pressure sensor

Abstract

This application discloses a pressure sensor, comprising: a housing having a receiving chamber; and a sensing component housed in the receiving chamber, the sensing component including a base and a first sensing element and a second sensing element disposed on the base, wherein a first pressure chamber is formed at the first sensing element and a second pressure chamber is formed at the second sensing element, the first pressure chamber being in fluid communication with the second pressure chamber through a channel extending through the base.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application generally relates to the field of sensors, and more specifically, to pressure sensors. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, with increasing emphasis on safety, higher demands are being placed on automotive products, even requiring automotive sensors to meet ASIL C / D (Automotive Safety Integrity Level) functional safety standards, such as in transmission systems. For capacitive automotive pressure sensors, meeting functional safety requirements necessitates the placement of two sensors on a single pipeline, or two sensing units arranged side-by-side within a single sensor. This allows the other sensing unit to continue functioning even if one fails. However, this arrangement requires more space and incurs higher costs. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One of the purposes of this application is to provide a pressure sensor that can overcome at least one defect in the prior art.

[0004] One object of this application is to provide a pressure sensor that meets functional safety requirements by designing a double-sided ceramic capacitor within a single sensor.

[0005] Another objective of this application is to provide a pressure sensor that achieves the connection of the pressure medium and the electrical connection of the sensing component through the structure of the sensing component itself, thereby simplifying the structure and saving space.

[0006] According to a first aspect of this application, a pressure sensor is provided, comprising:

[0007] A housing having a receiving chamber; and

[0008] A sensing assembly, housed within the receiving chamber, includes a base and a first sensing element and a second sensing element disposed on the base.

[0009] A first pressure chamber is formed at the first sensing element, and a second pressure chamber is formed at the second sensing element. The first pressure chamber is in fluid communication with the second pressure chamber through a channel extending through the base.

[0010] When the sensing assembly has two sensing elements, both the first and second sensing elements can be used to measure the pressure of the pressure medium during normal operation. When one sensing element fails, the other sensing element can continue to work. At this time, the pressure sensor can still be used to measure the pressure of the pressure medium, so that the pressure sensor can continue to work normally.

[0011] The first and second pressure chambers are fluidly connected, allowing the pressure medium to be measured to enter either chamber via a single flow path after entering the housing. This eliminates the need for separate flow paths within the pressure sensor, simplifying the structure and reducing space requirements. Furthermore, the channel enabling fluid communication between the first and second pressure chambers can extend through the base, meaning it's integrated into the sensing component's structure rather than being external. This design minimizes space requirements and further reduces the overall size of the pressure sensor.

[0012] In some embodiments of the pressure sensor, the first sensing element and the second sensing element are disposed on opposite sides of the base.

[0013] In some embodiments of the pressure sensor, the first sensing element has a first hole, the second sensing element has a second hole, the base has a through hole, and the first hole, the second hole, and the through hole are aligned with each other and communicate with each other to form the channel.

[0014] In some embodiments of the pressure sensor, the housing is provided with a sensing end, the first sensing element faces the sensing end, and the space between the sensing end and the first sensing element forms the first pressure chamber.

[0015] A pressure hole can be formed in the sensing end, which leads directly to the first pressure chamber to simplify the fluid flow structure and reduce the size of the pressure sensor.

[0016] In some embodiments of the pressure sensor, a first sealing ring is provided between the sensing end and the first sensing element, such that the sensing end, the first sealing ring, and the first sensing element define the first pressure chamber.

[0017] In some embodiments of the pressure sensor, the pressure sensor further includes a sealed support assembly housed in the receiving chamber, the second sensing element facing the sealed support assembly, and the space between the sealed support assembly and the second sensing element forming the second pressure chamber.

[0018] In some embodiments of the pressure sensor, a second sealing ring is provided between the sealing support assembly and the second sensing element, such that the sealing support assembly, the second sealing ring, and the second sensing element define the second pressure chamber.

[0019] The pressure medium enters the pressure sensor from the pressure at the sensing end, flows into the first pressure chamber, and then flows through the sensing component via a channel into the second pressure chamber. The flow of the pressure medium is simple and straightforward, without a complex path, which simplifies the structure and facilitates the pressure measurement operation of the sensing component.

[0020] In some embodiments of the pressure sensor, the base has a connection hole, the second sensing element has an electrode hole, and an electrode connector connected to the electrode of the first sensing element extends through the connection hole of the base and protrudes from or is exposed through the electrode hole of the second sensing element.

[0021] The electrode connector extends through the connection hole of the base, utilizing the base's own structure. On the one hand, it does not occupy additional space inside the pressure sensor, which helps to reduce the size of the sensor. On the other hand, it eliminates the need for additional circuitry to connect the electrodes of the first sensing element to the circuit board, simplifying the structure and saving space.

[0022] In some embodiments of the pressure sensor, the electrode orifice is configured not to contact the second pressure chamber.

[0023] In some embodiments of the pressure sensor, the pressure sensor further includes a sealed support assembly housed in the receiving chamber, the second sensing element facing the sealed support assembly, the sealed support assembly being configured to seal and support the sensing element on one side and seal and support the circuit board of the pressure sensor on the other side.

[0024] In some embodiments of the pressure sensor, the sealing support assembly includes a base and a terminal assembly. The base has a terminal hole, and the terminal assembly is inserted into the terminal hole, such that the electrodes of the first sensing element and the second sensing element are respectively connected to the circuit board of the pressure sensor via the corresponding terminal assembly.

[0025] In some embodiments of the pressure sensor, the sealing support assembly includes a cover disposed between the base and the circuit board of the pressure sensor.

[0026] In some embodiments of the pressure sensor, the terminal assembly includes resilient elements and connecting terminals connected to each other, with the electrodes of the first sensing element and the second sensing element respectively connected to the resilient elements of the corresponding terminal assembly, and the connecting terminals connected to the circuit board of the pressure sensor.

[0027] In some embodiments of the pressure sensor, the terminal assembly includes resilient elements and connecting terminals connected to each other, the electrodes of the first sensing element and the second sensing element are respectively coupled to the resilient elements of the corresponding terminal assembly, the connecting terminals are coupled to the circuit board of the pressure sensor, wherein the resilient elements are disposed in the terminal holes, and the connecting terminals extend through the cover.

[0028] In some embodiments of the pressure sensor, a retaining ring is provided between the sealing support assembly and the sensing assembly.

[0029] In some embodiments of the pressure sensor, the sensing component is a ceramic capacitor, and both the first sensing element and the second sensing element are ceramic strain gauges. Attached Figure Description

[0030] A better understanding of various aspects of this application will be achieved by reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0031] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of a pressure sensor according to some embodiments of this application;

[0032] Figure 2 This is another cross-sectional view of a pressure sensor according to some embodiments of this application;

[0033] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a pressure sensor according to some embodiments of this application, showing the flow of a pressure medium;

[0034] Figure 4 This is an enlarged view of a portion of a pressure sensor according to some embodiments of this application;

[0035] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the sensing component of a pressure sensor according to some embodiments of this application;

[0036] Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view of the sensing component of a pressure sensor according to some embodiments of this application;

[0037] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the sensing component of a pressure sensor according to some embodiments of this application;

[0038] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of a sealing support assembly of a pressure sensor according to some embodiments of this application;

[0039] Figure 9 This is an exploded perspective view of a sealing support assembly of a pressure sensor according to some embodiments of this application; and

[0040] Figure 10This is a cross-sectional view of a sealing support assembly for a pressure sensor according to some embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0041] The present application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate several embodiments of the present application. However, it should be understood that the present application can be presented in many different ways and is not limited to the embodiments described below; in fact, the embodiments described below are intended to make the disclosure of the present application more complete and to fully illustrate the scope of protection of the present application to those skilled in the art. It should also be understood that the embodiments disclosed herein can be combined in various ways to provide more additional embodiments.

[0042] It should be understood that the same reference numerals denote the same elements in all the accompanying drawings. For clarity, the dimensions of certain features may be modified in the drawings.

[0043] It should be understood that the terminology used in this specification is for describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to limit this application. All terms used in this specification (including technical and scientific terms) have the meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art, unless otherwise defined. For the sake of brevity and / or clarity, well-known functions or structures may not be described in detail.

[0044] Unless otherwise specified, the singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” used in this specification include the plural forms. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “containing” used in this specification indicate the presence of the claimed feature but do not exclude the presence of one or more other features. The term “and / or” used in this specification includes any and all combinations of one or more of the related listed items. The terms “between X and Y” and “between approximately X and Y” used in this specification should be interpreted as including both X and Y. The term “between approximately X and Y” used in this specification means “between approximately X and approximately Y,” and the term “from approximately X to Y” used in this specification means “from approximately X to approximately Y.”

[0045] In the specification, when an element is described as being "on," "attached," "connected," "coupled," or "in contact" with another element, the element can be directly located on, attached to, connected to, coupled to, or in contact with the other element, or there may be intermediate elements present. Conversely, when an element is described as being "directly" located on, directly attached to, directly connected to, directly coupled to, or directly in contact with another element, no intermediate elements are present. In the specification, the description of a feature being arranged "adjacent" to another feature can mean that a feature has a portion overlapping with the adjacent feature or a portion located above or below the adjacent feature.

[0046] In the specification, spatial relation terms such as "up," "down," "left," "right," "front," "back," "high," and "low" describe the relationship between one feature and another in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that spatial relation terms include not only the orientation shown in the drawings but also the different orientations of the device during use or operation. For example, when the device in the drawings is inverted, a feature previously described as "below" other features can now be described as "above" other features. The device can also be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), in which case the relative spatial relationships will be explained accordingly.

[0047] Currently, with increasing emphasis on safety, higher demands are being placed on automotive products, even requiring automotive sensors to meet ASIL C / D (Automotive Safety Integrity Level) functional safety standards, such as in transmission systems. For capacitive automotive pressure sensors, meeting ASIL C / D requirements necessitates configuring two sensors on a single pipeline; or arranging two sensing units side-by-side within a single sensor. This allows the other sensing unit to continue functioning even if one fails. However, this arrangement requires more space and incurs higher costs.

[0048] Given this situation in the prior art, this application proposes to set two sensing elements on a single sensing unit within a sensor, so that when one sensing element fails, the other sensing element can still function normally, thus meeting safety level requirements. However, compared to setting a single sensing element on a single sensing unit, setting two sensing elements on a single sensing unit requires considering more factors, such as the need for the pressure medium to be simultaneously delivered to both sensing elements, the connection circuitry of the two sensing elements, and so on. These factors can increase the complexity of the device and the space occupied, posing a significant challenge to sensor design.

[0049] According to the pressure sensor of this application, when two sensing elements are set on a single sensing component, the above-mentioned problems are solved by utilizing the structural characteristics of the sensing component itself. Compared with setting a single sensing element on a single sensing component, there is no significant increase in structural complexity or space occupied. Compared with configuring two sensors or arranging two sensing units side by side inside a sensor, the space occupied is significantly reduced and the structural complexity is reduced.

[0050] The following describes in detail, with reference to the accompanying drawings, some embodiments of pressure sensors according to this application.

[0051] According to some embodiments of this application, a pressure sensor 1 is provided, which may include: a housing 10 having a receiving chamber 12; and a sensing component 20, which may be housed in the receiving chamber 12. The sensing component 20 may include a base 22 and a first sensing element 24 and a second sensing element 26 disposed on the base 22. A first pressure chamber 252 may be formed at the first sensing element 24, and a second pressure chamber 254 may be formed at the second sensing element 26. The first pressure chamber 252 may be in fluid communication with the second pressure chamber 254 through a channel 222 extending through the base 22.

[0052] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 The figures shown are cross-sectional views of pressure sensor 1 according to some embodiments of this application. Pressure sensor 1 includes a housing 10, within which a receiving chamber 12 may be formed, and the components of pressure sensor 1 may be housed within the receiving chamber 12. Sensing component 20 is the core component of pressure sensor 1, configured to sense the pressure of a fluid to be measured. Specifically, the fluid to be measured (also called a pressure medium) may be introduced into pressure sensor 1 and contacted with sensing component 20 so that the pressure of the pressure medium can be measured by sensing component 20.

[0053] According to embodiments of this application, the sensing assembly 20 may include a base 22 and a first sensing element 24 and a second sensing element 26 disposed on the base 22. The base 22 may be in the form of a sheet or plate, and its shape may substantially correspond to the cross-sectional shape of the receiving chamber 12 so as to be suitably placed within the receiving chamber 12, for example, being circular, square, or any other suitable shape. Similarly, the first sensing element 24 and the second sensing element 26 may also be in the form of a sheet or plate, and their shapes are substantially the same as those of the base 22. In some embodiments, the first sensing element 24 and the second sensing element 26 may be disposed on opposite sides of the base 22, i.e., arranged on the front and back surfaces of the base 22. When placed in the receiving chamber 12, the first sensing element 24 and the second sensing element 26 are exposed from opposite sides of the base 22 to facilitate contact with the pressure medium entering the housing 10 for measurement.

[0054] When the sensing assembly 20 is provided with two sensing elements, during normal operation, both the first sensing element 24 and the second sensing element 26 can be used to measure the pressure of the pressure medium. When one of the sensing elements fails, the other sensing element can continue to work. At this time, the pressure sensor 1 can still be used to measure the pressure of the pressure medium, so that the pressure sensor 1 can still continue to work normally.

[0055] In some embodiments, a first pressure chamber 252 may be formed at the first sensing element 24, and a second pressure chamber 254 may be formed at the second sensing element 26. During operation of the pressure sensor 1, the pressure medium to be measured can be introduced into the first pressure chamber 252 and the second pressure chamber 254 for measurement with the first sensing element 24 and the second sensing element 26, respectively. The first pressure chamber 252 may be formed adjacent to the first sensing element 24 such that most of the surface of the first sensing element 24 can contact the first pressure chamber 252 (here, "contact" means that the fluid in the first pressure chamber 252 is in contact with the surface of the first sensing element 24), so as to facilitate contact between the pressure medium and the first sensing element 24 in the first pressure chamber 252. Similarly, the second pressure chamber 254 may be formed adjacent to the second sensing element 26 such that most of the surface of the second sensing element 26 can contact the second pressure chamber 254 (here, "contact" means that the fluid in the second pressure chamber 254 is in contact with the surface of the second sensing element 26), so as to facilitate contact between the pressure medium and the second sensing element 26 in the second pressure chamber 254.

[0056] According to an embodiment of this application, the first pressure chamber 252 can be fluidly connected to the second pressure chamber 254 via a channel 222 extending through the base 22. The fluid communication between the first pressure chamber 252 and the second pressure chamber 254 allows the pressure medium to be measured to enter the housing 10 via a single flow path into either the first pressure chamber 252 or the second pressure chamber 254, eliminating the need for separate flow paths within the pressure sensor 1. This simplifies the structure and reduces the space required. Furthermore, the channel 222, which allows the fluid communication between the first and second pressure chambers 252 and 254, can extend through the base 22, i.e., be integrated into the structure of the sensing component 22 itself, rather than being formed outside the sensing component 20. In this case, the channel 222 does not occupy additional space, further reducing the volume of the pressure sensor 1.

[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, two channels 222 are formed on the sensing component 22. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the number of channels 222 is not limited to two, but can be set according to the needs of the actual application, for example, less than two or more than two.

[0058] According to some embodiments of this application, the first sensing element 24 may have a first hole 242, the second sensing element 26 may have a second hole 262, and the base 22 may have a through hole 224. The first hole 242, the second hole 262 and the through hole 224 may be aligned with each other and connected to form a channel 222.

[0059] like Figures 5 to 7 The figures show perspective views, exploded perspective views, and cross-sectional views of the sensing component 20 of a pressure sensor 1 according to some embodiments of this application. In the illustrated embodiment, a first pressure chamber 252 is formed outside the first sensing element 24, and a second pressure chamber 254 is formed outside the second sensing element 26. Therefore, the communication between the first pressure chamber 252 and the second pressure chamber 254, achieved by means of a channel 22, requires passing through the base 22, the first sensing element 24, and the second sensing element 26. In this case, as shown, a first hole 242 can be formed on the first sensing element 24, a second hole 262 can be formed on the second sensing element 26, and a through hole 224 can be formed on the base 22. The first hole 242, the second hole 262, and the through hole 224 can be aligned with each other and communicate with each other to form the channel 222.

[0060] In the illustrated embodiment, when two channels 222 are formed, the number of the first hole 242, the second hole 262, and the through hole 224 is also two. However, those skilled in the art will understand that their number is not limited to two, but can be set according to the needs of actual application, for example, less than two or more than two.

[0061] According to some embodiments of this application, the housing 10 may be provided with a sensing end 14, a first sensing element 24 facing the sensing end 14, and the space between the sensing end 14 and the first sensing element 24 forms a first pressure chamber 252.

[0062] like Figure 1 As shown, a sensing end 14 is formed at one end of the housing 10. During operation of the pressure sensor 1, the sensing end 14 extends into the environment to be measured, facilitating pressure measurement. A pressure hole 142 may be formed in the sensing end 14, which opens to the outside of the housing 10, allowing fluid communication between the interior of the pressure sensor 1 and the external environment. The first pressure chamber 252 is in fluid communication with the external environment through the pressure hole 142, allowing the pressure medium to be measured to enter the first pressure chamber 252 through the pressure hole 142. In the illustrated embodiment, the pressure hole 142 directly opens to the first pressure chamber 252 to simplify the fluid flow structure and reduce the volume of the pressure sensor 1.

[0063] According to some embodiments of this application, a first sealing ring 32 may be provided between the sensing end 14 and the first sensing element 24, such that the sensing end 14, the first sealing ring 32 and the first sensing element 24 define a first pressure chamber 252.

[0064] like Figure 1As shown, the first sealing ring 32 is disposed in the space between the sensing end 14 and the first sensing element 24, such that the pressure medium entering the pressure sensor 1 is constrained between the sensing end 14, the first sealing ring 32, and the first sensing element 24, to prevent the pressure medium from leaking into the receiving chamber 12, for example. The first sealing ring 32 is configured close to the edge of the first sensing element 24 to increase the contact between the first sensing element 24 and the first pressure chamber 252, which is beneficial for the pressure medium to contact the first sensing element 24.

[0065] According to some embodiments of this application, the pressure sensor 1 may further include a sealing support assembly 40 housed in a receiving chamber 12, a second sensing element 26 facing the sealing support assembly 40, and a second pressure chamber 254 formed between the sealing support assembly 40 and the second sensing element 26.

[0066] like Figure 1 As shown, the sealing support assembly 40 is disposed in the receiving chamber 12, arranged outside the second sensing element 26, and serves to separate the sensing assembly 20 from the circuit board 16 of the pressure sensor 1. The specific structure of the sealing support assembly 40 will be described in detail below.

[0067] As shown in the figure, the sealing support assembly 40 is close to but spaced apart from the second sensing element 26 to form a gap between the sealing support assembly 40 and the second sensing element 26, which can be used to form a second pressure chamber 254. In some embodiments, a second sealing ring 34 may be provided between the sealing support assembly 40 and the second sensing element 26, such that the sealing support assembly 40, the second sealing ring 34, and the second sensing element 26 define the second pressure chamber 254. The second sealing ring 34 is disposed in the space between the sealing support assembly 40 and the second sensing element 26, thereby constraining the pressure medium entering the second pressure chamber 254 and preventing the pressure medium from leaking into the receiving chamber 12, for example.

[0068] A retaining ring 36 may also be provided between the sealing support assembly 40 and the second sensing element 26. The retaining ring 36 extends along the inner wall of the receiving chamber 12 between the sealing support assembly 40 and the second sensing element 26. A second sealing ring 34 may be disposed radially inside the retaining ring 36. The retaining ring 36 is used to maintain the gap between the sealing support assembly 40 and the second sensing element 26, maintain the formation of the second pressure chamber 254, and facilitate assembly. For example, when assembling the sensing assembly 20 and the sealing support assembly 40, the formation of the second pressure chamber 254 does not need to be considered due to the presence of the retaining ring 36, because the gap between the sealing support assembly 40 and the second sensing element 26 is maintained when the retaining ring 36 is sandwiched between the sealing support assembly 40 and the second sensing element 26 to form the second pressure chamber 254.

[0069] like Figure 3 The figure shown is a cross-sectional view of a pressure sensor 1 according to some embodiments of this application, illustrating the flow of the pressure medium. As indicated by the arrows in the figure, the pressure medium enters the pressure sensor 1 through the pressure port 142 at the sensing end 14, flows into the first pressure chamber 252, and then flows through the sensing component 20 via the channel 222 to the second pressure chamber 254. The flow of the pressure medium is simple and straightforward, without a complex path, which simplifies the structure and facilitates the pressure measurement operation of the sensing component.

[0070] According to some embodiments of this application, the base 22 may have a connection hole 226, the second sensing element 26 may have an electrode hole 264, and the electrode connector 244 connected to the electrode of the first sensing element 24 may extend through the connection hole 226 of the base 22 and extend out from or be exposed through the electrode hole 264 of the second sensing element 26.

[0071] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the electrode connector 244, connected to the electrode of the first sensing element 24, extends through the connection hole 226 of the base 22 and protrudes from or is exposed through the electrode hole 264 of the second sensing element 26, such that the electrode connector 244 connected to the electrode of the first sensing element 24 is at approximately the same level as the electrode 266 of the second sensing element 26. This facilitates the connection of the electrode of the first sensing element 24 to the circuit board 16 of the pressure sensor 1 via the electrode connector 244 and the connection of the electrode 266 of the second sensing element 26 to the circuit board 16 of the pressure sensor 1. In some embodiments, the electrode connector 244 connected to the electrode of the first sensing element 24 may be exposed through the electrode hole 264, i.e., it does not extend beyond the surface of the second sensing element 26, but can be reached through the electrode hole 264. In this case, the electrode 266 of the second sensing element 26 may be a recessed electrode or a through electrode (e.g., similar to the electrode of a sensing element on a conventional sensing assembly with only a single sensing element) so that it is at approximately the same level as the electrode connector 244. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, three electrodes of the first sensing element 24 and its electrode connector 244 and three electrodes 266 of the second sensing element 26 are shown. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the number of electrodes can be determined according to the actual application and design requirements, for example, more than three or fewer electrodes may be used.

[0072] The electrode connector 244, which is connected to the electrode of the first sensing element 24, extends through the connection hole 226 of the base 22. It utilizes the structure of the base 22 itself. On the one hand, it does not occupy additional space in the pressure sensor 1, which helps to reduce the size of the sensor. On the other hand, it eliminates the need for additional circuitry to connect the electrode of the first sensing element 24 to the circuit board 16 to transmit the capacitive signal, which simplifies the structure and saves space.

[0073] According to some embodiments of this application, the electrode hole 264 can be configured not to contact the second pressure chamber 254. Here, "contact" means that the electrode hole 264 can reach the pressure medium within the second pressure chamber 254, or that the pressure medium within the second pressure chamber 254 can contact the electrode hole 264 and the electrode connector therein. In the case of such contact, the pressure medium within the second pressure chamber 254 may adversely affect the capacitance signal of the first sensing element 24, thereby affecting the product output accuracy. Therefore, configuring the electrode hole 264 not to contact the second pressure chamber 254 can avoid this adverse effect. Similarly, the electrode 266 of the second sensing element 26 can be configured not to contact the second pressure chamber 254 to avoid the pressure medium within the second pressure chamber 254 adversely affecting the capacitance signal of the second sensing element 26, thereby affecting the product output accuracy.

[0074] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown above, a retaining ring 36 may also be provided between the sealing support assembly 40 and the second sensing element 26, extending along the inner wall of the receiving chamber 12 between the sealing support assembly 40 and the second sensing element 26. A second sealing ring 34 may be disposed radially inside the retaining ring 36, thereby placing the second pressure chamber 254 radially inside the retaining ring 36. In this case, as an example, the electrode hole 264 may be disposed within the range of the retaining ring 36, thereby avoiding the second pressure chamber 254.

[0075] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the pressure sensor 1 may further include a sealed support assembly 40 housed in the receiving chamber 12, with the second sensing element 26 facing the sealed support assembly 40. The sealed support assembly 40 is configured to seal and support the sensing assembly 20 on one side and seal and support the circuit board 16 of the pressure sensor 1 on the other side. As shown, the sealed support assembly 40 is located between the sensing assembly 20 and the circuit board 16, separating the sensing assembly 20 and the circuit board 16.

[0076] According to some embodiments of this application, the sealing support assembly 40 may include a base 42 and a terminal assembly 44. The base 42 has a terminal hole 422, and the terminal assembly 44 is inserted into the terminal hole 422, such that the electrode of the first sensing element 24 is connected to the circuit board 16 of the pressure sensor 1 via the electrode connector 244 and the corresponding terminal assembly, and the electrode 266 of the second sensing element 26 is connected to the circuit board 16 of the pressure sensor 1 via the corresponding terminal assembly.

[0077] like Figures 8 to 10 The diagram shows a perspective view, exploded perspective view, and cross-sectional view of the sealing support assembly 40 of the pressure sensor 1 according to some embodiments of this application. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 42 may be in the form of a sheet or plate, and its shape may substantially correspond to the cross-sectional shape of the receiving chamber 12 so as to be suitably placed within the receiving chamber 12, for example, circular, square, or any other suitable shape. In some embodiments, the base 42 may be placed within the receiving chamber 12 in a clearance fit to support the sensing assembly 20 and the circuit board 16. Of course, those skilled in the art will understand that the base 42 may be placed within the receiving chamber 12 in any suitable manner, and is not limited to a clearance fit.

[0078] like Figure 4 As shown, the base 42 is adjacent to the second sensing element 26, and the retaining ring 36 and the second sealing ring 34 are disposed between the base 42 and the second sensing element 26. The sealing support assembly 40 may include a cover 46, which is disposed between the base 42 and the circuit board 16 of the pressure sensor 1.

[0079] In the illustrated embodiment, six terminal assemblies 44 are shown, and correspondingly, the base 42 has six terminal holes 422. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the number of terminal assemblies can be determined according to the actual application and design requirements; for example, more than six or fewer terminal assemblies may be used. In some embodiments, the number of terminal assemblies 44 corresponds to the sum of the number of electrodes of the first sensing element 24 and the number of electrodes 266 of the second sensing element 26, so as to connect the electrodes of the first sensing element 24 to the circuit board 16 via electrode connectors 244 and corresponding terminal assemblies 44, and the electrodes 266 of the second sensing element 26 via corresponding terminal assemblies 44, thereby transmitting capacitance signals.

[0080] like Figure 4 and Figure 10As shown, the terminal assembly 44 may include elastic elements 442 and connecting terminals 444 connected to each other. Electrode connectors 244 connected to the electrodes of the first sensing element 24 and the electrodes 266 of the second sensing element 26 are respectively connected to the elastic elements 442 of the corresponding terminal assembly 44. The connecting terminals 444 are connected to the circuit board 16 of the pressure sensor 1. The elastic elements 442 may be disposed in terminal holes 422, and the connecting terminals 444 may extend through the cover 46. The cover 46 may be configured to hold the connecting terminals 444. The elasticity of the elastic elements 442 allows them to adapt to the deformation of the first sensing element 24 and the second sensing element 26 during operation, ensuring that the signals generated by the first sensing element 24 and the second sensing element 26 can be transmitted through the terminal assembly 44 without interruption. The elastic element 442 may be a spring, such as a coil spring (as shown), a disc spring, or a spring pin, a spring sheet, etc.

[0081] According to some embodiments of this application, the sensing component 20 can be a ceramic capacitor, and the first sensing element 24 and the second sensing element 26 are both ceramic strain gauges. Electrodes can be printed on the ceramic strain gauges, and electrodes are printed on both sides of the base of the ceramic capacitor. The ceramic strain gauges are sintered onto both sides of the base of the ceramic capacitor using, for example, glass glue, to form a ceramic capacitor assembly. The ceramic capacitor is suitable for serving as the sensing component 20 of the pressure sensor 1. Conventional ceramic capacitors only have ceramic strain gauges sintered on one side. Based on this, this application improves the ceramic capacitor by sintering ceramic strain gauges on both opposite sides, and simultaneously creates a channel in the structure of the ceramic capacitor itself for fluid communication between the pressure chambers containing the two ceramic strain gauges. This makes it easier to incorporate the ceramic capacitor with two ceramic strain gauges into the pressure sensor, requiring fewer modifications to the rest of the pressure sensor structure, simplifying the structure, reducing the space occupied, and reducing the volume and size of the pressure sensor while meeting safety requirements.

[0082] While exemplary embodiments of this application have been described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and modifications can be made to the exemplary embodiments of this application without departing from the spirit and scope thereof. Therefore, all changes and modifications are included within the scope of protection of this application as defined by the claims. This application is defined by the appended claims, and equivalents of those claims are also included.

Claims

1. A pressure sensor, characterized in that, The pressure sensor includes: A housing having a receiving chamber; and A sensing assembly, housed within the receiving chamber, includes a base and a first sensing element and a second sensing element disposed on the base. A first pressure chamber is formed at the first sensing element, and a second pressure chamber is formed at the second sensing element. The first pressure chamber is in fluid communication with the second pressure chamber through a channel extending through the base.

2. The pressure sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first sensing element and the second sensing element are disposed on opposite sides of the base.

3. The pressure sensor according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first sensing element has a first hole, the second sensing element has a second hole, and the base has a through hole. The first hole, the second hole, and the through hole are aligned with each other and connected to form the channel.

4. The pressure sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The housing is provided with a sensing end, the first sensing element faces the sensing end, and the space between the sensing end and the first sensing element forms the first pressure chamber.

5. The pressure sensor according to claim 4, characterized in that, A first sealing ring is provided between the sensing end and the first sensing element, such that the sensing end, the first sealing ring, and the first sensing element define the first pressure chamber.

6. The pressure sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The pressure sensor further includes a sealed support assembly housed in the receiving chamber, the second sensing element facing the sealed support assembly, and the space between the sealed support assembly and the second sensing element forming the second pressure chamber.

7. The pressure sensor according to claim 6, characterized in that, A second sealing ring is provided between the sealing support assembly and the second sensing element, such that the sealing support assembly, the second sealing ring, and the second sensing element define the second pressure chamber.

8. The pressure sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The base has a connection hole, the second sensing element has an electrode hole, and an electrode connector connected to the electrode of the first sensing element extends through the connection hole of the base and protrudes from or is exposed through the electrode hole of the second sensing element.

9. The pressure sensor according to claim 8, characterized in that, The electrode hole is configured not to contact the second pressure chamber.

10. The pressure sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The pressure sensor further includes a sealed support assembly housed in the receiving chamber, the second sensing element facing the sealed support assembly, the sealed support assembly being configured to seal and support the sensing element on one side and the circuit board of the pressure sensor on the other side.

11. The pressure sensor according to claim 10, characterized in that, The sealing support assembly includes a base and a terminal assembly. The base has a terminal hole, and the terminal assembly is inserted into the terminal hole, such that the electrodes of the first sensing element and the second sensing element are respectively connected to the circuit board of the pressure sensor via the corresponding terminal assembly.

12. The pressure sensor according to claim 11, characterized in that, The sealing support assembly includes a cover disposed between the base and the circuit board of the pressure sensor.

13. The pressure sensor according to claim 11, characterized in that, The terminal assembly includes elastic elements and connecting terminals connected to each other. The electrodes of the first sensing element and the second sensing element are respectively connected to the elastic elements of the corresponding terminal assembly, and the connecting terminals are connected to the circuit board of the pressure sensor.

14. The pressure sensor according to claim 12, characterized in that, The terminal assembly includes elastic elements and connecting terminals connected to each other. The electrodes of the first sensing element and the second sensing element are respectively connected to the elastic elements of the corresponding terminal assembly. The connecting terminals are connected to the circuit board of the pressure sensor. The elastic elements are disposed in the terminal holes, and the connecting terminals extend through the cover.

15. The pressure sensor according to any one of claims 6 to 7 and 10 to 14, characterized in that, A retaining ring is provided between the sealing support assembly and the sensing assembly.

16. The pressure sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that, The sensing component is a ceramic capacitor, and both the first sensing element and the second sensing element are ceramic strain gauges.

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