Multi-function flow monitoring apparatus with multiple flow sensor

Abstract

A multi-function fluid flow monitoring apparatus capable of measuring fluid flow-related variables of fluid in a channel on the basis of signals from any one or more of a plurality of different types of flow sensors. Such different types of flow sensors may include, for example, a bubbler-type pressure sensor, a submerged pressure transducer, an ultrasonic transducer, and/or a velocity sensor forming part of an area-velocity sensor system, each of which sensors may be selectively connected to the apparatus as needed to accommodate various monitoring conditions. The apparatus is further capable of monitoring various conditions of fluid in the channel, such as pH level, ORP, temperature, solution conductivity, dissolved oxygen, and the like. In addition, the apparatus may be selectively linked with one of a variety of external devices, such as an automatic sampling apparatus, a rain gauge, or a pump, so as to selectively initiate desired actions by such external device(s) or to otherwise operably cooperate with such external device(s). The multi-function apparatus comprises an integral operating unit provided in a unitary case. The integral operating unit includes a computer control system including a microprocessor, program memory, and data memory. External connectors are provided for selective connection to one or more different flow sensors, fluid condition sensors, and/or external devices. Signals from the flow sensor(s) and/or fluid condition sensor(s) are received and processed by the computer control system, as are signals from, and/or operations by, external devices linked to the apparatus. The apparatus further includes a display screen, controlled by the computer control system, which selectively displays data in either text or graphics formats. Data including flow-related data, fluid condition data, as well as data from external devices, may be transferred from the data memory of the apparatus to an external computer, printer, or the like by use of a hand-held data transfer unit or a modem integrally provided in the apparatus.