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Abstract

A vortex sensor 14 for measuring a flow rate of a fluid flowing through a flow passage. The flow rate is measured by detecting alternating pressure variations 26a and 28a generated by a shredding body 16 placed in the flow passage. The vortex sensor 14 includes a sensor housing 32 having two cavities 44 and 46 interconnected by a channel 42. An Axle 52 of a spool member 34 is slideably disposed in the channel 42 and allows each of two flange members 54 and 56, connected proximate each end of the axle 52, to shuttle back and forth with respect to the sensor housing 32. A piezoelectric sensing element 62, 64 and a biasing mechanism 58, 60 are disposed between the flange members 54 and 56 and the sensor housing 32. The alternating pressure variations are applied to each flange member 54, 56 causing the spool member 34 to shuttle back and forth. When the spool 34 moves, mechanical forces are coupled to each sensing element 62 and 64 by biasing mechanisms 58 and 60. Circuitry 78, interconnected to the sensing elements 62 and 64, detects signals generated by the sensing elements as a result of forces applied to them.

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First Claim