Modular coriolis flowmeter

Abstract

The invention relates to a modular Coriolis flowmeter (1) for determining a process variable of a flowable medium, comprising: - a measuring tube module (4) comprising: at least one measuring tube (3i) for conducting the medium; a primary exciter component (36), in particular a passive primary exciter component (36); a primary sensor component (38i), in particular a passive primary sensor component (38i); a connection body (35), wherein the connection body (35) is connected to, in particular integrally joined to, the at least one measuring tube (3i), - a carrier module (16) comprising: a receptacle (23), into which the measuring tube module (4) can be introduced; an auxiliary exciter component (13), in particular an active auxiliary exciter component (13); an auxiliary sensor component (14i), in particular an active auxiliary sensor component (14i); a fastening device (2) for removably fastening the measuring tube module (4) in the carrier module (16), in particular in the receptacle (23), wherein a connection between the measuring tube module (4) and the carrier module (16) is realized via the connection body (35), characterized in that the fastening device (2) is configured to: produce at least one plastic deformation (100) in a connection body fastening portion (X) of the connection body (35) when the measuring tube module (4) is fastened in the carrier module (16).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a modular Coriolis flow meter for determining process variables of a flowable medium. Background Technology

[0002] Devices in the field of process measurement technology equipped with vibration-type sensors, and particularly Coriolis flow meters, have been known for many years. The basic structure of such measuring devices is described, for example, in EP 1 807 681 A1, wherein the structure of a general field device in the context of this invention is fully referenced to that publication.

[0003] Typically, a Coriolis flow meter has at least one or more vibratory measuring tubes that can be set to vibrate by means of a vibration exciter. These vibrations are transmitted along the length of the tube and are altered by the type and velocity of the flowable medium located within the measuring tube. At another point within the measuring tube, a vibration sensor, or particularly two vibration sensors spaced apart from each other, can record the altered vibrations as a measurement signal or multiple measurement signals. The evaluation unit can then determine the mass flux, viscosity, and / or density of the medium from these measurement signals.

[0004] In conventional Coriolis flow meters, the measuring tube is typically connected to the housing via a dispensing device. These three components are welded together. However, Coriolis flow meters with replaceable, disposable measuring tube arrangements are known. For example, WO2011 / 099989 A1 teaches a method for producing an integrally formed measuring tube arrangement for a Coriolis flow meter with curved measuring tubes, wherein the measuring tube bodies of each measuring tube are first formed as a solid of polymer, and channels for guiding the flowable medium are subsequently machined into the solid. WO 2011 / 099989 A1 is similar to US 10,209,113 B2, which teaches a connecting body configured to receive and support a measuring tube module comprising a thin-walled plastic tube. The measuring tube module is secured in a carrier device by means of a connecting device, the carrier device being equipped with the necessary actuator and sensor.

[0005] The mechanical properties of a measurement tube module can vary greatly due to the manufacturing process, but certain parameters, such as the calibration factor and zero point of the modular measurement tube module, must be reproducible during each use. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem solved by this invention is to provide a modular Coriolis flow meter with a reproducible zero point.

[0007] This problem is solved by the modular Coriolis flow meter according to claim 1 and by the commissioning method according to claim 15.

[0008] The modular Coriolis flow meter according to the present invention for determining process variables of a flowable medium comprises: - Measurement tube module, the measurement tube module comprising: - At least one measuring tube, said at least one measuring tube being used to guide the medium; - Main actuator components, especially passive main actuator components; - Main sensor components, especially passive main sensor components; - Connect the main body, The connecting body is connected to, and in particular integrally joined to, the at least one measuring tube. - A carrier module, the carrier module comprising: - A receiving portion into which the measuring tube module can be introduced. - Auxiliary actuator components, especially active auxiliary actuator components. - Auxiliary sensor components, especially active auxiliary sensor components, - A fastening device for removably fastening the measuring tube module in the carrier module, particularly in the receiving portion. The connection between the measuring tube module and the carrier module is established by means of the connecting body. Its features The fastening device is configured to generate at least one instance of plastic deformation in the fastening portion of the connecting body of the connecting body when the measuring tube module is fastened in the carrier module.

[0009] One advantage of this modular Coriolis flowmeter is the replaceability of the measuring tube module and the reusability of the carrier module, which typically houses the measuring and evaluation electronics for operating the Coriolis flowmeter and evaluating the measurement signal, and alternatively, includes a display for outputting the measurement results. This makes the modular Coriolis flowmeter ideally suited for single-use applications in bioprocessing plants and / or pharmaceutical processing plants.

[0010] The individual modules of this modular Coriolis flowmeter can be connected to each other via form-fit and / or force-fit connections, which can be easily released by the operator of the modular Coriolis flowmeter, in particular without tools. For this purpose, a fastening device can be provided on the carrier module, which is designed to removably secure the measuring tube module in the receiving portion.

[0011] The connecting body is the interface between the one or more measuring tubes and the carrier module or receiving portion. The measuring tube module is secured by the fastening device, which applies force to the measuring tube module, and particularly to the connecting body, in the direction of the receiving portion, when the measuring tube module is in the fixed state. Suitable fastening devices include, for example, those taught in PCT / EP2021 / 083119 or DE 102020131563.5. Full reference is made to both of the mentioned patent documents.

[0012] The goal of the plastic deformation section is to ensure a stable and reproducible zero point.

[0013] Advantageous embodiments of the present invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0014] One embodiment specifies that the plastic deformation portion is formed as a recess in the connecting body and has a penetration depth between 0.01 and 0.4 mm.

[0015] One embodiment specifies that the plastic deformation portion of the at least one instance is configured such that the natural frequency of the at least one measuring tube after plastic deformation deviates from the natural frequency of the at least one measuring tube before plastic deformation by less than 0.1%, particularly less than 0.01%.

[0016] The elastic limit of steel is typically around 200 MPa. Once this mechanical stress is exceeded, the steel body will undergo irreversible deformation and plastic deformation.

[0017] One embodiment specifies that the plastic deformation section includes a bent portion, wherein the connecting body has a surface having two points that are spaced as far apart as possible from each other in the longitudinal direction of the measuring tube module, wherein the offset of the two points in the longitudinal direction of the measuring tube module is a value between 0.1 and 0.5 mm.

[0018] One embodiment specifies that the plastically deformed portion includes a curved portion having a radius of curvature between 1,225 mm and 6,125 mm.

[0019] One embodiment specifies that the plastic deformation portion of the at least one instance is in the form of an embossed portion to demonstrate the use of the measuring tube module.

[0020] One embodiment specifies that fastening the measuring tube module by means of the fastening device generates at least one first instance of plastic deformation portion and a second instance of plastic deformation portion, wherein the first instance of plastic deformation portion is arranged on the upper side of the connecting body, and wherein the second instance of plastic deformation portion is arranged on the lower side of the connecting body.

[0021] The lower side faces the main sensor and actuator components. The end of the at least one measuring tube protrudes from the upper side and is connected to a process pipeline or process connection.

[0022] One embodiment specifies that the shape of the plastic deformation portion in the first example is different from the shape of the plastic deformation portion in the second example.

[0023] One embodiment specifies that, in its arranged state, the measuring tube module rests on the support surface of the receiving portion using the connecting body, wherein the plastically deformable portion of the second instance at least partially embodies the shape of at least a portion of the support surface.

[0024] One embodiment specifies that the connecting body further includes, in another instance, a plastically deformed portion generated by a calibration method.

[0025] One embodiment specifies that the plastically deformed portion of the other embodiment is used as an imprint portion to verify calibration.

[0026] Advantageously, this allows technicians to verify whether the measurement tube module has been calibrated.

[0027] One embodiment specifies that the connecting body has a connecting body contact portion, wherein when the at least one measuring tube is mechanically vibrated in the connecting body contact portion, the maximum deflection of the connecting body contact portion relative to the at least one measuring tube is deflected by less than 1%, particularly less than 0.1%, and preferably less than 0.01%. The fastening portion of the connecting body is located in the contact portion of the connecting body.

[0028] One embodiment specifies that the vibration frequency of the mechanical vibration is less than 1,000 Hz and greater than 80 Hz, particularly less than 750 Hz and greater than 150 Hz, and preferably less than 500 Hz and greater than 200 Hz.

[0029] One embodiment specifies that the modular Coriolis flow meter according to any one of the preceding claims further comprises: - a connecting action body for removably connecting the measuring tube module to a process pipeline; wherein the connecting body and the connecting action body are formed of at least two components, wherein the connecting action body and the connecting body are designed such that mechanical contact between the connecting action body and the connecting body occurs outside the fastening portion of the connecting body, particularly only outside the fastening portion of the connecting body.

[0030] The connection body is responsible for connecting the at least one measuring tube to the process line. If more than one measuring tube is used, the connection body can therefore be a dispensing device. Alternatively, the connection body can function as a connector adapter.

[0031] The connecting body is not necessarily solid. Especially in the case of injection-molded parts, it is advantageous if the injection-molded part is at least partially hollow and has a substantially constant wall thickness. The cross-sectional area of ​​the connecting body is therefore defined by the area enclosed by the outer boundary of the connecting body. This corresponds to the projected area produced by the orthogonal projection of all cross-sectional planes passing through the connecting body.

[0032] One embodiment specifies that when the measuring tube module is fastened by the fastening device, the connecting action body is either elastically deformed or not deformed at all.

[0033] One embodiment specifies that the connecting body has at least a first contact surface that contacts a contact portion of the connecting body.

[0034] One embodiment specifies that the fastening device includes a fastening component, particularly a partially cylindrical eccentric member, wherein the fastening component, particularly the eccentric member, has at least one raised portion, the at least one raised portion being designed such that when the measuring tube module is fastened in the carrier module, the plastic deformation is caused by the at least one raised portion.

[0035] One embodiment specifies that the fastening component, particularly the eccentric component, has at least two raised portions, which are designed such that when the measuring tube module is fastened in the carrier module, the plastic deformation is caused by the at least two raised portions.

[0036] A method for commissioning a modular Coriolis flow meter according to the present invention, wherein the modular Coriolis flow meter, particularly the modular Coriolis flow meter according to the present invention, comprises: a measuring tube module having at least one measuring tube for guiding a medium, a main actuator component (particularly a passive main actuator component), a main sensor component (particularly a passive main sensor component), and a connecting body connected to, particularly integrally joined to, the at least one measuring tube; and a carrier module comprising a receiving portion (in which the measuring tube module can be introduced), an auxiliary actuator component (particularly an active auxiliary actuator component), and an auxiliary sensor component (particularly an active auxiliary actuator component); and a fastening device for removably fastening the measuring tube module in the carrier module, particularly in the receiving portion, wherein a connection is established between the measuring tube module and the carrier module by means of the connecting body, the method comprising the following steps: - Introduce the measuring tube module into the receiving portion of the carrier module; - The measuring tube module is fastened by the fastening device, so that the measuring tube module is fixedly arranged in the receiving part, and the connecting body is subjected to plastic deformation.

[0037] One embodiment specifies that the connecting body has no plastically deformed portion before the measuring tube module is inserted into the receiving portion.

[0038] One embodiment specifies that, before the measuring tube module is inserted into the receiving portion, the connecting body has a plastic deformation portion, which is generated by a previous calibration method. Attached Figure Description

[0039] The present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the following accompanying drawings. In the drawings: Figure 1a -c represents the three perspective views of the modular Coriolis flow meter; Figure 2a -c is a three-perspective view of a modular Coriolis flow meter including the fastening device; Figure 3 It is a perspective view of the connecting body; Figure 4 The image shows a CFD simulation of a measuring tube module undergoing plastic deformation within the housing of a carrier module. Figure 5a -c represents three views of the connecting body with plastic deformation sections; and Figure 6 This is a side view of the fastening component in an alternative embodiment of the fastening device. Detailed Implementation

[0040] Figure 1a -c are perspective views of a modular Coriolis flow meter 1 used to determine process variables of a flowable medium. These views show a three-stage arrangement and fastening process. The process variables are typically the mass flow rate, density, and / or viscosity of the medium. The modular Coriolis flow meter 1 includes a measuring tube module 4 and a carrier module 16. The measuring tube module 4 is designed as a replaceable, disposable component, while the carrier module 16 is designed and used as a reusable component. For this purpose, the measuring tube module 4 can be mechanically connected to the carrier module 16 in a removable manner. The measuring tube module 4 includes at least one measuring tube 3i for guiding the medium, the measuring tube having an inlet region and an outlet region. The at least one measuring tube 3i can be made of metal, plastic, and / or glass. In the illustrated embodiment, the measuring tube module 4 includes exactly two bent metal measuring tubes 3.1, 3.2, each measuring tube including a straight inlet region and a straight outlet region. In the flow direction, the bent sub-section is located between the inlet region and the outlet region. Alternatively, the measuring tube module 4 may also include only one bent measuring tube. The inlet portions of the two measuring tubes 3.1 and 3.2 are connected to each other via at least one connector; in the case shown, there are exactly three planar connectors. The same applies to the outlet portions of the two measuring tubes 3.1 and 3.2.

[0041] A passive main actuator component 36 and at least one main sensor component 38i are attached to each of the measuring tubes in the measuring tube. The main actuator component 36 may be, for example, a permanent magnet, which is attached to the lateral surface of the at least one measuring tube 3i. The at least one main sensor component 38i may also be a permanent magnet. The measuring tubes 3.1 and 3.2 shown each have exactly two main sensor components 38.1 and 38.2, which are arranged in the straight sub-sections of the measuring tubes 3.1 and 3.2, respectively, while the main actuator components 36 are arranged in the curved sub-sections of the corresponding measuring tubes 3.1 and 3.2.

[0042] The measuring tube module 4 further includes a connecting body 35 for connecting the two measuring tubes 3.1, 3.2 to a connecting action body (not shown) and a carrier module 16. The connecting action body is designed to connect, particularly removably connect, the measuring tube module 4, specifically the inlet region 9 and outlet region 12 of each measuring tube to a process pipeline (not shown). The connecting body 35 is integrally joined to the at least one measuring tube 3 and is understood to be a separate component from the connecting action body. Therefore, the connecting body 35 and the connecting action body are formed by at least two components. Alternatively, the connecting body can be connected to the at least one measuring tube 3 in a force-fit and / or form-fit manner. In the illustrated embodiment, the plate-shaped connecting body 35 is metallic, planar, and connected to the two measuring tubes. The connecting body 35 has four connecting body openings 15, 16 through which the straight inlet and outlet portions of the two measuring tubes extend. The integral connection between the connecting body and the measuring tubes at the connecting body openings 15, 16 is formed by welding. Alternative connection options are also known. Connections can also be formed by adhesive bonding, fusion bonding, threaded connections, or (ultrasonic) riveting.

[0043] The carrier module 16 includes a receiving portion 23 for removably securing the measuring tube module 4 within it. The receiving portion 23 is defined by at least four walls 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the receiving volume of the receiving portion 23 is defined by exactly four walls. The receiving portion 23 may have a recess into which the connecting body 35 can be at least partially inserted (not shown). Alternatively, the carrier module 16 may have a support surface 26 on which the connecting body rests when the measuring tube module 4 is in the installed state. According to a variant (not shown), the receiving portion 23 may be defined by exactly five walls. The measuring tube module 4 can thus be introduced into the receiving portion 23, where it can be secured using the fastening device 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting direction of the measuring tube module 4 is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the measuring tube module 4 and also parallel to the longitudinal axis of the receiving portion 23. Alternatively, the receiving portion 23 and the carrier module 16 can be designed such that the mounting direction of the measuring tube module 4 is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the measuring tube module 4 and also perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the receiving portion 23. The carrier module 16 has a carrier module body 22, which is preferably made of corrosion-resistant metal or plastic. At least one active auxiliary actuator component 13 of the supplementary main actuator component 36 and at least one active auxiliary sensor component 14i of the supplementary main sensor component 38i are arranged in the carrier module 16. If two main sensor components are provided for each measuring tube 38.1, 38.2, then two auxiliary sensor components 14.1, 14.2 are also provided for each measuring tube 3.1, 3.2. The auxiliary sensor components 14.1, 14.2 are arranged on the carrier module 16 in such a way that when the measuring tube module 4 is arranged in the receiving portion 23, the main sensor component 38i interacts with the auxiliary sensor component 14i, particularly magnetically. The auxiliary actuator component 13 is arranged on the carrier module 16 such that, when the measuring tube module 4 is arranged in the receiving portion 23, the main actuator component 36 interacts with the auxiliary actuator component 13, particularly magnetically. A coil is adapted to serve as both an auxiliary sensor component 14 and an auxiliary actuator component 13. The auxiliary sensor component 14 and the auxiliary actuator component 13 are electrically connected to and controlled by the control unit SE, or are provided with measured values ​​or measurement signals to the control unit. The active auxiliary actuator component 13 is designed to generate a time-varying magnetic field, which interacts with the magnetic field of the passive main actuator component 36, which remains substantially constant over time, by transmitting force via the main actuator component 36 to the at least one measuring tube 3i, causing it to vibrate mechanically. The vibration frequency of the mechanical vibration is less than 1,000 Hz and greater than 80 Hz, particularly less than 750 Hz and greater than 150 Hz, and preferably less than 500 Hz and greater than 200 Hz. The control unit SE is adapted and configured to process and evaluate the established measured values.For this purpose, the control unit SE has at least one processor and multiple electronic components.

[0044] The two lower views further illustrate by way of example a fastening device 2 (see also DE 10 2020 114 519A1), which is adapted and designed to produce a plastic deformation portion in the fastening portion X of the connecting body 35 in at least one instance when the measuring tube module 4 is fastened in the carrier module 16 (see...). Figure 4-6 ).

[0045] In the installed state, the measuring tube module 4 is introduced into the receiving portion 23, and the connecting body 35 rests on the mounting surface 26. The measuring tube module 4 is now ready to be secured to the carrier device 16 by means of the fastening device 2. For this purpose, the fastening device 2 has a first fixing element 40 and a second fixing element 41, each designed to be pivotable, and each having fixing surfaces 42, 43. Fixing surfaces 42, 43 are located at the first ends of fixing elements 40, 41, respectively. Fixing elements 40, 41 each have an elongated fixing element body. In the end portions including the first ends, fixing elements 40, 41 are fastened to the carrier unit body 22, thereby enabling pivoting about the axis of rotation. Fixing elements 40, 41 are designed to press the fixing body arrangement 44 against the mounting surface 26 so as to create a plastic deformation portion of the connecting body 35 at that point, thereby inhibiting any movement of the fixing body arrangement. The first fixing element 40 is connected to a pivotable connecting device 46, which includes a connecting body 47. The connection between the fixing element 40 and the pivotable connecting device 46 is located at the second end of the first fixing element 40. The connecting body 47 is at least partially cubic and cylindrical in its end portions. There, a closing device 48 is arranged on the connecting body 47. In the illustrated embodiment, the end portions of the connecting body 47 have external threads, and the closing device 48 is designed as a screw. Depending on the application and the requirements for measurement performance, the closing device 48 may also be designed as a torque screw, clamping rod, clamping rod, tension bracket, clamp, tensioning rod, clamping jaw, cover closure, and / or eccentric rod. Alternatively (not shown), the closing device 48 may be designed as a fastener, particularly a sleeve fastener, arranged on the first fixing element 40 of the two fixing elements 40, 41. Accordingly, a pivoting member is arranged on the second fixing element 41. In this case, the pivoting member is designed as a sleeve pivoting member having at least one hook, particularly a sleeve hook.

[0046] In the fixed state, the fixing surfaces 42 and 43 of the fixing elements 40 and 41 contact the supporting surfaces 44 and 45 of the connecting body 35 to transmit force to the connecting body 35. This results in plastic deformation in or on the connecting body 35 (see...). Figure 4-6 The connecting body 47 of the connecting device 46 is functionally connected to the second fixing element 41—that is, the connecting device 46, particularly the connecting body 47, connects the first fixing element 40 to the second fixing element 41. The second fixing element 41 has a guide 51 at its second end, which serves as the guide for the end portion of the connecting body 47. In the closed state, the connecting body 47 extends along the guide 51 of the second fixing element 41. The closing device 48 contacts the clamping surface 49 of the second fixing element 41. When the closing device 48, in the form of a screw, is tightened, the two fixing elements are pulled together evenly. The closing device 48 presses against the clamping surface 49. Since the two fixing elements 40, 41 are designed to pivot about the axis of rotation, tightening the fixing elements 40, 41 and correspondingly pulling them closer together generates a force acting on the connecting body 35 in the direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the measuring tube arrangement 4 along the mounting surface 26. This force ensures a uniform fastening between the measuring tube arrangement 4 and the carrier unit body 22.

[0047] Figure 2a-c Each of the following diagrams illustrates, in perspective view, the process of securing a measuring tube module 4 (the connecting body and the end of the at least one measuring tube are not shown) in a receiving portion of a carrier module 16 using an embodiment of the fastening device 2 according to the invention. The measuring tube module 4 is arranged in a receiving portion 23 of the carrier module 16. The fastening device 2 includes a shaft 103 that is at least partially eccentric, and the shaft is designed to clamp the measuring tube module 4 in the receiving portion across the connecting body 35, particularly to mechanically connect it to the carrier module 16 in a removable manner, thereby creating a plastic deformation portion on or in the connecting body 35. In the illustrated case, the shaft 103 of the fastening device 2 is designed as a camshaft including a cam 101, which is mounted on the carrier module 16. More than one cam 101 may be provided to secure the measuring tube module 4 in the receiving portion 23 in a manner suitable for the application. The shaft 103 is mounted to be movable in the longitudinal direction of the shaft 103 such that the shaft 103 does not obstruct the receiving portion when the measuring tube module 4 is introduced (see first view). A first protrusion 102 on shaft 103 prevents it from falling off, thereby enabling user-friendly installation of the measuring tube module 4. The first protrusion 102 is not provided for clamping the measuring tube module 4 in the receiving portion 23. The fastening device 2 also includes a first rotary bearing 104 and a second rotary bearing 105 for guiding shaft 103 to the desired degree of freedom. Shaft 103 can be removably and mechanically connected to the first rotary bearing 104 and the second rotary bearing 105, allowing it to rotate about its own longitudinal axis. Cam 101 has at least one fixed surface 42. When the measuring tube module 4 is in the receiving portion of carrier module 16 in the installed state, the at least one fixed surface 42 of cam 101 rests on the connecting body fastening portion (see FIG. 1) of the fixed body arrangement 35, resulting in a force-fit and / or form-fit connection between the measuring tube module 4 and the carrier module, and realizing a plastic deformation portion on or in the connecting body 35 at least in the connecting body fastening portion X. The fastening is achieved by rotating the shaft 103 about its own longitudinal axis. The connecting body 35 is designed such that the yield strength of the connecting body 35, particularly at least in the fastening portion X of the connecting body, is between 0.1 and 0.5 mm when elongated.

[0048] Furthermore, shaft 103 is designed such that it can move at least partially in the longitudinal direction in only a discrete number of orientations. In a first part, shaft 103 can partially pass through in exactly one orientation, and in a second part, shaft 103 can partially pass through in exactly two orientations. In the illustrated embodiment, this is achieved by the fact that shaft 103 includes a first protrusion 102 and a second protrusion 106 in addition to cam 101. The second protrusion 106, like the first protrusion, is not designed to form a form-fit and / or force-fit connection. The first protrusion 102 and the second protrusion 106 each extend radially from shaft 103. The first protrusion 102 and the second protrusion 106 are arranged to be offset relative to cam 101 and relative to each other in the longitudinal direction of shaft 103. The first protrusion 102 and the second protrusion 106 are arranged on the shaft 103 and spaced apart in such a way that movement of the shaft 103 in the longitudinal direction is blocked at least after the cam 101 passes through the second rotary bearing 105, and preferably only in exactly one orientation of the shaft 103. According to this embodiment, this is achieved by means of a slit. Alternatively, the shaft and the first protrusion 102 can be formed by two parts, i.e., the first protrusion 102 can be arranged as a separate part in the receiving portion of the shaft 103. While the first protrusion 102 serves to prevent the shaft 103 from dislodging from the first rotary bearing 104 during installation, the second protrusion 106 essentially serves to restrict the movement of the shaft 103 in its longitudinal direction, thereby bringing the cam 101 to the intended target position (see second view). Thus, the second protrusion 106 can also be annular, or at least not complementary to the opening of the bearing through which the shaft 103 is to be guided. The shaft 103 shown has a lever at one end for operation of the fastening device 2.

[0049] Starting from the orientation of shaft 103 in the second view, its rotation (180° in this case) results in a form-fit and / or force-fit connection with the connecting body 35 of the measuring tube module 4 (see third view). By fastening the measuring tube module 4 in the receiving portion 23, a plastic deformation portion in the form of a recess 101 and / or a bent portion or a curved portion 102 is created in the fastening portion X of the connecting body. Alternatively, an electronic device can be provided that causes movement of shaft 103 in its longitudinal direction and rotational movement of shaft 103 about its longitudinal axis, for example, by means of a linear motor and / or a rotary motor.

[0050] Figure 3An example of a connection action body 32 for removably connecting a measuring tube module 4 to a process pipeline (not shown) is shown. The connection action body 32 has two connections 33, 34, to which, for example, a piping system is attached. The connection action body has a dispensing channel extending from the connections to dispense media into the two measuring tubes accordingly. The connection action body 32 and the connection body 35 are formed of at least two components and are connected to each other via a form-fit connection, a force-fit connection, and / or an integral engagement. Mechanical contact between the connection action body 32 and the connection body 35 occurs outside the fastening portion X of the connection body, and specifically only outside the fastening portion X. If the measuring tube module 4 is arranged in a carrier module and fastened by means of a fastening device (not shown), the connection action body 32 is only elastically deformed (if deformation occurs), so that when the module is released, the connection action body 32 returns to its original shape.

[0051] Figure 4 The measuring tube module (4, without the connecting body) is shown; see also Figure 3 The simulation (based on finite element method - ANSYS 2022) shows a side view of the measuring tube module resting on the support surface 26 of the carrier module 16. Values ​​given in the historical data are in millimeters. The simulation shows a plastically deformed portion in the form of a bent or curved section of the connecting body 35. The highest degree of deformation, up to 0.67 mm, relative to the original plane of the connecting body 35 occurs at the center of the connecting body 35 itself. This is because at this point, a fastening device (not shown) applies a force to the connecting body 35 in the direction of the receiving portion. From this point, the deformation continuously decreases in the direction of the at least one measuring tube 3i until the edge of the connecting body 35. Since the connecting body 35 is integrally joined with the measuring tubes 3.1 and 3.2, these measuring tubes are also in a deformed state. Starting from the connection surface between the connecting body 35 and the measuring tubes 3i, the deformation of the measuring tubes 3i increases in the direction of the connector 6. However, the plastic deformation portion 100 of the at least one instance is configured such that the natural frequency of the at least one measuring tube 3i after plastic deformation deviates from the natural frequency of the at least one measuring tube 3i before plastic deformation by less than 0.01%. The plastic deformation portion 100 includes a bending portion 102 having a radius of curvature between 1,225 mm and 6,125 mm. Alternatively or additionally, the connecting body 35 may have a surface on the upper side Z1 having two points P and Q, which are spaced as far apart as possible from each other in the longitudinal direction of the measuring tube module 4 (see arrow). The offset between the two points P and Q in the longitudinal direction of the measuring module 4, i.e., the vertical offset in the longitudinal direction of the measuring tube module 4, may take a value between 0.1 and 0.5 mm.

[0052] Figure 5a -c shows two views of the upper Z1 of the connecting body 35 ( Figure 5a and 5b ) and a view of the lower Z2 of the connecting body 35 ( Figure 5c The circular opening 200 in the connecting body indicates the position where the measuring tube terminates. According to the invention, the fastening device (not shown) is designed to: when the measuring tube module is fastened in the carrier module, generate at least one instance of a plastic deformation portion 100 of the connecting body 35 in the fastening portion X of the connecting body, said plastic deformation portion may be formed as a recess 101 in the connecting body 35 having a penetration depth between 0.01 and 0.4 mm, or formed as a bend. Advantageously, said at least one instance of the plastic deformation portion 100 may be formed as an optically visible embossed portion to demonstrate the use of the measuring tube module. This allows a technician to clearly see whether the measuring tube module has been used.

[0053] The second and third views show the deformation portion 100, which is caused by fastening the measuring tube module with a fastening device. Since the measuring tube module is fastened to the carrier module at the customer site, this results in at least one first instance of plastic deformation portion 100a and a second instance of plastic deformation portion 100b. The first instance of plastic deformation portion 100a occurs on the upper Z1 side of the connecting body 35, while the second instance of plastic deformation portion 100b occurs on the lower Z2 side of the connecting body 35. As can be seen in this embodiment, the shape of the first instance of plastic deformation portion 100a differs from the shape of the second instance of plastic deformation portion 100b. The second plastic shape 100b is not directly generated by the fastening device, but indirectly generated by the force transmitted to the rigid and more robust support surface of the carrier module. In the arranged state, the measuring tube module rests on the support surface of the receiving portion using the connecting body 35. If the connecting body 35 deforms on almost its entire surface, the area of ​​the connecting body 35 resting on the support surface is substantially undeformed (see...). Figure 4 (This is because it presses against the rigid (metallic) carrier module body. Therefore, it is concluded that the plastic deformation portion 100b of the second instance at least partially exhibits the negative shape of at least a portion of the supporting surface 26.)

[0054] In the top and middle views, the connecting body 35 also includes another example of a plastic deformation portion 100c in the connecting body fastening portion X, which is produced, for example, by a calibration method performed in the factory. The shape, size, and / or position of the plastic deformation portion 100c of this other example is selected such that it differs from the shape, size, and / or position of the plastic deformation portion 100a of the first example. The plastic deformation portion 100c of this other example can be used as an optical imprint to verify calibration. This allows a technician to check whether calibration has been performed previously.

[0055] Figure 6 A side view of a fastening component according to an alternative embodiment of the fastening device is shown. The fastening component is a partially eccentric shaft 103 having at least one raised portion 101 designed to induce plastic deformation when the measuring tube module is fastened in the carrier module. The shown fastening component, i.e., the shaft 103, has at least two raised portions 101a and 101b, designed to induce plastic deformation when the measuring tube module is fastened in the carrier module. The two raised portions 101a and 101b are arranged on a common side of the shaft 103 and offset from each other in the longitudinal direction of the shaft 103. Each of the two raised portions 101a and 101b has a contact surface that contacts the connecting body when the measuring tube module is installed and fastened.

[0056] At one end of shaft 103, a stop 603 is provided, which is designed to limit the movement of shaft 103 in its own longitudinal direction. In addition, stop 603 prevents shaft from sliding out of the guide of carrier module.

Claims

1. A modular Coriolis flow meter (1) for determining process variables of a flowable medium, the modular Coriolis flow meter comprising: - Measuring tube module (4), the measuring tube module includes: - At least one measuring tube (3i), the at least one measuring tube being used to guide the medium; - Main actuator component (36), particularly passive main actuator component; - Main sensor components (38i), especially passive main sensor components; - Connect the main body (35). The connecting body (35) is connected to, in particular integrally joined to, the at least one measuring tube (3). - Carrier module (16), the carrier module comprising: - Receiving section (23), into which the measuring tube module (4) can be introduced. - Auxiliary actuator components, especially active auxiliary actuator components (13). - Auxiliary sensor components (14i), especially active auxiliary sensor components, - Fastening device (2), said fastening device for removably fastening the measuring tube module (4) in the carrier module (16), particularly in the receiving part (23), A connection is established between the measuring tube module (4) and the carrier module (16) by means of the connecting body (35). Its features The fastening device (2) is configured to generate at least one instance of plastic deformation (100) in the connecting body fastening portion (X) of the connecting body (35) when the measuring tube module (4) is fastened in the carrier module (16).

2. The modular Coriolis flow meter (1) according to claim 1. The plastic deformation portion (100) includes a recess (101) in the connecting body (35) having a penetration depth between 0.01 and 1 mm, particularly between 0.01 and 0.4 mm.

3. The modular Coriolis flow meter (1) according to claim 1 or 2. The plastic deformation portion (100) of the at least one instance is configured such that the natural frequency of the at least one measuring tube (3i) after plastic deformation deviates from the natural frequency of the at least one measuring tube (3i) before plastic deformation by less than 0.1%.

4. The modular Coriolis flow meter (1) according to any one of the preceding claims. The plastic deformation portion (100) includes a bent portion (102). The connecting body (35) has a surface with two points (P, Q) spaced as far apart as possible from each other in the longitudinal direction of the measuring tube module (4). The offset of the two points (P, Q) in the longitudinal direction of the measuring tube module (4) is between 0.1 and 0.5 mm.

5. The modular Coriolis flow meter (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The plastic deformation portion (100) includes a bent portion (102) having a radius of curvature between 1225 mm and 6125 mm.

6. The modular Coriolis flow meter (1) according to any one of the preceding claims. In the case of at least one instance, the plastic deformation portion (100) is in the form of an embossed portion to demonstrate the use of the measuring tube module (4).

7. The modular Coriolis flow meter (1) according to any one of the preceding claims. The measuring tube module is fastened by the fastening device (2) to provide at least one first instance of plastic deformation part (100a) and a second instance of plastic deformation part (100b). The plastic deformation portion (100a) of the first example is arranged on the upper side (Z1) of the connecting body (35). The plastic deformation part (100b) of the second example is arranged on the lower side (Z2) of the connecting body (35).

8. The modular Coriolis flow meter (1) according to claim 7. The shape of the plastic deformation portion (100a) in the first example is different from the shape of the plastic deformation portion (100b) in the second example.

9. The modular Coriolis flow meter (1) according to claim 7 or claim 8. in, In its arranged state, the measuring tube module (4) rests on the support surface (26) of the receiving part (23) using the connecting body (35). In the second example, the plastic deformation portion (100b) at least partially presents the basic shape of at least one portion of the support surface (26) in the form of a recess.

10. The modular Coriolis flow meter (1) according to any one of the preceding claims. The connecting body (35) further includes a plastically deformed portion (100c), another example of which is generated by a calibration method. In the other example, the plastic deformation portion (100c) is used as an imprint portion to verify calibration.

11. The modular Coriolis flow meter (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: - Connecting action body (32), the connecting action body (32) is used to removably connect the measuring tube module (4) to the process pipeline; The connecting body (35) and the connecting action body (32) are formed by at least two components. The connecting body (32) and the connecting body (35) are designed such that mechanical contact between the connecting body (32) and the connecting body (35) occurs outside the fastening portion (X) of the connecting body, and in particular only outside the fastening portion (X) of the connecting body.

12. The modular Coriolis flow meter (1) according to claim 11. When the measuring tube module is fastened by means of the fastening device (2), the connecting body (32) is only elastically deformed.

13. The modular Coriolis flow meter (1) according to any one of the preceding claims. The fastening device (2) mentioned therein includes fastening components, particularly a partially eccentric shaft (103). The fastening component, particularly the shaft (103), has at least one raised portion (101) designed such that the plastic deformation is caused by the at least one raised portion (101) when the measuring tube module (4) is fastened in the carrier module (16).

14. The modular Coriolis flow meter (1) according to claim 13. The fastening component, particularly the shaft (103), has at least two raised portions (101a, 101b), which are designed such that when the measuring tube module (4) is fastened in the carrier module (16), the plastic deformation is caused by the at least two raised portions (101a, 101b).

15. A method for commissioning a modular Coriolis flow meter (1), particularly a modular Coriolis flow meter (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, the modular Coriolis flow meter (1) comprising: The measurement tube module (4) has at least one measurement tube (3i) for guiding the medium, a main actuator component (36), a main sensor component (38i), and a connecting body (35), wherein the main actuator component is particularly a passive main actuator component, the main sensor component is particularly a passive main sensor component, and the connecting body is connected to, particularly integrally joined to, the at least one measurement tube (3i); and a carrier module (16) including a receiving portion (23) in which the measurement tube module can be introduced, an auxiliary actuator component (13), and an auxiliary sensor component (14i), wherein the auxiliary actuator component is particularly an active auxiliary actuator component, and the auxiliary sensor component is particularly an active auxiliary sensor component; And a fastening device (2) for removably fastening the measuring tube module (4) in the carrier module (16), particularly in the receiving portion (23), wherein a connection is established between the measuring tube module (4) and the carrier module (16) by means of the connecting body (35), the method comprising the following steps: - The measuring tube module (4) is introduced into the receiving portion (23) of the carrier module (16); and - The measuring tube module (4) is fastened by means of the fastening device (2), so that the measuring tube module (4) is arranged in the receiving part in a fixed manner, and the connecting body (35) is subjected to the plastic deformation part (100).

16. The method according to claim 15, Before the measuring tube module (4) is introduced into the receiving part, the connecting body (35) does not have a plastic deformation part (100).

17. The method according to claim 15, Before the measuring tube module (4) is inserted into the receiving part, the connecting body (35) includes a plastic deformation part (100c) which is generated by a previous calibration method.

Images