Gas meter casing fatigue strength and air tightness integrated testing device

Abstract

The application provides a gas meter shell fatigue strength and air tightness integrated testing device, which comprises an anti-fatigue strength testing device and an air tightness intelligent testing device. The anti-fatigue strength testing device is composed of a mounting group frame, a testing installation station, a pressing mechanism, a gas pressure control system, an elastic net bag and an image acquisition and analysis system. The elastic net bag is made of high-elastic material and has precise grid marks printed on the surface, so that the tiny deformation of the gas meter upper shell during the pressurization process can be magnified and visualized, and the precise evaluation of the anti-fatigue strength is realized through the deformation mode analysis. The air tightness intelligent testing device adopts an innovative negative pressure water immersion method. The application realizes the continuous testing of the anti-fatigue strength and air tightness of the gas meter upper shell, avoids the intermediate transfer link, magnifies and visualizes the tiny deformation through the elastic net bag, improves the detection precision, and adopts the method combining the negative pressure water immersion and the humidity detection, so that the automation is easier than the traditional bubble observation method.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of gas meter testing technology, and in particular to an integrated testing device for the fatigue strength and airtightness of a gas meter housing. Background Technology

[0002] As a key device for measuring gas consumption, the quality and safety of gas meters are directly related to the safety of users' lives and property. Among the many components of a gas meter, the upper casing is an important structural component that protects the internal metering mechanism and ensures airtightness. With the widespread use of gas and the increasing stringency of safety standards, the requirements for the fatigue strength and airtightness of the gas meter upper casing are becoming increasingly stringent.

[0003] Traditional gas meter quality testing is typically conducted after the entire unit is assembled. This method has significant drawbacks: if a defective casing is found, the entire unit must be scrapped, resulting in material waste and increased costs. Furthermore, existing testing methods largely rely on manual observation and experience-based judgment, lacking precise quantitative standards and automation, leading to low testing efficiency and results easily influenced by subjective factors.

[0004] In terms of improving gas meter testing technology, several technical solutions have attempted to address the aforementioned problems. For example, patent document CN 116990152 A discloses a "multi-functional gas meter testing device," which includes a base, a positioning frame fixed on the base, a positioning component for positioning the gas meter on the base, and a bending moment testing mechanism, a torque testing mechanism, and a pressure resistance testing mechanism arranged on the positioning frame. This device can perform multiple tests on the entire gas meter, including bending moment, torque, and pressure resistance, thus improving testing efficiency to some extent. However, this device mainly targets the entire unit for testing and still needs to be performed after the gas meter is assembled, failing to solve the problem of early detection of housing defects. Furthermore, although the solution proposed in CN116990152 A integrates multiple testing functions, its design of interleaved bending moment testing mechanism and positioning component, as well as the method of bending moment testing through a first cylinder and pressure sensor, makes it difficult to accurately simulate the complex working conditions of a gas meter in actual use, and its measurement accuracy for minute deformations is also relatively limited.

[0005] In fatigue strength testing, traditional methods typically rely on static pressure testing or simple cyclic pressurization testing, which are insufficient to fully simulate the complex working conditions of gas meters during actual use. Furthermore, the collection and analysis of test data are relatively crude, failing to accurately pinpoint structural weaknesses and provide a valid basis for design improvements.

[0006] Furthermore, existing testing equipment often separates fatigue strength testing and airtightness testing, which not only increases production steps and extends the testing cycle, but also increases manpower and material costs and the risk of product loss during transportation. Taking CN116990152 A as an example, it mainly focuses on mechanical strength testing, while it does not provide a dedicated solution for airtightness testing, and cannot meet the requirement of continuous dual testing of fatigue strength and airtightness for the gas meter casing before assembly.

[0007] Therefore, developing an intelligent device that can perform comprehensive tests on the fatigue strength and airtightness of the upper casing before gas meter assembly is of great significance for safe production and technological progress in the gas industry. This will not only help to detect substandard products in advance and reduce material waste, but also improve product quality and production efficiency through high-precision and automated testing methods. Summary of the Invention

[0008] This invention provides an intelligent testing device for the fatigue strength and airtightness of the gas meter casing. This device can complete the quality inspection before the gas meter is assembled, solving the problems of low efficiency, poor accuracy and unintuitive testing methods in the prior art for gas meter casing quality inspection.

[0009] To solve one of the above problems, the present invention adopts the following solution: A gas meter housing fatigue strength testing device includes a mounting frame, a test mounting station, a clamping mechanism, a pneumatic control system, an elastic net, and an image acquisition and analysis system. The mounting frame includes an upper clamping mounting plate and a lower mounting station plate, which are vertically connected by sliding connecting columns. The test mounting station is embedded in the center of the mounting station plate and is used to place the gas meter housing. The clamping mechanism is installed on the upper part of the mounting frame and includes a driving pressurizing structure and a tooling pressure plate. The driving pressurizing structure moves the tooling pressure plate downward to form a sealing fit with the opening end of the gas meter housing. The pneumatic control system is fixed to the side of the mounting station plate via a connecting frame and communicates with the gas connection port of the gas meter housing to inject test gas into the gas meter housing. The elastic net is connected to the lower surface of the mounting station plate, forming a semi-enclosed structure directly below the test mounting station. The image acquisition and analysis system is used to collect the state changes of the elastic net.

[0010] Preferably, the tooling plate includes a pressing insertion part and a pressing sealing part. The pressing insertion part has a clearance notch at its lower corner, and the pressing sealing part has outwardly protruding sealing edges on its surrounding side walls. The tooling plate also has a movable through hole. This design facilitates the smooth insertion of the tooling plate into the gas meter's upper housing during the pressing process, improving operational convenience. Simultaneously, the protruding sealing edges precisely correspond to the protruding mounting edges of the gas meter's upper housing, creating a double sealing barrier and ensuring reliable airtightness during testing.

[0011] Preferably, the upper end of the elastic net has a widened amplification plate, which is connected to the lower end of the mounting plate. The surface of the elastic net is pre-printed with high-precision geometric patterns or grid markings. This amplification plate design significantly increases the contact area with the mounting plate, ensuring that the elastic net will not detach due to tension changes during testing, thus improving test stability. The grid markings serve as a deformation reference, generating corresponding tensile changes when the elastic net is subjected to stress, thereby accurately quantifying the degree of deformation in different areas and improving test accuracy.

[0012] Preferably, the upper end of the test installation station is provided with an abutment positioning groove along the inner perimeter, which corresponds to the protruding installation edge at the opening end of the gas meter's upper casing. This structural fit achieves natural positioning and stable installation of the gas meter's upper casing, ensuring that the test object remains in a fixed position throughout the test process, improving the reliability of the test data, and also simplifying the operation process and increasing work efficiency.

[0013] Preferably, the driving pressurization structure includes a driving cylinder and a connecting transmission assembly. The driving cylinder is fixedly mounted on the clamping mounting plate, and the connecting transmission assembly is connected to the piston rod of the driving cylinder. The connecting transmission assembly slides through the sliding connecting column via a guide structure, and its lower end is connected to the tooling pressure plate. This system design, combining pneumatic drive and mechanical transmission, achieves precise pressure control and smooth transmission, ensuring the stability and reliability of the seal.

[0014] Preferably, the connection and transmission assembly includes a central connecting column, a connecting plate, and a connecting rod. The central connecting column is directly connected to the piston rod of the drive cylinder, the connecting plate and the sliding connecting column form a sliding fit, and the connecting rod connects the connecting plate and the tooling pressure plate. This multi-point support design ensures the uniformity of pressure transmission, avoids possible tilting or displacement of the tooling pressure plate during pressing, and further improves the reliability of the seal and the accuracy of the test.

[0015] Preferably, the gas pressure control system includes a first gas blowing and suction dual-purpose component and a second gas blowing and suction dual-purpose component, which respectively form an airtight connection with the first gas connection port and the second gas connection port on the upper shell of the gas meter. This dual-channel design enables gas injection, pressure holding, and discharge, providing a controllable pressure environment for testing, and also providing a technical basis for subsequent negative pressure testing, thereby improving the system's flexibility and functionality.

[0016] To solve the other problem mentioned above, the present invention also adopts the following solution: An intelligent testing device for the airtightness of a gas meter casing is disclosed. This device is used to perform airtightness testing on gas meter casings that have passed fatigue strength testing while still under pressure at their original testing position. The device includes a frame, a water tank, a pushing structure, a negative pressure control system, and a humidity detection mechanism. The frame is positioned correspondingly to the bottom of the mounting bracket of the fatigue strength testing device. The water tank is mounted on the frame below the fatigue strength testing device and is used to house the gas meter casing after fatigue strength testing. The pushing structure is installed at the lower end of the water tank and controls its vertical movement, raising it to a position where the gas meter casing can be submerged. The negative pressure control system is shared with the air pressure control system of the fatigue strength testing device and applies negative pressure to the inner cavity of the submerged gas meter casing, drawing external moisture into the leak points inside the casing. The humidity detection mechanism is installed on the upper end of the tooling plate of the fatigue strength testing device and detects humidity changes inside the gas meter casing. It communicates with the inside of the gas meter casing through a movable through-hole on the tooling plate.

[0017] Preferably, the humidity detection mechanism includes a mounting housing, a lifting assembly, a rotary drive assembly, and a water vapor rotary collection structure. The lifting assembly, installed within the mounting housing, includes a lifting motor, a belt drive structure, and a lead screw structure. The lifting motor drives the belt drive structure, which transmits the rotational motion to the lead screw structure, which converts the rotational motion into vertical linear motion. The rotary drive assembly, connected to the lifting assembly, includes a rotary motor and a rotary output shaft. The rotary motor is connected to the water vapor rotary collection structure via the rotary output shaft. The water vapor rotary collection structure, connected to the rotary drive assembly, extends into the upper casing of the gas meter through a movable through-hole on a tooling pressure plate.

[0018] Preferably, the water vapor rotation collection structure includes a connecting cover, two sets of connecting rod hinge assemblies, a water-absorbing component, an elastic component, and a limiting plate. The connecting rod hinge assemblies are hinged to the inner edge of the connecting cover, and each set of connecting rod hinge assemblies includes a first connecting rod, a second connecting rod, and a third connecting rod; the water-absorbing component is slidably connected to the connecting rod hinge assemblies, and its side wall is provided with multiple slender water-absorbing strips; the elastic component is connected between the water-absorbing components; the limiting plate is connected in the second hinge portion to limit the maximum rotation angle of the connecting rod hinge assemblies.

[0019] Preferably, the inner edge of the connecting cover has two fixed lugs, and the two sets of connecting rod hinge assemblies are symmetrically hinged through the fixed lugs. One end of the first connecting rod is hinged to the center of the bottom of the connecting cover to form a first hinge part, and the other end of the first connecting rod is hinged to the second connecting rod to form a second hinge part. One end of the third connecting rod is hinged to the fixed lug to form a third hinge part, and the other end of the third connecting rod is hinged to the second hinge part. A sliding groove is provided on the side wall of the third connecting rod, and the sliding groove forms a sliding fit with the sliding plate. The sliding plate is fixedly connected to the water absorption component.

[0020] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are: 1. The elastic mesh design of the present invention can magnify and visualize the minute deformations generated on the upper shell of the gas meter during pressurization. The deformation of different areas can be accurately quantified by the deformation marked by the mesh, thereby improving the accuracy of fatigue strength testing.

[0021] 2. This invention employs an innovative negative pressure water immersion method for airtightness testing, which is more accurate and easier to automate than the traditional bubble observation method. It uses a humidity detection mechanism to directly detect changes in humidity inside the gas meter casing to determine whether a leak exists.

[0022] 3. The automatic unfolding and retracting design of the water vapor rotation collection structure, combined with multiple slender water absorption strips on the side wall of the water absorption component, can penetrate deep into the recessed part at the bottom of the gas meter's upper shell, increasing the effective contact area with the inner wall and ensuring the comprehensiveness and thoroughness of water vapor collection.

[0023] 4. This device integrates fatigue strength testing and airtightness testing, and completes the two tests continuously at the same station, avoiding intermediate transfer links, improving testing efficiency, and reducing labor and time costs.

[0024] 5. The image acquisition and analysis system automatically determines the test results, avoiding human error in traditional measurement methods and improving the accuracy and reliability of the test.

[0025] 6. The design of this device realizes the automation, visualization, and data-driven detection of the gas meter casing, providing important technical support for the quality control and design optimization of gas meter products. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the upper casing of the gas meter in this invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the fatigue testing device in this invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the test installation station when the gas meter casing is not installed; Figure 5 This is a partial internal structure diagram of the upper shell of the present invention when it is sealed and installed at the test installation station; Figure 6 for Figure 5 A magnified view of a section at point I; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the humidity detection mechanism of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the water vapor rotation collection structure of the present invention when it is stored. Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the water vapor rotation collection structure during the deployment process of the present invention.

[0027] Reference numerals: Gas meter upper shell 00, fatigue strength testing device 01, sealing testing device 02, frame 03, open end 001, protruding mounting edge 002, protruding piece 003, first gas connection port 004, second gas connection port 005, mounting frame 10, test installation station 20, clamping mechanism 30, air pressure control system 40, elastic net bag 50, clamping mounting plate 11, sliding connecting column 12, station mounting plate 13, connecting frame 14, abutment positioning groove 21, driving pressurization structure 31, tooling pressure plate 32, first gas blowing and suction dual-purpose component 41, second gas blowing and suction dual-purpose component 42, expansion plate 51, driving cylinder 311, connecting and transmission assembly 312, press-fit insertion part 321, press-fit sealing part 322, movable through hole 323, central connecting column 312 1. Connecting plate 3122, connecting rod 3123, clearance insertion notch 3211, protruding sealing edge 3221, water tank 60, pushing structure 70, humidity detection mechanism 80, mounting housing 81, lifting assembly 82, rotary drive assembly 83, water vapor rotary collection structure 84, lifting motor 821, belt drive structure 822, lead screw structure 823, rotary motor 831, rotary output shaft 832, connecting cover 841, connecting rod hinge assembly 842, water absorption component 843, elastic component 844, fixed lug 845, water absorption strip 846, slide groove 847, sliding plate 848, limiting plate 849, first connecting rod 8421, second connecting rod 8422, third connecting rod 8423, first hinge part 851, second hinge part 852, third hinge part 853. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Example 1: Reference Figure 1 In this embodiment, the test object is the upper casing 00 of the gas meter, which is rectangular in shape and has an open end 001. The rectangular edge of the open end 001 protrudes to form a protruding mounting edge 002. Multiple strip-shaped protrusions 003 are provided at the upper end of the protruding mounting edge 002 to stably seal and splice with the other half of the gas meter casing. The upper casing 00 of the gas meter also has a first gas connection port 004 and a second gas connection port 005 for gas flow. It should be noted that the term "upper casing of the gas meter" is derived from the upper and lower structural distribution in traditional gas meter casing designs. With the evolution of gas meter structural design, modern gas meter casings have various forms, some adopting a front and rear casing layout, no longer strictly distinguished by upper and lower positions. However, production and technical documents still habitually use the traditional terms "upper casing" and "lower casing," which have become industry-standard terms. Therefore, the term "upper casing of the gas meter" in this invention is based on industry convention and actually refers to a major component of the gas meter casing, regardless of its actual installation position in the whole unit.

[0029] refer to Figures 2-6 The integrated fatigue strength and airtightness testing device for the gas meter housing is an integrated automatic testing system that can complete quality testing before the gas meter is assembled, thereby improving production efficiency and reducing costs. The device includes a frame 03, a fatigue strength testing device 01 mounted on the frame 03, and a sealing testing device 02. The fatigue strength testing device 01 is the core testing unit of this device, used to simulate the actual use environment of the gas meter and evaluate its structural strength. It mainly consists of a mounting frame 10, a test mounting station 20, a clamping mechanism 30, a pneumatic control system 40, an elastic net 50, and an image acquisition and analysis system (the image acquisition and analysis system is not shown in the figure). In terms of spatial relationship, the mounting frame 10 is the supporting frame of the entire structure. The upper clamping mounting plate 11 and the lower workstation mounting plate 13 are vertically connected by four sliding connecting columns 12. The test installation station 20 is embedded in the center of the workstation mounting plate 13. The clamping mechanism 30 is installed on the upper part of the mounting frame 10, vertically downward and corresponding to the test installation station 20. The air pressure control system 40 is fixed to the side of the workstation mounting plate 13 through the connecting frame 14. The elastic net 50 is connected to the lower surface of the workstation mounting plate 13 and forms a semi-enclosed structure directly below the test installation station 20. The image acquisition and analysis system is fixed in an appropriate position by a bracket to ensure that the state changes of the elastic net 50 can be clearly captured.

[0030] refer to Figures 3-5 The test installation station 20 is a dedicated device for the precise positioning and fixation of the gas meter upper casing 00. It is used to stably place the gas meter upper casing 00 to be tested and ensure positional accuracy during the testing process. The station design allows the gas meter upper casing 00 to be placed with its open end 001 facing upwards, facilitating subsequent compression sealing and testing operations. Structurally, the test installation station 20 is formed by precisely drilling matching holes and slots into the station mounting plate 13. The size and shape of these holes and slots closely match the outline of the gas meter upper casing 00, ensuring that the test object can be stably positioned without displacement deviation, providing a reliable positional reference for subsequent testing.

[0031] refer to Figures 4-6 The elastic net 50 is the core innovative component of this fatigue strength testing device 01. As a sensitive deformation detection medium, it can amplify and visualize the minute deformations generated by the gas meter casing 00 during pressurization. Utilizing its material properties, the elastic net 50 transforms the structural deformation of the gas meter casing 00 into a more obvious deformation pattern within the net itself. Through this "deformation amplification" mechanism, minute deformations that were originally difficult to observe directly become easier to capture and measure, thereby significantly improving the accuracy and reliability of the fatigue strength assessment of the gas meter casing 00.

[0032] The elastic net 50 is made of a flexible material with a high elastic coefficient. Structurally, the elastic net 50 is fixedly connected to the lower surface of the workstation mounting plate 13 and designed to fit snugly around and cover the outer surface of the bottom of the gas meter upper shell 00. This innovative structural design has multiple functional advantages: First, it provides a uniformly distributed elastic support force for the gas meter upper shell 00, ensuring that the gas meter upper shell 00 is subjected to uniform force during testing; second, during the installation of the gas meter upper shell 00, the net acts as a support and buffer, avoiding collision damage caused by operational errors; finally, during the loading and unloading of the gas meter upper shell 00, the covering structure of the net effectively prevents the test piece from accidentally slipping off, significantly improving the safety and convenience of operation and reducing the psychological burden on operators.

[0033] To further improve the accuracy and visualization of deformation detection, a precision marking system is used on the surface of the elastic net 50, with high-precision geometric patterns or grid marks pre-printed on it. These marks serve as deformation references and can produce corresponding tensile changes when the elastic net 50 is subjected to stress and deformation. By analyzing the deformation patterns of these marks, the testing system can accurately quantify the degree of deformation in different areas and generate a deformation distribution map. In particular, for areas with large local deformation, the deformation of the marks will be more obvious, thereby helping technicians accurately identify the structural weaknesses of the gas meter upper shell 00 and providing a strong basis for product design optimization. In this embodiment, a rhomboid grid is selected as the marking system. This grid structure has uniform deformation sensitivity in all directions and can comprehensively reflect the deformation characteristics of the gas meter upper shell 00 in different directions.

[0034] To address the reliability issue of the connection between the elastic net bag 50 and the workstation mounting plate 13, this design employs an expanded connection structure, effectively enhancing the stability of the connection between the two. Specifically, a widened expansion plate 51 is added to the upper end of the elastic net bag 50. This expansion plate 51 significantly increases the contact area with the workstation mounting plate 13. Through a secure connection with the lower end of the workstation mounting plate 13, it is ensured that the elastic net bag 50 will not loosen or detach due to tension changes during testing.

[0035] refer to Figure 3 To achieve fatigue strength testing of the gas meter casing 00, the airtightness of the testing system must first be ensured. Therefore, this device features a dedicated clamping mechanism 30 as a sealing unit for the testing system, used to clamp and seal the open end 001 of the gas meter casing 00. This clamping mechanism 30 is installed above the testing installation station 20, employing a vertical downward pressing design and equipped with a driving pressurizing structure 31. In operation, the driving pressurizing structure 31 drives the tooling pressure plate 32 mounted at its lower end to move vertically downward, allowing the tooling pressure plate 32 to extend into the gas meter casing 00 and form a sealing fit with the open end 001, thereby creating a sealed testing environment.

[0036] Specifically, the driving pressurization structure 31 employs a system design combining pneumatic drive and mechanical transmission. This structure includes an upper-level driving cylinder 311 and its associated force transmission system—the connecting transmission assembly 312. The driving cylinder 311 is fixedly mounted on the clamping mounting plate 11, with its piston rod extending downwards and connecting to the upper end of the connecting transmission assembly 312. The connecting transmission assembly 312 slides through four sliding connecting columns 12 via a guide structure, and its lower end connects to the tooling pressure plate 32. Structurally, the connecting transmission assembly 312 consists of three parts from top to bottom: first, a central connecting column 3121 directly connected to the cylinder piston rod; second, a connecting plate 3122 that slides with the four sliding connecting columns 12; and finally, four evenly distributed connecting rods 3123 between the connecting plate 3122 and the tooling pressure plate 32. This multi-point support design ensures the uniformity of pressure transmission.

[0037] To simulate the actual usage environment, this testing system requires applying a controllable gas pressure load to the sealed gas meter casing 00. The gas pressure control system 40 is designed for this purpose. As the power component of the testing device, it injects test gas into the test object according to preset pressure parameters and time curves. This system is connected to the mounting plate 13 via a connecting frame 14. Its core actuators include a first gas blowing / suction dual-purpose component 41 and a second gas blowing / suction dual-purpose component 42, which are airtightly connected to the first gas connection port 004 and the second gas connection port 005 on the gas meter casing 00, respectively, forming a gas path system capable of gas injection, pressure holding, and discharge, providing a pressure environment for fatigue strength testing.

[0038] To automate and improve the accuracy of fatigue strength testing of the gas meter casing 00, this device is equipped with an advanced image acquisition and analysis system. As mentioned earlier, this system, as an important component of the fatigue strength testing device 01, can visually capture the deformation of the elastic net 50 and automatically determine its performance through data processing. The image acquisition and analysis system mainly consists of a high-definition camera (its structure is not shown) and accompanying image processing software. The high-definition camera is installed at a position that clearly captures images of the elastic net 50, capturing images of its initial state before testing and its deformation state after pressure testing. The system inputs these two sets of images into the image processing software for comparative analysis. It calculates the actual deformation of the gas meter casing 00 based on the displacement of the grid markers, then compares it with the preset deformation threshold standard in the system, automatically generating test results and determining whether the gas meter casing 00 meets the fatigue strength requirements. This image recognition-based testing method avoids human error in traditional measurement methods, improving the accuracy and efficiency of the test.

[0039] refer to Figures 4-6To ensure the reliability and ease of operation during the testing process, this device features a specially designed installation and sealing structure for the gas meter casing 00 during testing. These designs aim to address two key issues during the testing process: stable positioning of the gas meter casing 00 and reliable sealing during testing.

[0040] The design of the test installation station 20 adopts the principle of precise correspondence, with an abutment positioning groove 21 designed along the entire perimeter of its inner wall at its upper end. This structure corresponds to the protruding mounting edge 002 of the opening end 001 of the gas meter upper casing 00, allowing the protruding mounting edge 002 to accurately abut against the upper end of the abutment positioning groove 21. Through this structural cooperation, the natural positioning and stable installation of the gas meter upper casing 00 are achieved, ensuring that the test object remains in a fixed position throughout the test process and improving the reliability of the test data.

[0041] The tooling plate 32 is the core component for achieving a seal, and its overall design is highly compatible with the size and shape of the opening end 001 of the gas meter upper housing 00. The tooling plate 32 can be divided into two functional parts from bottom to top: a press-fit insertion part 321 and a press-fit sealing part 322. The press-fit insertion part 321 is designed with the insertion process in mind, featuring specially designed clearance notches 3211 at its lower corners on both sides. This structure allows the press-fit insertion part 321 to be smoothly inserted into the gas meter upper housing 00 during the downward pressing process of the tooling plate 32. After insertion, the upper part of the press-fit insertion part 321 fits snugly against the inner walls of the opening end 001, forming the first sealing barrier. Based on this, the side walls of the press-fit sealing part 322 are designed with outwardly protruding sealing edges 3221, which precisely correspond to the protruding mounting edges 002 of the gas meter upper housing 00. To enhance the sealing effect, a special sealing rubber gasket is also installed at the lower end of the protruding sealing edge 3221 (the structure of the sealing rubber gasket is not shown in the figure). When the driving pressurizing structure 31 applies pressure, the sealing rubber gasket of the protruding sealing edge 3221 forms a tight fit with the inner wall of the protruding mounting edge 002, creating a second sealing barrier, thereby ensuring the complete sealing of the opening end 001 of the gas meter upper casing 00, creating the necessary conditions for subsequent testing.

[0042] Based on the above structural design, the fatigue strength test of the gas meter's upper casing of this device adopts a cyclic pressure test method. This test method fully simulates the pressure changes experienced by the gas meter during actual use, and evaluates its long-term fatigue resistance by applying a cyclic pressure load to the upper casing of the gas meter. The specific test procedure is as follows: First, the gas meter casing 00 to be tested is installed and positioned at the test installation station 20, and its stable placement is ensured by abutting the positioning groove 21. Before the test begins, the system records the initial state of the grid marks on the surface of the elastic net bag 50 through the image acquisition and analysis system, which serves as the reference data for subsequent deformation calculations. Then, the clamping mechanism 30 is activated, causing the tooling pressure plate 32 to move down and form a sealed fit with the opening end 001 of the gas meter casing 00, creating a sealed test space.

[0043] Next, the pressure control system 40 injects test gas into the sealed gas meter casing 00 according to a predetermined program, forming the initial test pressure. The system can set different pressure cycling modes according to the test standards, including constant pressure maintenance, stepped pressure increase, and periodic pressure fluctuation, to comprehensively evaluate the structural response of the gas meter casing 00 under various operating conditions. Throughout the test, the elastic mesh 50 changes accordingly with the minute deformations of the gas meter casing 00; these changes are amplified and visualized through the grid markings on its surface.

[0044] After the test, the image acquisition and analysis system again captures the state of the elastic net 50 and compares it precisely with the initial state. By analyzing the displacement and deformation pattern of the grid marks, the system can calculate the actual deformation of the gas meter upper casing 00 at various locations and generate a deformation distribution map. This data is compared with pre-set product quality standards, and the system automatically determines whether the test object meets the fatigue strength requirements and generates a test report. For products with deformation exceeding the allowable range, the system will issue an alarm signal and record detailed non-conformity information for production management personnel to analyze and improve.

[0045] This image recognition-based fatigue strength testing method not only improves the accuracy and efficiency of testing, but also provides important technical support for the quality control and design optimization of gas meter products.

[0046] refer to Figure 2 The airtightness of the gas meter casing 00 is one of the key indicators for ensuring the quality and safety of gas meter products. After completing the fatigue strength test, some potential defects such as poor interface installation or micro-cracks may become apparent. Although these defects are not obvious under static conditions, they may lead to gas leakage during use. Therefore, this device is designed with an airtightness test step, integrating it into the testing process. This avoids the need for a separate airtightness test later and improves the overall testing efficiency. To this end, this device is equipped with a dedicated sealing test device 02 for accurately evaluating the airtightness performance of the gas meter casing 00.

[0047] The sealing detection device 02 employs an innovative negative pressure water immersion method for airtightness testing. Unlike the conventional positive pressure observation bubble method, this embodiment uses a reverse thinking detection principle: first, the test piece is placed in water, then the air inside the sealed test piece is drawn out to create a negative pressure. If there is a leak in the shell, the external water will be drawn into the shell. Subsequently, the presence of a leak is determined by detecting the change in humidity inside the test piece. This method is more accurate and easier to automate than the traditional bubble observation method. The structural design of the sealing detection device 02 includes three main parts: a water tank 60 located below the fatigue strength testing device 01, a pushing structure 70, and a humidity detection mechanism 80 located on the clamping mechanism 30. The water tank 60 is a container for holding clean water, with its upper opening connected to the outside for easy water level observation and replenishment. The pushing structure 70 is installed at the lower end of the water tank 60 to control the vertical movement of the water tank 60. To ensure the water tank 60 can move smoothly up and down, a sliding connection structure is provided between the water tank 60 and the frame 03. This connection is achieved through a fitted groove and a slider. To improve the stability and reliability of the pushing action, the pushing structure 70 in this embodiment adopts a dual-cylinder design, with the two pushing cylinders arranged symmetrically to ensure that the water tank 60 will not tilt or shake during the upward movement.

[0048] refer to Figures 7-9 The humidity detection mechanism 80 is the core component of this sealing detection device 02, used to accurately detect humidity changes inside the gas meter upper casing 00. This mechanism adopts a modular design; its main body is mounted on the upper end of the tooling pressure plate 32, and the execution part can extend downwards and unfold inside the gas meter upper casing 00. The humidity detection mechanism 80 mainly includes four functional parts: the mounting housing 81 serves as a support carrier, and three key functional modules are installed inside: a lifting component 82 controlling vertical movement, a rotary drive component 83 responsible for rotational movement, and a water vapor rotary collection structure 84 performing water vapor collection. These components are connected sequentially to form a complete motion chain, allowing the water vapor rotary collection structure 84 to penetrate deep into the gas meter upper casing 00 through the movable through-hole 323 on the tooling pressure plate 32. To achieve intelligent and data-driven testing, the mounting housing 81 is also equipped with a dedicated detection component (not shown in the figure), responsible for processing and analyzing the collected water vapor data to obtain accurate airtightness assessment results.

[0049] The water vapor rotation collection structure 84 adopts a symmetrical layout design, mainly including a connecting cover 841 as a basic support component. Two sets of connecting rod hinge assemblies 842 are symmetrically hinged to the inner edge of the connecting cover 841 via two fixed lugs 845. These connecting rod hinge assemblies 842 form a sliding connection with the water-absorbing component 843, ensuring flexible adaptation during movement. An elastic element 844 with rebound properties is connected between the two water-absorbing components 843 by screws. In the initial state of the system, the connecting rod hinge assembly 842 and the connected water-absorbing component 843 are confined inside the movable through hole 323, while the elastic element 844 is in a bent and compressed state. When the water vapor rotation collection structure 84 moves downward under the control of the lifting assembly 82, allowing the component to break free from the confinement of the movable through hole 323, the rebound force of the elastic element 844 causes the entire structure to rotate and unfold outward; conversely, during upward movement, the inner wall of the movable through hole 323 acts as a guide, causing the structure to rotate and contract, forming an adaptive expansion and contraction mechanism.

[0050] To achieve coordinated movement and rotation between the linkage assembly 842 and its vertical movement, this design employs a three-hinged structure, which provides precise motion control and stable mechanical transmission. Specifically, the first hinge 851 is formed by hinged joints at one end of the first link 8421 of the two linkage assemblies 842 to the center bottom of the connecting cover 841, serving as the reference point for the entire motion system; the second hinge 852 is formed by hinged joints at the other end of the first link 8421 to the second link 8422, and is the key node for achieving directional changes, with the second link 8422 forming a sliding connection with the water-absorbing component 844; the third hinge 853 is formed by hinged joints at one end of the third link 8423 to the fixed lug 845, with the other end of the third link 8423 hinged to the second hinge 851, forming a complete kinematic chain. With this multi-hinged design, when the connecting rod hinge assembly 842 moves up and down, the second connecting rod 8422 rotates around the second hinge part 852 under the elastic force of the elastic element 844 or the guiding action of the movable through hole 323, while driving the third connecting rod 8423 and the first connecting rod 8421 to rotate together, thereby realizing the unfolding or retraction process of the water-absorbing element 843 and forming an efficient water vapor collection system.

[0051] The sliding connection between the third link 8423 and the water-absorbing component 844 is achieved through a specially designed structure, improving the system's flexibility and durability. A groove 847 is formed on the side wall of the third link 8423, which slides in conjunction with a sliding plate 848, which is fixedly connected to the water-absorbing component 844. This design allows the water-absorbing component 844 to move adaptively while the link hinge assembly 842 rotates, effectively buffering the stress generated by the elastic component 844 during tension or bending, significantly improving the service life and operational reliability of the water vapor rotation collection structure 84. This structural design ensures full contact between the water vapor and the inner wall of the gas meter upper casing 00 during water vapor collection, guaranteeing comprehensive and uniform water vapor collection and providing an accurate data basis for airtightness testing.

[0052] To ensure the accuracy and reliability of the water vapor rotation collection structure 84, this device incorporates an additional limiting mechanism. The limiting plate 849 is an angle control device used to precisely limit the maximum rotation angle of the two-link hinge assembly 842, ensuring that the water-absorbing component 843 maintains an ideal straight posture in its unfolded state, thereby achieving optimal contact. The device has two limiting plates 849, each connected to one of the two second hinge parts 852. When the two second links 8422 rotate the water-absorbing component 843 to a horizontal position, the limiting plate 849 prevents the second links 8422 from continuing to rotate outward, preventing structural damage due to over-extension. Even if the water-absorbing component 843 is not completely straight in some cases, its compressibility, made of absorbent sponge or similar materials, provides some adaptive compensation, ensuring effective contact with the inner wall of the gas meter's upper casing 00.

[0053] To achieve comprehensive and efficient water vapor collection and ensure the accuracy and reliability of airtightness testing, the material and structure of the water-absorbing component 843 have been specifically optimized. The water-absorbing component 843 is made of a highly flexible composite material, and its structural design extends beyond the edge of the second connecting rod 8422, increasing the effective contact area. This design gives the water-absorbing component 843 excellent deformation adaptability, allowing it to automatically adjust according to the shape of the inner wall, increasing the contact area and tightness with the inner wall of the gas meter upper shell 00. The water-absorbing component 843 is made of a material with super absorbent properties, significantly improving its water vapor adsorption capacity and collection efficiency. In terms of size design, the length of the water-absorbing component 843 when fully flattened is at least equal to or slightly greater than the length of the diagonal of the gas meter upper shell 00. This design ensures that it can cover the entire bottom area inside the gas meter upper shell 00 during rotation. Simultaneously, the structure of the water-absorbing component 843 has a certain degree of telescopic function, allowing it to wipe all areas within the plane that may contain water vapor during rotation and ascent. Considering the flow characteristics of water, liquid water usually accumulates on the bottom surface. Therefore, this design focuses on strengthening the wiping coverage of the bottom surface, while the wiping of the side walls can be appropriately simplified, which ensures both the detection effect and the detection efficiency.

[0054] Furthermore, to enhance the performance of the water vapor rotation collection structure 84 and ensure the accuracy of the gas meter casing 00 airtightness detection, this design has undergone in-depth optimization of the water absorption component. The sidewall of the water absorption component 843 is designed with multiple slender water absorption strips 846 (this structure is only used on...). Figure 8 (This is illustrated in some figures, but not shown in others). These water-absorbing strips 846 have multiple functions: when the water-absorbing component 843 moves to the bottom of the gas meter upper shell 00, the water-absorbing strips 846 can penetrate deep into the recessed area at the bottom of the gas meter upper shell 00, making up for the area that the main water-absorbing component 843 cannot fully contact; during rotation, the water-absorbing strips 846 significantly increase the effective contact area with the inner wall; more importantly, during high-speed rotation, some water-absorbing strips 846 will be thrown outward due to centrifugal force, forming a dynamic contact mode, achieving multiple contacts with various parts of the inner wall, thereby ensuring the comprehensiveness and thoroughness of water vapor collection.

[0055] To achieve intelligent detection and quantitative analysis of the water vapor content adsorbed by the water-absorbing element 843, this device is equipped with a professional detection component system. This system mainly consists of two core components: a heating element and a humidity sensor. The heating element's primary function is to convert the liquid water adsorbed in the water-absorbing element 843 into water vapor, facilitating accurate detection by the humidity sensor. The system collects humidity data detected by the humidity sensor and compares it with a pre-set standard humidity threshold. This data comparison method allows for an objective assessment of the airtightness of the gas meter casing 00. The heating element can be flexibly installed inside or around the water vapor rotating collection structure 84 at suitable locations, ensuring uniform heating without affecting the function of other components. This humidity-based airtightness assessment method, compared to traditional observation methods, has higher sensitivity and better quantification, providing reliable technical support for the quality control of the gas meter casing 00.

[0056] The lifting assembly 82 is the actuator for the vertical movement of the water vapor rotation collection structure 84, responsible for controlling the extension and retraction of the detection element. This assembly is motor-driven, comprising a lifting motor 821 as the power source, a belt drive structure 822 as the motion conversion device, and a lead screw structure 823 as the precise displacement control element. During operation, the lifting motor 821 drives the belt drive structure 822, which transmits the rotational motion to the lead screw structure 823. The lead screw structure 823 converts the rotational motion into vertical linear motion and connects with the rotation drive assembly 83 to achieve the overall lifting function.

[0057] The rotary drive assembly 83 is responsible for the horizontal rotation of the water vapor collection structure 84 and is a key component for achieving comprehensive water vapor collection. This assembly mainly includes a rotary motor 831 as the rotational power source and a rotary output shaft 832 as the power transmission component. The rotary motor 831 adjusts its speed and direction of rotation through a control system, while the rotary output shaft 832 is directly connected to the water vapor collection structure 84, precisely transmitting the motor's rotational motion to the collection device. This design allows the water vapor collection structure 84 to rotate omnidirectionally within the inner wall and bottom of the gas meter's upper casing 00, ensuring the integrity and uniformity of water vapor collection.

[0058] In this embodiment, to improve the overall structural stability and operational reliability of the system, the device is also equipped with several auxiliary support and protective components, including structural elements such as the housing frame and connecting frame. These components are mainly used to protect the lifting assembly 82 and the rotary drive assembly 83, enhance the connection between the components, and provide a good structural foundation for the entire detection system. Considering that the lifting assembly 82 and the rotary drive assembly 83 include the necessary airtight seals, such as O-rings, gaskets, and sealing covers, as well as standard transmission mechanisms, such as ball bearings, couplings, and synchronous pulleys, all of which use mature existing technologies and are not part of the core innovation of this invention, their structural details will not be described in detail here.

[0059] The process and principle of the gas meter casing airtightness test are as follows: After completing the fatigue strength test, the system proceeds to conduct an airtightness test on products that pass the test, ensuring a smooth and efficient testing process. The specific testing process consists of the following three main stages: The first stage is the test preparation stage. During this stage, the system maintains the sealed, pressurized state of the gas meter casing 00, while the air pressure control system 40 completely depressurizes the interior of the gas meter casing 00, allowing the internal pressure to return to normal. Then, the pushing structure 70 controls the water tank 60 to move upwards until the gas meter casing 00 is completely immersed in the clean water in the water tank 60. At this point, the clean water completely covers the outer surface of the gas meter casing 00, creating conditions for subsequent testing. Next, the air pressure control system 40 applies negative pressure to the sealed interior of the gas meter casing 00 for a preset period of time. During this process, if there is a minor leak in the gas meter casing 00, external water will seep into the interior of the gas meter casing 00 under negative pressure, providing a basis for subsequent humidity detection.

[0060] The second stage is the water vapor collection stage. The lifting assembly 82 is activated, controlling the water vapor rotating collection structure 84 to move downwards until the connecting rod hinge assembly 842 is completely disengaged from the movable through hole 323. At this time, the rebound force of the elastic element 844 drives the connecting rod hinge assembly 842 and its connected water-absorbing element 843 to unfold to both sides, allowing the water-absorbing element 843 and water-absorbing strip 846 to form a tight contact with the inner wall of the gas meter upper shell 00. Subsequently, the rotation drive assembly 83 is activated, driving the entire water vapor rotating collection structure 84 to rotate omnidirectionally inside the gas meter upper shell 00. Through this rotational movement, the water-absorbing element 843 can completely scan the inner walls and bottom of the gas meter upper shell 00, achieving comprehensive water vapor collection. Especially when the water vapor rotating collection structure 84 moves down to the bottom of the gas meter upper shell 00, the system controls the rotation drive assembly 83 to rotate multiple times, ensuring that any water vapor that may accumulate at the bottom is fully absorbed by the water-absorbing element 843 and water-absorbing strip 846, improving detection accuracy.

[0061] The third stage is the results analysis stage. After the water vapor collection is completed, the lifting component 82 controls the water vapor rotating collection structure 84 to move upward, gradually retracting it into the movable through hole 323. At this time, the detection component starts working, accurately measuring the moisture content adsorbed by the water vapor rotating collection structure 84, and obtaining the actual humidity value inside the gas meter upper shell 00. The system compares and analyzes this humidity value with the preset standard humidity threshold, automatically determining whether the airtightness of the test piece meets the requirements. For products with unqualified test results, the system will immediately issue an alarm signal and automatically record the relevant non-compliance information in the database, providing important reference data for production quality control and product improvement.

Claims

1. An integrated testing device for fatigue strength and airtightness of a gas meter housing, characterized in that, This includes a fatigue strength testing device for the upper casing of a gas meter and an intelligent testing device for the airtightness of the upper casing of a gas meter. The fatigue strength testing device for the upper casing of the gas meter includes: a mounting frame (10), the mounting frame (10) includes an upper pressing mounting plate (11) and a lower station mounting plate (13), the pressing mounting plate (11) and the station mounting plate (13) are vertically connected by a sliding connecting column (12); The test installation station (20) is embedded in the center of the station mounting plate (13), and the test installation station (20) is used to place the gas meter upper shell (00); The clamping mechanism (30) installed on the upper part of the mounting frame (10) includes a driving pressure structure (31) and a tooling plate (32). The driving pressure structure (31) drives the tooling plate (32) to move down and form a sealing fit with the opening end (001) of the gas meter upper shell (00). The tooling plate (32) is provided with a movable through hole (323). A pneumatic control system (40) is fixed to the side of the workstation mounting plate (13) via a connecting bracket (14). The pneumatic control system (40) is connected to the gas connection port of the gas meter upper shell (00) and injects test gas into the gas meter upper shell (00). An elastic mesh bag (50) is connected to the lower surface of the workstation mounting plate (13), and the elastic mesh bag (50) forms a semi-enclosed structure directly below the test installation workstation (20); An image acquisition and analysis system is used to acquire the state changes of the elastic net bag (50); The intelligent testing device for the airtightness of the gas meter casing includes: The frame (03) is set at the bottom of the mounting frame (10) of the gas meter housing fatigue strength testing device; A water tank (60) is installed on the frame (03) and located below the fatigue strength testing device for the upper casing of the gas meter. It is used to accommodate the upper casing (00) of the gas meter after the fatigue strength test. Humidity detection mechanism (80) is installed on the upper end of the tooling plate (32) of the gas meter upper housing fatigue strength testing device. It is used to detect the humidity change inside the gas meter upper housing (00). The humidity detection mechanism (80) is connected to the inside of the gas meter upper housing (00) through the movable through hole (323) on the tooling plate (32). The humidity detection mechanism (80) includes: a mounting housing (81); a lifting assembly (82) installed in the mounting housing (81), the lifting assembly (82) including a lifting motor (821) and a lead screw structure (823); a rotary drive assembly (83) connected to the lifting assembly (82), the rotary drive assembly (83) including a rotary motor (831) and a rotary output shaft (832), the rotary motor (831) being connected to a water vapor rotary collection structure (84) through the rotary output shaft (832); the water vapor rotary collection structure (84) extending into the interior of the gas meter upper casing (00) through a movable through hole (323) on the tooling pressure plate (32); The water vapor rotation collection structure (84) includes: a connecting cover (841); two sets of connecting rod hinge assemblies (842) hinged to the inner edge of the connecting cover (841), each set of connecting rod hinge assemblies (842) including a first connecting rod (8421), a second connecting rod (8422) and a third connecting rod (8423); a water-absorbing element (843) slidably connected to the connecting rod hinge assemblies (842); and an elastic element (844) connected between the water-absorbing elements (843). In the initial state, the connecting rod hinge assembly (842) and the water-absorbing component (843) are confined inside the movable through hole (323), while the elastic component (844) is in a bent and compressed state; when the connecting rod hinge assembly (842) is released from the confinement of the movable through hole (323), the rebound force of the elastic component (844) drives the connecting rod hinge assembly (842) and the water-absorbing component (843) to unfold to both sides.

2. The integrated testing device for fatigue strength and airtightness of gas meter housing according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tooling plate (32) includes a press-fit insertion part (321) and a press-fit sealing part (322). The lower corner of the press-fit insertion part (321) is provided with a clearance insertion notch (3211), and the surrounding side walls of the press-fit sealing part (322) are provided with an outwardly protruding sealing edge (3221).

3. The integrated testing device for fatigue strength and airtightness of gas meter housing according to claim 1, characterized in that, The upper end of the elastic net bag (50) has a widened amplification plate (51), which is connected to the lower end of the workstation mounting plate (13); the surface of the elastic net bag (50) is pre-printed with high-precision geometric patterns or grid marks.

4. The integrated testing device for fatigue strength and airtightness of gas meter housing according to claim 1, characterized in that, The test installation station (20) has an abutment positioning groove (21) along the inner wall periphery at the upper end, and the abutment positioning groove (21) corresponds to the protruding installation edge (002) of the opening end (001) of the gas meter upper shell (00).

5. The integrated testing device for fatigue strength and airtightness of gas meter housing according to claim 1, characterized in that, The driving pressurization structure (31) includes a driving cylinder (311) and a connecting transmission assembly (312). The driving cylinder (311) is fixedly installed on the pressing mounting plate (11). The connecting transmission assembly (312) is connected to the piston rod of the driving cylinder (311). The connecting transmission assembly (312) slides through the sliding connecting column (12) through the guide structure. The lower end of the connecting transmission assembly (312) is connected to the tooling pressure plate (32).

6. The integrated testing device for fatigue strength and airtightness of gas meter housing according to claim 5, characterized in that, The connection and transmission assembly (312) includes a central connecting post (3121), a connecting plate (3122), and a connecting rod (3123). The central connecting post (3121) is directly connected to the piston rod of the drive cylinder (311). The connecting plate (3122) and the sliding connecting post (12) form a sliding fit. The connecting rod (3123) connects the connecting plate (3122) and the tooling pressure plate (32).

7. The integrated testing device for fatigue strength and airtightness of gas meter housing according to claim 1, characterized in that, The gas pressure control system (40) includes a first gas blowing and suction dual-purpose component (41) and a second gas blowing and suction dual-purpose component (42). The first gas blowing and suction dual-purpose component (41) and the second gas blowing and suction dual-purpose component (42) respectively form an airtight connection with the first gas connection port (004) and the second gas connection port (005) on the upper shell (00) of the gas meter.

8. The integrated testing device for fatigue strength and airtightness of gas meter housing according to claim 1, characterized in that, The intelligent testing device for the airtightness of the gas meter casing also includes: A push structure (70) is installed at the lower end of the water tank (60). The push structure (70) is used to control the vertical movement of the water tank (60) so that the water tank (60) rises to a position that can submerge the upper shell (00) of the gas meter. The negative pressure control system is shared with the air pressure control system (40) of the gas meter upper shell fatigue strength testing device. It is used to apply negative pressure to the inner cavity of the gas meter upper shell (00) submerged in water, so that external moisture is drawn into the leak point inside the gas meter upper shell (00) under the action of negative pressure.

9. The integrated testing device for fatigue strength and airtightness of gas meter housing according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lifting assembly (82) also includes: The belt drive structure (822) is driven by the lifting motor (821) to operate. The belt drive structure (822) transmits the rotational motion to the lead screw structure (823), and the lead screw structure (823) converts the rotational motion into linear motion in the vertical direction.

10. The integrated testing device for fatigue strength and airtightness of gas meter housing according to claim 9, characterized in that, The inner edge of the connecting cover (841) has two fixed lugs (845). The two sets of connecting rod hinge assemblies (842) are symmetrically hinged through the fixed lugs (845). One end of the first connecting rod (8421) is hinged to the center of the bottom of the connecting cover (841) to form a first hinge part (851). The other end of the first connecting rod (8421) is hinged to the second connecting rod (8422) to form a second hinge part (852). One end of the third connecting rod (8423) is hinged to the fixed lugs (845) to form a third hinge part (853). The other end of the third connecting rod (8423) is hinged to the second hinge part (852). The side wall of the second connecting rod (8422) is provided with a sliding groove (847). The sliding groove (847) and the sliding plate (848) form a sliding fit. The sliding plate (848) is fixedly connected to the water-absorbing component (843).

11. The integrated testing device for fatigue strength and airtightness of gas meter housing according to claim 10, characterized in that, The absorbent element (843) has multiple slender absorbent strips (846) on its side wall; A limiting plate (849) is connected in the second hinge part (852), the limiting plate (849) is used to limit the maximum rotation angle of the connecting rod hinge assembly (842).

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