Ultrasonic flow switch

Abstract

This invention provides an ultrasonic flow switch that can be stably mounted on a pipeline. A housing portion, which integrally or independently holds the ultrasonic element, is mounted on the outer surface of the pipeline by means of a clamping portion. An acoustic coupling agent formed of a soft elastomer is pressed against the outer surface of the pipeline, causing at least one of a first ultrasonic element and a second ultrasonic element to acoustically couple with the pipeline. The amount of collapse of the acoustic coupling agent at the point where the collapse caused by the pipeline is greatest is limited by a collapse-limiting portion.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on May 13, 2016, entitled "Ultrasonic Flow Switch", with application number 201610319136.8. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to an ultrasonic flow switch capable of operating based on the amount of fluid flowing in a pipe. Background Technology

[0003] Flow meters are used to accurately measure the flow rate of fluid flowing in a pipe. For example, JP-A-2001-356032 discloses an ultrasonic flow meter with a sensor. The sensor uses ultrasound to measure the amount of fluid flowing in the pipe. Two downwardly projecting, sled-like vanes are formed in the sensor. A sheet of silicone gel is disposed between the two vanes. The sensor is secured to the outer circumference of the pipe by a fastening band, such that the bottom edges of the two vanes are in contact with the pipe.

[0004] The sheet-like silicone gel prevents the reflection of ultrasonic waves between the sensor and the conduit. When the sensor is attached to the conduit, the sheet-like silicone gel collapses to conform to the shape of the conduit. The remaining outer surface of the conduit is filled with the overflow portion of the sheet-like silicone gel, increasing the contact area between the sensor and the conduit. Therefore, the sensor and the conduit are bonded together.

[0005] JP-A-2001-356032 describes "sufficient to tighten the fastening band to the extent that the bottom edge of the sled-like vanes is always in contact with the pipe, so as to enhance the uniformity and reproducibility of sensor installation." Furthermore, JP-A-2001-356032 describes "the sensor can be stably fixed to the pipe regardless of its installation location (e.g., above or below a horizontal, vertical, or inclined section of the pipe), and can be stably fixed to almost all pipe diameters, except for pipe diameters equal to or smaller than the distance between the two sled-like vanes."

[0006] However, in actual sensor installations, when the sensor is fixed to a pipe with a diameter larger than the distance between the two sled-like blades, the degree of shrinkage of the sheet-like silicone gel varies with the pipe size.

[0007] Uniformity in the connection between the sensor and the pipe is not always achievable, making it difficult to measure flow rate with high reproducibility. Furthermore, the sheet-like silicone gel may be damaged when the sensor section is tightened too much with the fastening band, causing the bottom edge of the sled-like vane to contact the pipe.

[0008] On the other hand, as in controlling the operational status of facilities in a plant, there may be situations where accurate values ​​of the flow rate of the fluid flowing in the pipe are not required; it is sufficient to detect whether the fluid is flowing in the pipe at a flow rate above a fixed value. In this case, a flow switch that outputs an ON / OFF signal can be used instead of a flow meter. For example, the flow switch is installed on pipes with various outer diameters within the plant. Therefore, it is desirable that the flow switch can be stably installed on pipes of various sizes without compromising the uniformity of the flow switch's performance. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0010] The purpose of this invention is to provide a uniform ultrasonic flow switch that can be stably installed on pipes of various sizes without compromising the performance of the flow switch.

[0011] Solution for solving the problem

[0012] (1) The ultrasonic flow switch according to the present invention outputs an ON / OFF signal based on the flow rate of a fluid flowing in a pipe. The ultrasonic flow switch comprises: a first ultrasonic element, which, in operation of emitting ultrasonic waves to the fluid flowing in the pipe and receiving ultrasonic waves from the fluid flowing in the pipe, at least performs the emission of ultrasonic waves; a second ultrasonic element, which, in operation of emitting ultrasonic waves to the fluid flowing in the pipe and receiving ultrasonic waves from the fluid flowing in the pipe, at least performs the reception of ultrasonic waves; a computing device, which calculates the flow rate of the fluid in the pipe based on the output signal from at least one of the first and second ultrasonic elements; and an output portion, which outputs an ON / OFF signal based on the flow rate calculated by the computing device and a predetermined flow rate threshold. The device includes an ON / OFF signal; an element holding portion that integrally or independently holds a first ultrasonic element and a second ultrasonic element; a mounting component that holds the element holding portion and is detachably mounted on the outer surface of the pipe; and an acoustic contact medium formed of a soft elastomer and disposed between at least one of the first and second ultrasonic elements and the pipe, wherein the acoustic contact medium is pressed against the outer surface of the pipe such that, with the mounting component mounted on the outer surface of the pipe and the element holding portion held by the mounting component, at least one ultrasonic element is acoustically coupled to the pipe, and the ultrasonic flow switch further includes a collapse limiting portion that limits the collapse of the acoustic contact medium caused by the pipe at the point where the collapse is maximum.

[0013] In this ultrasonic flow switch, a first ultrasonic element emits ultrasonic waves to the fluid flowing in the pipe, and a second ultrasonic element receives the ultrasonic waves from the fluid flowing in the pipe. The flow rate of the fluid in the pipe is calculated based on the output signal from at least one of the first and second ultrasonic elements. An ON / OFF signal is output based on the calculated flow rate and a predetermined flow rate threshold.

[0014] The first and second ultrasonic elements are held integrally or independently by an element holding part. The element holding part is mounted on the outer surface of the pipe by means of a mounting member. An acoustic contact medium formed of a soft elastomer is arranged between at least one of the first and second ultrasonic elements and the pipe.

[0015] When the mounting component is installed on the outer surface of the pipe and the element holding part is held by the mounting component, the acoustic contact medium is pressed against the outer surface of the pipe, causing at least one ultrasonic element to acoustically couple with the pipe. Here, the collapse amount of the acoustic contact medium at the point where the collapse amount caused by the pipe is maximum is limited by the collapse amount limiting part.

[0016] With this construction, even when the element holder is installed on a pipe with a relatively large outer diameter, the acoustic contact medium can be pressed against the pipe, allowing at least one ultrasonic element to reliably couple acoustically with the pipe. On the other hand, even when the element holder is installed on a pipe with a relatively small outer diameter, the maximum amount of collapse of the acoustic contact medium can be reliably limited, thus preventing damage to the acoustic contact medium due to excessive collapse caused by the pipe.

[0017] In these cases, regardless of the pipe's outer diameter and the operator, the maximum collapse of the acoustic contact medium is limited to a fixed value, while the portion of the acoustic contact medium with a minimum thickness has a fixed thickness. Therefore, the acoustic coupling between at least one ultrasonic element and the pipe can be determined without variation. Consequently, ultrasonic flow switches can be stably installed on pipes of various sizes without compromising the uniformity of the ultrasonic flow switch's performance.

[0018] (2) The soft elastomer may include polymeric rubber or a gel-like substance. In this case, by selecting a material with high acoustic impedance, the difference in acoustic impedance between the soft elastomer and the pipe component with high acoustic impedance can be reduced. This configuration can further reduce the reflection of ultrasonic waves between the acoustic contact medium and the pipe. As a result, the efficiency of the first ultrasonic element in emitting ultrasonic waves or the efficiency of the second ultrasonic element in receiving ultrasonic waves can be improved.

[0019] (3) The collapse amount limit section can limit the collapse amount of the acoustic contact medium caused by the pipeline to more than 10% and less than 50% of the thickness of the acoustic contact medium when the acoustic contact medium is not in contact with the outer surface of the pipeline.

[0020] In this configuration, the acoustic contact medium makes more thorough and close contact with the pipe. This structure can improve the efficiency of the first ultrasonic element in emitting ultrasonic waves or the efficiency of the second ultrasonic element in receiving ultrasonic waves. Furthermore, by limiting the amount of collapse of the acoustic contact medium caused by the pipe to less than 50% of the thickness of the acoustic contact medium when it is not in contact with the outer surface of the pipe, damage to the acoustic contact medium due to excessive collapse can be prevented.

[0021] (4) The collapse limiting part can be set between the component holding part and the pipe, and the collapse of the acoustic contact medium can be limited by limiting the distance between the outer surface of the pipe and a part of the component holding part. In this case, the collapse of the acoustic contact medium can be limited with a simple construction.

[0022] (5) The collapse limiting part can be detachably or integrally mounted on the element holding part, and can limit the collapse of the acoustic contact medium by contacting the outer surface of the pipe. In this case, the operator can install and remove the collapse limiting part and the element holding part together, thus improving the installability and removeability of the ultrasonic flow switch. In addition, the efficiency of the installation and operation of the ultrasonic flow switch is improved.

[0023] (6) The collapse limiting part may include a screw component mounted on the element holding part, and the screw component may be configured to limit the collapse of the acoustic contact medium by contacting the outer surface of the pipe.

[0024] In this case, the amount of protrusion of the screw component relative to the element retaining part is changed by manipulating the screw component. Therefore, the amount of protrusion of the screw component can be adjusted while limiting the amount of collapse of the acoustic contact medium.

[0025] (7) The collapse limiting part can be arranged between the component holding part and the outer surface of the pipe, and can be configured to limit the collapse of the acoustic contact medium by contacting the outer surface of the pipe and the component holding part.

[0026] In this case, the collapse limiting portion can be positioned at a desired location between the component retainer and the outer surface of the pipe. Therefore, the flexibility in arranging the collapse limiting portion can be increased.

[0027] (8) The collapse limiting part can be provided between the component holding part and the mounting part, and the collapse of the acoustic contact medium can be limited by limiting the distance between a part of the component holding part and a part of the mounting part. In this case, the collapse of the acoustic contact medium can be limited with a simple construction.

[0028] (9) The collapse limiting part can be detachably or integrally mounted on one of the element holding part and the mounting part, and can limit the collapse of the acoustic contact medium by contacting the other of the element holding part and the mounting part. In this case, the operator can install and remove the collapse limiting part together with one of the element holding part and the mounting part, thus improving the installability and removeability of the ultrasonic flow switch. In addition, the efficiency of the installation and operation of the ultrasonic flow switch is improved.

[0029] (10) The collapse limiting part can be integrally mounted on the mounting component. In this case, there is no need to prepare an additional collapse limiting part, thus reducing the number of components in the ultrasonic flow switch.

[0030] (11) The collapse limiting part can be arranged between the component holding part and the mounting part, and can limit the collapse of the acoustic contact medium by contacting the component holding part and the mounting part.

[0031] In this case, the collapse limiting portion can be arranged at the desired position between the component holding portion and the mounting component. Therefore, the degree of freedom in arranging the collapse limiting portion can be increased.

[0032] (12) The collapse limiting part can be installed on the acoustic contact medium, and the collapse of the acoustic contact medium can be limited by limiting the distance between the outer surface of the pipe and a part of the element holding part. In this case, the operator can install and remove the collapse limiting part and the acoustic contact medium together, thus improving the installability and removeability of the ultrasonic flow switch. In addition, the efficiency of the installation and operation of the ultrasonic flow switch is improved.

[0033] (13) The acoustic contact medium can be detachably or integrally mounted on the component holding part.

[0034] In this configuration, the operator can install and remove the acoustic contact medium and the component retainer together, thus improving the ease of installation and removal of the ultrasonic flow switch. Furthermore, it increases the efficiency of the installation and operation of the ultrasonic flow switch.

[0035] (14) The ultrasonic flow switch may also include a medium holding component that holds the acoustic contact medium in the element holding portion.

[0036] In this configuration, the installation and removal of the acoustic contact medium from the element holder become easy. Therefore, the operator can easily perform the replacement of the acoustic contact medium. As a result, the maintenance costs of the ultrasonic flow switch can be reduced.

[0037] (15) The acoustic contact medium can be bonded to the component holding part by means of an adhesive component. In this case, the acoustic contact medium can be integrally mounted on the component holding part with a simple structure.

[0038] (16) The ultrasonic flow switch may also include a fixing member that fixes the element holding part to the mounting member, and the mounting member and the element holding part may be configured such that: the fixing member is used to perform the operation of mounting the mounting member on the pipe and the operation of fixing the element holding part to the mounting member from a common direction.

[0039] In this case, the operator can effectively perform the operation of installing the mounting component on the pipeline and the operation of installing the component retainer onto the mounting component from a common direction using the fixing component.

[0040] (17) The ultrasonic flow switch may also include a display section that displays the flow rate calculated by the threshold and the calculation device, wherein the display section may be disposed on the element holding section so that the display section can be seen from a common direction.

[0041] In this scenario, users can easily observe the display from a common direction. Users can then understand the flow rate or thresholds presented in numerical form.

[0042] (18) The ultrasonic flow switch may further include a connecting portion to which a connecting line for transmitting an ON / OFF signal output from the output portion can be connected. The connecting portion may be disposed on the element holding portion, allowing the connecting line to be connected to the connecting portion from a common direction. In this case, the connecting line can be easily connected to the connecting portion without interfering with the pipeline.

[0043] (19) The first and second ultrasonic elements can be powered via a connection. In this case, the ultrasonic flow switch does not need a power supply to provide power to the first and second ultrasonic elements. This configuration allows for miniaturization of the ultrasonic flow switch.

[0044] The effects of the invention

[0045] According to the present invention, ultrasonic flow switches can be stably installed on pipes of various sizes. Attached Figure Description

[0046] Figure 1This is a perspective view showing the appearance of a flow switch according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the internal structure of the flow switch shown;

[0048] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the upper clamping component;

[0049] Figure 4A and Figure 4B These are the end face view and longitudinal cross-sectional view of the upper clamping component;

[0050] Figure 5A and Figure 5B This is a plan view of the upper clamping component;

[0051] Figure 6A and Figure 6B This is a side view of the upper clamping component;

[0052] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the lower clamping component;

[0053] Figure 8 This is an end view of the lower clamping component;

[0054] Figure 9 This is a plan view of the lower clamping component;

[0055] Figure 10 This is a side view of the lower clamping component;

[0056] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the sensor section;

[0057] Figure 12 This is an end view of the sensor section;

[0058] Figure 13 This is a plan view of the sensor section;

[0059] Figure 14 This is a bottom view of the sensor section;

[0060] Figure 15 This is a side view of the sensor section;

[0061] Figure 16 It is along Figure 13 The cross-sectional view of the sensor section cut by line BB in the image;

[0062] Figure 17 This is a perspective view of the upper housing portion and the electronic circuit portion of the housing section;

[0063] Figure 18 This is a perspective view of the lower shell section;

[0064] Figure 19 This is a perspective view of the channel components and the ultrasonic control mechanism;

[0065] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of the joined parts;

[0066] Figure 21 This is an exploded perspective view of the clamping part before it is installed on the pipe;

[0067] Figure 22 This is a perspective view of the clamping part after it has been installed on the pipe;

[0068] Figure 23A and Figure 23B yes Figure 22 Plan view and side view of the clamping part shown;

[0069] Figure 24 This is a perspective view of the clamping part before the sensor part is mounted on the clamping part;

[0070] Figure 25A and Figure 25B yes Figure 24 Plan view and side view of the clamping part shown;

[0071] Figure 26A and Figure 26B These are the end face and cross-sectional views of the flow switch;

[0072] Figure 27A and Figure 27B These are the side view and cross-sectional view of the flow switch;

[0073] Figure 28A and Figure 28B These are perspective and side views of the flow switch with the lower clamping component arranged along the first direction;

[0074] Figure 29A and Figure 29B These are perspective and side views of the flow switch with the lower clamping component arranged in the second direction.

[0075] Figure 30A and Figure 30B These are side and cross-sectional views of the sensor portion according to a first variation of the method for installing acoustic coupling agent;

[0076] Figure 31A and Figure 31B These are side and cross-sectional views of the sensor portion according to a second variation of the method for installing acoustic coupling agent;

[0077] Figure 32A and Figure 32BThese are side and cross-sectional views of the lower housing portion according to a third variation of the method for installing acoustic coupling agent;

[0078] Figure 33A and Figure 33B The following are side and cross-sectional views of a flow switch based on a first variation of a method for limiting the collapse of the acoustic coupling agent.

[0079] Figure 34A and Figure 34B The following are side and cross-sectional views of a flow switch according to a second variation of the method for limiting the collapse of the acoustic coupling agent.

[0080] Figure 35A and Figure 35B These are side and cross-sectional views of a flow switch based on a third variation of a method for limiting the collapse of the acoustic coupling agent.

[0081] Figure 36A and Figure 36B These are side and cross-sectional views of a flow switch based on a fourth variation of a method for limiting the collapse of the acoustic coupling agent.

[0082] Figure 37A and Figure 37B These are end face and cross-sectional views of a flow switch based on a fifth variation of the method for limiting the collapse of the acoustic coupling agent.

[0083] Figure 38 This is a view showing a first variation of the shape of the notch portion;

[0084] Figure 39 This is a view showing a second variation of the shape of the notch portion;

[0085] Figure 40 This is a view showing a third variation of the shape of the notch portion;

[0086] Figure 41 This is a view showing a fourth variation of the shape of the notch portion;

[0087] Figure 42 This is a side view of a flow switch based on a first variant of the arrangement of ultrasonic elements;

[0088] Figure 43 This is a side view of a flow switch according to a second variation of the arrangement of ultrasonic elements;

[0089] Figure 44 This is an end face view of a flow switch based on a first variant of the clamping portion construction; and

[0090] Figure 45 This is an end view of a flow switch of a second variant based on the construction of the clamping part. Detailed Implementation

[0091] [1] Schematic structure of ultrasonic flow switch

[0092] In the following description, an ultrasonic flow switch (hereinafter simply referred to as "flow switch") according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the appearance of a flow switch according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the internal structure of the flow switch 1 is shown. Figure 1 As shown, the flow switch 1 consists of a clamping part 100 and a sensor part 400.

[0093] The clamping portion 100 includes an upper clamping member 200 and a lower clamping member 300. The clamping portion 100 is arranged such that the pipe 2 is positioned between the upper clamping member 200 and the lower clamping member 300. Using this configuration, the clamping portion 100 is mounted on the outer circumferential surface of the pipe 2. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the example shown, the inner diameter of pipe 2 is represented by "d". In this embodiment, the sensor portion 400 is fixed to the upper clamping member 200 of the clamping portion 100 using two sensor fixing screws 410.

[0094] like Figure 2 As shown, the sensor portion 400 includes a housing portion 500, a coupling portion 600, an ultrasonic control mechanism 700, and an electronic circuit portion 800. The housing portion 500 includes an upper housing portion 510, a lower housing portion 520, and a channel member 530. The upper surface of the upper housing portion 510 has a window portion 511, which is formed of a transparent component. The upper housing portion 510 is mounted on the upper part of the lower housing portion 520, while the channel member 530 is mounted on the lower part of the lower housing portion 520. This configuration creates a space inside the housing portion 500 that prevents liquids such as water or oil from penetrating.

[0095] The joining portion 600 includes an acoustic coupling agent 610 in solid form and a retaining member 620 as described below (see below). Figure 14 and Figure 20 Acoustic coupling agent 610 is disposed between the channel component 530 and the pipe 2 of the housing portion 500. The retaining component 620 retains the acoustic coupling agent 610 on the lower housing portion 520 of the housing portion 500.

[0096] The housing portion 500 internally houses an ultrasonic control mechanism 700. The ultrasonic control mechanism 700 includes two ultrasonic elements 710 and 720, an ultrasonic shield 730, and two filling components 740 and 750. The ultrasonic element 710 is arranged at a predetermined angle to the conduit 2 and is bonded to the channel component 530 by means of an acoustic bond 711. Similarly, the ultrasonic element 720 is arranged at a predetermined angle to the conduit 2 and is bonded to the channel component 530 by means of an acoustic bond 721.

[0097] An ultrasonic shielding plate 730 is disposed between ultrasonic elements 710 and 720, such that the ultrasonic shielding plate 730 extends through the channel member 530. Filling members 740 and 750 are formed of different components. Filling member 740 is arranged to surround the outer periphery of ultrasonic elements 710 and 720. Filling member 750 is disposed above filling member 740. Details of the ultrasonic shielding plate 730 and filling members 740 and 750 will be described below.

[0098] In the above arrangement, ultrasonic waves emitted from ultrasonic element 710 are incident on the fluid in pipe 2 at an incident angle θ via channel component 530 and acoustic coupling agent 610. The ultrasonic waves passing through the fluid are reflected at a reflection angle θ onto the inner surface of pipe 2, pass through acoustic coupling agent 610 and channel component 530, and are received by ultrasonic element 720.

[0099] In the same manner, ultrasonic waves emitted from ultrasonic element 720 are incident on the fluid in pipe 2 at an incident angle θ via channel component 530 and acoustic coupling agent 610. The ultrasonic waves passing through the fluid are reflected at a reflection angle θ onto the inner surface of pipe 2, pass through acoustic coupling agent 610 and channel component 530, and are received by ultrasonic element 710.

[0100] The electronic circuit section 800 includes a control section 811, a storage section 812, a display section 821, a connection section 830, an operation section 840, and an indicator light 850. The control section 811, storage section 812, and display section 821 are housed inside the housing section 500. The connection section 830, operation section 840, and indicator light 850 are mounted on the upper surface of the housing section 510.

[0101] The storage section 812 stores various data and programs for operating the flow switch 1. The control section 811 controls the operation of the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720, the display section 821, and the indicator light 850 based on the data and programs stored in the storage section 812. The control section 811 is connected to an external device (not shown) via the connection section 830 and the cable 3.

[0102] In this embodiment, the control unit 811 measures the time difference Δt. The time difference Δt is the difference between the time elapsed from the ultrasonic element 710 emitting an ultrasonic wave to the ultrasonic element 720 receiving the ultrasonic wave and the time elapsed from the ultrasonic element 720 emitting the ultrasonic wave to the ultrasonic element 710 receiving the ultrasonic wave. The control unit 811 calculates the velocity Vf of the fluid flowing in the pipe 2 based on the measured time difference Δt using the following equation (1), and calculates the flow rate Q of the fluid flowing in the pipe 2 using the following equation (2).

[0103] [Equation 1]

[0104]

[0105] [Equation 2]

[0106]

[0107] In the above equation, d is the inner diameter of pipe 2, θ is the incident angle of the ultrasonic wave, and Vs is the velocity of the ultrasonic wave. K is a flow correction coefficient used to convert the fluid velocity with a predetermined distribution in the cross-section of pipe 2 into an average velocity. The incident angle θ, velocity Vs, and flow correction coefficient K are known. The user operates the operation section 840 to store the inner diameter d of pipe 2 in the storage section 812. Furthermore, the user operates the operation section 840 to store the flow threshold in the storage section 812.

[0108] The control unit 811 compares the flow rate Q calculated by equation (2) with the threshold stored in the storage unit 812, and outputs an ON / OFF signal based on the comparison result. The ON / OFF signal is used to switch the ON and OFF states of the external device connected to the connection unit 830. The indicator light 850 is turned on so that the ON and OFF states of the external device can be distinguished.

[0109] The display portion 821 is positioned close to the window portion 511 of the upper housing portion 510. The display portion 821 can display various information, such as the fluid velocity Vf calculated by equation (1), the flow rate Q calculated by equation (2), or the threshold stored in the storage portion 812.

[0110] [2] Clamping part

[0111] (1) Upper clamping component

[0112] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the upper clamping component 200. Figure 4A and Figure 4B These are the end face view and longitudinal cross-sectional view of the upper clamping component 200. Figure 5A and Figure 5B This is a plan view of the upper clamping component 200. Figure 6A and Figure 6B This is a side view of the upper clamping component 200. Figure 4B It is along Figure 5A The image shows a cross-sectional view of the upper clamping component 200 taken from line AA. Reference will be made below. Figures 3 to 6B The structure of the upper clamping component 200 is described.

[0113] like Figure 3 As shown, the upper clamping member 200 is formed by a fixed portion 210 and a movable portion 220. The fixed portion 210 is fixed to... Figure 1 The pipe 2 shown. The movable portion 220 is arranged to be movable relative to the fixed portion 210. In this embodiment, the movable portion 220 can slide relative to the fixed portion 210.

[0114] Figure 5A and Figure 6A The upper clamping member 200 is shown in a state where the movable part 220 is not sliding, while Figure 5B and Figure 6B The upper clamping member 200 is shown in a sliding state of the movable part 220. Figure 5B and Figure 6B The position of the movable part 220 is called the "first position," and Figure 5A and Figure 6A The position of the movable part 220 shown is called the "second position".

[0115] The fixing portion 210 includes an upper surface portion 230, two end face portions 240, two side face portions 250, and two contact portions 260. In this embodiment, the upper surface portion 230, the two end face portions 240, the two side face portions 250, and the two contact portions 260 are integrally formed by using a material with high rigidity, such as metal.

[0116] The upper surface portion 230 has a rectangular frame shape extending in one direction in the plan view. In the following text, the longitudinal direction of the upper surface portion 230 as seen in the plan view is referred to as the longitudinal direction of the flow switch 1, the width direction of the upper surface portion 230 as seen in the plan view is referred to as the width direction of the flow switch 1, and the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal and width directions is referred to as the vertical direction of the flow switch 1. When the flow switch 1 is installed on the pipe 2, the longitudinal direction of the flow switch 1 is aligned with the axial direction of the pipe 2 (the direction in which the pipe 2 extends), the width direction of the flow switch 1 is approximately aligned with the circumferential direction of the pipe 2, and the vertical direction of the flow switch 1 is aligned with the radial direction of the pipe 2.

[0117] like Figure 3 , Figure 5A and Figure 5BAs shown, each of the two ends of the upper surface portion 230 along the longitudinal direction has a threaded hole 231 that penetrates the upper surface portion 230 in the vertical direction. Figure 2 The sensor fixing screw 410 shown engages with each threaded hole 231. A notch 232 is formed in the inner circumferential surface of each of the two longitudinal ends of the upper surface portion 230. A downwardly projecting protrusion 233 is formed in each notch 232. Using this configuration, two grooves 234 are formed on the inner circumferential surface of the two longitudinal ends of the upper surface portion 230, such that the protrusion 233 is positioned between the grooves 234.

[0118] like Figure 3 , Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the two end face portions 240 extend downward from the two longitudinal ends of the upper surface portion 230, respectively. Figure 4A As shown, each end face portion 240 has a polygonal, downwardly opening notch portion 241. With this construction, multiple cut surfaces appear on the notch portion 241 of the end face portion 240. In this embodiment, each end face portion 240 has two vertical cut surfaces 211, one horizontal cut surface 212, and two inclined cut surfaces 213.

[0119] Two vertical cut surfaces 211 extend vertically upward from the lower part of the end face portion 240. The distance between the two vertical cut surfaces 211 in the width direction is greater than the outer diameter of the pipe 2. A horizontal cut surface 212 extends horizontally in the width direction between and above the two vertical cut surfaces 211. The length of the horizontal cut surface 212 in the width direction is smaller than the outer diameter of the pipe 2. An inclined cut surface 213 extends obliquely from the upper part of one vertical cut surface 211 to one end of the horizontally inclined surface 212. Another inclined cut surface 213 extends obliquely from the upper part of another vertical cut surface 211 to the other end of the horizontally inclined surface 212.

[0120] like Figure 3 , Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, the two side portions 250 extend downward from the two ends of the upper surface portion 230 along the width direction. Figure 4B As shown, two contact portions 260 are formed to correspond to two side portions 250, respectively. Each contact portion 260 includes a horizontal portion 261 and an inclined portion 262. The horizontal portion 261 bends from the lower end of the side portion 250 corresponding to the horizontal portion 261 and extends horizontally inward. The inclined portion 262 extends obliquely upward from the end of the horizontal portion 261 in an upward and inward direction.

[0121] The inclination angles of one inclined portion 262 and the other inclined portion 262 are respectively set to be approximately equal to the inclination angles of one inclined section 213 and the other inclined section 213 of the end face portion 240. When the upper clamping member 200 is not mounted on the pipe 2, the lower surfaces of one inclined portion 262 and the other inclined portion 262 protrude from one inclined section 213 and the other inclined section 213 of the end face portion 240 in a slightly downward and inward direction. With this configuration, one inclined portion 262 and the other inclined portion 262 can be made to contact the outer peripheral surface of the pipe 2.

[0122] like Figure 4B , Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, each horizontal portion 261 has a plurality of through holes 263 formed therein, such that the through holes 263 penetrate the horizontal portion 261 vertically. In this embodiment, in each horizontal portion 261, two through holes 263 are formed side by side along the longitudinal direction at a predetermined interval. A plurality of clamping and fixing screws 110 pass through the plurality of through holes 263 formed in the horizontal portion 261 from above.

[0123] In this embodiment, such as Figure 5B and 6B As shown, by sliding the movable part 220 to the first position, multiple through holes 263 can be seen from above. In this state, multiple clamping screws 110 pass through the multiple through holes 263 respectively. With the movable part 220 in the first position, the sensor part 400 cannot be mounted on the upper clamping member 200. Therefore, when... Figure 1 When the sensor portion 400 shown is mounted on the upper clamping member 200, the movable portion 220 returns to... Figure 5A and Figure 6A The second position shown.

[0124] Each clamping screw 110 is provided with a posture holding mechanism 120. Each posture holding mechanism 120 includes an annular member 121 and a spring member 122. With the clamping screw 110 passing through the through hole 263 formed in the horizontal portion 261, the annular member 121 is fixed to approximately the center portion of the clamping screw 110 in the vertical direction. The spring member 122 has a helical shape, and the outer diameter of the spring member 122 is smaller than the outer diameter of the annular member 121. The spring member 122 is arranged between the horizontal portion 261 and the annular member 121 to press against the horizontal portion 261 and the annular member 121.

[0125] With this configuration, even when the upper clamping member 200 is arranged such that its longitudinal or width direction is guided vertically, the plurality of clamping screws 110 can be held substantially perpendicular to the horizontal portion 261 by means of the attitude holding mechanism 120. Therefore, even when the upper clamping member 200 is mounted on the pipe 2 extending in the vertical direction, the plurality of clamping screws 110 can easily engage with the plurality of threaded holes (described below) formed in the lower clamping member 300.

[0126] (2) Lower clamping component

[0127] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the lower clamping component 300. Figure 8 This is an end view of the lower clamping component 300. Figure 9 This is a plan view of the lower clamping component 300. Figure 10 This is a side view of the lower clamping component 300. Reference will be made below. Figures 7 to 10 The structure of the lower clamping component 300 is described.

[0128] like Figure 7 As shown, the lower clamping member 300 includes a bottom surface portion 310, two end surface portions 320, and two side surface portions 330. In this embodiment, the lower surface portion 310, the two end surface portions 320, and the two side surface portions 330 are integrally formed by using a material with high rigidity, such as metal.

[0129] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the bottom portion 310 has a curved shape extending longitudinally. The curvature of the upper surface of the bottom portion 310 is greater than the curvature of the outer circumferential surface of the pipe 2. Therefore, it is possible to... Figure 1 The outer circumferential surface of the pipe 2 shown is in contact with the curved upper surface of the bottom portion 310. For example... Figure 7 and Figure 9 As shown, two side portions 330 are respectively formed on the two ends of the bottom portion 310 along the width direction. Each side portion 330 includes two protrusions 331, two protrusions 332 and one inclined member 333.

[0130] exist Figure 9 and Figure 10 In this context, the two protrusions 331 formed on each side portion 330 are respectively referred to as "protrusion 331A" and "protrusion 331B", and the two protrusions 332 are respectively referred to as "protrusion 332A" and "protrusion 332B". For example... Figure 9 and Figure 10As shown, protrusions 331A, 332B, 333, 331B and 332A are arranged side by side on each side portion 330 in this order along the longitudinal direction.

[0131] like Figures 7 to 10 As shown, each end face portion 320 includes two protrusions 321. The two protrusions 321 formed on one end face portion 320 are formed in an upward manner from one end of the two protrusions 331A along the longitudinal direction. The two protrusions 321 formed on the other end face portion 320 are formed in an upward manner from the other end of the two protrusions 332A along the longitudinal direction.

[0132] like Figure 9 As shown, protrusions 331A and 331B formed on each side portion 330 protrude horizontally outward from both ends of the bottom portion 310 along the width direction. Protrusions 332A and 332B formed on each side portion 330 protrude horizontally outward from both ends of the bottom portion 310 along the width direction. Inclined members 333 formed on each side portion 330 protrude obliquely outward and upward from both ends of the bottom portion 310 along the width direction.

[0133] like Figure 10 As shown, protrusions 331A and 331B are positioned at approximately the same height. Protrusions 332A and 332B are positioned below protrusions 331A and 331B, and are also at approximately the same height. Figure 9 As shown, each protrusion 331A and 331B has a threaded hole 331h formed therein, such that the threaded hole 331h penetrates the protrusion 331A and 331B in a vertical direction. Each protrusion 332A and 332B has a threaded hole 332h formed therein, such that the threaded hole 332h penetrates the protrusion 332A and 332B in a vertical direction.

[0134] The distance between the threaded holes 331h in the protrusions 331A and 331B formed on each side portion 330 is set to be relative to the distance between the threaded holes 331h in the protrusions 331A and 331B formed on each side portion 330. Figure 6A The distance between the two through holes 263 in a horizontal portion 261 of the upper clamping member 200 shown is equal. The distance between the threaded holes 332h in the protrusions 332A and 332B formed on the respective side portions 330 is set to be equal to the distance between the threaded holes 332h formed on the protrusions 332A and 332B formed on the side portions 330. Figure 6A The distance between the two through holes 263 in a horizontal portion 261 of the upper clamping member 200 shown is equal.

[0135] In the following text, such as Figure 9 and Figure 10As shown, when protrusion 331A is positioned at one end along the longitudinal direction and protrusion 332A is positioned at the other end along the longitudinal direction, the direction of the lower clamping member 300 is referred to as the first direction. On the other hand, with Figure 9 and Figure 10 In contrast, when protrusion 331A is positioned at the other end along the longitudinal direction and protrusion 332A is positioned at one end along the longitudinal direction, the direction of the lower clamping member 300 is referred to as the second direction. The operator can arrange the lower clamping member 300 in either the first or second direction by rotating it 180 degrees about an axis parallel to the vertical direction.

[0136] With this configuration, when the lower clamping member 300 is arranged along the first direction, and the pipe 2 is clamped by the upper clamping member 200 and the lower clamping member 300, Figure 6A The plurality of clamping screws 110 shown are threadedly engaged with the plurality of threaded holes 331h. On the other hand, with the lower clamping member 300 arranged along the second direction, when the pipe 2 is clamped by the upper clamping member 200 and the lower clamping member 300, Figure 6A The multiple clamping and fixing screws 110 shown are respectively threaded into multiple threaded holes 332h.

[0137] Protrusions 331 and 332 are positioned at different heights. That is, along the vertical direction from... Figure 6A The distance from the through hole 263 to the threaded hole 331h shown is perpendicular to the distance along the vertical direction from... Figure 6A The distances from the through hole 263 to the threaded hole 332h shown are different from each other. Therefore, by appropriately selecting the arrangement direction of the lower clamping member 300 between the first direction and the second direction according to the outer diameter of the pipe 2, the lower clamping member 300 can be installed on the pipe 2 more easily and appropriately.

[0138] [3] Sensor section

[0139] As described above, the sensor portion 400 includes a housing portion 500, a coupling portion 600, an ultrasonic control mechanism 700, and an electronic circuit portion 800. Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the sensor section 400. Figure 12 This is an end view of sensor section 400. Figure 13 This is a plan view of the sensor section 400. Figure 14 This is a bottom view of the sensor section 400. Figure 15 This is a side view of sensor section 400. Figure 16 It is along Figure 13 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the sensor portion 400 cut from line BB.

[0140] The housing portion 500 is configured to include, in addition to the upper housing portion 510, the lower housing portion 520 and the channel component 530, multiple sealing components, multiple reinforcing components and multiple screw components. Figure 17 This is a perspective view of the upper housing portion 510 and the electronic circuit portion 800 of the housing portion 500. Figure 18 This is a perspective view of the lower housing portion 520. Figure 19 This is a perspective view of the channel component 530 and the ultrasonic control mechanism 700. Figure 20 This is a perspective view of the joining portion 600. References will be made below. Figures 11 to 20 The construction of each part of the sensor section 400 is described.

[0141] (1) Shell section

[0142] (a) Upper shell portion

[0143] The upper housing portion 510 is formed of, for example, resin. Figure 11 , Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, when viewed in plan view, the upper housing portion 510 has a generally rectangular shape extending longitudinally. Two threaded openings 512 are formed in the upper housing portion 510, such that the threaded openings 512 penetrate the upper housing portion 510 vertically. The two threaded openings 512 are arranged at two longitudinal ends of the upper housing portion 510. Each threaded opening 512 includes a countersunk hole that allows the screw head of a sensor fixing screw 410 inserted from above to be inserted and engaged with the upper housing portion 510. The two sensor screws 410 are rotatably secured inside the two threaded openings 512, respectively.

[0144] like Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 15 As shown, two bottomed threaded holes 517 extending vertically are formed on the lower surface of each of the two longitudinal ends of the upper housing portion 510. Each threaded hole 517 is located approximately at the center of the upper housing portion 510 along its width. Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, two threaded holes 517 are arranged side by side along the width direction, with the threaded opening 512 sandwiched in the middle.

[0145] In addition, such as Figure 11 , Figure 16 and Figure 17As shown, the upper housing portion 510 has a display portion opening 513, a connection portion opening 514, an operation portion opening 515, and a lamp opening 516 formed therein, such that these openings penetrate the upper housing portion 510 vertically. The display portion opening 513 is arranged at approximately the center of the upper housing portion 510 along its longitudinal direction. The connection portion opening 514 is arranged between a threaded opening 512 and the display portion opening 513. The operation portion opening 515 and the lamp opening 516 are arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction between another threaded opening 512 and the display portion opening 513.

[0146] The display opening 513 has a generally rectangular shape. An inwardly projecting display flange 513F is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the display opening 513. A display sealing member 541 is arranged between the upper surface of the display flange 513F and the edge of the lower surface of the window portion 511. In this state, the window portion 511 is fitted into the display opening 513 from above.

[0147] The connection opening 514 has a generally circular shape. An inwardly projecting connection flange 514F is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the connection opening 514. The connection portion 830 of the electronic circuit portion 800 includes an outer circumferential surface having a generally cylindrical shape. An outwardly projecting flange portion 831 is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the connection opening 514. A connection sealing member 542 is arranged between the upper surface of the connection flange 514F and the lower surface of the flange portion 831 of the connection portion 830. In this state, the connection portion 830 is fitted into the connection opening 514 from above.

[0148] The operating portion opening 515 has a generally rectangular shape. An inwardly projecting operating portion flange 515F is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the operating portion opening 515. An operating portion sealing member 543 is arranged between the upper surface of the operating portion flange 515F and the lower surface of the operating portion 840 of the electronic circuit portion 800. In this state, the operating portion 840 is fitted into the operating portion opening 515 from above.

[0149] The lamp opening 516 has a generally rectangular shape. An inwardly projecting lamp flange 516F is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the lamp opening 516. A lamp sealing member 544 is arranged between the upper surface of the lamp flange 516F and the edge portion of the lower surface of the indicator lamp 850 of the electronic circuit section 800. In this state, the indicator lamp 850 is fitted into the lamp opening 516 from above.

[0150] (b) Lower housing section

[0151] The lower housing portion 520 is formed of, for example, resin. Figure 16 and Figure 18As shown, the lower housing portion 520 includes a mating portion 521, an outer flange portion 522, and an inner flange portion 523. Figure 12 and Figure 14 As shown, the mating portion 521 has two mating side portions 521A and two mating end portions 521B. The two mating side portions 521A are side portions located at both ends of the mating portion 521 in the width direction. The two mating end portions 521B are end face portions located at both ends of the mating portion 521 in the longitudinal direction. The upper and lower parts of the mating portion 521 are open.

[0152] Each mating side portion 521A has an outer peripheral surface that allows the outer peripheral surface to... Figure 5A The width direction of the middle part matches the shape of the inner circumferential surface of the upper surface portion 230 of the upper clamping member 200. For example... Figure 18 As shown, each mating side portion 521A has a plurality of hook-shaped locking portions 529 formed on its lower portion. These locking portions 529 are used to mount the engaging portion 600 onto the housing portion 500. Each mating end face portion 521B has two protrusions 524 arranged side by side along the width direction. The two protrusions 524 extend vertically and longitudinally outward. The plurality of protrusions 524 respectively engage with the portion formed on the housing portion 500. Figure 5A In the plurality of grooves 234 on the upper surface portion 230 shown.

[0153] In this embodiment, the lower end face of the mating end face portion 521B protrudes further downward than the lower end face of the mating side portion 521A. Therefore, when the flow switch 1 is installed on the pipe 2, the lower end face of each mating end face portion 521B is in contact with the pipe 2. Therefore, as Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 14 and Figure 18 As shown, each mating end face portion 521B is equipped with a pipe contact surface reinforcing metal plate 551 to reinforce the lower end face of the mating end face portion 521B.

[0154] Each pipe contact surface reinforcing metal plate 551 has a J-shaped cross-section. Each pipe contact surface reinforcing metal plate 551 is arranged such that: the pipe contact surface reinforcing metal plate 551 passes between two protrusions 524 formed on the outer peripheral surface of the mating end face portion 521B, bypasses the lower end face of the mating end face portion 521B, and reaches the inner peripheral surface of the mating end face portion 521B.

[0155] like Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figures 14 to 16 and Figure 18As shown, the outer flange portion 522 protrudes outward from the upper part of the mating portion 521. Two threaded holes 525, threaded openings 526, and two threaded openings 527 are formed on each of the two upper surfaces at the two ends along the longitudinal direction of the outer flange portion 522. Each threaded opening 526 is arranged approximately at the center of the outer flange portion 522 along its width direction. Figure 12 and Figure 16 As shown, a plurality of threaded openings 526 penetrate the outer flange portion 522 in a vertical direction and communicate with a plurality of threaded openings 512 formed in the upper housing portion 510.

[0156] like Figure 18 As shown, two threaded holes 525 are arranged side by side along the width direction, with the threaded opening 526 sandwiched in the middle. A plurality of threaded holes 525 are formed on the upper end face of the outer flange portion 522 and have a bottomed shape extending in the vertical direction.

[0157] Two threaded openings 527 are arranged side by side along the width direction, sandwiching two threaded holes 525 and threaded openings 526 in the middle. For example... Figure 12 and Figure 15 As shown, a plurality of threaded openings 527 penetrate the outer flange portion 522 in a vertical direction and communicate with a plurality of threaded holes 517 formed in the upper housing portion 510. Each threaded opening 527 includes a countersunk hole that allows the screw head of the housing fixing screw 501 described below to be inserted from below to engage with the outer flange portion 522.

[0158] like Figure 11 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 and Figure 18 As shown, a lower housing portion reinforcing metal plate 552 is mounted on the outer flange portion 522 to reinforce the upper end face of the outer flange portion 522. The lower housing portion reinforcing metal plate 552 is arranged to cover the upper end face of the outer flange portion 522 and the side portions of the outer flange portion 522 located at both ends along the width direction.

[0159] like Figure 18 As shown, each longitudinal end of the lower housing portion reinforcing metal plate 552 has two threaded openings 552a, threaded opening 552b, and two threaded openings 552c, such that these threaded openings penetrate the lower housing portion reinforcing metal plate 552 vertically. The threaded openings 552a are arranged to overlap with a plurality of threaded holes 525 formed in the outer flange portion 522. The threaded openings 552b are arranged to overlap with a plurality of screw openings 526 formed in the outer flange portion 522. The threaded openings 552c are arranged to overlap with a plurality of screw openings 527 formed in the outer flange portion 522.

[0160] Multiple metal plate fixing screws 502 pass through multiple screw openings 552a formed in the lower housing portion reinforcing metal plate 552 from above. In this state, each metal plate fixing screw 502 is threadedly engaged with a corresponding threaded hole 525 formed in the outer flange portion 522. With this configuration, the lower housing portion reinforcing metal plate 552 is mounted on the outer flange portion 522.

[0161] like Figure 16 and Figure 18 As shown, an inter-shell sealing member 545 is arranged on the inner edge of the upper end face of the outer flange portion 522. Next, the upper housing portion 510 is arranged above the outer flange portion 522. Then, as... Figure 14 As shown, multiple housing fixing screws 501 pass through multiple screw openings 512 respectively.

[0162] In this state, each housing fixing screw 501 passes through a screw opening 552c formed in the reinforcing metal plate 552 of the lower housing portion and engages with a corresponding threaded hole 517. Using this configuration, the upper housing portion 510 is mounted on the lower housing portion 520. (As...) Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, the end of the sensor fixing screw 410 passes through the screw openings 512 formed in the upper housing portion 510, passes through the screw opening 526, and protrudes downward from the outer flange portion 522.

[0163] like Figure 16 and Figure 18 As shown, the inner flange portion 523 protrudes inward from the inner circumferential surface of the mating portion 521. As... Figure 14 As shown, a plurality of downwardly protruding positioning protrusions 523a, 523b, and 523c are formed on the outer edge of the lower surface of the inner flange portion 523. Two positioning protrusions 523a and 523b are arranged on one end of the inner flange portion 523 along the width direction, such that the two positioning protrusions 523a and 523b are arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction. One protrusion 523c is arranged on the other end of the inner flange portion 523 along the width direction.

[0164] A plurality of bottomed threaded holes 528 are formed in the outer edge of the lower surface of the inner flange portion 523, such that the threaded holes 528 extend vertically. Of the plurality of threaded holes 528, half of the threaded holes 528 are arranged longitudinally side-by-side at one end of the inner flange portion 523 in the width direction. The other half of the threaded holes 528 are arranged longitudinally side-by-side at the other end of the inner flange portion 523 in the width direction. A housing channel sealing member 546 is arranged on the inner edge of the lower surface of the inner flange portion 523. A channel member 530 is mounted on the lower surface of the inner flange portion 523. Details of this construction will be described below.

[0165] (c) Channel components

[0166] The channel component 530 is formed of a non-metallic material with high rigidity and high sound transmission. Furthermore, the channel component 530 can preferably be formed of a material with high environmental resistance. In this embodiment, the channel component 530 is formed of PPS (polyphenylene sulfide) resin or ULTEM (registered trademark) resin.

[0167] like Figure 16 and Figure 19 As shown, the channel component 530 includes a bottom portion 531 and an outer flange portion 532. When viewed in a plan view, the bottom portion 531 has a generally rectangular shape extending longitudinally. The lower surface of the bottom portion 531 has a planar shape. The lower surface of the bottom portion 531 is referred to as the pipe mating surface 530C.

[0168] Two upwardly projecting structures 533 and 534 are formed on the upper surface of the bottom portion 531, such that the two projecting structures 533 and 534 are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, a baffle opening 535 is formed in the bottom portion 531. The baffle opening 535 extends along the width direction of the bottom portion 531 and penetrates the bottom portion 531 vertically between the projecting structures 533 and 534. The ultrasonic baffle 730 of the ultrasonic control mechanism 700 is fitted into the baffle opening 535.

[0169] This design prevents the ultrasonic waves from moving from ultrasonic element 710 to ultrasonic element 720 without propagating through the fluid flowing in pipe 2. Similarly, it prevents the ultrasonic waves from moving from ultrasonic element 720 to ultrasonic element 710 without propagating through the fluid flowing in pipe 2. Therefore, the flow rate of the fluid in pipe 2 can be calculated more accurately.

[0170] The protruding structure 533 has an inclined surface oriented longitudinally upward and outward. The protruding structure 534 has an inclined surface oriented longitudinally upward and outward. The inclined surfaces of the protruding structures 533 and 534 are referred to as component mating surfaces 530A and 530B, respectively.

[0171] More specifically, component mating surface 530A has: end a1, positioned longitudinally closest to component mating surface 530B; and end a2, positioned longitudinally furthest from component mating surface 530B. Component mating surface 530A is inclined such that end a2 is positioned closer to the pipe than end a1. Component mating surface 530B has: end b1, positioned longitudinally closest to component mating surface 530A; and end b2, positioned longitudinally furthest from component mating surface 530A. Component mating surface 530B is inclined such that end b2 is positioned closer to the pipe than end b1.

[0172] The ultrasonic element 710 of the ultrasonic control mechanism 700 is coupled to the element mating surface 530A. The ultrasonic element 720 of the ultrasonic control mechanism 700 is coupled to the element mating surface 530B. In this configuration, the ultrasonic element 710 is arranged to emit ultrasonic waves into the fluid in the pipe 2 while the ultrasonic element 710 is tilted relative to the pipe 2. The ultrasonic element 720 is arranged to receive ultrasonic waves propagating through the fluid in the pipe 2 while the ultrasonic element 720 is tilted relative to the pipe 2. With this configuration, both emitting ultrasonic waves into the fluid in the pipe 2 and receiving ultrasonic waves propagating through the fluid in the pipe 2 can be performed efficiently.

[0173] As described above, the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 can be supported by a common channel component 530. Therefore, component costs, manufacturing costs, and assembly costs can be further reduced. Furthermore, the assembly steps of the fluid switch 1 can be further simplified. Even further, the flow switch 1 can be miniaturized.

[0174] The outer flange portion 532 protrudes outward from the upper part of both ends of the bottom surface portion 531 along the width direction. A plurality of (three in this embodiment) positioning openings 536a, 536b, and 536c are formed in the outer flange portion 532, such that these positioning openings 536a, 536b, and 536c penetrate the outer flange portion 532 vertically. Two positioning openings 536a and 536b are arranged on one end of the outer flange portion 532 along the width direction, such that these positioning openings 536a and 536b are arranged side-by-side along the longitudinal direction. One positioning opening 536c is arranged on the other end of the outer flange portion 532 along the width direction. The plurality of positioning openings 536a to 536c are respectively connected to a plurality of positioning protrusions 523a to 523c formed on the inner flange portion 523. Figure 14 )correspond.

[0175] A channel fixing metal plate 553 with a rectangular frame shape is arranged below the channel component 530. The bottom surface 531 of the channel component 530 is fitted onto the inner circumferential surface of the channel fixing metal plate 553. The lower surface of the outer flange portion 532 of the channel component 530 contacts the upper surfaces of the two ends of the channel fixing metal plate 553 along the width direction.

[0176] The channel fixing metal plate 553 has multiple screw openings 553a formed at both ends along its width direction, such that these screw openings 553a penetrate both ends vertically. Of the multiple screw openings 553a, half are arranged at one end along the width direction of the channel fixing metal plate 553, such that these screw openings 553a are arranged side-by-side longitudinally. The other half are arranged at the other end along the width direction of the channel fixing metal plate 553, such that these screw openings 553a are arranged side-by-side longitudinally. The multiple screw openings 553a respectively connect to multiple threaded holes 528 formed in the inner flange portion 523. Figure 14 )correspond.

[0177] Formed in Figure 14 The plurality of positioning protrusions 523a to 523c on the inner flange portion 523 shown respectively engage from above with positioning openings 536a to 536c formed in the channel member 530. In this case, a housing channel sealing member 546 is arranged between the lower surface of the inner flange portion 523 and the upper surface of the outer flange portion 532 of the channel member 530. Figure 18 ).

[0178] Multiple metal plate fixing screws 503 pass through multiple screw openings 553a formed in the channel fixing metal plate 553 from below. In this state, each metal plate fixing screw 503 is threadedly engaged with a corresponding threaded hole 528 formed in the inner flange portion 523. With this configuration, the channel component 530 and the channel fixing metal plate 553 are mounted on the lower housing portion 520.

[0179] In the above configuration, the positioning mechanism is formed by a plurality of positioning protrusions 523a to 523c formed on the inner flange portion 523 and positioning openings 536a to 536c formed in the channel member 530. With this configuration, the channel member 530 cannot be mounted on the lower housing portion 520 in a direction opposite to the normal direction in the longitudinal direction. Therefore, the channel member 530 can be easily mounted on the lower housing portion 520 in the normal direction in the longitudinal direction.

[0180] The housing portion 500, which has an internal hollow space, is completed by performing the above installation operations. The joint portions of multiple components within the housing portion 500 are provided with a display portion sealing member 541, a connection portion sealing member 542, an operation portion sealing member 543, a lamp sealing member 544, an inter-housing sealing member 545, and an inter-housing channel sealing member 546. Therefore, liquids such as water or oil can be prevented from entering the space formed inside the housing portion 500.

[0181] (2) Joint portion

[0182] like Figure 14 and Figure 20 As shown, the joining portion 600 includes an acoustic coupling agent 610 and a retaining member 620. The acoustic coupling agent 610 is formed of a soft elastic material such as a polymer rubber or a colloidal substance.

[0183] Preferably, the acoustic coupling agent 610 has Figure 16 The acoustic impedance values ​​of the channel component 530 and the pipe 2 are shown. This configuration further reduces ultrasonic wave reflection between the acoustic coupler 610 and the pipe 2, and between the acoustic coupler 610 and the channel component 530. As a result, the ultrasonic wave transmission and reception efficiencies of the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 can be improved.

[0184] The acoustic coupling agent 610 includes a bottom portion 611 and an outer flange portion 612. When viewed in plan view, the bottom portion 611 has a generally rectangular shape extending longitudinally. A slit 613 extending in the width direction is formed in the approximately central portion of the bottom portion 611 along the longitudinal direction.

[0185] The outer flange portion 612 protrudes outward from the upper part of both ends of the bottom portion 611 along the width direction. A plurality of positioning openings 614 are formed in the outer flange portion 612, such that the positioning openings 614 penetrate the outer flange portion 612 vertically. Of the plurality of positioning openings 614, half of the positioning openings 614 are arranged on one end of the outer flange portion 612 along the width direction, such that these positioning openings 614 are arranged side-by-side along the longitudinal direction. The remaining half of the positioning openings 614 are arranged on the other end of the outer flange portion 612 along the width direction, such that these positioning openings 614 are arranged side-by-side along the longitudinal direction.

[0186] The retaining member 620 is formed of, for example, resin. The retaining member 620 includes a bottom portion 621 and two side portions 622. When viewed in plan view, the bottom portion 621 has a generally rectangular shape extending longitudinally. A coupling agent opening 623 extending longitudinally is formed in the central portion of the bottom portion 621 along its width direction.

[0187] A plurality of upwardly protruding positioning protrusions 624 are formed on the bottom surface portion 621. Half of the positioning protrusions 624 are arranged at one end of the bottom surface portion 621 along the width direction, such that these positioning protrusions 624 are arranged side-by-side along the longitudinal direction. The other half of the positioning protrusions 624 are arranged at the other end of the bottom surface portion 621 along the width direction, such that these positioning protrusions 624 are arranged side-by-side along the longitudinal direction. The plurality of positioning protrusions 624 correspond to a plurality of positioning openings 614 formed in the acoustic coupling agent 610.

[0188] Two side portions 622 are formed extending upward from the two ends of the bottom portion 621 in the width direction. A plurality of hook-shaped locking portions 625 are formed on the inner surface of each side portion 622. The plurality of locking portions 625 formed on the two side portions 622 are respectively connected to the plurality of locking portions 529 formed on the lower housing portion 520 (see...). Figure 18 )correspond.

[0189] Multiple positioning protrusions 624 formed on the bottom surface portion 621 respectively engage from below with positioning openings 614 formed in the bottom surface portion 611. Furthermore, the bottom surface portion 611 engages from above with coupling agent openings 623 formed in the bottom surface portion 621. Using this configuration, the acoustic coupling agent 610 is fixed into the retaining member 620, thereby completing the assembly of the joining portion 600. In this state, multiple locking portions 625 formed on the two side surface portions 622 and multiple locking portions 529 formed on the lower housing portion 520 (see...) Figure 18 They are joined together. Therefore, the joining part 600 is mounted on the housing part 500.

[0190] Using this configuration, the acoustic coupling agent 610 is held on the lower housing portion 520 by the retaining component 620. The upper surface of the bottom portion 611 of the acoustic coupling agent 610 engages with the conduit surface 530C of the channel component 530 (see...). Figure 16 The acoustic coupling agent 610 has a tight contact with the lower surface of its bottom portion 611, which protrudes further downward than the lower surface of the bottom portion 621 of the retaining component 620. This allows the operator to install and remove the acoustic coupling agent 610 and the housing portion 500 together, thus improving the ease of installation and removal of the flow switch 1. Furthermore, it increases the efficiency of the installation and operation of the flow switch 1.

[0191] (3) Ultrasonic control mechanism

[0192] The housing portion 500 internally houses the ultrasonic control component 700. For example... Figure 16As shown, the ultrasonic control mechanism 700 includes two ultrasonic elements 710 and 720, an ultrasonic shielding plate 730, and two filling components 740 and 750. Both ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 have a planar shape.

[0193] The ultrasonic control mechanism 700 also includes an acoustic binder 711 corresponding to the ultrasonic element 710. Figure 2 The ultrasonic control mechanism 700 also includes a rear acoustic wave blocking component 712 and a component fixing component 713. The ultrasonic control mechanism 700 further includes an acoustic bonding agent 721 corresponding to the ultrasonic component 720. Figure 2 The component includes a rear acoustic wave blocking component 722 and a component fixing component 723. In this embodiment, the acoustic binders 711 and 721 are made of grease dispersed with micro-fillers. The rear acoustic wave blocking components 712 and 722 are made of foam rubber. The rear acoustic wave blocking components 712 and 722 can be made of, for example, porous materials.

[0194] The ultrasonic element 710 is bonded to the element mating surface 530A of the channel component 530 using an acoustic bonding agent 711. Figure 16 The rear acoustic wave blocking member 712 is mounted on another surface of the ultrasonic element 710. In this state, the ultrasonic element 710 is secured to the channel member 530 by the element fixing member 713. The element fixing member 713 is arranged such that it does not obstruct the boundary between one surface of the ultrasonic element 710 and the element mating surface 530A.

[0195] Similarly, an ultrasonic element 720 is bonded to the element mating surface 530B of the channel component 530 using an acoustic bonding agent 721. Figure 16 The rear acoustic wave blocking member 722 is mounted on another surface of the ultrasonic element 720. In this state, the ultrasonic element 720 is secured to the channel member 530 by the element fixing member 723. The element fixing member 723 is arranged such that it does not obstruct the boundary between one surface of the ultrasonic element 720 and the element mating surface 530B.

[0196] Using this configuration, ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 are respectively fixed to the channel component 530 by means of element fixing parts 713 and 723. In this case, ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 do not require adhesive for fixing them to the channel component 530. That is, no adhesive is applied between one surface of ultrasonic element 710 and element mating surface 530A, and between one surface of ultrasonic element 720 and element mating surface 530B. Therefore, ultrasonic wave loss is prevented. As a result, the ultrasonic wave transmission efficiency and reception efficiency of ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 can be improved.

[0197] Furthermore, ultrasonic waves can be effectively obtained from one surface of the ultrasonic element 710 using the acoustic bonding agent 711, and the ultrasonic waves are transmitted from the element mating surface 530A to the channel component 530. Similarly, ultrasonic waves can be effectively obtained from one surface of the ultrasonic element 720 using the acoustic bonding agent 721, and the ultrasonic waves are transmitted from the element mating surface 530B to the channel component 530.

[0198] As described above, acoustic binders 711 and 721 are configured to disperse microfillers within the grease. In this case, the acoustic impedance values ​​of acoustic binders 711 and 721 are close to the acoustic impedance values ​​of the element mating surfaces 530A and 530B of the channel component 530. This configuration reduces ultrasonic wave reflection between the ultrasonic element 710 and element mating surface 530A, and also reduces ultrasonic wave reflection between the acoustic element 720 and element mating surface 530B. As a result, the ultrasonic wave transmission efficiency and reception efficiency of the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 can be improved. Acoustic binders 711 and 721 can be configured to disperse microfillers within the adhesive.

[0199] Furthermore, acoustic wave blocking components 712 and 722 are respectively mounted on another surface of the ultrasonic element 710 and another surface of the ultrasonic element 720. In this case, ultrasonic waves received from the other surfaces of the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 are blocked. Therefore, the loss of ultrasonic waves generated by the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 can be reduced, and thus the intensity of ultrasonic waves received from one surface of the ultrasonic element 710 and one surface of the ultrasonic element 720 can be increased.

[0200] The ultrasonic shield 730 is formed of a material similar to that used to form the acoustic wave blocking members 712 and 722 on the rear side of the elements. As described above, the ultrasonic shield 730 fits into the shield opening 535 formed in the channel member 530. In this case, the transmission of ultrasonic waves between the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 is blocked in the channel member 530. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the ultrasonic waves emitted from the ultrasonic element 710 from passing through the interior of the channel member 530 and being directly received by the ultrasonic element 720. Similarly, it is possible to prevent the ultrasonic waves emitted from the ultrasonic element 720 from passing through the interior of the channel member 530 and being directly received by the ultrasonic element 710.

[0201] The filling component 740 has a characteristic impedance value close to that of the channel component 530 and is formed of a material with significant properties of attenuating (dispersing) ultrasonic waves. For example, the filling component 740 is formed of a material in which multiple components with different characteristic impedance values ​​are dispersed internally. In this embodiment, the filling component 740 is formed of silicon with alumina dispersed as a filling material.

[0202] The filling member 740 is arranged to partially cover the outer periphery of the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720. In this case, the filling member 740 attenuates the ultrasonic waves emitted from the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 to the surrounding environment that do not propagate in the fluid within the pipe 2. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the ultrasonic waves emitted from the ultrasonic element 710 to the surrounding environment from being received by the ultrasonic element 720 as stray signals. Similarly, it is possible to prevent the ultrasonic waves emitted from the ultrasonic element 720 to the surrounding environment from being received by the ultrasonic element 710 as stray signals.

[0203] The filling member 750 is formed of a thermally insulating material. The filling member 750 is arranged above the filling member 740 and below the control board 810 of the electronic component 800 (described below). With this configuration, even when a cryogenic fluid flows in the pipe 2, the heat radiated from the pipe 2 to the control board 810 can be blocked by the filling member 750. Therefore, the control board 810 can be protected from condensation. Furthermore, there is no need to fill the control board 810 with resin or the like to prevent condensation; therefore, the sensor component 400 can be easily assembled or disassembled.

[0204] According to the above configuration, the ultrasonic wave emitted from the ultrasonic element 710 is input to the element mating surface 530A, passes through the interior of the channel component 530, and is output from the pipe mating surface 530C. The ultrasonic wave output from the pipe mating surface 530C is incident on the fluid in the pipe 2 via the acoustic coupling agent 610, is reflected on the inner surface of the pipe 2, and is then input to the pipe mating surface 530C again via the acoustic coupling agent 610. The ultrasonic wave input to the pipe mating surface 530C passes through the interior of the pipe component 530, is output from the element mating surface 530B, and is received by the ultrasonic element 720.

[0205] Similarly, the ultrasonic waves emitted from the ultrasonic element 720 are input to the element mating surface 530B, pass through the interior of the channel component 530, and are output from the pipe mating surface 530C. The ultrasonic waves output from the pipe mating surface 530C are incident on the fluid in the pipe 2 via the acoustic coupling agent 610, reflected on the inner surface of the pipe 2, and then input to the pipe mating surface 530C again via the acoustic coupling agent 610. The ultrasonic waves input to the pipe mating surface 530C pass through the interior of the pipe component 530, are output from the element mating surface 530A, and are received by the ultrasonic element 710.

[0206] (4) Electronic circuit section

[0207] like Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the electronic circuit section 800 includes a control board 810, a display board 820, a connection section 830, an operation section 840, and indicator lights 850. The control section 811 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The storage section 812 includes, for example, volatile memory or a hard disk. The control section 811 and the storage section 812 are mounted on the control board 810. The display section 821 includes, for example, a segmented display. The display section 821 may include a dot-matrix display. The display section 821 is mounted on the display board 820.

[0208] The control board 810 is positioned above and close to the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720. This configuration minimizes the length of the connecting cables linking the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 to the control board 810. This configuration also helps suppress noise radiated from the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720.

[0209] The operation section 840 includes multiple operation buttons. The indicator light 850 includes multiple light-emitting elements. Each light-emitting element is formed by, for example, an LED (light-emitting diode). The operation section 840 and the indicator light 850 are connected to a display panel 820, which is connected to a control board 810. The control board 810 is connected to an external device (not shown) via a connection section 830 and a cable 3.

[0210] The control board 810, display board 820, and ultrasonic components 710, 720 are powered from an external power source via cable 3. In this case, the housing portion 500 does not need to have a power source for supplying power to the control board 810, display board 820, and ultrasonic components 710, 720. This configuration allows for miniaturization of the flow switch 1.

[0211] The display panel 820 is positioned close to the window portion 511 of the upper housing portion 510. With this configuration, the user can observe the display portion 821 through the window portion 511 of the upper housing portion 510. The display portion 821 can display various information, such as the fluid velocity Vf calculated by equation (1), the flow rate Q calculated by equation (2), or a threshold value stored in the memory of the control portion 811.

[0212] The indicator light 850 is turned on to distinguish the ON and OFF states of the external device. For example, the indicator light 850 can be turned on when the external device is ON, and turned off when the external device is OFF. Alternatively, the indicator light 850 can be turned off when the external device is ON, and turned on when the external device is OFF. With this configuration, the user can easily distinguish the ON and OFF states of the external device.

[0213] In this embodiment, the indicator light 850 includes a green light-emitting element and a red light-emitting element. When the external device is ON, the indicator light 850 turns on as a green light, and when the external device is OFF, the indicator light 850 turns on as a red light. Alternatively, the indicator light 850 can turn on as a red light when the external device is ON, and as a green light when the external device is OFF.

[0214] [4] Installation of flow switch

[0215] (1) Installation of the clamping part on the pipe

[0216] Figure 21 This is an exploded perspective view of the clamping part 100 before it is installed on the pipe 2. Figure 22 This is a perspective view of the clamping part 100 after it has been installed on the pipe 2. Figure 23A and Figure 23B yes Figure 22 The plan view and side view of the clamping portion 100 are shown. Referring below... Figures 21 to 23B The installation of the clamping part 100 on the pipe 2 is described. Figures 21 to 23B In the example shown, the lower clamping portion 300 is arranged along the first direction.

[0217] First, such as Figure 22 , 23A As shown in Figure 23B, the movable portion 220 of the upper clamping member 200 slides to a first position. In this case, as... Figure 23A As shown, multiple clamping screws 110 can be seen from above. Therefore, the multiple clamping screws 110 can be operated from above. In this embodiment, the clamping screws 110 pass through multiple through holes 263. Figure 21 In the state of ), multiple clamping screws 110 can be rotatably fixed.

[0218] Next, as Figure 21 As shown, the upper clamping member 200 and the lower clamping member 300 are arranged facing each other vertically, with the pipe 2 positioned in the middle. As described above, compared to the inclined cross-section 213 of the end face portion 240, the lower surface of the inclined portion 262 of the contact portion 260 of the upper clamping member 200 protrudes slightly inward and downward. Therefore, the outer peripheral surface of the upper part of the pipe 2 contacts the lower surface of the inclined portion 262 of the contact portion 260 of the upper clamping member 200. The outer peripheral surface of the lower part of the pipe 2 contacts the upper surface of the bottom surface portion 310 of the lower clamping member 300.

[0219] In this state, multiple clamping screws 110 are operated from above using a tool such as a screwdriver. Therefore, the multiple clamping screws 110 are threadedly engaged with threaded holes 331h formed in the multiple protrusions 331 of the lower clamping member 300. When the lower clamping member 300 is arranged along the second direction, the multiple clamping screws 110 are threadedly engaged with threaded holes 332h formed in the multiple protrusions 332 of the lower clamping member 300.

[0220] By engaging the multiple clamping screws 110 with the multiple threaded holes 331h, the pressure between the lower surface of the inclined portion 262 of the contact portion 260 and the outer peripheral surface of the pipe 2 increases. In this case, the inclined portion 262 of the contact portion 260 deforms, causing it to bend further outward and upward compared to its initial position. Therefore, the upper outer peripheral surface of the pipe 2 contacts the inclined cut surface 213 of the end face portion 240 of the upper clamping member 200. Furthermore, the lower outer peripheral surface of the pipe 2 contacts the upper surface of the bottom surface portion 310 of the lower clamping member 300.

[0221] With this configuration, in a cross-section perpendicular to the pipe 2, the pipe 2 contacts at least two portions of the upper clamping member 200 and simultaneously contacts at least one portion of the lower clamping member 300. That is, in a cross-section perpendicular to the pipe 2, the pipe 2 contacts at least three portions of the clamping portion 100. Therefore, the clamping portion 100 is reliably fixed to the pipe 2.

[0222] Furthermore, as described above, the length of the horizontal section 212 along the width direction is smaller than the outer diameter of the pipe 2, and the distance between the two vertical sections 211 along the width direction is larger than the outer diameter of the pipe 2. With this configuration, the clamping portion 100 can be installed on pipes 2 of various diameters within a range where the outer diameter of the pipe 2 is equal to or greater than the length of the horizontal section 212 along the width direction and equal to or less than the distance between the two vertical sections 211 along the width direction.

[0223] (2) Mounting of the sensor on the clamping part

[0224] Figure 24 This is a perspective view of the clamping portion 100 before the sensor portion 400 is mounted on the clamping portion 100. Figure 25A and Figure 25B yes Figure 24 The plan view and side view of the clamping portion 100 are shown. Referring below... Figures 24 to 25B The mounting of the sensor part 400 on the clamping part 100 is described.

[0225] like Figure 24 , Figure 25A and Figure 25B As shown, after the clamping portion 100 is installed on the pipe 2, the movable portion 220 returns to the second position. Therefore, the sensor portion 400 can be installed on the clamping portion 100. The sensor portion 400 is installed on the clamping portion 100 by threading two sensor fixing screws 410 into two threaded holes 231 formed in the clamping portion 100.

[0226] As described above, in this embodiment, with the sensor portion 400 mounted on the clamping portion 100, the clamping portion 100 cannot be mounted on the pipe 2. Therefore, after mounting the clamping portion 100 on the pipe 2, the sensor portion 400 is mounted on the clamping portion 100. Thus, the step of fixing the sensor portion 400 can be reliably performed with an appropriate fixing force.

[0227] Two sensor fixing screws 410 are arranged longitudinally to place the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 in the middle. Therefore, a fixing force is applied radially toward the center of the pipe 2 to the sensor portion 400 without tilting it relative to the pipe 2. With this configuration, the operator can perform the installation of the sensor portion 400 without being aware of any adjustment to the tilt of the sensor portion 400 relative to the pipe 2.

[0228] The outer peripheral surface of the mating portion 521 of the lower housing portion 520 of the housing portion 500 mates with the inner peripheral surfaces of the two ends of the upper surface portion 230 along the width direction. In this case, as described above, each mating side portion 521A of the mating portion 521 mates with the inner peripheral surface of the upper surface portion 230 along the width direction. Furthermore, two grooves 234 are formed on the inner peripheral surface of each end of the upper surface portion 230 along the longitudinal direction, such that the two grooves 234 place the protrusion 233 between them. A protrusion 524 is formed on each mating end face portion 521B of the lower housing portion 520 of the housing portion 500, and the protrusion 524 respectively mates with the two grooves 234 formed on the inner peripheral surface of the upper surface portion 230.

[0229] In this configuration, thanks to the fitting portion 521, the sensor portion 400 can be arranged only radially along the pipe 2 without displacement of the sensor portion 400 along the axial and circumferential directions of the pipe 2 on the clamping portion 100. By mounting the sensor portion 400 on the clamping portion 100 in this manner, displacement of the sensor portion 400 in the longitudinal and width directions is restricted. On the other hand, movement of the sensor portion 400 in the vertical direction is permitted.

[0230] Figure 26A and Figure 26B These are the end face and cross-sectional views of flow switch 1. Figure 27A and Figure 27B These are the side view and cross-sectional view of flow switch 1. Figure 26B It is along Figure 26A The cross-sectional view of flow switch 1 taken from line CC in the diagram, and Figure 27B It is along Figure 27A The cross-sectional view of flow switch 1 taken from line DD in the diagram.

[0231] By tightening Figure 26B The sensor fixing screw 410 shown causes the sensor portion 400 to move downwards, that is, to move in the direction of the sensor portion 400 approaching the pipe 2. In this case, the housing portion 500... Figure 26B and Figure 27B The acoustic coupling agent 610 shown collapses.

[0232] As described above, in this embodiment, the lower end face of the mating end face portion 521B protrudes further downward than the lower end face of the mating side portion 521A. Therefore, the lower end face of the mating end face portion 521B (the pipe contact surface reinforcing metal plate 551) contacts the pipe 2. Consequently, the downward movement of the sensor portion 400 stops, and simultaneously, the collapse of the acoustic coupling agent 610 caused by the housing portion 500 stops. In this way, the mating end face portion 521B functions to limit the amount of collapse of the acoustic coupling agent 610. The mating end face portion 521B limits the amount of collapse of the acoustic coupling agent 610 to the maximum extent at which the acoustic coupling agent 610 is compressed.

[0233] In this embodiment, the amount of collapse of the acoustic coupling agent 610 is limited to a value falling within the range of 10% to 50% of the thickness of the acoustic coupling agent 610 in its uncollapsed state. In this case, the pipe mating surface 530C of the channel component 530 ( Figure 16 The acoustic coupling agent 610 is brought into close contact with the pipe 2 under sufficient pressure. This configuration allows ultrasound waves to be effectively incident on the fluid within the pipe 2. Furthermore, it suppresses the application of excessive pressure to the acoustic coupling agent 610, thus preventing damage to it.

[0234] (3) Direction of the lower clamping component

[0235] In the above-described installation of the clamping portion 100 on the pipe 2, the lower clamping member 300 is arranged along a first direction. However, the lower clamping member 300 may also be arranged along a second direction. Figure 28A and Figure 28B These are perspective and side views of the flow switch 1 with the lower clamping member 300 arranged along the first direction. Figure 29A and Figure 29B These are perspective and side views of the flow switch 1 with the lower clamping member 300 arranged in the second direction.

[0236] like Figure 28A As shown, when the clamping member 300 is arranged along the first direction, the plurality of clamping fixing screws 110 respectively engage with the threaded holes 331h formed in the plurality of protrusions 331. On the other hand, as Figure 29A As shown, when the clamping component 300 is arranged along the second direction, the plurality of clamping fixing screws 110 respectively engage with the threaded holes 332h formed in the plurality of protrusions 332.

[0237] The protrusion 331 is positioned above the protrusion 332. That is, the vertical distance from the through hole 263 formed in the horizontal portion 261 to the threaded hole 332h formed in the protrusion 332 is greater than the vertical distance from the through hole 263 formed in the horizontal portion 261 to the threaded hole 331h formed in the protrusion 331.

[0238] When the clamping component 300 is arranged along the second direction with a relatively large outer diameter of pipe 2, the vertical distance from the through hole 263 to the threaded hole 332h may become larger than the length of the clamping fixing screw 110. In this case, the clamping part 100 cannot be installed on pipe 2. Therefore, as Figure 28B As shown, when the outer diameter of pipe 2 is relatively large, the lower clamping member 300 is arranged along the first direction. By adopting this configuration, the clamping part 100 can be properly installed on pipe 2.

[0239] On the other hand, when the clamping member 300 is arranged along the first direction with a relatively small outer diameter of the pipe 2, the vertical distance from the through hole 263 to the threaded hole 331h may become much smaller than the length of the clamping fixing screw 110. In this case, the amount of operation (tightening time) required to fix the clamping part 100 to the pipe 2 by the clamping fixing screw 110 increases, thus increasing the operator's burden. Therefore, as Figure 29B As shown, when the outer diameter of pipe 2 is relatively small, the lower clamping member 300 is arranged along the second direction. By adopting this configuration, the clamping part 100 can be installed on pipe 2 with minimal effort.

[0240] [5] Variation Example

[0241] (1) Method for installing acoustic coupling agent

[0242] In this embodiment, the acoustic coupling agent 610 is held by the holding member 620, and the plurality of locking portions 625 of the holding member 620 and the plurality of locking portions 529 of the lower housing portion 520 engage with each other. The acoustic coupling agent 610 is mounted on the housing portion 500 using this method. However, the invention is not limited to this method, and other methods can be used to mount the acoustic coupling agent 610 on the housing portion 500.

[0243] Figure 30A and Figure 30B This is a side view and a cross-sectional view of the lower housing portion 520 according to a first variation of the method for installing acoustic coupling agent 610. Figure 30B It is along Figure 30A The image shows a cross-sectional view of the sensor portion 400, taken from line EE. Figure 30A and Figure 30BIn the example shown, the upper surface of the bottom portion 611 of the acoustic coupling agent 610 is adhered to the lower surface of the mating portion 521 of the lower housing portion 520 and the lower surface of the outer flange portion 532 of the channel member 530 by means of the adhesion member 421. With this configuration, the acoustic coupling agent 610 is mounted on the housing portion 500. In this variant, the acoustic coupling agent 610 can be integrally formed with the housing portion 500 using a simple construction.

[0244] Figure 31A and Figure 31B This is a side view and a cross-sectional view of the lower housing portion 520 according to a second variation of the method for installing acoustic coupling agent 610. Figure 31B It is along Figure 31A The image shows a cross-sectional view of the sensor portion 400, taken from line FF. Figure 31A and Figure 31B In the example shown, the upper surface of the bottom portion 611 of the acoustic coupling agent 610 is secured to the lower surface of the mating portion 521 of the lower housing portion 520 by means of a plurality of screw components 422. With this configuration, the acoustic coupling agent 610 is mounted on the housing portion 500.

[0245] Figure 32A and Figure 32B This is a side view and a cross-sectional view of the lower housing portion 520 according to a third variation of the method for installing acoustic coupling agent 610. Figure 32B It is along Figure 32A The image shows a cross-sectional view of the sensor portion 400, taken from line GG. Figure 32A and Figure 32B In the example shown, the acoustic coupling agent 610 and the retaining member 620 are integrally formed. In this state, the plurality of locking portions 625 of the retaining member 620 and the plurality of locking portions 529 of the lower housing portion 520 engage with each other. With this configuration, the acoustic coupling agent 610 is mounted on the housing portion 500.

[0246] exist Figure 30A , Figure 30B , Figure 31A and Figure 31B In the example shown, the engaging portion 600 is not provided with a retaining member 620. Figure 30A and Figure 30B In the example shown or Figure 31A and Figure 31B In the example shown, instead of using adhesive component 421 or multiple screw components 422, the acoustic coupling agent 610 can be mounted on the housing portion 500 by integrally forming the acoustic coupling agent 610 and the lower housing portion 520. Figure 32A and Figure 32BIn the example shown, instead of using multiple locking parts 625, an adhesive part or multiple screw parts can be used to mount the acoustic coupling agent 610 onto the housing part 500.

[0247] (2) Methods to limit the amount of collapse.

[0248] In this embodiment, the mating end face portion 521B serves as a portion limiting the collapse amount of the acoustic coupling agent 610. In this method, the collapse amount of the acoustic coupling agent 610 is limited because the lower end face of the mating end face portion 521B contacts the pipe 2. However, the present invention is not limited to this method. Other methods can be used to limit the collapse amount of the acoustic coupling agent 610.

[0249] Figure 33A and Figure 33B The following are side and cross-sectional views of a flow switch 1, which is a first variation of the method for limiting the amount of collapse of the acoustic coupling agent 610. Figure 33B It is along Figure 33A The cross-sectional view of flow switch 1 taken from line HH in the diagram. Figure 33A and Figure 33B In the example shown, collapse limiting screws 401 are installed at both longitudinal ends of the housing portion 500, such that the collapse limiting screws 401 penetrate the housing portion 500 vertically. Each collapse limiting screw 401 is arranged approximately at the center of the upper housing portion 500 in the width direction.

[0250] The end of each collapse limiting screw 401 protrudes downward from the lower surface of the housing portion 500. The amount of protrusion of the end of the collapse limiting screw 401 from the lower surface of the housing portion 500 can be adjusted by operating the collapse limiting screw 401 from above using a tool such as a screwdriver.

[0251] When the flow switch 1 is installed on the pipe 2, the lower surface of the housing portion 500 causes the acoustic coupling agent 610 to collapse. In this state, the end of the collapse limiting screw 401 contacts the pipe 2. Therefore, the downward movement of the sensor portion 400 above the clamping portion 100 stops, and simultaneously, the collapse of the acoustic coupling agent 610 caused by the housing portion 500 also stops. The amount of collapse of the acoustic coupling agent 610 is limited in this way.

[0252] Figure 34A and Figure 34B The following are side and cross-sectional views of a flow switch 1, which is a second variation of the method for limiting the amount of collapse of the acoustic coupling agent 610. Figure 34B It is along Figure 34A The cross-sectional view of flow switch 1 taken from line II in the diagram. Figure 34A and Figure 34BIn the example shown, plate-shaped collapse limiting members 402 are arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the pipe 2, such that the collapse limiting members 402 correspond to the lower surfaces of the two longitudinal ends of the housing portion 500. The thickness of each collapse limiting member 402 in the vertical direction is set to be greater than that of the bottom portion 611 of the acoustic coupling agent 610. Figure 20 The thickness of ) in the vertical direction is small.

[0253] When the flow switch 1 is installed on the pipe 2, the lower surface of the housing portion 500 causes the acoustic coupling agent 610 to collapse. In this state, the lower surfaces of the two longitudinal ends of the housing portion 500 contact the upper surface of the collapse limiting member 402. Therefore, the downward movement of the sensor portion 400 above the clamping portion 100 stops, and simultaneously, the collapse of the acoustic coupling agent 610 caused by the housing portion 500 also stops. The amount of collapse of the acoustic coupling agent 610 is limited in this way.

[0254] In this variant, the collapse limiting member 402 can be positioned at a desired location between the shell portion 500 and the outer surface of the pipe 2. This increases the flexibility in the arrangement of the collapse limiting member 402.

[0255] Figure 35A and Figure 35B The following are side and cross-sectional views of a flow switch 1, which is a third variation of the method for limiting the collapse of acoustic coupling agent 610. Figure 35B It is along Figure 35A The cross-sectional view of flow switch 1 taken from line JJ in the diagram. Figure 35A and Figure 35B In the example shown, a plurality of (two in this variant) collapse amount limiting protrusions 101 are formed on the upper surface of the upper clamping member 200, such that the collapse amount limiting protrusions 101 correspond to the lower surfaces of the two longitudinal ends of the outer flange portion 522 of the housing portion 500, respectively.

[0256] The end of the collapse amount limiting protrusion 101 protrudes upward from the upper surface of the clamping portion 100. The protrusion amount of the end of each collapse amount limiting protrusion 101 from the upper surface of the clamping portion 100 is set to be greater than that of the bottom portion 611 of the acoustic coupling agent 610. Figure 20 The thickness of ) in the vertical direction is small.

[0257] When the flow switch 1 is installed on the pipe 2, the lower surface of the housing portion 500 causes the acoustic coupling agent 610 to collapse. In this state, the lower surfaces of the two longitudinal ends of the outer flange portion 522 of the housing portion 500 contact the ends of the plurality of collapse-limiting protrusions 101. Therefore, the downward movement of the sensor portion 400 above the clamping portion 100 stops, and simultaneously, the collapse of the acoustic coupling agent 610 caused by the housing portion 500 also stops. The amount of collapse of the acoustic coupling agent 610 is limited in this way.

[0258] In a third variation of the method for limiting the collapse amount of the acoustic coupling agent 610, instead of forming the collapse amount limiting protrusion 101 on the upper surface of the upper clamping member 200, the collapse amount limiting protrusion 101 can be formed on the lower surface of the housing portion 500, such that the collapse amount limiting protrusion 101 contacts the upper clamping member 200. In this variation, the operator can install and remove the collapse amount limiting protrusion 101 together with either the housing portion 500 or the clamping portion 100, thus improving the installability and removability of the flow switch 1. Furthermore, the operational efficiency of installing the flow switch 1 is also improved.

[0259] Figure 36A and Figure 36B The following are side and cross-sectional views of flow switch 1, which are based on a fourth variation of the method for limiting the collapse of acoustic coupling agent 610. Figure 36B It is along Figure 36A The cross-sectional view of flow switch 1 taken from line KK in the diagram. Figure 36A and Figure 36B In the example shown, a plate-shaped collapse limiting member 403 is arranged on the upper surface of the upper clamping member 200, such that the collapse limiting member 403 corresponds to the lower surfaces of the two longitudinal ends of the outer flange portion 522 of the housing portion 500. The thickness of each collapse limiting member 403 in the vertical direction is set to be greater than that of the bottom portion 611 of the acoustic coupling agent 610. Figure 20 The thickness of ) in the vertical direction is small.

[0260] When the flow switch 1 is installed on the pipe 2, the lower surface of the housing portion 500 causes the acoustic coupling agent 610 to collapse. In this state, the lower surfaces of the two longitudinal ends of the outer flange portion 522 of the housing portion 500 contact the upper surface of the collapse limiting member 403. Therefore, the downward movement of the sensor portion 400 above the clamping portion 100 stops, and simultaneously, the collapse of the acoustic coupling agent 610 caused by the housing portion 500 also stops. The amount of collapse of the acoustic coupling agent 610 is limited in this way.

[0261] In this variant, the collapse limiting member 403 can be arranged at a desired position between the housing portion 500 and the upper clamping member 200. Therefore, the degree of freedom in arranging the collapse limiting member 403 is increased.

[0262] Figure 37A and Figure 37B These are end face and cross-sectional views of the flow switch 1, which is a fifth variation of the method for limiting the collapse of the acoustic coupling agent 610. Figure 37B It is along Figure 37A The cross-sectional view of flow switch 1 taken from line LL. Figure 37A and Figure 37B In the example shown, plate-shaped collapse limiting members 601 are arranged on the two end faces of the acoustic coupling agent 610, such that the collapse limiting members 601 correspond to the lower surfaces of the two longitudinal ends of the outer flange portion 522 of the housing portion 500, respectively.

[0263] The thickness of each collapse limiting component 601 in the vertical direction is set to be greater than that of the bottom portion 611 of the acoustic coupling agent 610. Figure 20 The thickness of the component in the vertical direction is small. The collapse limiting component 601 can be adhered to the acoustic coupling agent 610 by means of an adhesive component, or it can be integrally formed with the acoustic coupling agent 610.

[0264] When the flow switch 1 is installed on the pipe 2, the lower surface of the housing portion 500 causes the acoustic coupling agent 610 to collapse. In this state, the acoustic coupling agent 610 collapses until the thickness of the bottom portion 611 of the acoustic coupling agent 610 is approximately equal to the thickness of each collapse limiting member 601. Therefore, the lower end face of the collapse limiting member 601 contacts the pipe 2. In this state, the downward movement of the sensor portion 400 above the clamping portion 100 stops, and simultaneously, the collapse of the acoustic coupling agent 610 caused by the housing portion 500 also stops. The amount of collapse of the acoustic coupling agent 610 is limited in this way.

[0265] In this configuration, the operator can install and remove the collapse limiting component 601 and the acoustic coupling agent 610 together, thus improving the ease of installation and removal of the flow switch 1. Furthermore, it also improves the operational efficiency of installing the flow switch 1.

[0266] (3) Shape of the notch

[0267] In this embodiment, the recessed portion 241 of each end face portion 240 of the upper clamping member 200 has a polygonal shape with two vertical cut surfaces 211, one horizontal cut surface 212, and two inclined cut surfaces 213. However, the invention is not limited to this shape. The recessed portion 241 of each end face portion 240 of the upper clamping member 200 can have any shape of the following first to fourth variations. The recessed portion 241 can also have a shape formed by combining the first to fourth variations. The recessed portion 241 can also have other shapes.

[0268] Figure 38 This is a view showing a first variation of the shape of the notch portion 241. (See image.) Figure 38 As shown, in a first variation of the shape of the notch portion 241, the notch portion 241 has an alternative Figure 4A The horizontal section 212 shown has a curved section 212a. The curved section 212a is connected to the upper part of one inclined section 213 and the upper part of another inclined section 213 in a curved manner.

[0269] Figure 39 This is a view showing a second variation of the shape of the notch portion 241. (See image.) Figure 39 As shown, in a second variation of the shape of the notch 241, the notch 241 has an alternative Figure 4A The two inclined sections 213 shown are two sharply inclined sections 213a and two gently inclined sections 213b.

[0270] A sharply inclined section 213a extends inward at an angle from the upper part of a vertical section 211. A gently inclined section 213b extends inward at an angle from the upper part of a sharply inclined section 213a. Another sharply inclined section 213a extends inward at an angle from the upper part of another vertical section 211. Another gently inclined section 213b extends inward at an angle from the upper part of another sharply inclined section 213a. A horizontal section 212 extends horizontally while connecting the inner ends of the two gently inclined sections 213b.

[0271] The inclination angle of the sharply inclined section 213a relative to the horizontal direction is set to be greater than that of the gently inclined section 213b relative to the horizontal direction. Figure 39 In the example shown, two gently sloping cut surfaces 213b contact the upper outer peripheral surface of the pipe 2. The notch portion 241 can also be configured such that, instead of the two gently sloping cut surfaces 213b, two sharply sloping cut surfaces 213a contact the upper outer peripheral surface of the pipe 2.

[0272] Figure 40 This is a view showing a third variation of the shape of the notch portion 241. (See image.) Figure 40 As shown, in the third variation of the shape of the notch 241, the notch 241 does not have Figure 4A Instead of the horizontal cross-section 212 shown, the inner ends of two inclined cross-sections 213 are connected to each other at approximately the center of the end face portion 240 along the width direction.

[0273] Figure 41 This is a view showing a fourth variation of the shape of the notch portion 241. (See image.) Figure 41 As shown, in the fourth variation of the shape of the notch 241, the notch 241 does not have Figure 4A Instead of the two vertical cut surfaces 211 shown, the outer end of the inclined cut surface 213 extends to the end of the end face portion 240 in the width direction. Instead of extending to the end of the end face portion 240 in the width direction, the outer end of the inclined cut surface 213 may extend to the end of the end face portion 240 in the vertical direction.

[0274] (4) Arrangement of ultrasonic components

[0275] In this embodiment, the two ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 are integrated into a common channel component 530 and integrally held by a common housing portion 500. However, the invention is not limited to this configuration. The two ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 can be integrated into separate channel components 530. In this case, the two ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 can be held by the common housing portion 500 or independently by separate housing portions 500. By adopting this configuration, the degree of freedom in arranging the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 is increased. The electronic circuit portion 800 can be held by one housing portion 500 or by two housing portions 500.

[0276] Figure 42 This is a side view of a flow switch 1 according to a first variant of the arrangement of ultrasonic elements 710 and 720. Figure 42 In the example shown, two housing portions 500 and two clamping portions 100 are prepared. The ultrasonic element 710 is held by one housing portion 500 and mounted on the pipe 2 by means of one clamping portion 100. The ultrasonic element 720 is held by the other housing portion 500 and mounted on the pipe 2 by means of another clamping portion 100. The two housing portions 500 can be arranged facing each other, clamping the pipe 2 between them.

[0277] Figure 43 This is a side view of a flow switch 1 of a second variant based on the arrangement of ultrasonic elements 710 and 720. Figure 43 In the example shown, two housing portions 500 are prepared. The lower housing portion 300 of housing portion 100 allows housing portion 500 to be mounted on pipe 2. Ultrasonic element 710 is held by one housing portion 500 and mounted on pipe 2 by means of upper clamping member 200. Ultrasonic element 720 is held by the other housing portion 500 and mounted on pipe 2 by means of lower clamping member 300.

[0278] In this configuration, ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 are arranged facing each other, with the pipe 2 sandwiched between them. This configuration allows for the calculation of the fluid flow rate in the pipe 2 using a transmission-type structure, without the need for additional components.

[0279] (5) Structure of the clamping part

[0280] In this embodiment, the upper clamping member 200 and the lower clamping member 300 of the clamping portion 100 are configured to be separable. However, the invention is not limited to this configuration. The upper clamping member 200 and the lower clamping member 300 of the clamping portion 100 may be integrally formed. Alternatively, the clamping portion 100 may not include the lower clamping member 300.

[0281] Figure 44 This is an end view of the flow switch 1, which is a first variant of the structure of the clamping part 100. Figure 44 In the example shown, a portion of the upper clamping portion 200 and a portion of the lower clamping member 300 of the clamping portion 100 are engaged by means of the hinge portion 111. With this configuration, the upper clamping member 200 and the lower clamping member 300 can be positioned in the middle while the portion of the upper clamping member 200 and the portion of the lower clamping member 300 are fixed to each other. In this variant, the upper clamping member 200 and the lower clamping member 300 of the clamping portion 100 are integrally formed, thus improving the loading and unloading capability of the clamping portion 100.

[0282] Figure 45 This is an end view of the flow switch 1, a second variant of the structure based on the clamping portion 100. Figure 45 In the example shown, the clamping portion 100 does not include the lower clamping member 300 but includes a clamping band 112. The upper clamping member 200 is secured to the pipe 2 by means of the clamping band 112. In this case, the sensor portion 400 is mounted on the pipe 2 by means of the upper clamping member 200 and the clamping band 112.

[0283] [6] Beneficial effects

[0284] (1) Beneficial effects of the joint

[0285] In the flow switch 1 according to this embodiment, when the clamping portion 100 is mounted on the outer surface of the pipe 2 and the sensor portion 400 is held by the clamping portion 100, the acoustic coupling agent 610 is pressed against the outer surface of the pipe 2, causing the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 to acoustically couple with the pipe 2. Here, the amount of collapse of the acoustic coupling agent 610 caused by the pipe 2 is limited at the part where the mating end face portion 521B of the housing portion 500 is the largest.

[0286] With this construction, even when the sensor portion 400 is mounted on the pipe 2 with a relatively large outer diameter, the acoustic coupling agent 610 can be pressed into the pipe 2, allowing the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 to reliably couple acoustically with the pipe 2. On the other hand, even when the sensor portion 400 is mounted on the pipe 2 with a relatively small outer diameter, the maximum amount of collapse of the acoustic coupling agent 610 can be reliably limited, thus preventing damage to the acoustic coupling agent 610 due to excessive collapse caused by the pipe 2.

[0287] In these cases, regardless of the outer diameter of the pipe 2 and the operator, the maximum collapse of the acoustic coupling agent 610 is limited to a fixed value, while the portion of the acoustic coupling agent 610 with the minimum thickness has a fixed thickness. Therefore, the acoustic coupling between the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 and the pipe 2 can be determined without change. As a result, the flow switch 1 can be stably installed on pipes 2 of various sizes without compromising the uniformity of the flow switch 1's performance.

[0288] In this embodiment, the mating end face portion 521B is integrally mounted on the housing portion 500 as a collapse limiting portion. The mating end face portion 521B contacts the outer surface of the pipe 2, thereby limiting the distance between the outer surface of the pipe 2 and the lower surface of the channel component 530. Therefore, the collapse amount of the acoustic coupling agent 610 is limited.

[0289] In this case, no additional collapse limiting part is required, thus reducing the number of components forming the flow switch 1. Furthermore, the operator can install and remove the collapse limiting part together with the housing part 500, thereby improving the ease of installation and removal of the flow switch 1. This also improves the efficiency of the installation and operation of the flow switch 1.

[0290] The acoustic coupling agent 610 is detachably mounted on the housing portion 500 using the retaining member 620. Therefore, the acoustic coupling agent 610 can be easily mounted on or removed from the housing portion 500. With this configuration, the operator can easily perform the operation of replacing the acoustic coupling agent 610. As a result, the maintenance cost of the flow switch 1 can be reduced.

[0291] (2) Beneficial effects of the clamping part

[0292] In the flow switch 1 according to this embodiment, the clamping portion 100 is mounted on the outer surface of the pipe 2. The sensor portion 400 is fixed to the clamping portion 100 by means of a sensor fixing screw 410. In this configuration, when the sensor portion 400 is not fixed to the clamping portion 100, although the displacement of the sensor portion 400 along the axial and circumferential directions of the pipe 2 is restricted, the radial displacement of the sensor portion 400 along the pipe 2 is allowed. In this case, the mounting positions of the sensor portion 400 along the axial and circumferential directions of the pipe 2 are determined to correspond to the mounting positions of the clamping portion 100. Furthermore, the radial position of the sensor portion 400 along the pipe 2 can be adjusted on the clamping portion 100.

[0293] This design allows for independent adjustment of the fixing force used to secure the clamping portion 100 to the pipe 2, as well as the fixing force used to secure the sensor portion 400 to the clamping portion 100. Therefore, the axial and circumferential positions of the sensor portion 400 along the pipe 2 can be determined by firmly securing the clamping portion 100 to the pipe 2. Then, by operating the sensor fixing screw 410, the radial position of the sensor portion 400 along the pipe 2 can be determined to ensure sufficient contact between the sensor portion 400 and the pipe 2.

[0294] Therefore, even when the sensor part 400 is installed on pipes 2 of various sizes, it is not necessary to use excessive force to bring the sensor part 400 into contact with the pipe 2. Thus, the position of the ultrasonic transmitting part can be accurately determined without damaging the sensor part 400. With the help of this accurate determination of the position of the ultrasonic transmitting part, the ultrasonic receiving sensitivity can be easily adjusted to the desired value. As a result, the flow switch 1 can be stably installed on pipes 2 of various sizes.

[0295] The end face portion 240 of the upper clamping member 200 has two inclined cut surfaces 213. The two inclined cut surfaces 213 are positioned on one side and the other side of a plane of symmetry, so as to be inclined symmetrically to each other with respect to the plane of symmetry, which intersects the ultrasonic transmitting / receiving surface of the sensor portion 400 and includes radial and axial dimensions.

[0296] With this configuration, even when the clamping portion 100 is mounted on pipes 2 of various sizes, the two inclined cut surfaces 213 of the clamping portion 100 remain in contact with the pipe 2. Therefore, the fixing force securing the clamping portion 100 to the pipe 2 can be increased. Furthermore, the transmitting / receiving surface of the sensor portion 400 is positioned between the two inclined cut surfaces 213. Therefore, even when the clamping portion 100 is mounted on pipes 2 of various sizes, the sensor portion 400 can only be displaced radially along the pipe 2, without causing axial or circumferential displacement of the sensor portion 400 on the clamping portion 100 along the pipe 2.

[0297] Furthermore, at least one portion of the bottom surface portion 310 of the lower clamping member 300 of the clamping portion 100 contacts the pipe 2. Therefore, regardless of the outer diameter of the pipe 2, the fixing force for securing the clamping portion 100 to the pipe 2 can be increased. In addition, even when the clamping portion 100 is securely fixed to the pipe 2, the pipe 2 can be prevented from deforming into an elliptical shape.

[0298] (3) Beneficial effects of the shell section

[0299] In the flow switch 1 according to this embodiment, ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 are acoustically coupled to the element mating surfaces 530A and 530B of the channel member 530 of the housing portion 500, respectively. The pipe mating surface 530C of the channel member 530 of the housing portion 500 is acoustically coupled to the pipe 2. With this configuration, the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 are supported by the channel member 530 in the desired position and orientation. Therefore, the ultrasonic element 710 can be easily arranged such that ultrasonic waves are emitted into the fluid in the pipe 2, and the ultrasonic element 720 can also be easily arranged such that the ultrasonic element 720 receives ultrasonic waves propagating in the fluid within the pipe 2.

[0300] The ultrasonic waves emitted by the ultrasonic element 710 are guided to the pipe 2 via the channel component 530. Simultaneously, the ultrasonic waves propagating through the fluid in the pipe 2 are guided to the ultrasonic element 720 via the channel component 530. Here, the channel component 530 is formed of a material that allows ultrasonic waves to pass through, thus improving the acoustic transmittance of the channel component 530.

[0301] As described above, there is no need to separately provide components for supporting the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720, or components for forming the ultrasonic wave channel. Therefore, component costs, manufacturing costs, and assembly costs can be reduced. Furthermore, since the components for supporting the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 and the components for forming the ultrasonic wave channel are integrally joined, there is no possibility of a decrease in the transmission and reception efficiency of the ultrasonic waves at the joint, even when temperature changes or mechanical loads are applied to the components. Furthermore, there is no possibility of fluids such as water or oil intruding into the components through the joint. Moreover, the assembly steps of the flow switch 1 can be simplified. As a result, the flow switch 1 can be easily manufactured at low cost without reducing the transmission and reception efficiency of the ultrasonic waves.

[0302] Some parts of the ultrasonic control mechanism 700 and some parts of the electronic circuit 800 are housed in a housing portion 500, which is formed by an upper housing portion 510, a lower housing portion 520, and a channel member 530. The housing portion 500 includes waterproof structures such as a display portion sealing member 541, a connection portion sealing member 542, an operation portion sealing member 543, a lamp sealing member 544, an inter-housing sealing member 545, and an inter-housing channel sealing member 546. This construction improves the durability of the flow switch 1, such as its heat resistance, water resistance, or oil resistance.

[0303] (4) Other beneficial effects brought by the sensor components

[0304] In the flow switch 1 according to this embodiment, the operation of clamping and fixing screw 110 and sensor fixing screw 410 can be performed from a common direction (vertical direction in this embodiment). Furthermore, the display portion 821 is configured to be observable from this common direction. The connection portion 830 is configured to allow cable 3 to be connected to the connection portion 830 from the common direction.

[0305] In this configuration, the operator can efficiently perform the operations of mounting the clamping portion 100 onto the pipe 2 and securing the sensor portion 400 to the clamping portion 100 from this common direction using the sensor fixing screw 410. The user can also easily observe the display portion 821 from this common direction. Furthermore, the cable 3 can be easily connected to the connection portion 830 without interfering with the pipe 2.

[0306] [7] Other embodiments

[0307] (1) In the above embodiment, the sensor section 400 calculates the flow rate Q of the fluid flowing in the pipe 2 using equation (2) based on the propagation time difference system. However, the invention is not limited thereto. The sensor section 400 may calculate the flow rate Q of the fluid flowing in the pipe 2 based on a Doppler system. In this case, one of the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 may be formed by an ultrasonic transmitting element, while the other ultrasonic element in the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 may be formed by an ultrasonic receiving element.

[0308] (2) In the above embodiment, the electronic circuit portion 800 includes a display portion 821 and an indicator lamp 850. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. The electronic circuit portion 800 may not include the display portion 821 or may not include the indicator lamp 850.

[0309] (3) In the above embodiments, the lower housing portion 520 and the channel component 530 are formed as separate components. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. The lower housing portion 520 and the channel component 530 can be formed integrally. In this case, waterproofing can be easily achieved between the lower housing portion 520 and the channel component 530.

[0310] (4) In the above embodiment, a waterproof structure is not provided at the joint between the lower housing portion 520 and the joint portion 600. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. A waterproof structure may be provided at the joint between the lower housing portion 520 and the joint portion 600.

[0311] (5) In the above embodiments, the housing portion 500 includes a channel member 530, and the channel member 530 has component mating surfaces 530A, 530B and a common pipe mating surface 530C formed thereon. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. The housing portion 500 may include two channel members 530 formed as separate bodies. In this configuration, the component mating surface 530A and the pipe mating surface 530C are formed on one channel member 530, while the component mating surface 530B and the pipe mating surface 530C are formed on another pipe member 530.

[0312] (6) In the above embodiment, in the upper clamping member 200 of the housing portion 500, the movable portion 220 is mounted on the fixed portion 210. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. In the upper clamping member 200, the movable portion 220 may not be mounted on the fixed portion 210. Specifically, when the sensor portion 400 is mounted on the clamping portion 100, if the plurality of clamping fixing screws 110 are positioned below the sensor portion 400, the operator cannot operate the plurality of clamping fixing screws 110 from above. In this case, it is not necessary to mount the movable portion 220 on the fixed portion 210.

[0313] (7) In the above embodiment, a posture holding mechanism 120 is provided for each clamping and fixing screw 110. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. It is not necessary to provide a posture holding mechanism 120 for each clamping and fixing screw 110. Specifically, when the clamping portion 100 is mounted on the horizontally extending pipe 2, each clamping and fixing screw 110 is held in a generally vertical position, so it is not necessary to provide a posture holding mechanism 120 for each clamping and fixing screw 110.

[0314] Furthermore, when the clamping portion 100 is small in size and the clamping screw 110 is short in length, each clamping screw 110 remains in a substantially vertical position even when the clamping portion 100 is arranged such that its longitudinal or width direction is vertical. Similarly, in this case, it is not necessary to provide an attitude retention mechanism 120 for each clamping screw 110.

[0315] (8) In the above embodiment, the threaded hole that engages with the clamping screw 110 is selected between the threaded hole 331h and the threaded hole 332h, depending on whether the lower clamping member 300 is oriented in the first direction or the second direction. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. Other methods can be used to select the threaded hole that engages with the clamping screw 110 between the threaded hole 331h and the threaded hole 332h.

[0316] For example, threaded holes 331h or 332h can also be formed in the lower housing component 300, such that threaded holes 331h or 332h are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction. In this case, by selecting the longitudinal position of the upper clamping component 200 relative to the lower clamping component 300, a threaded hole that engages with the clamping and fixing screw 110 can be selected between threaded holes 331h and threaded holes 332h.

[0317] (9) In the above embodiment, the clamping screw 110 and the sensor fixing screw 410 are configured to be operable from a common direction. The display portion 821 is configured to be observable from a common direction. The connecting portion 830 is configured to allow the cable 3 to be connected to the connecting portion 830 from a common direction. However, the invention is not limited to this configuration. The clamping screw 110 and the sensor fixing screw 410 may be configured to be operable from other directions. The display portion 821 may be configured to be observable from other directions. The connecting portion 830 may be configured to allow the cable 3 to be connected to the connecting portion 830 from other directions. Alternatively, the display portion 821 or the connecting portion 830 may be rotatably disposed relative to the housing portion 500, such that the display portion 821 or the connecting portion 830 points in a desired direction.

[0318] (10) In the above embodiments, it is preferred that the acoustic coupling agent 610 is arranged such that it acoustically couples both ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 to the pipe 2. However, the invention is not limited to this configuration. The acoustic coupling agent 610 may be arranged such that it acoustically couples at least one of the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 to the pipe 2.

[0319] (11) In the above embodiment, it is preferred that the sensor portion 400 is mounted on the pipe 2 by means of the clamping portion 100. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. It can be mounted on the pipe 2 by means of the clamping portion 112. Figure 45 The sensor part 400 is mounted on the pipe 2 in the same manner as the clamp 112 shown.

[0320] (12) In the above embodiment, the channel component 530, which supports the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 and also forms a channel for ultrasonic waves, is provided as part of the housing portion 500. However, the invention is not limited to this configuration. Instead of the channel component 530, the component supporting the ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 and the component forming the channel for ultrasonic waves can be provided independently for the housing portion 500.

[0321] [8] The correspondence between the constituent elements in the claims and the parts used in the embodiments.

[0322] In the following description, examples of the correspondence between the constituent elements in the claims and the parts used in the embodiments will be presented. However, the invention is not limited to the following examples.

[0323] In the above embodiments, pipe 2 is an example of a pipe, flow switch 1 is an example of an ultrasonic flow switch, and ultrasonic elements 710 and 720 are examples of a first ultrasonic element and a second ultrasonic element, respectively. Control section 811 is an example of a computing device and an output section, housing section 500 is an example of an element holding section, clamping section 100 is an example of a mounting component, and acoustic coupling agent 610 is an example of an acoustic contact medium.

[0324] The collapse limiting protrusion 101, collapse limiting components 402, 403, 601, or mating end face portion 521B are examples of collapse limiting portions, and the collapse limiting screw 401 is an example of a collapse limiting portion and a screw component. The retaining component 620 is an example of a media retaining component, the adhesive component 421 is an example of an adhesive component, the sensor fixing screw 410 is an example of a fixing component, the display portion 821 is an example of a display portion, the cable 3 is an example of a connecting wire, and the connecting portion 830 is an example of a connecting portion.

[0325] Various other elements having the construction and function described in the claims may also be used as constituent elements described in the claims.

[0326] Industrial availability

[0327] This invention is effectively applicable to various types of ultrasonic flow switches.

Claims

1. An ultrasonic flow switch that outputs an ON / OFF signal based on the flow rate of fluid in a pipe, the ultrasonic flow switch comprising: The first ultrasonic element is configured to emit ultrasonic waves into the fluid in the pipe; A second ultrasonic element is configured to receive ultrasonic waves from the fluid in the pipe; A computing device configured to calculate the flow rate of the fluid in the pipe based on the output signal from the second ultrasonic element; The output section is configured to output the ON / OFF signal based on the flow rate calculated by the computing device and a predetermined flow rate threshold; The component holding part integrally or independently holds the first ultrasonic component and the second ultrasonic component, such that the first ultrasonic component and the second ultrasonic component are arranged along a first direction. Mounting components are detachably mounted on the outer surface of the pipe and configured to retain the element holding portion; An acoustic contact medium, formed of a soft elastomer, is disposed between at least one of the first and second ultrasonic elements and the conduit, and the acoustic contact medium is detachably mounted on the element holding portion. as well as A medium holding member that holds the acoustic contact medium in the element holding portion. The acoustic contact medium (610) includes a bottom portion (611) and an outer flange portion (612). In the radial direction of the pipe, the bottom portion (611) is located below the outer flange portion (612). The outer flange portion protrudes outward from the upper part of two ends of the bottom portion along a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. A contact medium opening (623) extending in the first direction is formed in the central portion of the bottom surface portion (621) of the medium holding member along the second direction, and the bottom surface portion (611) of the acoustic contact medium is fitted to the contact medium opening (623) from the radial direction above. The acoustic contact medium is pressed against the outer surface of the pipe, such that, with the mounting component mounted on the outer surface of the pipe and the element holding portion held by the mounting component, the at least one ultrasonic element acoustically couples with the pipe, and The ultrasonic flow switch also includes a collapse limiting section, which limits the collapse of the acoustic contact medium at the point where the collapse caused by the pipe is maximum. The element holding portion has a channel component (530), and the acoustic contact medium is arranged between the channel component (530) and the pipe. The first ultrasonic element and the second ultrasonic element are supported by the channel component. Ultrasonic waves emitted from the first ultrasonic element (710) are incident on the fluid in the pipe via the channel component and the acoustic contact medium. The pipe joint surface (530C) of the channel component (530) as the lower surface enters between the two outer flange portions (612) and contacts the upper surface of the bottom portion (611) of the acoustic contact medium (610).

2. The ultrasonic flow switch according to claim 1, wherein, The soft elastomer includes polymeric rubber.

3. The ultrasonic flow switch according to claim 1, wherein, The collapse limiting portion restricts the collapse of the acoustic contact medium caused by the pipe to be more than 10% and less than 50% of the thickness of the acoustic contact medium when the acoustic contact medium is not in contact with the outer surface of the pipe.

4. The ultrasonic flow switch according to claim 1, wherein, The collapse limiting portion is disposed between the element holding portion and the conduit, and limits the collapse amount of the acoustic contact medium by limiting the distance between the outer surface of the conduit and a portion of the element holding portion.

5. The ultrasonic flow switch according to claim 4, wherein, The collapse limiting portion is detachably or integrally mounted on the element holding portion and limits the collapse of the acoustic contact medium by contacting the outer surface of the pipe.

6. The ultrasonic flow switch according to claim 5, wherein, The collapse limiting portion includes a screw component mounted on the element holding portion, and the screw component limits the collapse of the acoustic contact medium by contacting the outer surface of the conduit.

7. The ultrasonic flow switch according to claim 4, wherein, The collapse limiting portion is disposed between the element holding portion and the outer surface of the conduit, and limits the collapse of the acoustic contact medium by contacting the outer surface of the conduit and the element holding portion.

8. The ultrasonic flow switch according to claim 1, wherein, The collapse limiting portion is disposed between the element holding portion and the mounting component, and limits the collapse amount of the acoustic contact medium by limiting the distance between a portion of the element holding portion and a portion of the mounting component.

9. The ultrasonic flow switch according to claim 8, wherein, The collapse limiting portion can be detachably or integrally mounted on one of the element holding portion and the mounting component, and limits the collapse of the acoustic contact medium by contacting the other of the element holding portion and the mounting component.

10. The ultrasonic flow switch according to claim 9, wherein, The collapse limiting portion is integrally mounted on the mounting component.

11. The ultrasonic flow switch according to claim 8, wherein, The collapse limiting portion is disposed between the element holding portion and the mounting component, and limits the collapse amount of the acoustic contact medium by contacting the element holding portion and the mounting component.

12. The ultrasonic flow switch according to claim 1, wherein, The collapse limiting portion is installed on the acoustic contact medium and limits the collapse of the acoustic contact medium by limiting the distance between the outer surface of the pipe and a portion of the element holding portion.

13. The ultrasonic flow switch according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, The portion limiting the amount of collapse does not come into contact with the acoustic contact medium.

14. The ultrasonic flow switch according to claim 1, wherein, The element holding portion accommodates a filling member (740) that partially covers the outer periphery of the first ultrasonic element and the second ultrasonic element.

15. The ultrasonic flow switch according to claim 1 or 14, wherein, The element holding part has an ultrasonic shield (730) located between the first ultrasonic element and the second ultrasonic element, the ultrasonic shield (730) blocking the transmission of ultrasonic waves between the first ultrasonic element and the second ultrasonic element.

16. The ultrasonic flow switch according to claim 1, wherein, Compared to the lower surface of the bottom portion (621) of the medium holding member (620), the lower surface of the bottom portion (611) of the acoustic contact medium (610) protrudes further downward in the radial direction.

17. The ultrasonic flow switch according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes a fixing component that secures the element holding portion to the mounting component, and The mounting component and the element retaining portion are configured such that: the operation of mounting the mounting component on the pipe is performed from a common direction, and the operation of fixing the element retaining portion to the mounting component is performed using the fixing component.

18. The ultrasonic flow switch according to claim 17, wherein, Also includes: The display section shows the threshold and the flow rate calculated by the computing device. The display portion is disposed on the element holding portion, such that the display portion can be seen from the common direction.

19. The ultrasonic flow switch according to claim 17, wherein, Also includes: The connection section, through which the connecting line for transmitting the ON / OFF signal output from the output section can be connected, The connecting portion is disposed on the component holding portion, so that the connecting line can be connected to the connecting portion from the common direction.

20. The ultrasonic flow switch according to claim 19, wherein, The first ultrasonic element and the second ultrasonic element receive power via the connection portion.

21. The ultrasonic flow switch according to claim 1, wherein, The second ultrasonic element is further configured to emit ultrasonic waves into the fluid in the pipe; The first ultrasonic element is also configured to receive ultrasonic waves from the fluid in the pipe; The computing device is configured to calculate the flow rate of the fluid in the pipe based on the output signals from the first ultrasonic element and the second ultrasonic element.

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