System for expanding the test range of a gas permeability tester, tester and method

Abstract

The application provides a system, a tester and a method for expanding the test range of a gas permeability tester, a first test cavity and a second test cavity are used for placing a sample, the first test cavity is provided with at least a first through hole in communication with an inner cavity, and the first through hole is in communication with a test gas pipeline; the second test cavity is provided with at least a second through hole and a third through hole, the second through hole is in communication with a first carrier gas pipeline, the third through hole is in communication with a first input port of a mixing device, a second input port of the mixing device is in communication with a second carrier gas pipeline, an output port of the mixing device is in communication with a gas sensing element, and at least one valve is arranged on the second carrier gas pipeline; the application can expand the test range of the gas permeability tester without changing the precision of the gas sensing element, and meanwhile, the overall cost of the gas permeability tester is not excessively high.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of gas permeability testing technology, and in particular to a system, instrument, and method for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester. Background Technology

[0002] The statements in this section are merely background information related to the present invention and do not necessarily constitute prior art.

[0003] Gas permeability testers for packaging materials incorporate one or more gas sensors to measure the permeability of various gases, such as oxygen and water vapor. The gas sensors in these testers typically calculate the permeability by detecting the concentration of the target gas in the carrier gas. To ensure accuracy, the range of the gas sensors in these testers is generally very small. This results in high accuracy for the gas permeability tester, but a limited measurement range.

[0004] The inventors discovered that some current gas permeability testers have set up multiple gas sensing elements with different ranges inside the instrument in order to solve the problem of high test accuracy but small measurement range. This can ensure test accuracy and have a large test range. However, it is necessary to frequently switch between gas sensing elements with different ranges during the test, which reduces the test efficiency of the instrument and increases the cost. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this invention provides a system, instrument, and method for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester. This method can expand the testing range of the gas permeability tester without changing the accuracy of the gas sensing element, while also preventing the overall cost of the gas permeability tester from becoming too high.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] The first aspect of the present invention provides a system for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester.

[0008] A system for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester includes: a first test chamber and a second test chamber;

[0009] The opening of the inner cavity of the first test chamber and the space between the inner cavity of the second test chamber are used to place the sample. The first test chamber has at least a first through hole communicating with the inner cavity, and the first through hole is connected to the test gas pipeline.

[0010] The second test chamber has at least a second through hole and a third through hole. The second through hole is connected to the first carrier gas pipeline, and the third through hole is connected to the first input port of the mixing device. The second input port of the mixing device is connected to the second carrier gas pipeline, and the output port of the mixing device is connected to the gas sensing element. At least one valve is provided on the second carrier gas pipeline.

[0011] Furthermore, it also includes a test gas supply device, with the first through hole connected to the test gas supply device through a test gas pipeline.

[0012] Furthermore, the output of the gas sensing element is connected to the first flow meter.

[0013] Furthermore, the first test chamber has a fourth through hole for venting that communicates with the inner cavity.

[0014] In the first implementation:

[0015] The system also includes a carrier gas supply device, and the second through hole is connected to the carrier gas supply device through the first carrier gas pipeline. At least one first flow controller is provided on the first carrier gas pipeline.

[0016] The second input port of the mixing device is connected to the carrier gas supply device through the second carrier gas pipeline. The second carrier gas pipeline is equipped with a second flow controller and a second flow meter. The valve on the second carrier gas pipeline is the first shut-off valve.

[0017] In the second implementation:

[0018] Based on the first implementation, the second carrier gas pipeline is connected to the exhaust pipeline, and a second shut-off valve is installed on the exhaust pipeline.

[0019] In the third implementation method:

[0020] The system also includes a carrier gas supply device. The second input port of the mixing device is connected to the carrier gas supply device through a second carrier gas pipeline. The second carrier gas pipeline is equipped with a second flow controller, a second flow meter and a three-way valve. The output port of the second flow meter is connected to the first port of the three-way valve. The second port of the three-way valve is connected to the second input port of the mixing device. The third port of the three-way valve is connected to the exhaust pipeline.

[0021] A second aspect of the present invention provides a method for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester.

[0022] A method for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester, utilizing the system for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester as described in the first aspect of the present invention, includes the following steps:

[0023] The first through hole receives the gas to be tested and enters the inner cavity of the first test chamber; some of the gas to be tested permeates through the sample into the inner cavity of the second test chamber.

[0024] The second through hole receives the carrier gas and enters the inner cavity of the second test chamber, where it mixes with the gas to be tested that permeates through the sample to form a mixed gas. The mixed gas enters the mixing device through the third through hole and then enters the gas sensing element for testing.

[0025] During the extended range test, the valve on the second carrier gas pipeline is opened, and a certain flow rate of carrier gas flows through the valve into the mixing device to mix with the mixed gas, thereby reducing the concentration of the gas being measured to the range of the gas sensing element.

[0026] The gas sensing element measures the content of the gas to be tested in the secondary mixed gas. The first flow meter measures the total flow rate of the secondary mixed gas, and the second flow meter measures the flow rate of the second carrier gas. The difference between the two is the actual flow rate passing through the second test chamber. Based on the flow rate ratio and the gas content measured by the gas sensing element, the concentration of the gas to be tested can be calculated.

[0027] A third aspect of the present invention provides a method for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester.

[0028] A method for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester, utilizing the system for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester as described in the second implementation of the first aspect of the present invention, includes the following steps:

[0029] The first through hole receives the gas to be tested and enters the inner cavity of the first test chamber; some of the gas to be tested permeates through the sample into the inner cavity of the second test chamber.

[0030] The second through hole receives the carrier gas and enters the inner cavity of the second test chamber, where it mixes with the gas to be tested that permeates through the sample to form a mixed gas. The mixed gas enters the mixing device through the third through hole and then enters the gas sensing element for testing.

[0031] When performing extended range testing, the second shut-off valve is opened, and the carrier gas flows in the second carrier gas pipeline and the exhaust pipeline. After a set time, the second shut-off valve is closed, and the first shut-off valve is opened. A certain flow rate of carrier gas flows through the first shut-off valve into the mixing device and mixes with the mixed gas, so that the concentration of the gas being measured is reduced to the range of the gas sensing element.

[0032] The gas sensing element measures the content of the gas to be tested in the secondary mixed gas. The first flow meter measures the total flow rate of the secondary mixed gas, and the second flow meter measures the flow rate of the second carrier gas. The difference between the two is the actual flow rate passing through the second test chamber. Based on the flow rate ratio and the gas content measured by the gas sensing element, the concentration of the gas to be tested can be calculated.

[0033] The fourth aspect of the present invention provides a method for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester.

[0034] A method for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester, utilizing the system for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester as described in the third implementation of the first aspect of the present invention, includes the following steps:

[0035] The first through hole receives the gas to be tested and enters the inner cavity of the first test chamber; some of the gas to be tested permeates through the sample into the inner cavity of the second test chamber.

[0036] The second through hole receives the carrier gas and enters the inner cavity of the second test chamber, where it mixes with the gas to be tested that permeates through the sample to form a mixed gas. The mixed gas enters the mixing device through the third through hole and then enters the gas sensing element for testing.

[0037] When performing extended range testing, open the first and third ports of the three-way valve, and the carrier gas flows in the second carrier gas pipeline and the exhaust pipeline. After a set time, close the third port of the three-way valve and open the second port of the three-way valve. A certain flow rate of carrier gas flows through the second port of the three-way valve into the mixing device and mixes with the mixed gas, so that the concentration of the gas being measured is reduced to the range of the gas sensing element.

[0038] The gas sensing element measures the content of the gas to be tested in the secondary mixed gas. The first flow meter measures the total flow rate of the secondary mixed gas, and the second flow meter measures the flow rate of the second carrier gas. The difference between the two is the actual flow rate passing through the second test chamber. Based on the flow rate ratio and the gas content measured by the gas sensing element, the concentration of the gas to be tested can be calculated.

[0039] The fifth aspect of the present invention provides a gas permeability tester, including the system for expanding the test range of the gas permeability tester as described in the first aspect of the present invention.

[0040] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are:

[0041] 1. The system, instrument, and method for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester as described in this invention can expand the testing range of the gas permeability tester without changing the accuracy of the gas sensing element, while also preventing the overall cost of the gas permeability tester from becoming too high.

[0042] 2. The system, instrument, and method for expanding the test range of a gas permeability tester as described in this invention can expand the test range of the gas permeability tester without changing the range and accuracy of the gas sensing element, while not reducing the test accuracy.

[0043] 3. The system, instrument, and method for expanding the testing range of the gas permeability tester described in this invention can expand the testing range of the tester and improve testing efficiency. It can achieve testing of various samples with different ranges without increasing the number of sensing elements, thus saving costs.

[0044] Advantages of additional aspects of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0045] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this invention, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments of the invention and their descriptions are used to explain the invention and do not constitute an improper limitation of the invention.

[0046] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the system for expanding the testing range of the gas permeability tester provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the system for expanding the testing range of the gas permeability tester provided in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the system for expanding the testing range of the gas permeability tester provided in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0049] Among them, 1. Test gas supply device; 2. Carrier gas supply device; 3. First test chamber; 4. Sample; 5. Second test chamber; 6. Mixing device; 7. Gas sensing element; 8. First flow meter; 9. First flow controller; 10. Second flow controller; 11. Second flow meter; 12. First shut-off valve; 13. Second shut-off valve; 14. Three-way valve. Detailed Implementation

[0050] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0051] It should be noted that the following detailed descriptions are exemplary and intended to provide further illustration of the invention. Unless otherwise specified, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains.

[0052] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of exemplary embodiments according to the invention. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0053] Where there is no conflict, the embodiments and features in the embodiments of the present invention can be combined with each other.

[0054] Example 1:

[0055] like Figure 1 As shown, Embodiment 1 of the present invention provides a system for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester, comprising: a first testing chamber 3 and a second testing chamber 5;

[0056] The opening of the inner cavity of the first test chamber 3 and the space between the inner cavity of the second test chamber 5 are used to place the sample 4. The first test chamber 3 has at least a first through hole communicating with the inner cavity, and the first through hole is connected to the test gas pipeline.

[0057] The second test chamber 5 has at least a second through hole and a third through hole. The second through hole is connected to the first carrier gas pipeline, the third through hole is connected to the first input port of the mixing device 6, the second input port of the mixing device 6 is connected to the second carrier gas pipeline, and the output port of the mixing device 6 is connected to the gas sensing element 7.

[0058] Optionally, the system further includes a gas supply device 1 (understandably, the gas supply device 1 can be an external part not included in this system, or it can be a part included in this system; those skilled in the art can combine them according to specific working conditions), and the first through hole is connected to the gas supply device 1 through the test gas pipeline.

[0059] In this embodiment, the output terminal of the gas sensing element 7 is connected to the first flow meter 8.

[0060] Optionally, the system further includes a carrier gas supply device 2 (understandably, the carrier gas supply device 2 may be an external part not included in this system, or it may be a part included in this system; those skilled in the art can combine them according to specific working conditions), and the second through hole is connected to the carrier gas supply device 2 through the first carrier gas pipeline, and at least one first flow controller 9 is provided on the first carrier gas pipeline.

[0061] In this embodiment, the second input port of the mixing device 6 is connected to the carrier gas supply device 2 through the second carrier gas pipeline. The second carrier gas pipeline is equipped with a second flow controller 10 and a second flow meter 11. The valve on the second carrier gas pipeline is a first shut-off valve 12. The input port of the second flow controller 10 is connected to the carrier gas supply device 2, the output port of the second flow controller 10 is connected to the input port of the second flow meter 11, the output port of the second flow meter 11 is connected to the input port of the first shut-off valve 12, and the output port of the first shut-off valve 12 is connected to the second input port of the mixing device 6.

[0062] In this embodiment, the first test cavity 3 has a fourth through hole for venting that communicates with the inner cavity.

[0063] It is understood that in some other embodiments, the number of the first through hole, the second through hole, the third through hole and the fourth through hole is not limited to one, but can be multiple, as long as they can realize the corresponding through hole functions. For example, multiple first through holes can be used to simultaneously introduce test gas, multiple fourth through holes can be used to simultaneously exhaust gas, multiple second through holes can be used to simultaneously introduce carrier gas, and multiple third through holes can be used to simultaneously exit mixed gas. Those skilled in the art can design according to specific working conditions, which will not be elaborated here.

[0064] The shut-off valve in this embodiment can be a manual, electric, or pneumatic on / off control valve. Those skilled in the art can choose according to the specific working conditions, as long as on / off control can be achieved. Further details will not be provided here.

[0065] In this embodiment, the corresponding inner cavity openings of the first test cavity 3 and the second test cavity 5 are all facing the sample 4, and the sample completely covers the inner cavity openings of the first test cavity 3 and the second test cavity 5. One or more continuous or spaced annular seals may also be provided around the respective inner cavity openings of the first test cavity 3 and the second test cavity 5.

[0066] The test gas pipeline can also be equipped with a flow controller and a shut-off valve. Those skilled in the art can choose according to the specific working conditions, which will not be elaborated here.

[0067] In this embodiment, each flow controller can be a mass flow controller that is manually or automatically controlled, or a device such as a needle valve or a proportional valve used to control the gas flow. Those skilled in the art can select according to the specific working conditions, which will not be elaborated here.

[0068] In this embodiment, the mixing device 6 may have more input and output ports. Those skilled in the art can select according to specific operating conditions, which will not be elaborated here.

[0069] In this embodiment, the mixing device 6 can be a three-way connector, a three-way valve, or other devices for gas mixing, as long as it has a corresponding air inlet and a corresponding mixing cavity. Those skilled in the art can select according to the specific working conditions, which will not be elaborated here.

[0070] The working principle of the system described in this embodiment includes:

[0071] The gas to be tested enters the inner cavity of the first test chamber 3 from the gas supply device 1 through the pipeline and the first through hole on the first test chamber 3. Part of the gas to be tested permeates into the inner cavity of the second test chamber 5 through the sample 4, and the remaining gas to be tested is discharged through the fourth through hole of the first test chamber 3.

[0072] The carrier gas pipeline is divided into two paths. One path is where the carrier gas is supplied by the carrier gas supply device 2 and flows through the pipeline to the first flow controller 9. Under the control of the first flow controller 9, a certain flow rate of carrier gas enters the inner cavity of the second test chamber 5 through the pipeline from the second through hole of the second test chamber 5. It mixes with the gas to be tested that permeates through the sample 4 to form a mixed gas. The mixed gas enters the mixing device 6 through the pipeline from the third through hole of the second test chamber 5.

[0073] Another carrier gas flows from the carrier gas supply device 2 through the pipeline to the second flow controller 10. Under the control of the second flow controller 10, a certain flow rate of carrier gas flows through the pipeline to the second flow meter 11, and then enters the inlet of the first shut-off valve 12 through the pipeline.

[0074] When performing extended range testing, the first shut-off valve 12 is opened, and a certain flow rate of carrier gas enters the mixing device 6 through the first shut-off valve 12, mixes with the mixed gas, and reduces the concentration of the gas being measured to the range of the gas sensing element 7.

[0075] The secondary mixed gas flows into the gas sensing element 7 through the outlet of the mixing device 6 via a pipeline, and then flows into the first flow meter 8 through the outlet of the gas sensing element 7 via a pipeline, and finally the secondary mixed gas is discharged through the pipeline.

[0076] The gas sensing element 7 measures the content of the gas to be tested in the secondary mixed gas, the first flow meter 8 measures the total flow rate of the secondary mixed gas, and the second flow meter 11 measures the flow rate of the second carrier gas. The difference between the two is the actual flow rate passing through the second test chamber 5. Based on the flow rate ratio and the gas content measured by the gas sensing element 7, the concentration of the gas to be tested can be calculated.

[0077] Two specific examples are given below:

[0078] Case 1:

[0079] Assuming the range of gas sensing element 7 is 0-200ppm, the flow rate of the mixture of carrier gas and gas to be measured flowing out from the third through hole of the second test chamber 5 is 10ml / min, and the concentration of the gas to be measured is 300ppm, which exceeds the range of gas sensing element 7 and cannot be measured directly; the other carrier gas, after passing through the second flow controller 10, has a flow rate of 10ml / min, and the gas is pure carrier gas;

[0080] After the two gases are mixed in the mixing device 6, the flow rate is about 20 ml / min, and the concentration of the gas to be measured becomes about 150 ppm, which can be directly measured by the gas sensing element 7.

[0081] Case 2:

[0082] Assuming the range of gas sensing element 7 is 0-500ppm, the flow rate of the mixture of carrier gas and gas to be measured flowing out from the third through hole of the second test chamber 5 is 10ml / min, and the concentration of the gas to be measured is 3000ppm, which exceeds the range of gas sensing element 7 and cannot be measured directly; the other carrier gas, after passing through the second flow controller 10, has a flow rate of 90ml / min, and the gas is pure carrier gas;

[0083] After the two gases are mixed in the mixing device 6, the flow rate is about 100 ml / min, and the concentration of the gas to be measured becomes about 300 ppm, which can be directly measured by the gas sensing element 7.

[0084] Example 2:

[0085] like Figure 2 As shown, Embodiment 2 of the present invention provides a system for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester, comprising: a first testing chamber 3 and a second testing chamber 5;

[0086] The opening of the inner cavity of the first test chamber 3 and the space between the inner cavity of the second test chamber 5 are used to place the sample 4. The first test chamber 3 has at least a first through hole communicating with the inner cavity, and the first through hole is connected to the test gas pipeline.

[0087] The second test chamber 5 has at least a second through hole and a third through hole. The second through hole is connected to the first carrier gas pipeline, and the third through hole is connected to the first input port of the mixing device 6. The second input port of the mixing device 6 is connected to the second carrier gas pipeline, and the output port of the mixing device 6 is connected to the gas sensing element 7. At least one valve is provided on the second carrier gas pipeline.

[0088] Optionally, the system further includes a gas supply device 1 (understandably, the gas supply device 1 can be an external part not included in this system, or it can be a part included in this system; those skilled in the art can combine them according to specific working conditions), and the first through hole is connected to the gas supply device 1 through the test gas pipeline.

[0089] In this embodiment, the output terminal of the gas sensing element 7 is connected to the first flow meter 8.

[0090] The system also includes a carrier gas supply device 2 (understandably, the carrier gas supply device 2 can be an external part not included in this system, or it can be a part included in this system, and those skilled in the art can combine them according to specific working conditions), and the second through hole is connected to the carrier gas supply device 2 through the first carrier gas pipeline, and at least one first flow controller 9 is provided on the first carrier gas pipeline.

[0091] In this embodiment, the second input port of the mixing device 6 is connected to the carrier gas supply device 2 through the second carrier gas pipeline. The second carrier gas pipeline is equipped with a second flow controller 10 and a second flow meter 11. The valve on the second carrier gas pipeline is a first shut-off valve 12. The input port of the second flow controller 10 is connected to the carrier gas supply device 2, the output port of the second flow controller 10 is connected to the input port of the second flow meter 11, the output port of the second flow meter 11 is connected to the input port of the first shut-off valve 12, and the output port of the first shut-off valve 12 is connected to the second input port of the mixing device 6.

[0092] In this embodiment, the first test cavity has a fourth through hole for venting that communicates with the inner cavity.

[0093] It is understood that in some other embodiments, the number of the first through hole, the second through hole, the third through hole and the fourth through hole is not limited to one, but can be multiple, as long as they can realize the corresponding through hole functions. For example, multiple first through holes can be used to simultaneously introduce test gas, multiple fourth through holes can be used to simultaneously exhaust gas, multiple second through holes can be used to simultaneously introduce carrier gas, and multiple third through holes can be used to simultaneously exit mixed gas. Those skilled in the art can design according to specific working conditions, which will not be elaborated here.

[0094] In this embodiment, the second carrier gas pipeline is connected to the exhaust pipeline, and the exhaust pipeline is equipped with a second shut-off valve 13.

[0095] The working principle of the system described in this embodiment includes:

[0096] The gas to be tested enters the inner cavity of the first test chamber 3 from the gas supply device 1 through the pipeline and the first through hole on the first test chamber 3. Part of the gas to be tested permeates into the inner cavity of the second test chamber 5 through the sample 4, and the remaining gas to be tested is discharged through the fourth through hole of the first test chamber 3.

[0097] The carrier gas pipeline is divided into two paths. One path is where the carrier gas is supplied by the carrier gas supply device 2 and flows through the pipeline to the first flow controller 9. Under the control of the first flow controller 9, a certain flow rate of carrier gas enters the inner cavity of the second test chamber 5 through the pipeline from the second through hole of the second test chamber 5. It mixes with the gas to be tested that permeates through the sample 4 to form a mixed gas. The mixed gas enters the mixing device 6 through the pipeline from the third through hole of the second test chamber 5.

[0098] Another carrier gas flows from the carrier gas supply device 2 through the pipeline to the second flow controller 10. Under the control of the second flow controller 10, a certain flow rate of carrier gas flows through the pipeline to the second flow meter 11, and then enters the inlet of the first shut-off valve 12 through the pipeline.

[0099] When performing extended range testing, the second shut-off valve 13 is opened, and the carrier gas flows in the pipeline, making the carrier gas in the pipeline purer when it enters the mixing device 6. Then, the second shut-off valve 13 is closed, and the first shut-off valve 12 is opened. A certain flow rate of carrier gas flows through the first shut-off valve 12 into the mixing device 6 and mixes with the mixed gas, so that the concentration of the gas being measured is reduced to the range of the gas sensing element 7.

[0100] The secondary mixed gas flows into the gas sensing element 7 through the outlet of the mixing device 6 via a pipeline, and then flows into the first flow meter 8 through the outlet of the gas sensing element 7 via a pipeline, and finally the secondary mixed gas is discharged through the pipeline.

[0101] The gas sensing element 7 measures the content of the gas to be tested in the secondary mixed gas, the first flow meter 8 measures the total flow rate of the secondary mixed gas, and the second flow meter 11 measures the flow rate of the second carrier gas. The difference between the two is the actual flow rate passing through the second test chamber 5. Based on the flow rate ratio and the gas content measured by the gas sensing element 7, the concentration of the gas to be tested can be calculated.

[0102] In this embodiment, the corresponding inner cavity openings of the first test cavity 3 and the second test cavity 5 are all facing the sample 4, and the sample completely covers the inner cavity openings of the first test cavity 3 and the second test cavity 5. One or more continuous or spaced annular seals may also be provided around the respective inner cavity openings of the first test cavity 3 and the second test cavity 5.

[0103] The test gas pipeline can also be equipped with a flow controller and a shut-off valve. Those skilled in the art can choose according to the specific working conditions, which will not be elaborated here.

[0104] The shut-off valve in this embodiment can be a manual, electric, or pneumatic on / off control valve. Those skilled in the art can choose according to the specific working conditions, as long as on / off control can be achieved. Further details will not be provided here.

[0105] In this embodiment, each flow controller can be a mass flow controller that is manually or automatically controlled, or a device such as a needle valve or a proportional valve used to control the gas flow. Those skilled in the art can select according to the specific working conditions, which will not be elaborated here.

[0106] In this embodiment, the mixing device 6 may have more input and output ports. Those skilled in the art can select according to specific operating conditions, which will not be elaborated here.

[0107] In this embodiment, the mixing device 6 can be a three-way connector, a three-way valve, or other devices for gas mixing, as long as it has a corresponding air inlet and a corresponding mixing cavity. Those skilled in the art can select according to the specific working conditions, which will not be elaborated here.

[0108] Example 3:

[0109] like Figure 3 As shown, Embodiment 3 of the present invention provides a system for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester, comprising: a first testing chamber 3 and a second testing chamber 5;

[0110] The opening of the inner cavity of the first test chamber 3 and the space between the inner cavity of the second test chamber 5 are used to place the sample 4. The first test chamber 3 has at least a first through hole communicating with the inner cavity, and the first through hole is connected to the test gas pipeline.

[0111] The second test chamber 5 has at least a second through hole and a third through hole. The second through hole is connected to the first carrier gas pipeline, the third through hole is connected to the first input port of the mixing device 6, the second input port of the mixing device 6 is connected to the second carrier gas pipeline, and the output port of the mixing device 6 is connected to the gas sensing element 7.

[0112] The system also includes a gas supply device 1 (understandably, the gas supply device 1 can be an external part not included in this system, or it can be a part included in this system; those skilled in the art can combine them according to specific working conditions), and the first through hole is connected to the gas supply device 1 through the test gas pipeline.

[0113] In this embodiment, the output terminal of the gas sensing element 7 is connected to the first flow meter 8.

[0114] Optionally, the system further includes a carrier gas supply device 2 (understandably, the carrier gas supply device 2 may be an external part not included in this system, or it may be a part included in this system; those skilled in the art can combine them according to specific working conditions), and the second through hole is connected to the carrier gas supply device 2 through the first carrier gas pipeline, and at least one first flow controller 9 is provided on the first carrier gas pipeline.

[0115] In this embodiment, the second input port of the mixing device 6 is connected to the carrier gas supply device 2 through the second carrier gas pipeline. The second carrier gas pipeline is equipped with a second flow controller 10, a second flow meter 11, and a three-way valve 14. The input port of the second flow controller 10 is connected to the carrier gas supply device 2, the output port of the second flow controller 10 is connected to the input port of the second flow meter 11, the output port of the second flow meter 11 is connected to the first port of the three-way valve 14, the second port of the three-way valve 14 is connected to the second input port of the mixing device 6, and the third port of the three-way valve 14 is connected to the exhaust pipeline.

[0116] In this embodiment, the first test cavity has a fourth through hole for venting that communicates with the inner cavity.

[0117] It is understood that in some other embodiments, the number of the first through hole, the second through hole, the third through hole and the fourth through hole is not limited to one, but can be multiple, as long as they can realize the corresponding through hole functions. For example, multiple first through holes can be used to simultaneously introduce test gas, multiple fourth through holes can be used to simultaneously exhaust gas, multiple second through holes can be used to simultaneously introduce carrier gas, and multiple third through holes can be used to simultaneously exit mixed gas. Those skilled in the art can design according to specific working conditions, which will not be elaborated here.

[0118] In this embodiment, the corresponding inner cavity openings of the first test cavity 3 and the second test cavity 5 are all facing the sample 4, and the sample completely covers the inner cavity openings of the first test cavity 3 and the second test cavity 5. One or more continuous or spaced annular seals may also be provided around the respective inner cavity openings of the first test cavity 3 and the second test cavity 5.

[0119] In this embodiment, the test gas pipeline can also be equipped with a flow controller and a shut-off valve. The shut-off valve can be a manual, electric, or pneumatic on / off control valve. Those skilled in the art can choose according to the specific working conditions, as long as on / off control can be achieved. Further details will not be elaborated here.

[0120] In this embodiment, each flow controller can be a mass flow controller that is manually or automatically controlled, or a device such as a needle valve or a proportional valve used to control the gas flow. Those skilled in the art can select according to the specific working conditions, which will not be elaborated here.

[0121] In this embodiment, the mixing device 6 may have more input and output ports. Those skilled in the art can select according to specific operating conditions, which will not be elaborated here.

[0122] In this embodiment, the mixing device 6 can be a three-way connector, a three-way valve, or other devices for gas mixing, as long as it has a corresponding air inlet and a corresponding mixing cavity. Those skilled in the art can select according to the specific working conditions, which will not be elaborated here.

[0123] In this embodiment, the three-way valve can be a three-way valve controlled manually, electrically, or pneumatically for switching the direction of gas flow. Those skilled in the art can choose according to the specific working conditions, which will not be elaborated here.

[0124] The working principle of the system described in this embodiment includes:

[0125] The gas to be tested enters the inner cavity of the first test chamber 3 from the gas supply device 1 through the pipeline and the first through hole on the first test chamber 3. Part of the gas to be tested permeates into the inner cavity of the second test chamber 5 through the sample 4, and the remaining gas to be tested is discharged through the fourth through hole of the first test chamber 3.

[0126] The carrier gas pipeline is divided into two paths. One path is where the carrier gas is supplied by the carrier gas supply device 2 and flows through the pipeline to the first flow controller 9. Under the control of the first flow controller 9, a certain flow rate of carrier gas enters the inner cavity of the second test chamber 5 through the pipeline from the second through hole of the second test chamber 5. It mixes with the gas to be tested that permeates through the sample 4 to form a mixed gas. The mixed gas enters the mixing device 6 through the pipeline from the third through hole of the second test chamber 5.

[0127] Another carrier gas flows from the carrier gas supply device 2 through the pipeline to the second flow controller 10. Under the control of the second flow controller 10, a certain flow rate of carrier gas flows through the pipeline to the second flow meter 11, and then enters the inlet of the first port of the three-way valve through the pipeline.

[0128] During the extended range test, the first and third ports of the three-way valve 14 are opened, and the carrier gas flows in the pipeline, making the carrier gas in the pipeline purer when it enters the mixing device 6. Then, the third port of the three-way valve 14 is closed, and the second port of the three-way valve 14 is opened. A certain flow rate of carrier gas flows through the second port of the three-way valve 14 into the mixing device 6 and mixes with the mixed gas, so that the concentration of the gas being measured is reduced to the range of the gas sensing element 7.

[0129] The secondary mixed gas flows into the gas sensing element 7 through the outlet of the mixing device 6 via a pipeline, and then flows into the first flow meter 8 through the outlet of the gas sensing element 7 via a pipeline, and finally the secondary mixed gas is discharged through the pipeline.

[0130] The gas sensing element 7 measures the content of the gas to be tested in the secondary mixed gas, the first flow meter 8 measures the total flow rate of the secondary mixed gas, and the second flow meter 11 measures the flow rate of the second carrier gas. The difference between the two is the actual flow rate passing through the second test chamber 5. Based on the flow rate ratio and the gas content measured by the gas sensing element 7, the concentration of the gas to be tested can be calculated.

[0131] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A system for expanding the test range of a gas permeability tester, Its features are: include: First test chamber and second test chamber; The opening of the inner cavity of the first test chamber and the space between the inner cavity of the second test chamber are used to place the sample. The first test chamber has at least a first through hole communicating with the inner cavity, and the first through hole is connected to the test gas pipeline. The second test chamber has at least a second through hole and a third through hole. The second through hole is connected to the first carrier gas pipeline, and the third through hole is connected to the first input port of the mixing device. The second input port of the mixing device is connected to the second carrier gas pipeline, and the output port of the mixing device is connected to the gas sensing element. At least one valve is provided on the second carrier gas pipeline. The output end of the gas sensing element is connected to the first flow meter, and it also includes a carrier gas supply device. The second through hole is connected to the carrier gas supply device through the first carrier gas pipeline. At least one first flow controller is provided on the first carrier gas pipeline. The second input port of the mixing device is connected to the carrier gas supply device through the second carrier gas pipeline. A second flow controller and a second flow meter are provided on the second carrier gas pipeline.

2. The system for expanding the testing range of the gas permeability tester as described in claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a gas supply device for the test gas, with the first through hole connected to the gas supply device for the test gas through the test gas pipeline.

3. The system for expanding the testing range of the gas permeability tester as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The first test chamber has a fourth through hole for venting, which communicates with the inner cavity.

4. The system for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester as described in any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that: The valve on the second carrier gas line is the first shut-off valve.

5. The system for expanding the testing range of the gas permeability tester as described in claim 4, characterized in that: The second carrier gas line is connected to the exhaust line, and a second shut-off valve is installed on the exhaust line.

6. The system for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester as described in any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that: A three-way valve is installed on the second carrier gas pipeline. The output port of the second flow meter is connected to the first port of the three-way valve, the second port of the three-way valve is connected to the second input port of the mixing device, and the third port of the three-way valve is connected to the exhaust pipeline.

7. A method for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester, characterized in that: The system for expanding the test range of the gas permeability tester according to any one of claims 1-4 includes the following process: The first through hole receives the gas to be tested and enters the inner cavity of the first test chamber; some of the gas to be tested permeates through the sample into the inner cavity of the second test chamber. The second through hole receives the carrier gas and enters the inner cavity of the second test chamber, where it mixes with the gas to be tested that permeates through the sample to form a mixed gas. The mixed gas enters the mixing device through the third through hole and then enters the gas sensing element for testing. During the extended range test, the valve on the second carrier gas pipeline is opened, and a certain flow rate of carrier gas flows through the valve into the mixing device to mix with the mixed gas, thereby reducing the concentration of the gas being measured to the range of the gas sensing element. The gas sensing element measures the content of the gas to be tested in the secondary mixed gas. The first flow meter measures the total flow rate of the secondary mixed gas, and the second flow meter measures the flow rate of the second carrier gas. The difference between the two is the actual flow rate passing through the second test chamber. Based on the flow rate ratio and the gas content measured by the gas sensing element, the concentration of the gas to be tested can be calculated.

8. A method of extending the test range of a gas permeation tester, characterized by: The system for expanding the test range of the gas permeability tester according to claim 5 includes the following process: The first through hole receives the gas to be tested and enters the inner cavity of the first test chamber; some of the gas to be tested permeates through the sample into the inner cavity of the second test chamber. The second through hole receives the carrier gas and enters the inner cavity of the second test chamber, where it mixes with the gas to be tested that permeates through the sample to form a mixed gas. The mixed gas enters the mixing device through the third through hole and then enters the gas sensing element for testing. When performing extended range testing, the second shut-off valve is opened, and the carrier gas flows in the second carrier gas pipeline and the exhaust pipeline. After a set time, the second shut-off valve is closed, and the first shut-off valve is opened. A certain flow rate of carrier gas flows through the first shut-off valve into the mixing device and mixes with the mixed gas, so that the concentration of the gas being measured is reduced to the range of the gas sensing element. The gas sensing element measures the content of the gas to be tested in the secondary mixed gas. The first flow meter measures the total flow rate of the secondary mixed gas, and the second flow meter measures the flow rate of the second carrier gas. The difference between the two is the actual flow rate passing through the second test chamber. Based on the flow rate ratio and the gas content measured by the gas sensing element, the concentration of the gas to be tested can be calculated.

9. A method for expanding the testing range of a gas permeability tester, characterized in that: The system for expanding the test range of the gas permeability tester according to claim 6 includes the following process: The first through hole receives the gas to be tested and enters the inner cavity of the first test chamber; some of the gas to be tested permeates through the sample into the inner cavity of the second test chamber. The second through hole receives the carrier gas and enters the inner cavity of the second test chamber, where it mixes with the gas to be tested that permeates through the sample to form a mixed gas. The mixed gas enters the mixing device through the third through hole and then enters the gas sensing element for testing. When performing extended range testing, open the first and third ports of the three-way valve, and the carrier gas flows in the second carrier gas pipeline and the exhaust pipeline. After a set time, close the third port of the three-way valve and open the second port of the three-way valve. A certain flow rate of carrier gas flows through the second port of the three-way valve into the mixing device and mixes with the mixed gas, so that the concentration of the gas being measured is reduced to the range of the gas sensing element. The gas sensing element measures the content of the gas to be tested in the secondary mixed gas. The first flow meter measures the total flow rate of the secondary mixed gas, and the second flow meter measures the flow rate of the second carrier gas. The difference between the two is the actual flow rate passing through the second test chamber. Based on the flow rate ratio and the gas content measured by the gas sensing element, the concentration of the gas to be tested can be calculated.

10. A gas permeability tester characterized by: The system includes the system for expanding the test range of the gas permeability tester as described in any one of claims 1-6.

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