An apparatus for measuring at least one parameter associated with a fluid
flowing within a pipe includes a spatial array of pressure sensors
disposed at different axial locations x.sub.1. . . x.sub.N along the
pipe. Each of the pressure sensors provides a pressure signal P(t)
indicative of unsteady pressure within the pipe at a corresponding axial
location of the pipe. A signal processor receives the pressure signals
from each of the pressure sensors and determines the parameter of the
fluid using pressure signals from selected ones of the pressure sensors.
By selecting different pressure sensors, the signal processor can
configure the array to meet different criteria. In one embodiment, the
array of pressure sensors may be formed on a single sheet of
polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) that is wrapped around at least a portion
of an outer surface of the pipe. This arrangement allows a large number
of pressure sensors to be quickly and economically installed.