Flow measurement system model with distributed resources

Abstract

The paper describes a general flow measurement system model with distributed resources based on Distributed Component Object Model (DCOM). Complex flow-rate calculation procedures are decomposed and distributed throughout the measurement system. The paper explains to what extent a flow measurement process can be partitioned into the services that can be realized as separate objects shareable across the network. Certain measurement system components perform local measurements and/or calculations and communicate with a remote measurement system resource via intranet/internet. The measurement system comprises direct measurements of the primary measurement quantities, the calculation of the flow-rate and the calculation of the physical properties for various gases, gas mixtures, water and steam. Using DCOM the measurement system automatically activates the remote client/server components that carry out flow-rate calculations in real time. The measurement system covers different measurement procedures and a variety of primary elements. The performances of the measurement system model have been verified by realizing a measurement system with two measuring sections.