Patent Description:
Existing fin sensors have problems with generating mode separation. Typically, the frequency difference between modes that are in phase and modes that are out of phase is minimal, which confounds calculations of fluid flow characteristics. Also, when generating curling in existing fin sensors, there is little amplitude contrast from which to derive phase difference measurements that yield flow characteristics.

<CIT>relates to a Coriolis transducer comprising a tube, a converter unit, an electromechanical exciter arrangement for stimulating and sustaining forced mechanical vibrations of the converter unit, and a sensor arrangement for detecting mechanical vibrations of the converter unit and for generating a vibration signal representing mechanical vibrations of the converter unit. The converter unit includes connection elements connected to two displacer elements and is inserted into the tube and connected thereto. The converter unit is configured as to be contacted by a fluid flowing through the tube and enabled to vibrate such that the connection elements and the displacer elements are proportionately elastically deformed.

In existing fin sensors, measurements are confounded by significant net movement towards the sensor assembly from the center of the conduits in which they reside. The reason for this is that the axis of rotation of the fins is controlled by the fin position on the plate and the location of the driver. The rotation axis of the fins is typically about the edges of the base on which they reside. This generates imbalance which results in errors and problems with calibration. Forces from in-phase modes cause net motion at the process connection. Also, the tube and balance bar can be difficult or impossible to drive to equal, in-phase mode shapes. The generated imbalance can lead to calibration and measurement errors. These problems limit the effectiveness of fin sensors and make them impractical for many industrial applications.

Accordingly, there is a need for an improved fin sensor.

An embodiment of a Coriolis flow fin sensor (<NUM>) is disclosed. The embodiment of the Coriolis flow fin sensor (<NUM>) has a base (<NUM>), the base being coupled to a first fin (108a) and a second fin (108b), the fin sensor (<NUM>) further having a driving transducer (104b) and a sensing transducer (104a) coupled to the fins (108a,108b) with respective protrusion (114a, 114b) segments, the first fin (108a) being vibrotarily coupled to the second fin (108b) by at least two strip shaped fin couplers (220b).

An embodiment of a method of making a fin coupler assembly for a Coriolis flow fin sensor is disclosed. The embodiment of the method has a fin coupler assembly with a first fin (108a) and a second fin (108b) and at least two fin couplers (120a,120b), the method comprising steps of forming a fin coupler assembly in which the the first fin (108a) is coupled to the second fin (108b) by at least two fin couplers (220b).

According to the invention, an embodiment of a Coriolis flow fin sensor according to claim <NUM> and an embodiment of a method of making a fin coupler assembly according to claim <NUM> for said Coriolis flow fin sensor are disclosed.

Preferably, the strip shaped fin coupler (220b) has at least one tapered end.

Preferably, the strip shaped fin coupler (220b) is tapered such that the one or more of an upstream (<NUM>) end and a downstream (<NUM>) end of the strip shaped fin coupler (220b) have a smaller cross sectional area in a plane defined by a vertical axis (<NUM>) and a cross axis (<NUM>) than a cross sectional area in a plane defined by the vertical axis (<NUM>) and the cross axis (<NUM>) of a more central position along a flow axis (<NUM>) of the strip shaped fin coupler (220b).

Preferably, a cross section in a plane defined by the vertical and flow axes of the strip shaped fin coupler (220b) is narrower in a vertical axis (<NUM>) at one or more of an upstream (<NUM>) end and a downstream (<NUM>) end of the cross section than at least one central portion in a flow axis (<NUM>) between the upstream (<NUM>) end and the downstream (<NUM>) end of the cross section.

<FIG> and the following description depict specific examples to teach those skilled in the art how to make and use the best mode of embodiments of fin coupler assemblies and balanced base assemblies for fin sensors. For the purpose of teaching inventive principles, some conventional aspects have been simplified or omitted. Those skilled in the art will appreciate variations from these examples that fall within the scope of the present description. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the features described below can be combined in various ways to form multiple variations of fin coupler assemblies and balanced base assemblies for fin sensors. As a result, the embodiments described below are not limited to the specific examples described below, but only by the claims and their equivalents.

<FIG> shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a flow sensor system <NUM> with a fin-type sensor, said embodiment not forming part of the claimed invention. The system <NUM> has a fin sensor <NUM> with an upstream transducer 104a, a driving transducer 104b, a downstream transducer 104c, a base <NUM>, a first fin 108a, a second fin 108b, a conduit <NUM> (not shown), meter electronics <NUM> (not shown), a first fin protrusion 114a, a second fin protrusion 114b, a base coupler <NUM>, a balance rib <NUM>, a first fin coupler 120a, a second fin coupler 120b, a cross axis <NUM> having a first direction <NUM> and a second direction <NUM>, a flow axis <NUM> having an upstream direction <NUM> and a downstream direction <NUM>, and a vertical axis <NUM> having an upward direction <NUM>, a downward direction <NUM>, a terminal end of the balance rib <NUM>, a middle portion of the balance rib <NUM>, a centerline of the balance rib <NUM>, and free edges <NUM>. The images in <FIG> and <FIG> may not be to scale with respect to various embodiments of the system <NUM>.

The flow system <NUM> may determine flow properties using the fin sensor <NUM>. For instance, the fin sensor <NUM> may drive elements of the fin sensor <NUM>, using a transducer to drive vibrations in elements of the fin sensor <NUM>. The transducers may be any type of driving device or pickoff device, for instance, a piezo device or a magnet and coil arrangement. Any, some, or all of the transducers may measure differences in phase or time of signals measured by transducers in order to determine flow characteristics, for instance, to determine mass flow rates. In an embodiment, the fin sensor <NUM> is a Coriolis flow sensor which uses the transducer arrangements that may rely on the Coriolis forces over elements in the fin sensor <NUM> to generate these flow rates. The phase differences or time delays may be generated by driving elements and measuring elements, for instance, by vibrating the base and measuring the response in the transducers, by vibrating fins and measuring the response at the fins, or by comparing the signal used to generate the vibration (drive signal) with a response at the fins. Flowrate measurements may be generated from phase differences and/or frequency response signals taken by transducers 104a-c. The fin sensor <NUM> may be used to generate density measurements by determining frequencies of oscillations, and using methods known in the art to determine densities from those frequencies. For instance, density measurements may be generated from frequency response signals taken by the transducers 104a-c. Viscosity measurements may be derived in the fin sensor <NUM> from transducer measured phase differences or time delays, for instance, based on two off-resonance frequency driven phase differences, perhaps derived. The flowrate, density, and viscosity measurement methods for vibratory meters are all well-established in the art. The fins may be coupled at particular locations using fin couplers. In various embodiments, the fin sensor <NUM> may be one or more of a Coriolis flow meter, a fin meter, or a fork meter (perhaps with either fins or tines).

Fin couplers 120a and 120b may be used to enhance mode splitting between in phase (hereinafter, "IP") modes and out of phase (hereinafter, "OOP") modes. In an embodiment, an OOP mode may be a mode in which the first fin 108a and the second fin 108b are vibrated with a phase difference that is or is about <NUM> degrees from the other. Further, the fin couplers may introduce more curl motion to enhance the sensitivity of the fin sensor <NUM> measurements. In embodiments, the base <NUM> may be a plate with a thin middle portion and thick outer portion along a cross axis <NUM>. The base <NUM> may also have a balance rib <NUM> to control flexure and may limit net motion of the fin sensor <NUM> in a vertical axis <NUM> relative to the conduit to which the base is coupled.

In an embodiment, the fin sensor <NUM> may have two fins, a first fin 108a and a second fin 108b. The first fin 108a and second fin 108b are fins that are at least partially immersed in a flow fluid during operation of the fin sensor <NUM>. Embodiments are contemplated in which more fins are used. For instance, embodiments having <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or more fins are contemplated. In other embodiments, tines may be used instead of fins, with the tines having some or all of the same properties and arrangements of the fins 108a and 108b disclosed in this specification. When the specification refers to fins, the specification also contemplates embodiments in which tines are used.

The fins 108a and 108b may be arranged in parallel to one another and may be arranged with their lengths parallel to or substantially parallel to the anticipated path of fluid flow in a conduit. The fins 108a and 108b may be arranged such that they have portions that extend through the base <NUM>, the fins 108a and 108b perhaps having fin protrusions 114a and 114b on the side of the base <NUM> (external side <NUM> of <FIG>) that does not have the portions of the fins 108a and 108b that are to be immersed in a flow fluid (the side with the immersed elements is the immersion side <NUM>, shown in <FIG>).

The fins 108a and 108b may have free edges <NUM>, a free edge <NUM> perhaps defined as the downward <NUM> most edge of the fins. Fin couplers (e.g. fin couplers 120a and 120b) may be used to restrict the motion of a free edge <NUM> of a first fin 108a relative to a coupled second fin 108b, perhaps by coupling part of the free edge <NUM> of the first fin 108a to part of the free edge <NUM> of the second fin 108b or perhaps by coupling other parts of the fins 108a and 108b.

The fins 108a and 108b may be coupled to one another using one or more fin couplers. The fin couplers 120a and 120b are elements that couple motion of fins 108a and 108b at particular locations on the fins 108a and 108b. For purposes of this specification, a first fin coupler 120a is shown as an upstream <NUM> fin coupler relative to a second fin coupler 120b. In various embodiments, any number of fin couplers may be used to couple adjacent fins and/or non-adjacent fins. For instance, the couplers that couple each set of coupled fins may be <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and any other number of couplers 120a and 120b. In various embodiments, a certain number of fins may be coupled and a certain number of fins may be not coupled, for instance, all of the fins, three quarters of the fins, two thirds of the fins, half of the fins, a quarter of the fins, a third of the fins, an eighth of the fins, a tenth of the fins, or the like ratio of fins may be coupled.

In an embodiment, one, a combination, or all of the fins 108a and 108b may extend or substantially extend the entire length of the base <NUM>. For instance, substantially in this context may mean that the fins do not extend to a portion of the base <NUM> that is used to couple the base to the conduit or a portion of the base just adjacent to the portion of the base <NUM> that is coupled to the conduit <NUM> and/or base coupler <NUM>.

The conduit <NUM> is a conduit through which fluid may flow. Any type of conduit known in the art may be used. The conduit <NUM> is not shown in <FIG>, but flow conduits and the manners in which flow sensors, for instance, fin sensor <NUM>, are coupled to conduits are well-known in the art of flow sensors.

The fin couplers 120a and 120b may couple the fins 108a and 108b at any number of locations between the fins. For instance, the fin couplers 120a and 120b may couple the fins 108a and 108b at locations that are substantially the same on corresponding faces of the fins 108a and 108b, perhaps with the fins arranged to have the same placement such that the fin couplers 120a and 120b are parallel or substantially parallel to the cross axis <NUM> when the fins 108a and 108b are placed in the same position in a plane defined by the flow and vertical axes <NUM> and <NUM> (for instance, if the fins have the same shape and size) or the fin couplers 120a and 120b may be coupled at different locations on each of the respective fins 108a and 108b. The fin couplers 120a and 120b may be coupled to one or more of the fins 108a and 108b at one, a combination, or all of a position in an area of at least one of the fins 108a and 108b represented by the most downward <NUM> and upstream <NUM> quadrant portion of at least one of the fins 108a and 108b (the quadrant perhaps not including the center position of the at least one of the at least one of the fins 108a and 108b), a most downward <NUM> and downstream <NUM> quadrant portion of at least one of the fins 108a and 108b (the quadrant perhaps not including the center position of at least one of at least one of the fins 108a and 108b), the most downward <NUM> and upstream <NUM> corner of at least one of the fins 108a and 108b, the most downward <NUM> and downstream <NUM> corner of at least one of the fins 108a and 108b, a central one ninth area portion of at least one of the fins 108a and 108b, an area defined by a middle one third area portion in the vertical axis <NUM> and upstream <NUM> one third portion of at least one of the fins 108a and 108b, an area defined by a middle one third portion in the vertical axis <NUM> and downstream <NUM> one third portion of at least one of the fins 108a and 108b, an area defined by an upward <NUM> one third portion in the vertical axis <NUM> and upstream <NUM> one third portion of at least one of the fins 108a and 108b, an area defined by an upward <NUM> one third portion in the vertical axis <NUM> and downstream <NUM> one third portion of at least one of the fins 108a and 108b, an area defined by a downward <NUM> one third portion in the vertical axis <NUM> and upstream <NUM> one third portion of at least one of the fins 108a and 108b, an area defined by a downward <NUM> one third portion in the vertical axis <NUM> and downstream <NUM> one third portion of at least one of the fins 108a and 108b, and/or the like.

Embodiments are contemplated in which the faces of the fins do not have planar surfaces. In this instance, the areas stated in the prior paragraph may represent projections from those relative areas of a largest fin cross section in any plane defined by the flow and vertical axes <NUM> and <NUM>, the relevant areas projected to areas of the face of a fin (e.g. an interior face of 108a) that faces the interior face of another fin (e.g. an interior face of 108b), projected along lines in the cross axis. For the purposes of the claims, these are referred to as "projected areas.

The fin couplers 120a and 120b may be of different shapes and confirmations. For instance, one or more of the fin couplers 120a and 120b may be, for instance, rod shaped or cylindrical, brace bars, beams (perhaps with cross sections with respect to a plane defined by the flow and vertical axes <NUM> and <NUM> of a square, a circle, a triangle, other polygonal shape, elliptical, and/or the like, when there is no flow), strips with flat areas (that are either flat or substantially flat with respect to the plane defined by the flow and vertical axes <NUM> and <NUM> or are flat with respect to the plane defined by the vertical and cross axes <NUM> and <NUM>, when there is no flow), helixes, and/or the like. Combinations of different shapes of fin couplers 120a and/or 120b are contemplated by this specification, for instance, the fin sensor <NUM> may have an upstream fin coupler 120a that is a rod and a downstream fin coupler 120b that is represented by one or more brace bars. These are merely exemplary, and all combinations of shapes and confirmations are contemplated by the specification.

The fin couplers 120a and 120b may be composed of any number of materials and may be of materials different from one, any combination, or all of the conduit <NUM>, the base <NUM>, the transducers 104a-c, the fins 108a and 108b, and/or portions of the fins 108a and 108b at which the fin couplers 120a and/or 120b are coupled. The fin couplers 120a and 120b may be composed of the same materials throughout the fin sensor <NUM> or may have different compositions between them.

One or more of the fin couplers 120a and 120b may be made of a flexible material, to allow for some flexure and mode flexibility in the one or more of the fin couplers 120a and 120b, perhaps enhancing flexibility of motion of one or more of the fins 108a and 108b or one or more of the fin couplers 120a and 120b in some modes over other modes. One or more of the fin couplers 120a and 120b may be made of a rigid material, to limit flexure and mode flexibility in the one or more of the fin couplers 120a and 120b, perhaps enhancing flexibility of motion of one or more of the fins 108a and 108b or one or more of the fin couplers 120a and 120b in some modes over other modes. The fin couplers 120a and 120b may be assembled with the fins 108a and 108b, the assemblies referred to in this specification as fin coupler assemblies.

The fin couplers 120a and 120b may increase curling of the fins 108a and 108b when the fins 120a and 120b are driven in an out-of-phase mode. The fin couplers 120a and 120b may increase axial stiffness which may result in the increased curling. The increased curling may allow the fin sensor <NUM> to better couple the fins to the flowing medium and induce Coriolis responses, perhaps similar to typical Coriolis mass flowmeters, fork meters or fin meters. Also, the curl generated in the fins 108a and 108b by the inclusion of fin couplers 120a and 120b in the out-of-phase mode may provide a different, potentially higher, frequency than a similarly driven fin sensor <NUM> in an in-phase mode, potentially creating mode separation. The axial stiffness provided by the fin couplers 120a and 120b may also cause the free edge <NUM> tips of the fins 108a and 108b to be stationary, substantially stationary, or at least limit the mobility of the free edges of the fins 108a and 108b relative to the mobility the fins 108a and 108b would have if the fins 108a and 108b were not coupled by fin couplers 120a and 120b, likely reducing their drag in the flowing medium and possibly inducing fewer effects on the fluid-structure interaction.

The fin couplers 120a and 120b should be understood as functional elements that function separately of the base <NUM> and the transducers 104a-c. The fin couplers 120a and 120b may be separate from the base <NUM> and the transducers 104a-c, and the fin couplers 120a and 120b may be elements that are not coupled to one or more of the transducers 104a-c and the base <NUM> (perhaps not coupled to either). In this arrangement, the fin couplers 120a and 120b may influence the motion of the fins 108a and 108b differently from the manner in which the base <NUM> and the transducers 104a-c influence the motion of the fins 108a and 108b.

For the purposes of this specification, a fin coupler assembly is an assembly in which at least one fin (108a and/or 108b) is coupled to at least one fin coupler (120a and/or 120b). Embodiments are contemplated in which more fin couplers and fins are coupled. For instance, in an embodiment, the fin coupler assembly has two fins (108a and 108b) coupled by, for instance, two (120a and 120b, as shown), three, four, five, six, or more fin couplers. In further embodiments, the fin coupler assemblies may have coupling elements that are used to couple the fins to the fin couplers. These coupling elements may be formed as components of either or both of the fins and/or the fin couplers, or the entire fin coupler assembly may be molded. Examples of coupling elements may include recesses, tabs, pins, threaded preparations, segments for use with braze, solder, or weldment, fasteners, adhesives, and/or the like.

The base <NUM> is a base of the fin sensor <NUM> to which the fins are coupled. The base <NUM> may limit the motion of the fins 108a and 108b. In an embodiment, the base <NUM> has apertures through which the fins 108a and 108b are situated, with the fins 108a and 108b having elements on the upward <NUM> and downward <NUM> sides of the base <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the base <NUM> is conformal to a conduit such that the base <NUM> acts as an element of the conduit with a side (perhaps the downward <NUM> side in the embodiment shown) of the base <NUM> exposed to the fluid that flows in the conduit <NUM> during operation.

In an embodiment the base <NUM> may be or have a plate. In an embodiment, the plate may be a plate that has a thickness (or hardness) that is less or greater than the thickness of the material defining the wall of the conduit <NUM>. In an embodiment, the plate may be thicker in certain portions of the plate and thinner in other portions. For instance, the center of the plate may be thinner than the areas where the plate is coupled to the conduit, the middle of the plate with respect to the cross axis <NUM> may be thinner than the edges of the plate that are adjacent to the conduit <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM>, the middle of the plate with respect to the cross axis <NUM> may be thicker than the edges of the plate that are adjacent to the conduit <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM>, the thickness of the plate may have a grade that continues to one of increase or decrease from at least an edge of the plate that is adjacent to the conduit in the cross axis <NUM> to the middle of the plate in the cross axis <NUM>, or the like. In an embodiment, instead of varying the thickness of the plate, the materials may be varied, allowing for softer and harder regions of the plate. Any of the relationships in the plate disclosed with respect to thickness and thinness are contemplated with respect to hardness and softness (perhaps by varying materials), respectively. Varying thickness (or softness) in the plate may allow for better net cancellation of forces in the vertical axis <NUM>.

The base coupler <NUM> is an element that couples the base <NUM> to an environment in which the fin sensor <NUM> is being used. For instance, the base coupler <NUM> may be used to couple the base <NUM> of the fin sensor <NUM> to a position at which to measure flow, for instance a conduit <NUM>. The base coupler <NUM> may couple the base <NUM> to the conduit along the periphery of the base <NUM>. The base <NUM> may be coupled to the base coupler <NUM> in any manner known in the art, for instance, by one or more of welding, brazing, adhesive bonding, or mechanical fitting. In an embodiment, the base <NUM> may be formed with the base coupler <NUM> as an integral component.

The balance rib <NUM> is an element that partially restricts the flexure of the base <NUM> in certain locations of the base <NUM>. The balance rib <NUM> may be an elongated member. The balance rib <NUM> may be composed of a material that is sufficiently stiff to restrict movement, such as vibratory and/or oscillatory movement. The balance rib <NUM> may help eliminate net motion of the fin sensor <NUM> in the vertical axis <NUM> relative to the conduit <NUM>. The balance rib <NUM> may be coupled to one or more of the base <NUM>, the conduit <NUM>, and the base coupler <NUM>. In an embodiment, the balance rib <NUM> is coupled directly to at least one of the fins 108a and 108b, but in other embodiments, the balance rib <NUM> may be not coupled to the fins 108a and 108b. In various embodiments, the balance rib <NUM> may be coupled to the base <NUM> at a number of locations along the base <NUM>, for instance, a location along the base that at least includes the center of the base <NUM>, a location along the base <NUM> that represents the part of the middle of base <NUM> on the cross axis <NUM> along part of the flow axis <NUM>, and/or the like. In an embodiment, the balance rib <NUM> may extend or substantially extend across a length of the base <NUM>, the length of the base <NUM> perhaps being the entire length of the base <NUM> or the length of the base <NUM> that is not restricted by the base coupler <NUM>. The base coupler <NUM> may be coupled to the base plate at a position that is equidistant from portions of fins that protrude through the base <NUM> along the cross axis <NUM>. By positioning the balance rib <NUM> between the fin protrusions, perhaps in equidistance from the protrusions along the cross axis <NUM>, the balance rib <NUM> may compel the fins to rotate along a rotation point at points or substantially near points at the edges of the base <NUM> or at the edges of the base <NUM> where the base <NUM> is not restricted. This may compel the fins to have no net vertical axis <NUM> motion, and therefore, no reactionary motion of the surrounding structure.

In an embodiment, the balance rib <NUM> may have a centerline <NUM> representing the center of the longest length of the balance rib <NUM> if the balance rib <NUM> is symmetrical along this length, about the centerline <NUM>. Although depicted in <FIG> as a dashed line visible on a surface, the centerline is internal of the balance rib <NUM>, perhaps at the center of mass at each cross section defined by planes of the cross and vertical axes <NUM> and <NUM>. In an embodiment, the balance rib <NUM> may be coupled to the fin sensor <NUM> such that the centerline <NUM> is parallel or substantially parallel to a flow axis <NUM>. In an embodiment, the balance rib <NUM> may have uniform thickness about the centerline <NUM>, along the flow axis <NUM>. In another embodiment, the balance rib <NUM> may have varying thickness about the centerline <NUM>, along the flow axis <NUM> and/or varying thickness along the flow axis <NUM> itself in the cross axis <NUM>. For instance, in an embodiment, a thickness of at least one terminal end of the balance rib <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM> about the center line <NUM> may be greater than a thickness of a middle portion of the balance rib <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM> about the center line <NUM>. In another embodiment, a thickness of at least one terminal end of the balance rib <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM> about the center line <NUM> may be less than a thickness of a middle portion of the balance rib <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM> about the center line <NUM>.

An embodiment is contemplated where a balanced base assembly is formed. The balanced base assembly may include, at least, a base <NUM> and a balance rib <NUM>. In various embodiments, the balanced base assembly may further include fins 108a and 108b. Further, the base <NUM> may be configured to be a varying base <NUM>, as shown in <FIG> and described in the specification, generally. In an embodiment, this balanced base assembly may be a component of the fin sensor <NUM>.

The transducers 104a-c are elements that drive and/or measure the motion of the fins 108a and 108b. While three transducers are shown in the Figures, any number of transducers may be used. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the upstream transducer 104a is a sensing transducer that measures upstream oscillations of relative motion between the first fin 108a and the second fin 108b. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the driving transducer 104b is a transducer that acts as a driver and vibrates a middle located protrusion and/or segment of a protrusion 114a or segment of protrusion114a of the first fin 108a and a middle located protrusion 114b or segment of protrusion 114b of the second fin 108b, the middle location being a middle location of the fin along the flow axis <NUM>. In other embodiments, the driving transducer 104b, acting as a driver, may drive the base <NUM> or may drive fewer or more of the fins 108a and 108b. In another embodiment, the driving transducer 104b may be situated internally of the base <NUM> and vibrate one or more of the base <NUM> and/or at least one of the fins 108a and 108b. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the downstream transducer 104c is a sensing transducer that measures downstream oscillations of relative motion between the first fin 108a and the second fin 108b. A phase difference or time delay may be measured between the upstream and downstream oscillations in order to yield a mass flow rate of a fluid flowing through and/or around the fins. In another embodiment, a command signal from the driving transducer 104b can be used instead of or in addition to the upstream or downstream measured vibrational response to determine phase difference. The transducers 104a-c may also be used to drive and take measurements that can be used with known techniques to determine density and/or viscosity. Combining these measurements can yield a volumetric flow rate. The methods for these determinations are well-known in the art.

In an embodiment, the transducers 104a-c may be coupled to the fin protrusions 114a and 114b. The fin protrusions 114a and 114b may have different segments for coupling transducers. For instance, in an embodiment each of 114a and 114b may have three segments, the segments perhaps having complementary faces that oppose one another between the fin protrusions 114a and 114b. Each of the transducers 104a-c may be coupled to one of the corresponding segments of the fin protrusions 114a and 114b (the corresponding segments perhaps facing one another in the cross axis <NUM>). In this embodiment, the three transducers 104a-c may be aligned with one another in the flow axis <NUM> (at least, when the fin sensor <NUM> is not operating). In this embodiment, the transducers 104a-c may be coupled to the fins 108a and 108b in positions situated on the side of the base <NUM> that opposes the side of the base <NUM> that has the portions of the fins 108a and 108b that are immersed.

In various embodiments, the fin couplers 120a and/or 120b may couple the fins 108a and/or 108b on an immersion side <NUM> or an external side <NUM>. For instance, in embodiments where the fin couplers couple the fins 108a and 108b on the external side by coupling the fin protrusions 114a and 114b, for instance, by coupling segments that represent the fin protrusions 114a and 114b. The fin couplers 120a and/or 120b may be coupled to the fins at positions downward <NUM> and/or upward <NUM> of the areas on the fins 108a and/or 108b where the one or more of the transducers 104a-c are coupled. In an embodiment, the fin couplers 120a and/or 120b are coupled to the fins on the external side <NUM> of the base <NUM> at a position closer to the base <NUM> than the location on the fins 108a and/or 108b at which the transducers 104a-c are coupled. In an embodiment, the fin couplers 120a and/or 120b are coupled to the fins on the external side <NUM> of the base <NUM> at a position closer to the location on the fins 108a and/or 108b at which the transducers 104a-c are coupled than to the base <NUM>. In the embodiments where the fin couplers 120a and/or 120b are coupled to the fins 108a and/or 108b on the external side <NUM> of the base <NUM>, it can be appreciated that the fin couplers 120a and/or 120b may be outside of the fluid flow and may reduce the likelihood of the fin couplers 120a and/or 120b affecting the flow profile and/or being susceptible to erosion and/or corrosion. In the embodiments where the fin couplers 120a and/or 120b are coupled to the fins 108a and/or 108b on the external side <NUM> of the base <NUM>, the fin couplers 120a and/or 120b may still induce mode splitting and/or may still induce more curl in an OOP mode.

The meter electronics <NUM> is a set of electronic logic circuits that determines flow properties from flow measurements. The meter electronics <NUM> is not shown in <FIG>, but configurations and coupling methods for the meter electronics are well-known in the art. The meter electronics <NUM> may have logic circuits representing a processing element, logic circuits representing memory, logic circuits for transmitting and receiving data, and communicative couplings to couple to sensors, drivers, computing devices, other meter electronics <NUM> and the like. The meter electronics <NUM> may execute, by a processor, commands stored in memory to transmit drive signals, receive sensor data (for instance from sensing transducers such as the upstream transducer 104a and the downstream transducer 104c), determine flow characteristics, and/or transmit raw or determined data to external computing devices or sensors, and the like. The meter electronics <NUM> can be used to determine and/or transmit data representing, for instance, mass flowrates, densities, volumetric flowrates, and/or the like. The meter electronics <NUM> can be configured to drive or transmit instructions to drive the fins 108a and 108b at different frequencies, phases, and/or in different modes using the driving transducer 104b. In an embodiment, the meter electronics <NUM> may be coupled to the base <NUM> or the fins 108a and 108b, and may be perhaps, coupled on the external side <NUM> of the base <NUM>. In another embodiment, the meter electronics <NUM> may be a device external of the fin sensor <NUM>. The meter electronics <NUM> may be an embodiment of the computer system <NUM> of <FIG>.

In an embodiment, one, any combination, or all of the electronic elements may be external of the fluid flow and/or may be external of the base. The electronic elements may include one, any combination, or all of the transducers 104a-c and/or the meter electronics <NUM>.

The flow axis <NUM> is the overall direction of the expected flow of a flow fluid in a conduit, the flow axis <NUM> being orthogonal to the cross axis <NUM> and the vertical axis <NUM>. In a straight conduit, this axis may be defined by the center of the interior of the conduit in along a line representing the fluid flow. The upstream direction <NUM> is defined as the direction upstream from which the flow fluid flows, along the flow axis <NUM>. The downstream direction <NUM> is defined as the direction downstream to which the flow fluid flows, along the flow axis <NUM>.

The vertical axis <NUM> is a line that bisects the base <NUM> and center point of the interior cross section (the cross section having the same internal radius as the overall conduit) of the conduit <NUM> if a conduit were coupled, the vertical axis <NUM> being orthogonal to the flow axis <NUM> and the cross axis <NUM>. The upward direction <NUM> is defined as a direction from the center of the conduit <NUM> to the base <NUM> along the vertical axis <NUM>. The downward direction <NUM> is defined as a direction from the base <NUM> to the center of the conduit <NUM> along the vertical axis <NUM>.

The cross axis <NUM> is an axis defined as parallel or substantially parallel (if the base is curved, it may be parallel to a line that represents an average distance of the base <NUM> from the center of the conduit <NUM>) to the base <NUM> and orthogonal to the fluid flow, the cross axis <NUM> being orthogonal to the flow axis <NUM> and vertical axis <NUM>. The first direction <NUM> and the second direction <NUM> are opposite directions along the cross axis <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, the first direction <NUM> may be a direction to the left of the conduit <NUM> if viewing a cross section of the conduit <NUM> defined by the vertical axis <NUM> and the cross axis <NUM> from a perspective facing the downstream direction <NUM>. While the directions and reference axes appear to be in reference to the fin sensor <NUM> and a flow therethrough, it should be appreciated that embodiments disclosed of specific elements of the fin sensor meter, when being described with respect to the directions and reference axes can be thought of as independent elements with the direction and reference axes simply to demonstrate relative positions, couplings, placements, and configurations of those elements in isolation from the fin sensor <NUM> and flow therethrough as a whole. For example, if the thickness of a balance rib <NUM> varies along a flow axis, the variation may only be relative to the balance rib <NUM> itself in the figures and not with respect to flow or the flow sensor <NUM>, generally. Also, it should be appreciated that embodiments of the fin sensor <NUM> and its elements disclosed are primarily concerned with these references representing the relative positions, couplings, placements, and configurations at times when the fin sensor <NUM> experiences no flow, for instance, at time of manufacturing or installation.

<FIG> show perspective views of embodiments of the fin coupler assemblies 200a-200c. The fin coupler assemblies 200a-200c may be embodiments of the fin coupler assemblies disclosed in the description of <FIG>. It should be appreciated that the images shown may not be to scale and embodiments with different relative dimensions are contemplated. For the purpose of clarity, a reference with the reference directions and axes is shown for the particular perspectives of <FIG>.

<FIG> shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a fin coupler assembly 200a with rod shaped fin couplers 220a, said embodiment not forming part of the claimed invention. The rod shaped fin couplers 220a may be embodiments of the fin couplers (120a and 120b). For the purposes of this specification, a fin coupler assembly is an assembly in which at least one fin (108a and/or 108b) is coupled to at least one fin coupler (120a and/or 120b). The rod shaped fin coupler 220a may be an embodiment of fin coupler 120a or 120b.

<FIG> shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a fin coupler assembly 200b with a strip shaped fin coupler 220b. The strip shaped fin couplers 220b may be an embodiment of fin couplers 120a and/or 120b. In alternative embodiments, the flat portion of the strip may, for instance, when there is no flow in the conduit, be parallel to a plane defined by the cross axis <NUM> and the flow axis <NUM>, be parallel to a plane defined by the vertical axis <NUM> and the cross axis <NUM>, or may have a portion that is twisted in a helical fashion. In another embodiment, the strip shaped fin coupler 220b may have at least one tapered end. For instance, the strip shaped fin coupler 220b may be tapered such that the one or more of the upstream <NUM> end and the downstream <NUM> end of the strip shaped fin coupler 220b have a smaller cross sectional area in a plane defined by the vertical and cross axes <NUM> and <NUM> than a cross sectional area in a plane defined by the vertical and cross axes <NUM> and <NUM> of a more central position along the flow axis <NUM> of the strip shaped fin coupler 220b. For instance, a cross section in a plane defined by the vertical and flow axes <NUM> and <NUM> of the strip shaped fin coupler 220b may be narrower in the vertical axis <NUM> at one or more of the upstream and downstream <NUM> and <NUM> ends of the cross section than at least one more central portion in the flow axis <NUM> of the cross section.

<FIG> shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a fin coupler assembly 200c with a brace bar shaped fin coupler 220c, said embodiment not forming part of the claimed invention. The brace bar shaped fin coupler 220c may be an embodiment of fin coupler 120a or 120b. Curves 204c of the brace bar shaped fin coupler 220c may be such that the brace bar shaped fin coupler 220c is coupled between different positions or the same positions of the corresponding faces of the fins 108a and 108b. For instance, the brace bar shaped fin coupler 220c may be one or more of coupled to a position on the first fin 108a that is upward <NUM> of the position on the corresponding face of the second fin 108b to which the same brace bar shaped fin coupler 220c may be coupled, coupled to a position on the first fin 108a that is upstream <NUM> of the position on the corresponding face of the second fin 108b to which the same brace bar shaped fin coupler 220c may be coupled, and/or the like.

In the embodiments expressed in <FIG>, it should be appreciated that any of the fin couplers 120a and/or 120b, regardless of shape or conformation, may be coupled to each of fins 108a and/or 108b in any position or manner disclosed in this specification.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a flow sensor system <NUM> with a fin sensor <NUM> having a varying base <NUM> in a balanced base assembly. The cross-section of the cross-sectional view is a cross section in a plane defined by the vertical axis <NUM> and the cross axis <NUM>. The flow sensor system <NUM> may have a fin sensor <NUM> with a varying base <NUM>, a first fin 308a, a second fin 308b, an immersion side <NUM>, and an external side <NUM>. The flow sensor system <NUM>, fin sensor <NUM>, varying base <NUM>, first fin 308a, and second fin 308b may be embodiments of the fin sensor system <NUM>, fin sensor <NUM>, base <NUM>, first fin 108a, and second fin 108b from <FIG>, respectively. The varying base <NUM> may have a first harder portion <NUM>, a second harder portion <NUM>, and a softer portion <NUM>. Reference directions and axes are shown corresponding to the view of <FIG>. It should be appreciated that the images shown may not be to scale and embodiments with different relative dimensions are contemplated.

In the embodiment shown, the softer portion <NUM> is in the middle of the varying base <NUM> (the middle of the varying base <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM>) and first and second harder portions <NUM> and <NUM> of the varying base <NUM> on the sides of the varying base <NUM> close to where the varying base <NUM> is coupled to the conduit. It can be appreciated that, in various embodiments, a transition between the softer portion <NUM> and harder portions <NUM> and <NUM> may be smooth in terms of increasing hardness from the middle of the varying base <NUM> to each of the edges on each of the first and second sides of the varying base <NUM>, or the transition may happen stepwise with increasing hardness in blocks from the middle of the varying base <NUM> to each of the edges on each of the first and second sides of the varying base. In an embodiment, the difference in softness and hardness can be facilitated by making the softer portions thinner and the harder portions thicker, perhaps by cutting out a portion of the base <NUM> or forming the base <NUM> as a varying base <NUM> with varying thickness. In another embodiment, the softness and hardness can be varied by the use of different materials or alloys along the cross axis <NUM> that are harder in the harder portions <NUM> and <NUM> and softer in the softer portion <NUM>. The balance rib <NUM> may be coupled to the varying base <NUM> in the middle of the cross axis <NUM> of the varying base <NUM>, the length of the balance rib <NUM> along or substantially along the flow axis <NUM> (not visible in this figure in a plane representing the cross and vertical axes <NUM> and <NUM>).

As depicted, with the balance rib <NUM> coupled to the varying base <NUM>, the softer portion <NUM> may represent areas around the balance rib <NUM>. It can be appreciated that, in the absence of the balance rib <NUM>, <NUM> would not necessarily represent separate softer sections, as depicted (the balance rib <NUM> may add rigidity when coupled to the sensor <NUM>). In an embodiment, the portion of the varying base <NUM> between the two fins 108a and 108b (along the cross axis <NUM>) may be softer than the portions of the varying base <NUM> between each of the fins 108a and 108b and the edges of the varying base <NUM> (in the cross axis <NUM>). In an embodiment, the softer portion <NUM> and the harder portions <NUM> and <NUM> may be formed by coupling at least one of the fins 108a and 108b closer in the cross axis <NUM> to an edge of the varying base <NUM> than to the balance rib <NUM>.

Embodiments in which the varying base <NUM> has no balance rib <NUM> and embodiments in which the fin sensor <NUM> has a balance rib <NUM> with no varying base <NUM> are contemplated. For instance, an embodiment may have a base <NUM> with uniform properties in isolation, such that the thinness and material are consistent (with any variability in the plate owing to a coupling to an environment, such as the conduit <NUM>), and may still have a balance rib <NUM>. In this embodiment, the base <NUM> may be a uniform, thin plate.

In an embodiment, the base <NUM> is a substantially flat member with a thin edge relative to the surface area of two opposing surfaces. One of the two surfaces may be characterized as an immersion side <NUM> surface, and the side that opposes the immersion side <NUM> surface may be called an external side <NUM> surface. The immersion side <NUM> represents a side of the base <NUM> on which the portions of fins 108a and 108b and/or the base <NUM> are exposed to the flow fluid to be measured. The external side <NUM> represents a side of the base <NUM> on which the fin protrusions 114a and 114b may be located and, perhaps, coupled to transducers.

In an embodiment, the fin protrusions 114a and 114b may have segments, the segments perhaps each protruding through apertures in the base <NUM> when the fin sensor <NUM> is assembled. In an embodiment, the transducers 104a-c may be coupled to the fin protrusions 114a and 114b. The fin protrusions 114a and 114b may have different segments for coupling transducers. For instance, in an embodiment each of 114a and 114b may have three segments, the segments perhaps having complementary faces that oppose one another between the fin protrusions 114a and 114b. Each of the transducers 104a-c may be coupled to one of the corresponding segments of the fin protrusions 114a and 114b (the corresponding segments perhaps facing one another in the cross axis <NUM>). In this embodiment, the three transducers 104a-c may be aligned with one another in the flow axis <NUM> (at least, when the fin sensor <NUM> is not operating). In this embodiment, the transducers 104a-c may be coupled to the fins 108a and 108b in positions situated on the external side <NUM> of the base <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a block diagram of an embodiment of a computer system <NUM>. In an embodiment, the computer system <NUM> may be a meter electronics, for instance, the meter electronics <NUM>. In various embodiments the computer system <NUM> may be comprised of application specific integrated circuits or may have a discrete processor and memory elements, the processor elements for processing commands from and storing data on the memory elements. The computer system <NUM> may be an isolated physical system, a virtual machine, and/or may be established in a cloud computing environment.

The computer system may have a processor <NUM>, a memory <NUM>, an input/output <NUM>, and a communicative coupler <NUM>. The memory <NUM> may store and/or may have integrated circuits representing, for instance, a drive module <NUM>, a signal module <NUM>, and a processing module <NUM>. In various embodiments, the computer system <NUM> may have other computer elements integrated into the stated elements or in addition to or in communication with the stated computer elements, for instance, buses, other communication protocols, and the like.

The processor <NUM> is a data processing element. The processor <NUM> may be any element used for processing such as a central processing unit, application specific integrated circuit, other integrated circuit, an analog controller, graphics processing unit, field programmable gate array, any combination of these or other common processing elements and/or the like. The processor <NUM> may have cache memory to store processing data. The processor <NUM> may benefit from the methods in this specification, as the methods may enhance the resolution of calculations and reduce error of those calculations using the inventive structures presented.

The memory <NUM> is a device for electronic storage. The memory <NUM> may be any non-transitory storage medium and may include one, some, or all of a hard drive, solid state drive, volatile memory, integrated circuits, a field programmable gate array, random access memory, read-only memory, dynamic random-access memory, erasable programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, cache memory and/or the like. The processor <NUM> may execute commands from and utilize data stored in the memory <NUM>.

The computer system <NUM> may be configured to store any data that will be used by the drive module <NUM>, signal module <NUM>, and/or processing module <NUM> and may store historical data for any amount of time representing any parameter received or used by the drive module <NUM>, signal module <NUM>, and/or processing module <NUM> in the memory <NUM>. The computer system <NUM> may also store any data that represents determinations of any intermediates in the memory <NUM>, perhaps with time stamps representing when the data was taken or determined. While the drive module <NUM>, signal module <NUM>, and processing module <NUM> are shown as three separate and discrete modules, the specification contemplates any number (even one or the three as specified) and variety of modules working in concert to accomplish the methods expressed in this specification.

The drive module <NUM> is a module that transmits a driver signal to the transducer (for instance, driving transducer 104b of <FIG>) to vibrate elements of a sensor assembly. The driver module <NUM> can be configured to transmit data representing commands to drive in a variety of different modes. For instance, the drive module <NUM> may be configured to transmit data representing commands to drive in IP modes and/or OOP modes.

The signal module <NUM> is a module that receives sensor data, for instance, data representing phase differences, time delays, and/or frequency responses. In a fin sensor <NUM>, the signal module <NUM> may receive frequency data from the upstream transducer 104a and the downstream transducer 104c. The determination of a phase difference or time delay between the frequencies represented by the frequency data of the upstream transducer 104a and the downstream transducer 104c.

The processing module <NUM> is a module that determines behavior of the fin sensor <NUM> and/or outputs data relevant to the fin sensor <NUM>. The processing module <NUM> may determine flow characteristics from the data received by the signal module <NUM>. For instance, the processing module <NUM> may use the phase difference or time delay data to calculate a flow fluid mass flow rate, using methods known in the art. In an embodiment, the processing module <NUM> may use the drive signal from the drive module <NUM> as a signal from which a time delay or phase difference is derived (when compared with another transducer signal). The processing module <NUM> may also derive a flow fluid density from frequency data received by the signal module <NUM>. The processing module <NUM> may also derive a flow fluid viscosity from frequency and/or phase data received by the signal module <NUM>.

The processing module <NUM> may further be configured to determine modes and/or frequencies at which to drive the driver, perhaps by driving a closed or open feedback loop to achieve one or more of a desired frequency or phase difference. Upon determination of a data command representing a drive mode to be driven, the processing module <NUM> may transmit this command to the drive module <NUM> to transmit commands to drive a driver circuit, for instance, driving the driving transducer 104b.

The capabilities of the drive module <NUM>, signal module <NUM>, and processing module <NUM> are contemplated with respect to, and reflect methods that are performed in, the flowcharts presented. All methods in this specification are contemplated with respect to each flowchart and flowchart description, and all methods and capabilities of the drive module <NUM>, signal module <NUM>, and processing module <NUM> are contemplated for the purposes of any method claims that follow this description, in the orders of steps presented and any other order that would make sense to a person of ordinary skill in the art in the context of this specification.

The input/output <NUM> is a device used to communicatively couple the computer system <NUM> to external elements. The input/output <NUM> is capable of connecting the computer system <NUM> to external elements, using known technologies, for instance, universal serial bus, ProLink, serial communication, serial advanced technology attachments, and/or the like. The input/output <NUM> may have a communicative coupler <NUM>. The communicative coupler <NUM> is used to couple the computer system <NUM> with components external of the computer system <NUM>, for instance, with external compute devices, sensors, transducers (for instance, transducers 104a-c), other sensor assemblies, and/or the like.

<FIG> show flowcharts of embodiments of methods for making and using embodiments of fin coupler assemblies, balanced base assemblies, and combined fin coupler and balanced base assemblies. The methods disclosed in the flowcharts are non-exhaustive and merely demonstrate potential embodiments of steps and orders. The methods must be construed in the context of the entire specification, including elements disclosed in descriptions of <FIG>, including, for instance, the base <NUM> (for instance, the varying base <NUM>), the fins 108a and 108b, the balance rib <NUM>, and the fin couplers 120a and 120b.

<FIG> shows a flowchart of an embodiment of a method <NUM> for using a fin coupler assembly of a fin sensor <NUM>. The method steps of method <NUM> are presented with embodiments that include references to elements presented in other figures and the descriptions of the other figures. All capabilities, conformations, relative couplings, and positionings of these elements disclosed in the other figures and the descriptions of the other figures are contemplated for the purposes of executing these steps.

Step <NUM> is determining, by the processing module <NUM>, data representing a first vibration to be driven by the driving transducer 104b. In an embodiment, the first drive to be driven by the driving transducer 104b may be one or more of an IP mode and an OOP mode. In an embodiment, an out of phase mode is a mode with separation between the frequency of vibration of the fins 108a and 108b by <NUM>°. The processing module <NUM> may, itself, transmit the data representing a first vibration to a driver (for instance the driving transducer 104b) or the transmitting may be conducted via the drive module <NUM>.

Step <NUM> is vibrating, by the driving transducer 104b, based on the data representing a first vibration to be driven.

Step <NUM> is at least partially restricting, by at least one fin coupler 120a and/or 120b that couples a first fin 108a to a second fin 108b, motion of the first fin 108a relative to the second fin 108b. In an embodiment, the at least partially restricting may restrict the motion of a free edge <NUM> of the first fin 108a relative to the motion of a free edge <NUM> of the second fin 108b. In an embodiment, the at least partially restricting includes restricting the motion of the first fin 108a at any site at which the at least one fin coupler 120a and/or 120b is coupled to the first fin relative to the motion of the second fin 108b. In an embodiment, the at least one fin coupler 120a and/or 120b does not directly restrict the movement of any element of the base <NUM>, the at least one fin coupler 120a and/or 120b not being coupled to or an element of the base <NUM>. In an embodiment, the at least one fin coupler 120a and/or 120b does not directly restrict the movement of any element of the transducers 104a-c, the at least one fin coupler 120a and/or 120b not being coupled to or an element of the transducers 104a-c. All coupling methods, conformations and alternative arrangements of fins 108a and 108b and fin couplers 120a and 120b are contemplated for this step.

Step <NUM> is optionally, receiving, by the signal module <NUM> or the processing module <NUM>, data representing at least one sensor signal. In an embodiment where the signal module <NUM> receives the data representing the at least one sensor signal, the signal module <NUM> may convey this information or a processed output derived from the data representing the at least one signal from the signal module to the processing module <NUM>.

Step <NUM> is optionally, determining, by the processing module <NUM> a flow fluid property, for instance, mass flowrate and/or density.

In an embodiment, each of the steps of the method shown in <FIG> is a distinct step. In another embodiment, although depicted as distinct steps in <FIG>, steps <NUM>-<NUM> may not be distinct steps. In other embodiments, the method shown in <FIG> may not have all of the above steps and/or may have other steps in addition to or instead of those listed above. The steps of the method shown in <FIG> may be performed in another order. Subsets of the steps listed above as part of the method shown in <FIG> may be used to form their own method. The steps of method <NUM> may be repeated in any combination and order any number of times, for instance, continuously looping in order to maintain surveillance.

<FIG> shows a flowchart of an embodiment of a method <NUM> for using a balanced base assembly of a fin sensor <NUM>. The method steps of method <NUM> are presented with embodiments that include references to elements presented in other figures and the descriptions of the other figures. All capabilities, conformations, relative couplings, and positionings of these elements disclosed in the other figures and the descriptions of the other figures are contemplated for the purposes of executing these steps.

Step <NUM> is driving, by a driving transducer 104b, a motion in fins 108a and 108b.

Step <NUM> is restricting, by a balance rib <NUM>, the motion of a base <NUM> in response to the driving. In an embodiment, the balance rib <NUM> may restrict the motion of the base <NUM> along a portion in or substantially in the middle of the base <NUM>, the middle defined as the middle of the cross axis <NUM>. Step <NUM> may result in motion of the fins 108a and 108b generating no net motion in the direction from the center of the conduit, through the middle of the sensor assembly, providing balance and not moving the sensor assembly relative to the support structure to which the fin sensor <NUM> is coupled. In an embodiment, this may provide no net motion of the fins 108a and/or 108b and/or the fin sensor <NUM> in the direction from the center of the conduit through the middle of the base <NUM>, perhaps defined as along the vertical axis <NUM>. It can be appreciated that, in some embodiments, fins 108a and 108b of the fin sensor <NUM> may rotate about the respective center points of the fins 108a and 108b. In an embodiment, the balance rib <NUM> at least partially restricts a motion of the base <NUM> in a vertical axis <NUM> along a middle portion of the base <NUM>, the middle portion being a portion defined by the middle of a cross axis <NUM>. In an embodiment, the balance rib <NUM> at least partially restricts the base <NUM> at a position between a position on the base <NUM> at which the first fin 108a is coupled or is to be coupled and a different position on the base <NUM> at which the second fin 108b is coupled or is to be coupled, on the cross axis <NUM>. In an embodiment, the balance rib <NUM> may at least partially restrict the motion of the base <NUM> at a position equidistant from the position of the first fin 108a and the different position of the second fin 108b on the cross axis <NUM>. In an embodiment, the balance rib <NUM> may at least partially restrict the motion of the base <NUM> at least along a linear portion of the base <NUM> that is parallel to a flow axis <NUM>. In an embodiment, the balance rib <NUM> may at least partially restrict the motion of the base <NUM> such that movement of one or more of a downstream <NUM> end of the base <NUM> and an upstream <NUM> end of the base <NUM> is restricted less than a middle of the base <NUM>, the middle of the base <NUM> being the middle of the base <NUM> in the flow axis <NUM>. Alternatively, the balance rib <NUM> may at least partially restrict the motion of the base <NUM> such that movement of one or more of a downstream <NUM> end of the base <NUM> and an upstream <NUM> end of the base <NUM> is restricted more than a middle of the base <NUM>, the middle of the base <NUM> being the middle of the base <NUM> in the flow axis <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a flowchart of an embodiment of a method <NUM> of making a fin coupler assembly of a fin sensor <NUM>. The method steps of method <NUM> are presented with embodiments that include references to elements presented in other figures and the descriptions of the other figures. All capabilities, conformations, relative couplings, and positionings of these elements disclosed in the other figures and the descriptions of the other figures are contemplated for the purposes of executing these steps. In an embodiment, the fin coupler assembly may be combined with a base <NUM> (for instance, a varying base <NUM>) and/or a balance rib <NUM> to make a combined, balanced base and fin coupler assembly. In an embodiment, the fin coupler assembly may be a component of the fin sensor <NUM>.

Step <NUM> is optionally, forming a first and second fin 108a and 108b. The manufacturing methods used to form these components may be any appropriate manufacturing techniques known in the art, for instance, molding, extrusion, and other methods, and/or any combination thereof. The fin couplers may be formed of, for instance metal or composite and may be formed, for instance, by additive (3D printing) manufacturing, machining from a solid block, machining in parts and assembling using any or any combination of fasteners, adhesives, weldments, brazings, and/or the like.

Step <NUM> is forming at least one fin coupler (e.g. the first and second fin couplers 120a and/or 120b). The manufacturing methods for making elements such as the fin coupler are well-known in the art, for instance molding, extrusion, and other methods. The fin couplers may be formed of, for instance metal, plastic or other composite. The at least one fin coupler may be formed in a variety of shapes, for instance, as rods, strips, or balance bars. In an embodiment, the at least one fin coupler may be formed with the fins 108a and 108b as a single piece, negating a need for a separate step of forming the fins 108a and 108b (as in Step <NUM>) and/or a separate step of coupling the at least one fin coupler to the fins 108a and 108b. In an embodiment, the at least one fin coupler may be formed with one or more coupling elements configured to more easily and/or more effectively couple the at least one fin coupler to the fins 108a and 108b, for instance, one or both terminal ends of the at least one fin coupler. In another embodiment, the one or more of the fins 108a and 108b may be formed with coupling elements to more easily and/or more effectively couple the at least one fin coupler to the fins 108a and 108b. In still another embodiment, both the at least one fin coupler and the fins 108a and 108b may each have corresponding or complimentary coupling elements to couple the at least one fin coupler to the fins 108a and 108b. In an embodiment, the at least one fin coupler may be two, three, four, five, six, or any other number of fin couplers. In an embodiment, one or more of at least one fin 108a and/or 108b and at least one fin coupler 120a and/or 120b may be formed with a coupling element configured to facilitate a coupling between the at least one fin 108a and/or 108b and the at least one fin coupler 120a and/or 120b.

Step <NUM> is coupling the at least one fin coupler to the first and second fin 108a and 108b. In embodiments in which one or more of the fins 108a and 108b and the at least one fin coupler have coupling elements, the at least one fin coupler and the fins 108a and 108b may be coupled at and/or by the coupling elements. Any method of coupling is considered, for instance, welding, brazing, 3D printing, soldering, adhesive bonding, plastic molding or melting, complimentary physical or mechanical connectors (e.g. screws), fitting in recesses, and/or the like. In an embodiment, a fin coupler 120a is coupled to a fin 108a at a position closer to a free edge <NUM> of the fin 108a than an edge of the fin 108a that is coupled or is to be coupled to a base <NUM>. In an embodiment, two fin couplers 120a and 120b are coupled to the fins 108a and 108b. In this embodiment, the first fin coupler 120a may be coupled at least one position that is or will be at a different point along a flow axis <NUM> of at least one position at which the second fin coupler 120b may be coupled.

Step <NUM> is optionally, configuring the meter electronics <NUM> to store and/or execute one or more of a drive module <NUM>, a signal module <NUM>, and/or a processing module <NUM>.

Step <NUM> is optionally, coupling the fins 108a and 108b to the base <NUM>. In an embodiment, the fins 108a and 108b protrude through apertures in the base <NUM> such that the fins 108a and 108b have immersed portions configured to be immersed in a fluid flow and fin protrusions 114a and 114b that protrude from the side of the base <NUM> that opposes the immersed portions.

<FIG> shows a flowchart of an embodiment of a method <NUM> of making a balanced base assembly of a fin sensor <NUM>. The method steps of method <NUM> are presented with embodiments that include references to elements presented in other figures and the descriptions of the other figures. All capabilities, conformations, relative couplings, and positionings of these elements disclosed in the other figures and the descriptions of the other figures are contemplated for the purposes of executing these steps. In an embodiment, the balanced base assembly may be made with one or more fin couplers 120a and/or 120b in order to make a combined, balanced base and fin coupler assembly. In an embodiment, the balanced base assembly may be a component of the fin sensor <NUM>.

Step <NUM> is optionally, forming transducers 104a-c, a first and second fin 108a and 108b, a meter electronics <NUM>, a balance rib <NUM>, a base coupler <NUM>, and a first and second fin coupler 120a and 120b. The manufacturing methods used to form these components are established in the art, for instance, 3D printing, molding, coupling individually formed components, and/or the like.

Step <NUM> is forming at least one base <NUM>. The base <NUM> may be a flat or substantially flat member with little thickness relative to the area of its larger surfaces. In an embodiment, the base <NUM> may be formed as thin and/or may be formed with a varying or uniform hardness. For instance, the base <NUM> may be formed as a varying base <NUM> such that the middle of the varying base <NUM> (being the middle of the cross axis <NUM>) is less hard than the edges (of the varying base <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM>). This varying may be accomplished by forming the base <NUM> by molding such that it generates a varying base <NUM> with a middle (along the cross axis <NUM>) being thinner (having less material) than the edges (of the varying base <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM>). In another embodiment, the varying may be accomplished by removing, perhaps by cutting portions of the base <NUM> to make the base <NUM> a varying base with a middle (along the cross axis <NUM>) being thinner (having less material) than the edges (of the varying base <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM>). In another embodiment, the base <NUM> may be composed of different materials along the cross axis <NUM>, making the base a varying base <NUM>, such that the middle of the varying base <NUM> (along the cross axis <NUM>) is softer than the edges (of the varying base <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM>).

Step <NUM> is forming a balance rib <NUM>. The balance rib <NUM> may be an elongated member and may be manufactured using any standard manufacturing methods, and from any materials known in the art that are sufficient to at least restrict, to some extent, the motion of the base <NUM>. In an embodiment, the balance rib <NUM> may have a centerline <NUM> representing the center of the longest length of the balance rib <NUM> if the balance rib <NUM> is symmetrical along this length in at least one axis, for instance, symmetrical in the cross axis <NUM> about the centerline <NUM>. The balance rib <NUM> may have varying thickness around the centerline <NUM> along the length of the centerline <NUM>. For instance, in an embodiment, a thickness of at least one terminal end of the balance rib <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM> about the center line <NUM> may be greater than a thickness of a middle portion of the balance rib <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM> about the center line <NUM>. In another embodiment, a thickness of at least one terminal end of the balance rib <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM> about the center line <NUM> may be less than a thickness of a middle portion of the balance rib <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM> about the center line <NUM>.

Step <NUM> is coupling the balance rib <NUM> to the base <NUM>. The balance rib <NUM> may be coupled to the base at a middle position of the base in the cross axis <NUM>, perhaps with the elongated portion along or substantially along the flow axis <NUM>. In an embodiment in which the base <NUM> has fins 108a and 108b coupled to the base <NUM> or will have fins 108a and 108b coupled to the base <NUM>, the balance rib <NUM> may be coupled to the base <NUM> between the coupled fins 108a and 108b, perhaps coupled between the fins 108a and 108b along the cross axis <NUM>, and also perhaps coupled equidistant from a position for coupling or coupled to the first fin 108a and a different position for coupling or coupled to the second fin 108b along the cross axis <NUM>. The assembly formed when the balance rib <NUM> is coupled to the base <NUM> (or varying base <NUM>) may be considered a balanced base assembly of a fin sensor <NUM>. In an embodiment, the balance rib <NUM> may be coupled to the fin sensor <NUM> such that the centerline <NUM> is parallel or substantially parallel to a flow axis <NUM>. In an embodiment, the balance rib <NUM> may have uniform thickness about the centerline <NUM>, along the flow axis <NUM>. In another embodiment, the balance rib <NUM> may have varying thickness along the flow axis <NUM>, about the centerline <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM>. For instance, in an embodiment, a thickness of at least one terminal end of the balance rib <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM> about the center line <NUM> may be greater than a thickness of a middle portion of the balance rib <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM> about the center line <NUM>. For instance, in an embodiment, a thickness of at least one terminal end of the balance rib <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM> about the center line <NUM> may be less than a thickness of a middle portion of the balance rib <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM> about the center line <NUM>.

Step <NUM> is optionally forming a fin sensor <NUM> by coupling the balanced base assembly to the fins 108a and 108b (perhaps with the balance rib <NUM> between the fins 108a and 108b on the base <NUM>), transducers 104a-c, a meter electronics <NUM>, a base coupler <NUM>, and/or a first and second fin coupler 120a and 120b. In an embodiment, the fin protrusions 114a and 114b may have segments, the segments perhaps each protruding through apertures in the base <NUM> when the fin sensor <NUM> is assembled. In an embodiment, the transducers 104a-c may be coupled to the fin protrusions 114a and 114b. The fin protrusions 114a and 114b may have different segments for coupling transducers. For instance, in an embodiment each of fin protrusions 114a and 114b may have three segments, the segments perhaps having complementary faces that oppose one another between the fin protrusions 114a and 114b. Each of the transducers 104a-c may be coupled to one of the corresponding segments of the fin protrusions 114a and 114b (the corresponding segments perhaps facing one another in the cross axis <NUM>). In this embodiment, the three transducers 104a-c may be aligned with one another in the flow axis <NUM> (at least, when the fin sensor <NUM> is not operating). In this embodiment, the transducers 104a-c may be coupled to the fins 108a and 108b in positions situated on the side of the base <NUM> that opposes the side of the base <NUM> that has the portions of the fins 108a and 108b that are immersed. The meter electronics <NUM> may be coupled to the base <NUM> or the fins 108a and 108b, and may be perhaps, coupled on the external side <NUM> of the base <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a flowchart of an embodiment of a method <NUM> of making a balanced base and fin coupler assembly of a fin sensor <NUM>. The method steps of method <NUM> are presented with embodiments that include references to elements presented in other figures and the descriptions of the other figures. All capabilities, conformations, relative couplings, and positionings of these elements disclosed in the other figures and the descriptions of the other figures are contemplated for the purposes of executing these steps. In an embodiment, the balanced base assembly may be a component of the fin sensor <NUM>.

Step <NUM> is optionally, forming transducers 104a-c, a first and second fin 108a and 108b, a meter electronics <NUM>, a base coupler <NUM>, and a first and second fin coupler 120a and 120b. The manufacturing methods used to form these components are established in the art, for instance, 3D printing, molding, coupling individually formed components, and/or the like.

Step <NUM> is coupling the balance rib <NUM> to the base <NUM>. The balance rib <NUM> may be coupled to the base at a middle position of the base in the cross axis <NUM>, perhaps with the elongated portion along or substantially along the flow axis <NUM>. In an embodiment in which the base <NUM> has fins 108a and 108b coupled to the base <NUM> or will have fins 108a and 108b coupled to the base <NUM>, the balance rib <NUM> may be coupled to the base <NUM> between the coupled fins 108a and 108b, perhaps coupled between the fins 108a and 108b along the cross axis <NUM>, and also perhaps coupled equidistant from a position for coupling or coupled to the first fin 108a and a different position for coupling or coupled to the second fin 108b along the cross axis <NUM>. The assembly formed when the balance rib <NUM> is coupled to the base <NUM> (or varying base <NUM>) may be considered a balanced base assembly of a fin sensor <NUM>. In an embodiment, the balance rib <NUM> may be coupled to the fin sensor <NUM> such that the centerline <NUM> is parallel or substantially parallel to a flow axis <NUM>. In an embodiment, the balance rib <NUM> may have uniform thickness about the centerline <NUM> along the flow axis <NUM>. In another embodiment, the balance rib <NUM> may have varying thickness along the flow axis <NUM>, about the centerline <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM>. For instance, in an embodiment, a thickness in the cross axis <NUM> of at least one terminal end of the balance rib <NUM> about the center line <NUM> may be greater than a thickness in the cross axis <NUM> of a middle portion of the balance rib <NUM> about the center line <NUM>. For instance, in an embodiment, a thickness of at least one terminal end of the balance rib <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM> about the center line <NUM> may be less than a thickness of a middle portion of the balance rib <NUM> in the cross axis <NUM> about the center line <NUM>.

Step <NUM> is forming at least one fin coupler (e.g. the first and second fin couplers 120a and/or 120b). The manufacturing methods for making elements such as the fin coupler are well-known in the art, for instance molding, extrusion, and other methods. The fin couplers may be formed of, for instance metal or composite. The at least one fin coupler may be formed in a variety of shapes, for instance, as rods, strips, or brace bars. In an embodiment, the at least one fin coupler may be formed with the fins 108a and 108b as a single piece, negating a need for a separate step of forming the fins 108a and 108b (as in Step <NUM>) and/or a separate step of coupling the at least one fin coupler to the fins 108a and 108b. In an embodiment, the at least one fin coupler may be formed with one or more coupling elements configured to more easily and/or more effectively couple the at least one fin coupler to the fins 108a and 108b, for instance, one or both terminal ends of the at least one fin coupler. In another embodiment, the one or more of the fins 108a and 108b may be formed with coupling elements to more easily and/or more effectively couple the at least one fin coupler to the fins 108a and 108b. In still another embodiment, both the at least one fin coupler and the fins 108a and 108b may each have corresponding or complementary coupling elements to couple the at least one fin coupler to the fins 108a and 108b. In an embodiment, the at least one fin coupler may be two, three, four, five, six, or any other number of fin couplers.

Step <NUM> is coupling the at least one fin coupler to the first and second fin 108a and 108b. In embodiments in which one or more of the fins 108a and 108b and the at least one fin coupler have coupling elements, the at least one fin coupler and the fins 108a and 108b may be coupled at and/or by the coupling elements. Any method of coupling is considered, for instance, welding, brazing, soldering, adhesive bonding, plastic molding or melting, complementary physical or mechanical connectors, and the like.

Step <NUM> is coupling the fins 108a and 108b to the base <NUM>. The fins 108a and 108b may be coupled to the base <NUM> in any manner, for instance, being formed together by molding, being coupled by adhesive bonding, welding or brazing, and other known methods in the art. In an embodiment, the base <NUM> has apertures through which fin protrusions 114a and 114b may protrude, and coupling established by standard coupling methods, such as, adhesive bonding, welding, and brazing.

Step <NUM> is optionally forming a fin sensor <NUM> by coupling the balanced base assembly to the fins 108a and 108b (perhaps with the balance rib <NUM> between the fins 108a and 108b on the base <NUM>), transducers 104a-c, a meter electronics <NUM>, and/or a base coupler <NUM>. In an embodiment, the fin protrusions 114a and 114b may have segments, the segments perhaps each protruding through apertures in the base <NUM> when the fin sensor <NUM> is assembled. In an embodiment, the transducers 104a-c may be coupled to the fin protrusions 114a and 114b. The fin protrusions 114a and 114b may have different segments for coupling transducers. For instance, in an embodiment each of fin protrusions 114a and 114b may have three segments, the segments perhaps having complementary faces that oppose one another between the fin protrusions 114a and 114b. Each of the transducers 104a-c may be coupled to one of the corresponding segments of the fin protrusions 114a and 114b (the corresponding segments perhaps facing one another in the cross axis <NUM>). In this embodiment, the three transducers 104a-c may be aligned with one another in the flow axis <NUM> (at least, when the fin sensor <NUM> is not operating). In this embodiment, the transducers 104a-c may be coupled to the fins 108a and 108b in positions situated on the side of the base <NUM> that opposes the side of the base <NUM> that has the portions of the fins 108a and 108b that are immersed.

The specification contemplates alternative orders of these steps, including all of those that are reasonable given the necessary order of certain steps. For instance, the steps in which the fin couplers 120a and 120b are coupled to the fins 108a and 108b and the fins 108a and 108b are coupled to the base <NUM> may be conducted in any order with respect to one another. Also, the balanced base assembly may be formed before, during, or after the fin coupler assembly is formed.

<FIG> show comparisons explaining certain effects of embodiments of Applicant's features presented in this Specification.

<FIG> shows a comparison <NUM> of embodiments of fin sensor <NUM> with and without fin couplers 120a and 120b driven in In-Phase (IP) modes and Out-Of-Phase (OOP) modes. Fin sensors 102a and 102b are embodiments of fin sensor <NUM> without and with fin couplers 120a and 120b, respectively. The comparison <NUM> has a first row <NUM>, a second row <NUM>, a first image <NUM>, a second image <NUM>, a third image <NUM>, and a fourth image <NUM>.

The first row <NUM> is a row of images representing fin sensor 102a without fin couplers 120a and 120b, the first row <NUM> having the first image <NUM> and the second image <NUM>. The first image <NUM> shows an embodiment of a fin sensor 102a without fin couplers 120a and 120b, the fin sensor 102a driven in an in-phase mode. The second image <NUM> shows an embodiment of the fin sensor 102a driven in an out-of-phase mode. It can be seen that, at point <NUM>, the out of phase mode fins show little curl, essentially remaining flat. It can be appreciated that, there is little frequency separation between the in-phase mode and the out-of-phase modes, as both are driven at the same force, with their response frequencies approaching substantially the same values. This lack of separation between the vibrational modes may result in coupling of the drive mode and natural mode and make impure the intended excitation shape such that calibration and measurement error may result.

The second row <NUM> is a row of images representing fin sensor 102b with fin couplers 120a and 120b, the second row <NUM> having the third image <NUM> and the fourth image <NUM>. The third image <NUM> shows an embodiment of the fin sensor 102b with fin couplers 120a and 120b, the fin sensor 102b driven in an in-phase mode. The second image <NUM> shows an embodiment of the fin sensor 102b, having fin couplers 120a and 120b, driven in an out-of-phase mode. It can be seen that, at point <NUM>, the out-of-phase mode shows considerable curl, generating greater amplitude, frequency, and phase resolution. This generates considerable frequency separation between the in-phase mode and the out-of-phase mode, as both are driven at the same force, with the fin sensor 102b in the out-of-phase mode generating a frequency that, in this embodiment, is <NUM>% higher than the frequency generated by the in-phase mode. This frequency separation between the in-phase and out-of-phase modes may at least limit coupling between the in-phase mode and out-of-phase mode, potentially allowing for better measurement and calibration. The increased curling may allow the fin sensor 102b to better couple the fins to the flowing medium and induce Coriolis responses, perhaps similar to typical Coriolis mass flowmeters.

<FIG> shows a comparison <NUM> of embodiments of fin sensor <NUM> with and without a balance rib <NUM> in undeformed and deformed positions. Fin sensors 102c and 102d are embodiments of fin sensor <NUM> with and without a balance rib <NUM>, respectively. The comparison <NUM> has a first row <NUM>, a second row <NUM>, a first image <NUM>, a second image <NUM>, a third image <NUM>, and a fourth image <NUM>.

The first row <NUM> is a row of images representing fin sensor 102c without the balance rib <NUM>, the first row <NUM> having the first image <NUM> and the second image <NUM>. The first image <NUM> shows an embodiment of a fin sensor 102c without the balance rib <NUM>, the fin sensor 102c in an undeformed position. The second image <NUM> shows an embodiment of the fin sensor 102c without the balance rib <NUM> in a deformed position. It can be seen that, at points 1155a and 1155b, the axes of rotation of the fins 108a and 108b are at the edges of the base <NUM>. It can be appreciated that, the resulting motion of the sensor assembly will generate net motion in the direction vertical axis <NUM>, through the sensor assembly, causing an imbalance and moving the sensor assembly relative to the support structure to which the fin sensor 102c is coupled.

The second row <NUM> is a row of images representing fin sensor 102d with the balance rib <NUM>, the second row <NUM> having the third image <NUM> and the fourth image <NUM>. The third image <NUM> shows an embodiment of the fin sensor 102d with the balance rib <NUM>, the fin sensor 102d in an undeformed position. The fourth image <NUM> shows an embodiment of the fin sensor 102d, having the balance rib <NUM>, the fin sensor 102d in a deformed position. It can be seen that, at points 1159a and 1159b, that the axes of rotation of the fins 108a and 108b are at the couplings of the fins 108a and 108b to the base <NUM>. It can be appreciated that, the resulting motion of the fins 108a and 108b will generate no net motion in a vertical axis <NUM>, through the middle of the sensor assembly, providing balance and not moving the sensor assembly relative to the support structure to which the fin sensor 102d is coupled. In an embodiment, this may provide no net motion of the fins (or tines) in the vertical direction. It can be appreciated that, in some embodiments, fins 108a and 108b of the fin sensor 102d may rotate about the respective center points of the fins 108a and 108b (at 1159a and 1159b, respectively).

<FIG> shows a comparison <NUM> of embodiments of fin sensor <NUM> with and without fin couplers 120a and 120b on the external side <NUM> of a base <NUM> driven in In-Phase (IP) modes and Out-Of-Phase (OOP) modes. Fin sensors 102e and 102f are embodiments of fin sensor <NUM> without and with fin couplers 120a and 120b, respectively. The comparison <NUM> has a first row <NUM>, a second row <NUM>, a first image <NUM>, a second image <NUM>, a third image <NUM>, and a fourth image <NUM>.

The first row <NUM> is a row of images representing fin sensors 102e without fin couplers 120a and 120b, the first row <NUM> having the first image <NUM> and the second image <NUM>. The first image <NUM> shows an embodiment of a fin sensor 102a without fin couplers 120a and 120b, the fin sensor 102a driven in an in-phase mode. The second image <NUM> shows an embodiment of the fin sensor 102a driven in an out-of-phase mode. It can be seen that, at point <NUM>, the out of phase mode fins show little curl, essentially remaining flat. It can be appreciated that, there is little frequency separation between the in-phase mode and the out-of-phase modes, as both are driven at the same force, with their response frequencies approaching substantially the same values. This lack of separation between the vibrational modes may result in coupling of the drive mode and natural mode and make impure the intended excitation shape such that calibration and measurement error may result.

The second row <NUM> is a row of images representing fin sensors 102b with fin couplers 120a and 120b, the second row <NUM> having the third image <NUM> and the fourth image <NUM>. The third image <NUM> shows an embodiment of the fin sensor 102b with fin couplers 120a and 120b, the fin sensor 102b driven in an in-phase mode. The second image <NUM> shows an embodiment of the fin sensor 102b, having fin couplers 120a and 120b, driven in an out-of-phase mode. This generates considerable frequency separation between the in-phase mode and the out-of-phase mode, as both are driven at the same force, with the fin sensor 102b in the out-of-phase mode generating a frequency that, in this embodiment, is <NUM>% higher than the frequency generated by the in-phase mode. This frequency separation between the in-phase and out-of-phase modes may at least limit coupling between the in-phase-mode and out-of-phase mode, potentially allowing for better measurement and calibration. The increased curling may allow the fin sensor 102b to better couple the fins to the flowing medium and induce Coriolis responses, perhaps similar to typical Coriolis mass flowmeters.

The detailed descriptions of the above embodiments are not exhaustive descriptions of all embodiments contemplated by the inventors to be within the scope of the present description. Indeed, persons skilled in the art will recognize that certain elements of the above-described embodiments may variously be combined or eliminated to create further embodiments, and such further embodiments fall within the scope and teachings of the present description. It will also be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that the above-described embodiments may be combined in whole or in part to create additional embodiments within the scope and teachings of the present description. When the statement "and/or" is used it should be construed that embodiments in which one or more of "and" and "or" apply are fully contemplated and disclosed for the purposes of this specification.

Claim 1:
A Coriolis flow fin sensor (<NUM>) with a first fin (108a) and a second fin (108b), the fin sensor (<NUM>) further having a driving transducer (104b), and a sensing transducer (104a) coupled to the fins (108a and 108b) with respective protrusion (114a, 114b) segments, the first fin (108a) being vibratorily coupled to the second fin (108b) by at least two fin couplers (120a,120b), characterized in that the Coriolis flow fin sensor (<NUM>) comprises a base (<NUM>) being coupled to the first and second fins (108a, 108b) and in that the at least two fin couplers (120a, 120b) are strip shaped fin couplers (220b).