitoring and reading parameters of a flowable medium within a system of conduits consisting of: one or more primary flow elements located at predetermined positions in a conduit system, the primary flow elements providing an interface for obtaining flow parameters of a flowable medium within the conduit system. The system has signal processing and transfer units located at each predetermined position. The signal processing and data transfer units having: a sensor operatively connected to an adjacent primary flow element for converting readings from the primary flow element to an analog electrical signal; an analog to digital converter receptively connected to the sensor, for converting the analog signal received from the sensor to a digital signal; and a transmission unit connected to the analog to digital converter for transmitting the digital signal upon activation of a data transfer surface of the signal processing and data transfer unit. A data collection unit having an activation surface for activating the data transfer surface of the transfer unit and for receiving the digital signal from the transfer unit; and a data storage unit (logger) operatively connected to the data collection unit for storing information communicated by the digital signal concerning the flow parameters.  
           [0015]    The invention also provides a method for monitoring and collecting information on flow parameters of a flowable medium in a system of conduits, said method comprising the steps of: a) programming a signal processing and data transfer unit with pre-selected data regarding a specified primary flow element of a conduit system; b) operatively attaching said signal processing and data transfer unit programmed with the pre-selected information at a flow parameter collection locations, which location has said specified primary flow element for which said signal processing and data collection unit was programmed; c) providing power with a data collection unit to said signal processing and data transfer unit so that said signal processing and data transfer unit will generate readings; and d) collecting readings generated by said signal processing and data collection unit regarding flow parameters from said data processing and signal transfer unit.  
           [0016]    In additional aspect of the method of this invention the step of programming said signal processing and data transfer unit further comprises programming a plurality of signal processing and data transfer units with pre-selected data regarding a plurality of specified primary flow elements so that the programmed data on each signal processing and data transfer includes information regarding a unique one of each of said primary flow elements and said step of attaching said signal processing and data transfer unit comprises attaching it to said unique primary flow element for which it has been programmed. 
       
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0017]    The invention will be better understood by an examination of the following description, together with the accompanying drawings, in which:  
         [0018]    [0018]FIG. 1 provides a side view of a pipe section of the prior art which depicts a venturi primary flow element;  
         [0019]    [0019]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a portion of a conduit system on which the signal processing and data transfer units of the present invention have been installed;  
         [0020]    [0020]FIG. 3 is an overall schematic diagram of the functional components of the present invention;  
         [0021]    [0021]FIG. 3A is a diagram of a pipe section with primary flow elements on which a signal processing and data transfer unit of the present invention had been installed;  
         [0022]    [0022]FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the signal processing and data transfer unit of the present invention together with a primary flow element;  
         [0023]    [0023]FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the sensor functions of the present invention;  
         [0024]    [0024]FIG. 6 is a flow chart of a calibration and initialization program used to prepare the signal processing and data transfer units for operation;  
         [0025]    [0025]FIG. 7 is a flow chart of the meter interrogation program;  
         [0026]    [0026]FIG. 8 is a flow chart of the data review and analysis program;  
         [0027]    [0027]FIG. 9 is a detailed block diagram of the functional components of the signal processing and data transfer unit;  
         [0028]    [0028]FIG. 9A is a schematic block diagram of one version of a preferred embodiment of the signal processing and data transfer unit; and  
         [0029]    [0029]FIG. 10 is a schematic block type diagram of a conduit system containing various signal processing data transfer units located at flow parameter collection locations and connected into a modified local area access network.  
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT  
     1. Overview of the System  
       [0030]    The invention provides a system for monitoring the flow of a liquid or gas within a system of conduits or pipes. It monitors for the following parameters:  1 ) pressure;  2 ) temperature;  3 ) flow rate (generally determined from a differential pressure reading); and  4 ) heat loss or production depending upon the purpose. At selected points in the pipe or conduit array  19  (FIG. 2) meters  20  are positioned to monitor one or more of the relevant parameters, i.e. temperature, static pressure and differential pressure. FIG. 3 depicts a number of the various local meter units  20 A,  20 B,  20 C,  20 D and  20 E which can be strategically positioned around the array of conduits or pipes. Each of the local meters  20  A-E has a primary flow element or component  22 A,  22 B,  22 C,  22 D and  22 E and signal processing and data transfer unit  21 A,  21 B,  21 C,  21 D and  21 E.  
         [0031]    [0031]FIG. 3A provides a detailed view of one of the meters  20 A in which probes  26 A and  26 B from a sensor (To be discussed in detail below.) located in the signal processing and data transfer unit  21  can obtain access to the flowable medium in pipe section  18  through high pressure sensing port  160  and low pressure sensing port  161 . This provides one example of how the primary flow elements  22  act as an interface and allow the gathering of readings from which the temperature, static pressure and differential pressure can be determined. The differential pressure is calculated from readings obtained at the high pressure sensing port  160  and low pressure sensing port  161 . The temperature reading could be obtained form either port  160  and  161 . The static pressure reading could be obtained from port  160 . The arrangement for gathering readings would be similar for meter  20 A which is equivalent to that described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,823,615 cited above, as well as meters  20 B,  20 C and  20 D.  
         [0032]    [0032]FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the major functional components of the local meter  20 . A probe  26  from the signal processing unit  21  connects to primary flow element  22 . Within the signal processing unit  21  are sensors  27  which take the raw readings obtained by the probe  26  from the primary flow element  22  and converts them into an electrical signal. In turn the electrical signal, in analog form, is converted to digital signal by analog-to-digital converter  28 . An appropriately confined operational and control device  29  receives the digital signal, processes it and then transfers it to a data collection unit when an appropriate transfer probe  23  is attached to the data transfer point  25 . In the preferred embodiment the signal processing and data transfer unit  21  would receive its power from the data transfer probe  23  when connected at the data transfer point  25 . The data transfer probe  23  provides power to the entire signal processing and data transfer unit  21  during the period of time the probe  23  is in contact with the data transfer point  25  of the signal processing unit and data transfer unit  21 .  
         [0033]    [0033]FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the various sensor devices which make up the sensor  27 . In the preferred embodiment it includes a temperature sensor  51 , a pressure sensor  52  and a flow rate sensor  53 . The flow rate sensor is in fact a differential pressure sensor the readings from which are used to calculate the flow rates. Additionally, a remote temperature probe  51 A on line  54  can be added to take a simultaneous temperature reading at a different position in the array of pipes. This would allow for a calculation of energy generation or loss in units, such as BTU&#39;s, used or produced over the section of the system that the temperature difference is taken.  
         [0034]    A portable lap top computer  24  FIG. 3 acts as the data receiving unit, the data storage unit and the analysis unit when running appropriate software. As noted above data is transferred to the computer  24  when a comport touch wand or comport snap-on wand  23  is pressed against the data transfer point  25 . The touch wand or snap-on wand  23  would connect into the computer  24  through a standard serial comport with an RJ-11 connector  23 A. The RI-11 connector attaches to the  9  pin serial port on data collection unit  24 . Although the preferred embodiment uses a lap top computer to gather the information from each of the meters  20  it will be appreciated that special portable interrogation units can be made to gather the information, and the interrogation units after collecting the readings would be connected to central computer system for down loading, analysis and storage of the information collected. Large refinery operations, very large buildings with huge pipe systems to monitor are among the operations that might employ this alternative. A regular PC computer could also be used in particular one located on a LAN as will be discussed below.  
         [0035]    The preferred embodiment of the present invention uses a 1-Wire® technology produced by a Dallas Semiconductor Corporation. This company produces a patented one wire touch technology which includes various semiconductor chips which make up the operational control and memory unit  29  used in the present invention. These chips, as will be discussed below, are incorporated into the signal processing and data transfer units  21 . Wand  23  also contains a comparable chip and data collection unit  24  uses software, as will be discussed below, which together with the wand  23  activates and communicates with the signal processing and data transfer units  21  to program units  21  or take readings from units  21 . Thus, when data transfer surface  25  is touched by touch wand  23  the units while in contact exchange information. The wand  23 , in the preferred embodiment also provides power to the signal processing and data transmission units  21 . Once the concepts of the present invention are understood by an average person skilled in the art it will be readily apparent that the system of the present invention could be implemented in other ways without the 1-Wire® technology and that a system which accomplishes the same result can be made.  
       2. Software Programs  
       [0036]    The invention has three basic software programs which function in conjunction with the other components of the invention. FIG. 6 is a flow chart of the set up initialization and calibration program. FIG. 7 is a flow chart of the customer operating and read program which is used to take readings from each of the meters. FIG. 8 is a flow chart of the customer administration and analysis program. All of this software in the preferred embodiment runs on the data collection unit  24 .  
         [0037]    The flow chart in FIG. 6 shows the process used to set up the software and calibrate the signal processing and transfer units  21 . Given the differences between the flow of gas and water, there would be separate programs for each. Thus one of the initial decisions at the start  31  is determining which program is appropriate. After starting the software  31 , at the next step  33  information is entered regarding the meters to be calibrated and the project with which they will be used. If it is a new project, information is then entered  32  regarding this new project. At step  33  information on the models of each of the meters being used plus their individual characteristics are entered into a calibration database. The information entered includes:  1 .) Identification of each of the sensors  27  and their characteristics as well as information on the signal processing and data transfer unit.  2 .) Information on the flow constants which the system would need to calculate the flow rate from the readings of the differential pressure as noted above. Each primary flow element as discussed above has its own different flow constant based on a number of factors including the size of the pipe, etc.  3 .) The information entered also includes information needed on the transducer units which form part of the sensors  27  used for measurement of static pressure and differential pressure. Such information would include information on how linear a reading the transducer produces and its hystersis etc.  
         [0038]    The next step  34  initiates the program new meter section of the software. At this point two decisions are made: 1.) Will a meter be programmed, and 2.) will a security access code be added. If the decision is made not to program specific meters than the program is canceled  42  and exited  41 . If the decision is made to program a new meter then the project is selected at step  36 . At this point if it is an existing project than the next step  38  is identifying the project and entering the information on the meter and touching  39  with the wand  23  the contact point  25  of the signal processing and data transfer unit  21  to program it. Information entered at step  33  is used to program the signal processing and data collection units  21 . The program depicted in the flow chart of FIG. 6 would typically be running on a standard desk top or lap top PC  24 , FIG. 3. Programming of each of the signal processing and data transfer units involves the reverse of the process of reading the meters. Touch or snap-on wand  23  connects to computer  24 . Programming occurs when touch or snap-on wand  23  touches the contact point  25  of the signal processing and data transmission unit  21 .  
         [0039]    If several units have to be programmed than the subroutine of steps  40 ,  36 ,  38  and  39  is run until all of the meters have been programmed. On the other hand if it is a new project for a particular customer than the information on the new project is entered  37 . The meters are then programmed by running through the subroutine  38 ,  39 ,  40  and  36  until all meters needed have been programmed at which point the program is exited  41 .  
         [0040]    In the preferred embodiment once the units  21  are installed at a flow parameter collection location or station in a pipe or conduit system the units  21  would be monitored and information down loaded from them with a separate read meter program depicted in FIG. 7. The read meter program would be either for a liquid flow or gas flow system and running on the computer  24 , FIG. 3. Although the actual programs would differ, given the different parameters of the flow of gas and liquid, the functioning of each program would be the same. The software would be started on computer  24  by selecting the appropriate program  43  (FIG. 7). The first meter is selected  44  and touched  45  and if the program recognized it as a meter of an existing project  46  the system would save the reading and output it to a display. If the program did not recognize the meter as being associated with an existing project the user is-prompted to enter information for the new project.  
         [0041]    The program would verify receipt of the data  47  and then display it  48  on computer  24 . The operator would have the option of viewing the data in an historical context with the previous maximums and minimums  48 A. The operator may, if a printer is available print out the information  48 B. The next decision is whether or not another meter should be read at step  49 . If the decision is made to read another, the operator then the runs the subroutine of steps  44 ,  45 ,  46 ,  47 ,  48  and  49  until all of the meters in the system have been interrogated or read.  
         [0042]    As will be discussed in detail below the readings transferred by the signal processing and data transfer units  21  to the data collection unit  24  are saved in a report program.  
         [0043]    In the preferred embodiment of the present invention an actual reading is not saved on the data collection unit  24  while the touch wand  23  remains in contact with the data transfer point  25 . The readings are saved when the wand  23  breaks contact with the data transfer point  25 . The data collection unit  24  saves the last readings sent by the signal processing and data transfer unit  21  before contact was broken. Also, in the preferred embodiment the signal transfer and data processing unit  21  takes the average of five consecutive samples and sends the average as the reading to be saved on the data collection unit  24 . Naturally, the signal processing and data transfer unit  21  is capable of being programmed to compute average readings on larger or smaller sample groups or of sending multiple readings to the data collection unit  24 .  
         [0044]    [0044]FIG. 8 is a flow chart of a program used in the preferred embodiment to review the data obtained and prepare reports using the data collected. The report program in which the readings are saved also includes the capability of allowing the user to view the data and prepare reports. To view that data the viewer would request a report after the report program is started  54 . The user would be prompted to select an existing project or a new one  55 . If the user responded that it was an existing project  56  the user would then be prompted to identify it and then up date it with any new information  57  collected. If it is a new project the user would be prompted to enter the information on the new project so the report could be prepared based on new data obtained  58 . Once the report has been prepared in addition to viewing it the user would have the option  59  of printing a copy of the report  61  and a label  60 . Once done the user would exit the program. The program also has the option for transferring the data to another program such as Excel® for viewing, analysis, manipulation, etc. This would give the user many more options for use the information given the capabilities of such a program.  
         [0045]    [0045]FIG. 8A presents a portion of one type of report which the present invention would produce and which can be prepared for viewing on a computer screen and/or printed out using the report program of the invention or Excel®. The report includes: (1) information designating the type of station or unit (“Unit”) at which the signal processing and data collection unit  21  is disposed (Station being synonymous with the term flow parameter collection location.); (2) information designating the location (“Location”) of the station in the conduit system; (3) the serial number (“Serial #”) of the signal processing and data transmission unit at the identified station; (4) information designating a work order number (“W/O #”) associated, for example, with the present or most recent readings taken; (5) the size (“Size”) of the pipe, or sizes of the pipes, utilized at the identified station; (6) information designating the type of primary flow structure used at the identified station; (7) the present or most recent calculation of the instantaneous fluid flow rate (“Flow”) through the identified station; (8) the present or most recent differential pressure reading (“DP”) taken at the identified station; (9) the static pressure (“Pressure”) reading obtained at the identified station (This could be taken via the high pressure sensing port  160 , a separate pressure plug, or some other appropriate device.); (10) the present or most recently obtained temperature (“Temp”) of fluid passing through the identified station, (11) the value of the flow constant (“C 1 ”), which depends, among other factors, on the pipe size or sizes and the balancing valve model, used to determine the exact flow rate in the primary flow elements at the identified station (As noted above the flow constant is included in the program which reads and analyzes the information.); and (12) any remarks (“Remarks”) relating to the station that a user deems necessary or pertinent. The report shown in FIG. 8A facilitates monitoring of the flow parameters and other parameters acquired at all stations in the conduit system. The effects of adjusting the flow of fluid through a station, through use of a valve such as that shown in FIG. 1, on the conduit system as a whole can be also efficiently determined by comparing reports similar to that in FIG. 8A from before and after the adjustment. The effects of adjusting fluid flow through any of the stations in a conduit system, where that station allows for the adjustment of flow, on the fluid flow through the other stations can easily be determined with this and similar reports after the necessary readings have been gather from each of the stations. All flow parameters and other parameters acquired by a user as the user travels from station to station in the conduit system with data collection unit  24  and attached probe  23  are saved in the database of flow parameters. The manner in which this is accomplished is clear from the preceding description when considered in conjunction with the following.  
         [0046]    Other types of reports can just as easily be generated, for example the system could generate a history of readings of flow parameters taken at a specific station. As noted above and discussed below, the data can be transferred to standard spreadsheet programs which would allow a wide variety of options for the viewing, analysis and manipulation of the data.  
       3. The Sensing Devices  
       [0047]    The system of the present invention would use standard sensors for obtaining readings for the temperature, static pressure and differential pressure. Any number of currently available temperature probes could be used. In the present invention a temperature probe which produces a digital signal  71  (FIG. 9) is used. The sensor  71  includes its own analog-to-digital conversion unit  71 A. The remote sensor  72  which may also be used by this system would also have its own analog-to-digital conversion unit. The preferred embodiment of the present invention uses a 1-wire digital™ thermometer made by Dallas Semiconductors designated as the DS1920 touch thermometer chip. The sensing portion of the thermometer chip would naturally obtain access to the fluid through the appropriate openings of primary flow elements similar to that depicted as  160  and  161  in FIG. 3A. Thermocouples, resistive temperature difference device (RTD) and other type of similar devices could be used in the invention to obtain the necessary temperature readings.  
         [0048]    The static and differential pressure sensors in the preferred embodiment use a piezoresistive technology. The sensors in effect are transducers. Typically such sensors or transducers use four identical piezo-resistors embedded in or positioned on the surface of a silicon diaphragm. Pressure applied to the thin diaphragm will induce a strain on the diaphragm. In a typical piezoresistive structure, semiconductor strain-gages are set up as four resistors in a whetstone bridge arrangement. Thus, a signal voltage generated by the wheatstone bridge arrangement of the four resistors is proportional to the amount of supply voltage and the amount of pressure applied to the gage which generates the resistance change. The static pressure sensor  73  (FIG. 9) would use such a piezoresistive strain-gage. The strain-gage used for the static pressure reading could obtain access to the fluid through a sensing port similar to  160  (FIG. 3A). Differential pressure would be obtained with similar types of piezoresistive strain-gages. Naturally there would be two separate ones, one for the high pressure  74 A sensor and one for the low pressure sensor  74 B. the high pressure sensor  74 A would extend through high pressure sensing port  160  (FIG. 1). The low pressure sensor  74 B naturally would extend through low pressure sensing port  161  (FIG. 1). The signals produced by the static pressure sensor  73  and differential pressure  74  would be converted from an analog to a digital signal by analog-to-digital conversion unit  28  (FIG. 9). Part of the programming process discussed above with respect to FIG. 6 and below with respect to the signal processing and data transfer unit  21  involves adjusting a variable resistor on the transducer to assure it provides accurate readings. Other types of pressure sensors could be used without departing from the spirit of the invention including strain gages, capacitor type transducers and diaphragm type transducers.  
       4. The Signal Processing and Data Transfer Unit  
       [0049]    [0049]FIG. 9, described in part above, provides a more detailed block diagram of the functional components of the present invention which make up the signal processing and data transfer unit  21 . The sensors  71 ,  72 ,  73  and  74  have been described above in detail. The entire unit would function around processor  75  which would, upon activation, obtain readings from each of the sensors  71 ,  72  (assuming it is being used),  73  and  74 . The processor  75  would then transmit through the data transfer point  25  specific information identifying the unit  21  (this most likely would be a specific assigned serial number) together with the temperature, static pressure and differential pressure readings. As noted above in the preferred embodiment the system would receive power to generate these readings when the appropriate wand  23 , depicted in FIG. 3, activates data transfer point  25 . Also as noted above, each of the signal processing data and transfer units  21 , depicted in FIG. 9, would be programmable. During the programming process as described above and depicted in FIG. 6, the programmed information would be stored in memory  76  (FIG. 9) and battery  77  would provide the necessary power to prevent loss of the programmed information in memory  76 . Alternatively, the unit could be programmed such that it would have its own stand-alone power source  77  which would provide enough power for the system to allow processor  75  to take periodic readings as programmed for in the memory  76  and then save those readings in the memory  76 . This would all be done without any activation through data transfer point  25 . Thus, in this alternative version, when data transfer point  25  is activated for transfer of the information, the processor not only would provide real time readings, but also download to the data collection unit  24  saved readings of the temperature, static pressure and differential pressure taken over a period of time.  
         [0050]    Alternatively, a number of these units  21  as depicted in FIG. 10 could be connected to a central unit  81  by a common communication line  68 . Thus information from one connection between wand  23  and the contact point  25  at signal collection and data transfer unit  81  would allow for the transmission of data from various signal processing and data transferring units  21  A-E on line  68  located around a conduit system  82 . When each one of the units  21  A-E transmits, the information obtained from at their flow parameter collection locations  81  A-E, they each would include an identifying serial number or other identifying information which would allow the central collection unit  24  to identify which signal processing and data transfer unit  21  A-E at a particular station or flow parameter collection location  83  A-E sent the information.  
         [0051]    As noted above, the preferred embodiment of the present invention uses various semi-conductor chips produced by Dallas Semiconductors Corporation. The processor and memory functions discussed above in the preferred embodiment would be handled by Dallas Semiconductor chips designated DS-2423 item  92  (FIG. 9A), DS-2407 item  91  and item  94  DS-9053 item  94 . The Dallas Semiconductor DS 2423 is a RAM with counter which allows for reading of any type of meter remotely, as well as providing a unique identification. The DS -2407 contains two bidirectional I/O ports that are controlled with a single port pin by a host microprocessor (data collection unit  24 ) using the Dallas Semiconductor 1-Wire® Dallas Semiconductor chip  94  designated DS 9593 is and ESD protection diode with resistors. The diode having zener characteristics with voltage snap-back to protect against ESD. The data transfer point  25  on the signal processing and data transfer unit having the Dallas Semiconductor chip designated DS 9092R chip. Likewise data receiving point  95  on touch wand  23  is the Dallas Semiconductor chip designated DS 9092R chip. The analog-to-digital conversion function could be handled by any standard chip or chips  28  available on the market. Standard types of sensors or transducers  73 ,  74 A and  74 B such as ones manufactured by the Honeywell Corporation could be used as the sensors or transducers. As noted above the temperature sensor  71  is a Dallas Semiconductor DS 1920. The touch wand  23  might also have a Dallas Semiconductor DS 2402 chip  96  to support the touch protocol to act as an interface between the contact point  95  and computer  24 . The system can be designed to take readings of flow parameters every 700 milliseconds.  
         [0052]    The preferred embodiment as noted uses the Dallas Semiconductor system as a matter of convenience since the system, given it features and unique 1-Wire® technology, is suited to the purposes of the invention. However, the system and method of the present invention could be implemented by use of an appropriate dedicated or general purpose processor together with memory chips and input output devices given the programmable nature of the invention as generally depicted in FIG. 5. In fact it could be done without any battery  78  with an appropriate memory device  76  which would not require a battery to maintain the memory. Power to operate the signal processing and data transfer unit  21  would be supplied by data collection unit  24  or a separate appropriately configured portable power supply which could accompany the data collection unit  24 . A simple appropriately configured contact surface or point  25  could be used to transfer power to unit  21  while unit  24  receives the readings generated. Naturally, the software would function the same as above and implemented through standard techniques.  
       5. The Data Collection Unit  
       [0053]    In the preferred embodiment the system uses a standard laptop computer running Windows 98 as the data collection unit  24 . The signal processing and data transfer unit  21  transmits the readings obtained from the sensors in an ASCII format to data collection unit  24 . Consequently, any number of different communications protocols such as dynamic data exchange (DDC), object linked embedding (OPE), or object linked embedding for process control (OLE-OPC) can be used by data collection unit  24  to receive the readings and transfer them to the report program with which the data will be viewed, saved and manipulated.  
         [0054]    To add utility to the current invention and make it much more functional the current invention allows the user, as noted above, to transfer the data saved in the report program to a standard spreadsheet programs such as Excel®. Given the extremely broad capabilities of standard spreadsheet programs the user will have substantial capabilities to manipulate the data, analyze and display the data in various tabular or graphical forms. Other spreadsheet programs which the data can be transferred to for viewing, manipulation, analysis and storage are Quattro Pro®, Lotus 123® etc. Additionally, the data can be transferred to any of the following programs for viewing, storing and manipulating the readings such as: Word®, Wonderware®, In Touch®, Labview®, Test Point®, Visual Basic®, Borland Dephi®, etc.  
         [0055]    In the preferred embodiment each of the signal processing and data transfer unit  21 , as noted above, is programmed for: a) a specific identifying serial number, b) a number of key factors used to calculate the differential pressure which include the flow constant, pipe size, etc. and c) calibration information for the transducers which may include a proper voltage setting, etc. However, data collection unit  24  does the actual calculations for the flow rate using the differential pressure readings taken by the signal processing and data transfer unit  21  The data collection unit  24  uses standard equations based on Bernoulli&#39;s Theorem (Energy Balance). They include common forms as follows:  
         [0056]    1. Liquid  
         Δ                 P     =         (     GPM     C   1       )     2          SG   f                             
  C   1 =5.6660 ·K ·D   i   2   ·F   a   
         [0057]    2. Gas/Air;  
         Δ                 P     =         (     SCFM     C   1       )     2              SG   s          (       T   f     +   460     )         P   f                               
  C   1 =128.8 ·K·D   i   2   ·F   a   
         [0058]    Note: SCFM=ACFM·P f /14.73·520/T f +460  
         [0059]    3. Steam:  
         Δ                 P     =       (       Lbs   /   Hr       C   1       )     2                           
  C   1 =359· K·D   i   2   ·F   a   ·{square root}P   f   
         [0060]    Where:  
         [0061]    ΔP=The differential pressure as measured in inches of a water column at 68° F. and sea level.  
         [0062]    GPM=US Gallons Per minute.  
         [0063]    SCFM=Standard cubic feet per minute at 70° F. at 14.73 psia.  
         [0064]    ACFM=Actual cubic feet per minute.  
         [0065]    Lbs/Hr=Pounds mass per hour.  
         [0066]    C 1 =Flow constant.  
         [0067]    K=Flow coefficient.  
         [0068]    D l =Inside pipe diameter in inches.  
         [0069]    F a =Thermal expansion of the pipe; up to 100° F./100.1-1.005 (100-500° F.).  
         [0070]    T f =Flowing temperature, ° F.  
         [0071]    P f =Flowing pressure, psia.  
         [0072]    SG f =Specific gravity at flowing conditions.  
         [0073]    SG s =Specific gravity at standard conditions (70° F., 14.73 psia).  
         [0074]    P f =Flowing density, lbs./ft 3 .  
         [0075]    The proceeding provides one basis for calculating the flow rate. Variations could be made to the above and appropriate results still achieved. It should be noted that the flow coefficient can be calculated in a standard fashion for different probe and pipe sizes.  
         [0076]    Temperature and static pressure are easily calculated based on the specification for the sensors used for measuring each. Naturally, the above would be programmed in standard fashion into the data collection unit which as noted has all of the standard features including memory on which to store the database of flow parameters saved  
       Conclusion  
       [0077]    Thus, the present invention provides a system and method for obtaining readings from programmable meters with one touch of contact points. The local signal processing and data transfer units do not need an independent power supply since power is provided by the data collection unit. This facilitates placement of meters in remote and difficult to access locations. The signal processing and data transfer units are programmable units which can be easily programmed to work with conduit systems that carry gas, liquid, etc. The system of the present invention can be operated by individuals with little or no special technical skills or training.  
         [0078]    While the invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to a preferred embodiment thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made to it without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.