Sensor device

Abstract

The sensor device comprises a pipe (10), a sensor connector (20), a sensor (30), a sealing element (40), a first clip insertion window (41), a second clip insertion window (42), a clip (50) and at least one cutout portion (60, 61, 62). The pipe defines a fluid channel (11). The sensor connector defines a sensor insertion hole (21). The sensor detects a physical quantity of a fluid flowing through the fluid channel and comprises a large diameter portion (33), a small diameter portion (34) and a step portion (35). The second clip insertion window is positioned opposite to the first clip insertion window relative to an axis (Ax) of the sensor insertion hole. The clip is inserted into the first clip insertion window and the second clip insertion window to fix the sensor in the sensor insertion hole by clamping both sides of the small diameter portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sensor device which is designed to detect a physical variable of a fluid. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, various sensor devices that detect physical quantities such as temperature and pressure of a fluid are known.

[0003] JP 2004-177223 A discloses a configuration including a sensor and a sensor connector having a cylindrical shape. The sensor connector protrudes from a pipe through which a fluid flows and defines a sensor insertion hole, and the sensor is attached to the sensor insertion hole. The sensor connector includes a clip insertion window that passes through the sensor connector between an outer wall and an inner wall in a radial direction and extends in a circumferential direction of the sensor connector. In this configuration, the sensor is attached to the sensor connector by inserting the sensor into the sensor insertion hole, inserting the clip into the clip insertion window, and fitting the clip into a recess recessed from an outer surface of the sensor.

[0004] In JP 2004-177223A, the sensor connector is referred to as a cylindrical portion, and the clip insertion window is referred to as a slit. Summary of the invention

[0005] The configuration in JP 2004-177223 A includes an O-ring located at a position of the sensor to be inserted into the sensor insertion hole. The O-ring is a sealing member that seals the space between the sensor outer surface and the inner wall of the sensor insertion hole to prevent fluid flowing through the pipe from leaking from the sensor connector.

[0006] In JP 2004-177223A, the end of the sensor connector defining the opening is in full contact with a portion of the sensor exposed from the sensor connector, so that it is impossible to identify whether the O-ring is correctly assembled in a state where the sensor is attached to the sensor connector. If the O-ring is assembled twisted or the O-ring is not assembled, a malfunction may occur, causing the fluid flowing through the pipe to leak from the sensor connector. As a result, the reliability of the sensor device may be reduced.

[0007] In addition, according to the configuration in JP 2004-177223A, when the clip supported by the assembly jig is inserted into the clip insertion window, the clip may be tilted toward the axial direction of the sensor insertion hole. In this case, the front end of the clip may hit the inner wall of the sensor insertion hole. If the sensor is not assembled correctly, the deviation of the sensor axis becomes large, which may cause malfunction of the sensor and further reduce the reliability of the sensor device.

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide a sensor device with improved reliability.

[0009] The sensor device is configured to detect the physical quantity of a fluid and includes a pipe, a sensor connector, a sensor, a sealing element, a first clip insertion window, a second clip insertion window, a clip, and at least one cutout portion. The pipe defines a fluid channel through which a fluid flows. The sensor connector defines a sensor insertion hole in fluid communication with the fluid channel. The sensor includes: a large diameter portion located at a deep position of the sensor insertion hole; a small diameter portion located between the opening of the sensor insertion hole and the large diameter portion; and a step portion connecting the large diameter portion and the small diameter portion. The sensor detects the physical quantity of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel. The sealing element has an annular shape and is located on a deeper side of the step portion in the sensor insertion hole. The sealing element seals the space between the inner wall of the sensor insertion hole and the sensor. The first clip insertion window is located at a portion of the sensor connector in the circumferential direction and passes through the sensor connector between the outer wall and the inner wall. The second clip insertion window is located at a portion of the sensor connector in the circumferential direction and passes through the sensor connector between the outer wall and the inner wall. The second clip insertion window is positioned opposite to the first clip insertion window relative to the axis of the sensor insertion hole. The clip is inserted into the first clip insertion window and the second clip insertion window to fix the sensor in the sensor insertion hole by clamping both sides of the small diameter portion of the sensor. At least one cutout portion is cut out from the first clip insertion window or the second clip insertion window toward the opening in the axial direction of the sensor insertion hole.

[0010] Therefore, the assembly state of the sealing element can be identified from the outside of the sensor connector through at least one cutout portion. Therefore, failures that cause the sealing element to be twisted or unassembled can be reduced. The sensor device can limit fluid leakage from the sensor connector and improve reliability.

[0011] In addition, when the clip is inserted into the clip insertion window, the clip can be observed from the outside of the sensor connector through at least one cutout portion while the clip is being assembled. Therefore, a failure of causing the end of the clip to hit the inner wall of the sensor insertion hole can be reduced, and the clip can be correctly attached. The sensor device can reduce the failure of the clip in assembly and improve reliability.

[0012] In addition, the sensor connector includes at least one cutout portion, so that the amount of resin can be reduced. Therefore, the sensor device becomes light and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

[0013] In another aspect of the present invention, a sensor device is configured to detect a physical quantity of a fluid. The sensor device includes a pipe, a sensor connector, a sensor, a sealing element, a first clip insertion window, a second clip insertion window, and a clip. The pipe defines a fluid channel through which a fluid flows. The sensor connector defines a sensor insertion hole in fluid communication with the fluid channel. The sensor includes: a large diameter portion located at a deep position of the sensor insertion hole; a small diameter portion located between the opening of the sensor insertion hole and the large diameter portion; and a step portion connecting the large diameter portion and the small diameter portion. The sensor detects the physical quantity of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel. The sealing element has an annular shape and is located on a deeper side of the step portion in the sensor jack. The sealing element seals the space between the inner wall of the sensor insertion hole and the sensor. The first clip insertion window is located at a portion of the sensor connector in the circumferential direction and passes through the sensor connector between the outer wall and the inner wall. The second clip insertion window is located at a portion of the sensor connector in the circumferential direction and passes through the sensor connector between the outer wall and the inner wall. The second clip insertion window is positioned relative to the axis of the sensor insertion hole and is opposite to the first clip insertion window. The clip is inserted into the first clip insertion window and the second clip insertion window to fix the sensor in the sensor insertion hole by clamping both sides of the small diameter portion of the sensor. The axial second width of the first clip insertion window located at the far side of the first clip insertion window is greater than the axial first width of the first clip insertion window located at the entrance side of the first clip insertion window from which the clip is inserted. The axial second width of the second clip insertion window located at the far side of the second clip insertion window is greater than the axial first width of the second clip insertion window located at the entrance side of the second clip insertion window from which the clip is inserted.

[0014] Therefore, when the clip supported by the assembly jig is inserted into the clip insertion window and tilted toward the axial direction of the sensor insertion hole, the failure of the end of the clip colliding with the inner wall of the sensor insertion hole is reduced. Therefore, the clip can be assembled accurately. The sensor device can reduce failures in the clip assembly and improve reliability. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the sensor device according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 2 is along Figure 1 Side view of the sensor device viewed from direction II.

[0017] Figure 3 is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line III-III.

[0018] Figure 4 is along Figure 3A cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV.

[0019] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the clamp and assembly fixture.

[0020] Figure 6 is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI shows a state in which the clip is inserted.

[0021] Figure 7 is along Figure 6 A cross-sectional view without a sensor taken along line VII-VII shows a state in which the clip is inserted.

[0022] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the width of the clip insertion window and the degree of deviation of the axis of the sensor.

[0023] Fig. 9 It is a plan view of a valve device equipped with the sensor device of the second embodiment.

[0024] Fig.10 It is a perspective view of a valve device equipped with a sensor device according to the second embodiment.

[0025] Fig.11 is a side view of the sensor device in the third embodiment.

[0026] Fig.12 is along Fig.11 A cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII shows a state in which the clip is inserted.

[0027] Fig.13 is a cross-sectional view of a comparative example, showing a state in which a clip is inserted. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the embodiments, the same reference numerals represent the same or equivalent parts, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0029] (First embodiment)

[0030] The first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0031] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the sensor device 1 in the first embodiment detects a physical quantity such as a fluid temperature. The sensor device 1 includes a pipe 10, a sensor connector 20, a sensor 30, an O-ring 40 as a sealing element, a first clip insertion window 41, a second clip insertion window 42, a clip 50, and a cutout portion 60.

[0032] like Figure 4As shown, the pipe 10 defines a fluid passage 11 through which cooling water as a fluid flows.

[0033] The sensor connector 20 has a cylindrical shape and protrudes from the outer surface of the pipe 10. The pipe 10 and the sensor connector 20 are formed integrally with each other. A sensor insertion hole 21 is defined in the sensor connector 20. The sensor insertion hole 21 is in fluid communication with the fluid channel 11.

[0034] The sensor 30 may be a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the cooling water. The sensor 30 is inserted into the sensor insertion hole 21. The sensor 30 includes a thermal element, such as a thermistor, at an end 31 facing the fluid channel 11. The other end of the sensor 30 facing away from the fluid channel 11 includes a connector 32. The connector 32 is exposed from the opening 22 of the sensor insertion hole 21. Figure 4 In the figure, illustration of the electric wires and the thermistor provided at the sensor 30 is omitted.

[0035] The sensor 30 includes a large diameter portion 33, a small diameter portion 34, and a step portion 35 at a position located in the sensor insertion hole 21. The large diameter portion 33 is located at a deep position toward the fluid channel 11 in the sensor insertion hole 21. The small diameter portion 34 has an outer diameter smaller than that of the large diameter portion 33, and is located between the large diameter portion 33 and the opening 22 of the sensor insertion hole 21. The step portion 35 connects the large diameter portion 33 and the small diameter portion 34. The clip 50 is fitted to the outer surface of the small diameter portion 34 of the sensor 30. In this state, the step portion 35 of the sensor 30 interferes with the clip 50, thereby restricting the sensor 30 from slipping off from the sensor insertion hole 21.

[0036] The sensor 30 includes an O-ring recess 36 in which an O-ring 40 is positioned between the step portion 35 and the end portion 31 facing the fluid passage 11. The O-ring 40 is disposed in the O-ring recess 36. Therefore, the O-ring 40 is located between the step portion 35 of the sensor 30 and the end portion 31 facing the fluid passage 11. In other words, the O-ring 40 is located deeper in the sensor insertion hole 21 than the step portion 35 of the sensor 30. The O-ring 40 is a sealing member having an annular shape and made of a material such as rubber. The O-ring 40 seals the space between the inner wall 211 of the sensor insertion hole 21 and the sensor 30 to restrict the cooling water flowing through the fluid passage 11 from leaking from the sensor insertion hole 21.

[0037] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the sensor connector 20 includes a first clip insertion window 41, a second clip insertion window 42, and a cutout portion 60. In the following description, the first clip insertion window 41 and the second clip insertion window 42 may be referred to as clip insertion windows 41, 42 as a whole.

[0038] Each of the first clip insertion window 41 and the second clip insertion window 42 passes through the sensor connector 20 between the outer wall and the inner wall 211. The first clip insertion window 41 is located at a position of the sensor connector 20 along the circumference of the sensor connector 20. The second clip insertion window 42 is located at a position along the circumference of the sensor connector 20. The first clip insertion window 41 is opposite to the second clip insertion window 42 with respect to the axis Ax of the sensor insertion hole 21. That is, the first clip insertion window 41 faces the second clip insertion window 42 through the axis Ax of the sensor insertion hole 21.

[0039] The first support column 23 and the second support column 24 are provided between the first clip insertion window 41 and the second clip insertion window 42 in the circumferential direction of the sensor connector 20. The first support column 23 faces the second support column 24 with respect to the axis Ax of the sensor insertion hole 21.

[0040] A cutout portion 60 is cut out from the first clip insertion window 41 and the second clip insertion window 42 toward the opening 22 along the axial direction Ax of the sensor insertion hole 21. In the following description, one of the cutout portions 60 cut out from the first clip insertion window 41 to the opening 22 along the axial direction Ax of the sensor insertion hole 21 is referred to as a first cutout portion 61. The other of the cutout portions 62 cut out from the second clip insertion window 42 to the opening 22 along the axial direction Ax of the sensor insertion hole 21 is referred to as a second cutout portion 62.

[0041] Since the sensor connector 20 includes the cutout portion 60, after the sensor 30 is inserted into the sensor insertion hole 21, the assembly state of the O-ring 40 can be recognized from the outside of the sensor connector 20 through the cutout portion 60. Therefore, a malfunction in which the O-ring 40 is assembled twisted or the O-ring 40 is not assembled can be reduced.

[0042] The length of the first cutout portion 61 in the circumferential direction is smaller than the length of the first clip insertion window 41 in the circumferential direction. Figure 4 As shown, the sensor device 1 includes a first clip stopper 25 and a second clip stopper 26. The first clip stopper 25 extends circumferentially from the first support column 23 in the axial direction between the opening 22 and the first clip insertion window 41. The second clip stopper 26 extends circumferentially from the second support column 24 in the axial direction between the opening 22 and the first clip insertion window 41.

[0043] The length of the second cutout portion 62 in the circumferential direction is smaller than the length of the second clip insertion window 42 in the circumferential direction. Figure 2As shown, the sensor device 1 includes a third clip stopper 27 and a fourth clip stopper 28. The third clip stopper 27 extends circumferentially from the first support column 23 in the axial direction between the opening 22 and the second clip insertion window 42. The fourth clip stopper 28 extends circumferentially from the second support column 24 between the opening 22 and the second clip insertion window 42.

[0044] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the clip 50 is inserted into the first clip insertion window 41 and the second clip insertion window 42, and clamps both sides of the small diameter portion 34 of the sensor 30, thereby fixing the sensor 30 in the sensor insertion hole 21. The clip 50 is made of metal having a predetermined elasticity. The clip 50 includes a first arm 51, a second arm 52, and a connecting portion 53. The first arm 51 is inserted into the first clip insertion window 41, and a portion of the first arm 51 contacts the small diameter portion 34 of the sensor 30. The second arm 52 is inserted into the second clip insertion window 42, and a portion of the second arm 52 contacts the small diameter portion 34 of the sensor 30. The connecting portion 53 connects the first arm 51 and the second arm 52 on the outside of the sensor 20 (specifically, on the outside of the first support column 23). The connecting portion 53 extends straight.

[0045] A portion of the first arm 51 between the portion in contact with the small diameter portion 34 of the sensor 30 and the end connected to the connection portion 53 can be in contact with the first clip stopper 25. A portion of the first arm 51 between the front end (i.e., the end opposite to the connection portion 53) and the portion in contact with the small diameter portion 34 of the sensor 30 can be in contact with the second clip stopper 26. A portion of the second arm 52 between the portion in contact with the small diameter portion 34 of the sensor 30 and the end connected to the connection portion 53 can be in contact with the third clip stopper 27. A portion of the second arm 52 between the portion in contact with the small diameter portion 34 of the sensor 30 and the front end (i.e., the end opposite to the connection portion 53) can be in contact with the fourth clip stopper 28. Therefore, the clip 50 restricts the sensor 30 from slipping off the sensor insertion hole 21 and can fix the sensor 30 in the sensor insertion hole 21.

[0046] like Figure 5 As shown, the clip 50 is inserted into the clip insertion windows 41 and 42 of the sensor connector 20 in a state supported by the assembly jig 70. A small gap is defined between the connecting portion 53 of the clip 50 and the assembly jig 70 to attach and detach the clip 50 to and from the assembly jig 70. Therefore, the clip 50 can be slightly inclined toward the axial direction Ax of the sensor insertion hole 21 while being supported by the assembly jig 70.

[0047] Fig.13The state of the sensor device 101 of the first comparative example in which the clip 50 is inserted is shown. The first width a is defined by the axial width of the entrance side (from which the clip 50 is inserted) of each of the first clip insertion windows 41 and 42. The second width b is defined by the axial width of the distal side of each of the first clip insertion windows 41 and 42. In the comparative example, the first width a and the second width b in the clip insertion windows 41 and 42 are the same.

[0048] exist Fig.13 In the embodiment, the clip 50 is supported by the assembly jig 70, and the front end of the clip 50 is inclined in an inclined direction toward the opening 22. The front end of the clip 50 hits the inner wall 211 of the sensor insertion hole 21. Fig.13 , arrow H indicates the position where the front end of the clip 50 hits the inner wall 211 of the sensor insertion hole 21. When the front end of the clip 50 hits the inner wall 211 during the insertion of the clip 50, the clip 50 may not be properly assembled. In this case, the deviation of the axis of the sensor 30 may be large, which may further cause a malfunction of the sensor 30 or reduce the reliability of the sensor device 101.

[0049] On the contrary, Figure 7 As shown, the sensor device 1 of the first embodiment makes the second width b larger than the first width a. That is, the second width b of the first clip insertion window 41 defined by the second clip stopper 26 is larger than the first width a of the first clip insertion window 41 defined by the first clip stopper 25. Similarly, the second width b of the second clip insertion window 42 defined by the fourth clip stopper 28 is larger than the first width a of the second clip insertion window 42 defined by the third clip stopper 27. Therefore, when the clip 50 supported by the assembly jig 70 is inserted into the clip insertion windows 41, 42 and slightly tilted toward the axial direction Ax, a malfunction in which the front end of the clip 50 hits the inner wall 211 of the sensor insertion hole 21 can be reduced. Therefore, the clip 50 can be accurately assembled. As a result, the sensor device 1 can reduce malfunctions when assembling the clip 50 and improve reliability.

[0050] Regarding the clip insertion windows 41 and 42, the second width b on the distal side is equal to or greater than 1.1 times the first width a on the inlet side through which the clip 50 is inserted. The second width b is equal to or less than 1.5 times the first width a. That is, when the ratio of the second width b on the distal side to the first width a on the inlet side is described as b / a, the ratio satisfies the relationship of "1.1≤b / a≤1.5".

[0051] When the second width b on the distal side is equal to or greater than 1.1 times the first width a on the inlet side, a malfunction that causes the front end of the clip 50 to hit the inner wall 211 of the sensor insertion hole 21 can be reduced during the insertion of the clip 50. When the second width b on the distal side is equal to or less than 1.5 times the first width a on the inlet side, the degree of deviation of the axis of the sensor 30 can be limited and will not be too large.

[0052] In the first embodiment, the second width b on the far side becomes wider toward the opening 22 of the sensor insertion hole 21 relative to the first width a on the entrance side. That is, the second clip stopper 26 and the fourth clip stopper 28 have smaller widths in the axial direction than the first clip stopper 25 and the third clip stopper 27, respectively. In this case, even when the clip 50 is supported by the assembly jig 70 and the front end of the clip 50 is slightly inclined upward in the inclined direction (that is, toward the opening 22), the clip 50 can be inserted into the clip insertion windows 41 and 42.

[0053] The reason why the second width b on the far side is formed larger than the first width a on the entrance side without widening both the first width a and the second width b at which the clip 50 is inserted will be described below.

[0054] Figure 8 (A) is a schematic diagram of the clip insertion windows 41 and 42 of the sensor device 102 of the second comparative example. In the second comparative example, with respect to the width of the clip insertion windows 41 and 42 in the axial direction Ax of the sensor insertion hole 21, the first width a on the entrance side where the clip 50 is inserted is formed to be larger, as is the second width b on the distal side. In the second comparative example, when the sensor 30 is fixed by the clip 50, the degree of deviation of the axis of the sensor 30 can be larger, as indicated by the arrow Δ1.

[0055] In contrast, Figure 8 (B) is a schematic diagram of the clip insertion windows 41 and 42 of the sensor device 1 in the first embodiment. As described above, in the first embodiment, the second width b on the far side is greater than the first width a on the entrance side where the clip 50 is inserted. In this case, the degree of deviation of the axis of the sensor 30 is defined by the first width a on the entrance side. Therefore, according to the sensor device 1 of the first embodiment, as indicated by the arrow Δ2, the degree of deviation of the axis of the sensor 30 is less than that of the sensor device 102 of the second comparative example. Therefore, the sensor device 1 in the first embodiment can reduce the malfunction of the sensor 30 and improve the reliability.

[0056] The sensor device 1 in the above-described first embodiment has the following advantages.

[0057] (1) In the first embodiment, the sensor connector 20 includes the first cutout portion 61 and the second cutout portion 62. Therefore, the assembly state of the O-ring 40 can be recognized from the outside of the sensor connector 20 through the first cutout portion 61 and the second cutout portion 62. As a result, it is possible to reduce a malfunction such that the O-ring 40 is assembled in a twisted manner or is not assembled. Therefore, the sensor device 1 can restrict leakage of the fluid from the sensor connector 20 and improve reliability.

[0058] In the first embodiment, when the clip 50 is inserted into the clip insertion windows 41 and 42 for assembly, the clip 50 can be recognized from the outside of the sensor connector 20 by the first cutout portion 61 and the second cutout portion 62. As a result, a failure in which the front end of the clip 50 hits the inner wall 211 of the sensor insertion hole 21 can be reduced, and the clip 50 can be correctly attached. Therefore, the sensor device 1 can reduce the failure of the clip 50 in assembly and improve reliability.

[0059] In the first embodiment, the sensor connector 20 includes the cutout portion 60, thereby reducing the amount of resin. As a result, the sensor device 1 can save weight and manufacturing cost.

[0060] (2) In the first embodiment, regarding the widths of the first and second clip insertion windows 41 and 42 in the axial direction Ax of the sensor insertion hole 21 , the second width b on the distal side is larger than the first width a on the entrance side where the clip 50 is inserted.

[0061] Therefore, when the clip 50 is supported by the assembly jig 70 and inserted into the clip insertion windows 41 and 42 with a slight inclination toward the axial direction Ax of the sensor insertion hole 21, a malfunction in which the front end of the clip 50 hits the inner wall 211 of the sensor insertion hole 21 can be reduced. As a result, the clip 50 can be correctly attached. Therefore, the sensor device 1 can reduce malfunctions of the clip 50 in assembly and improve reliability.

[0062] In the first embodiment, the first width a on the inlet side where the clip 50 is inserted and the second width b on the distal side are not both widened. Only the second width b on the distal side is widened. Therefore, the displacement amount of the sensor 30 in the axial direction Ax after being fixed with the clip 50 can be reduced. Therefore, the sensor device 1 reduces malfunctions and improves reliability.

[0063] (3) In the first embodiment, the connection portion 53 of the clip 50 extends straight. Therefore, when the connection portion 53 of the clip 50 is supported by the assembly jig 70 and the clip 50 is inserted into the clip insertion windows 41 and 42, the clip 50 is restricted from tilting toward the first arm 51 or the second arm 52 relative to the assembly jig 70. Therefore, the clip 50 can be correctly attached. As a result, the sensor device 1 can reduce the failure of the clip 50 in assembly and improve reliability.

[0064] (Second embodiment)

[0065] A second embodiment will be described. In the description of the second embodiment, the sensor device 1 is provided at the valve device.

[0066] like Fig. 9 and Fig.10 As shown, the valve device includes a housing 12, a pipe 10, a sensor connector 20, a sensor 30, a first clip insertion window 41, a second clip insertion window 42, a clip 50, a cutout portion 60, and the like. Fig. 9 and 10 A portion of a valve arrangement is shown.

[0067] The housing 12 accommodates a valve body and a driving mechanism (not shown). The housing 12 and the pipe 10 are formed integrally with each other. The pipe 10 and the sensor connector 20 are provided outside the housing 12. The sensor connector 20 defines a sensor insertion hole 21, and the sensor 30 is inserted into the sensor insertion hole 21.

[0068] In the second embodiment, the sensor connector 20 includes one cutout portion 60. The one cutout portion 60 of the sensor connector 20 faces the housing 12, and the sensor connector 20 does not include a cutout portion facing away from the housing 12. However, it is possible to ensure a distance L between the outer end of the housing 12 facing away from the sensor connector 20 and the cutout portion 60. Therefore, it is restricted that an external force is applied to the sensor 30 from the side of the housing 12 facing away from the sensor connector 20 through the cutout portion 60.

[0069] In the second embodiment, the housing 12 includes a protrusion 13 provided adjacent to the sensor connector 20 at the center of the housing 12. The protrusion 13 may be a cover member that accommodates a drive mechanism such as a motor and a gear. The sensor connector 20 is provided so that one cutout portion 60 faces the protrusion 13, thereby limiting the external force applied to the sensor 30 from the side of the sensor 30 facing the protrusion 13 through the one cutout portion 60.

[0070] The second embodiment has similar advantages to those of the first embodiment.

[0071] (Third Embodiment)

[0072] The third embodiment will be described. The third embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the sensor connector 20 does not include the cutout portion 60, and the other structures are similar to the first embodiment. Therefore, the parts different from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

[0073] like Fig.11 and 12 As shown, according to the sensor device 1 in the third embodiment, the sensor connector 20 does not include the cutout portion 60. Fig.12 As shown, the width W between the ends of the clip 50 is smaller than the inner diameter D of the sensor insertion hole 21. When the clip 50 is inserted into the clip insertion windows 41 and 42 of the sensor connector 20, the ends of the clip 50 may hit the inner wall 211 of the sensor insertion hole 21. In the sensor device 1 of the third embodiment, the second width b along the axial direction Ax of the sensor insertion hole 21 at the far side of the clip insertion windows 41 and 42 is greater than the first width a along the axial direction Ax at the entrance side of the clip insertion windows 41 and 42. Therefore, even when the clip 50 supported by the assembly jig 70 is inserted and slightly tilted toward the axis Ax of the sensor insertion hole 21, it is possible to reduce the failure of the end of the clip 50 to hit the inner wall 211 of the sensor insertion hole 21. As a result, the clip 50 can be correctly attached. Therefore, the sensor device 1 in the third embodiment can reduce the failure of the clip 50 at the time of assembly and improve reliability as in the first embodiment.

[0074] (Other embodiments)

[0075] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and can be appropriately modified within the scope of the claims. The above-described embodiments are linked to each other and can be combined with each other unless the combination is impossible. In the above embodiments, the elements of the embodiments are not always necessary unless the elements are described as necessary or necessary in principle. In addition, in the case of numerical values ​​such as the number, value, amount, range of elements, these elements are not limited to these numerical values, unless these elements are described as being limited to these numerical values ​​or are obviously limited to the numerical values ​​in principle. In the case of shapes and positional relationships mentioned in the above-described embodiments, these elements are not limited to the above-described shapes and positional relationships, unless the embodiments are described as being limited to specified shapes and positional relationships or are limited to specified shapes and positional relationships in principle.

[0076] (1) In the above embodiment, the fluid flowing through the pipe 10 is cooling water, but the fluid is not limited thereto. The fluid flowing through the pipe 20 may be various refrigerants or gases.

[0077] (2) In the above embodiment, the sensor 30 detects the temperature as a physical quantity of the fluid, but the sensor 30 is not limited thereto. The sensor 30 may detect the pressure or the flow rate as a physical quantity of the fluid.

[0078] (3) In the above embodiment, the O-ring 40 having a substantially circular cross section is described as an annular sealing element, but the sealing element is not limited thereto. The cross section of the sealing element may be substantially square, V-shaped, or X-shaped.

[0079] (4) In the above embodiment, the clip 50 is described as being made of metal and having a circular cross section, but the clip 50 is not limited thereto. The cross section of the clip 50 may be square, and the material of the clip 50 may be resin.

[0080] (5) In the above-described embodiment, regarding the width of the clip insertion windows 41 and 42 in the axial direction Ax of the sensor insertion hole 21, the second width b on the far side widens toward the opening 22 of the sensor insertion hole 21 compared to the first width a on the entrance side. However, the widths of the clip insertion windows 41 and 42 are not limited thereto. Compared to the first width a on the entrance side, the second width b on the far side may widen away from the opening 22 toward a deeper position of the sensor insertion hole 21. In this case, the clip 50 may be inserted into the clip insertion windows 41, 42 while being supported by the assembly jig 70, and the front end of the clip 50 is slightly inclined downward in the inclined direction (i.e., toward the deep position).

Claims

1. A sensor device configured to detect a physical quantity of a fluid, the sensor device comprising: a conduit (10) defining a fluid passage (11) through which the fluid flows; a sensor connector (20) defining a sensor insertion hole (21) in fluid communication with the fluid channel; A sensor (30) configured to detect the physical quantity of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel, the sensor comprising: a large diameter portion (33) positioned at a deep position of the sensor insertion hole; a small diameter portion (34) positioned between the large diameter portion and the opening (22) of the sensor insertion hole; and a stepped portion (35) connecting the large diameter portion and the small diameter portion; a sealing element (40) positioned on a deeper side of the step portion of the sensor in the sensor insertion hole and configured to seal a space between an inner wall of the sensor insertion hole and the sensor, the sealing element having an annular shape; a first clip insertion window (41) which is located at a portion of the sensor connector along the circumference and passes through the sensor connector between the outer wall and the inner wall; a second clip insertion window (42) located at a portion of the sensor connector along the circumferential direction and passing through the sensor connector between the outer wall and the inner wall, the second clip insertion window being located opposite to the first clip insertion window relative to the axis (Ax) of the sensor insertion hole; a clip (50) inserted into the first clip insertion window and the second clip insertion window to fix the sensor in the sensor insertion hole by clamping both sides of the small diameter portion of the sensor; and At least one cutout portion is cut from the first clip insertion window or the second clip insertion window to the opening along the axial direction of the sensor insertion hole, wherein The axial second width (b) of the distal side of the first clip insertion window is greater than the axial first width (a) of the entrance side of the first clip insertion window from which the clip is inserted, and The axial second width (b) of the distal side of the second clip insertion window is greater than the axial first width (a) of the entrance side of the second clip insertion window from which the clip is inserted.

2. A sensor device configured to detect a physical quantity of a fluid, the sensor device comprising: a conduit (10) defining a fluid passage (11) through which the fluid flows; a sensor connector (20) defining a sensor insertion hole (21) in fluid communication with the fluid channel; A sensor (30) configured to detect the physical quantity of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel, the sensor comprising: a large diameter portion (33) positioned at a deep position of the sensor insertion hole; a small diameter portion (34) positioned between the large diameter portion and the opening (22) of the sensor insertion hole; and a stepped portion (35) connecting the large diameter portion and the small diameter portion; a sealing element (40) positioned on a deeper side of the step portion of the sensor in the sensor insertion hole and configured to seal a space between an inner wall of the sensor insertion hole and the sensor, the sealing element having an annular shape; a first clip insertion window (41) which is located at a portion of the sensor connector along the circumference and passes through the sensor connector between the outer wall and the inner wall; a second clip insertion window (42) located at a portion of the sensor connector along the circumferential direction and passing through the sensor connector between the outer wall and the inner wall, the second clip insertion window being located opposite to the first clip insertion window relative to the axis (Ax) of the sensor insertion hole; a clip (50) inserted into the first clip insertion window and the second clip insertion window to fix the sensor in the sensor insertion hole by clamping both sides of the small diameter portion of the sensor; at least one cutout portion cut from the first clip insertion window or the second clip insertion window to the opening along the axial direction of the sensor insertion hole; and A housing (12) formed integrally with the pipeline, wherein: The at least one cutout portion of the sensor connector faces the housing, and The sensor connector lacks the at least one cutout portion facing away from the housing.

3. The sensor device according to claim 2, wherein: The housing includes a protrusion (13) disposed adjacent to the sensor connector.

4. The sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The clip comprises: a first arm (51) to be inserted into the first clip insertion window and to contact the small diameter portion of the sensor; a second arm (52) to be inserted into the second clip insertion window and to contact the small diameter portion; a connecting portion (53) connecting the first arm and the second arm and positioned outside the sensor connector, and The connecting portion extends straight.

5. A sensor device configured to detect a physical quantity of a fluid, the sensor device comprising: a conduit (10) defining a fluid passage (11) through which the fluid flows; a sensor connector (20) defining a sensor insertion hole (21) in fluid communication with the fluid channel; A sensor (30) configured to detect the physical quantity of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel, the sensor comprising: a large diameter portion (33) positioned at a deep position of the sensor insertion hole; a small diameter portion (34) positioned between the large diameter portion and the opening (22) of the sensor insertion hole; and a stepped portion (35) connecting the large diameter portion and the small diameter portion; a sealing element (40) positioned on a deeper side of the step portion in the sensor insertion hole and configured to seal a space between an inner wall of the sensor insertion hole and the sensor, the sealing element having an annular shape; a first clip insertion window (41) which is located at a portion of the sensor connector along the circumference and passes through the sensor connector between the outer wall and the inner wall; a second clip insertion window (42) located at a portion of the sensor connector along the circumferential direction and passing through the sensor connector between the outer wall and the inner wall, the second clip insertion window being located opposite to the first clip insertion window relative to the axis (Ax) of the sensor insertion hole; a clip (50) configured to be inserted into the first clip insertion window and the second clip insertion window to fix the sensor in the sensor insertion hole by clamping both sides of the small diameter portion of the sensor, wherein: The axial second width (b) located at the distal side of the first clip insertion window is greater than the axial first width (a) located at the entrance side of the first clip insertion window from which the clip is inserted, and The axial second width (b) located at the distal side of the second clip insertion window is greater than the axial first width (a) located at the entrance side of the second clip insertion window from which the clip is inserted.

6. The sensor device according to claim 5, wherein: The clip comprises: a first arm (51) to be inserted into the first clip insertion window and to contact the small diameter portion of the sensor; a second arm (52) to be inserted into the second clip insertion window and to contact the small diameter portion; a connecting portion (53) connecting the first arm and the second arm and positioned outside the sensor connector, and The connecting portion extends straight.

Images