Robust vortex flowmeter based on a parametric frequency estimator

A novel solution for vortex-shedding sensor signal analysis based on a parameter estimation approach is presented. A specially designed estimator reduces measurement errors caused by flow-induced fluctuations of the sensor signal or caused by superimposed disturbances that are hard to eliminate using standard signal processing electronics. The estimator was derived using a specific underlying signal model. In contrast to previous spectral estimation concepts for frequency measurement, the proposed approach is of low computational complexity and includes inherent error monitoring. Its low complexity eliminates the need for special signal processing hardware and enables additional tasks to be performed simultaneously. Experimental results on the proposed algorithm are presented