Ultrasonic Velocity Profilers and Velocimeters

Background of the instruments

Founded in 1990, Signal Processing SA develops UVP, UDV and ADCP systems for scientists working in advanced labs, primarily in fluid mechanics. Our tools provide velocity profiling rather than single-point measurements, capturing data in milliseconds with spatial resolution down to about 1 mm.

Measurements are non-intrusive and can be performed in opaque liquids, unaffected by magnetic fields. Velocity can be measured in uni-, bi- and tri-directional modes with flexible acquisition, conditional triggering and automatic recording.

Principle of operation

All of our profilers operate according to pulsed ultrasonic Doppler velocimetry. Short ultrasonic bursts are transmitted into the fluid, and echoes reflected by naturally occurring or seeded particles are demodulated and digitally processed in real time.

The Doppler frequency shift extracted from the received echoes is converted into instantaneous velocity values along the ultrasonic beam. By placing multiple sampling gates along the beam axis, the instrument reconstructs complete velocity profiles with very high spatial resolution.

DOP 5000 + UDOP software included

The most advanced profiler

Up to 16 channels, divided into 4 groups
Ready for channel extensions
Easy to synchronize
Simultaneous acquisition on 4 channels per group
Excellent dynamic range and sensitivity
Compact and lightweight
UDV 2D/3D option available

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DOP 4000 + UDOP software included

A compact and lightweight profiler

Small, sturdy, compact and lightweight
Reduces the influence of stationary echoes
Easy to synchronize
Quasi-simultaneous acquisition on 4 channels
UDV 2D/3D option available

More info

FAQ

What types of fluids can be measured with a UVP or UDV?

Ultrasound travels in most liquids. Our systems are capable of measuring flow in both translucent and opaque liquids.

What is the lifespan of a UVP or UDV?

The lifespan is typically over 20 years, with technical assistance available throughout.

What are the costs associated with a UVP or UDV?

Additional costs include the purchase of transducers (approximately €1,000 each). There are no licensing fees, and software updates are free.

How does the ultrasonic velocity profiling method work?

The ultrasonic velocity profiling method measures the velocity of liquid flow within a given volume using the ultrasonic Doppler technique. By emitting ultrasonic waves into the liquid, frequency changes caused by the Doppler effect are analyzed to determine the speed of particles within the flow.

This profiling is particularly useful in complex and non-Newtonian fluids, where traditional single-point measurements may not provide a complete understanding of flow dynamics. The system can deliver real-time data, enabling effective monitoring and process control.

With a strong signal-to-noise ratio, the method can detect subtle variations in flow and can also capture reverse flow when present.

What does an ultrasonic velocity profiler do?

An ultrasonic velocity profiler is a device designed to measure liquid flow velocity non-intrusively, especially where conventional methods face limitations. It sends ultrasonic waves into the fluid and analyzes the echoes scattered by particles to estimate velocity along the beam.

Because it can measure at multiple points along the beam, it provides a full velocity profile across a region of interest. This is particularly valuable in harsh environments or opaque liquids where optical methods cannot be used.

The resulting data helps researchers and engineers visualize flow patterns, optimize industrial processes, and support experimental studies in fluid dynamics.