Ultrasonic water meter
By using connecting pipes in ultrasonic water meters to achieve flexible installation of the detection components, the problem of low component installation flexibility is solved, space utilization and measurement accuracy are improved, costs are reduced, and modular design and component upgrades are supported.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202423046328.5
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-10
- Publication Date
- 2025-11-11
- Estimated Expiration
- 2034-12-10
AI Technical Summary
Existing ultrasonic water meter components have low installation flexibility, resulting in low space utilization, difficulty in matching larger volume detection components, and high cost.
The detection element is connected to the tube body via a connecting tube, allowing the position of the detection element to be freely adjusted within the cavity, enabling flexible installation, and supporting modular design and reasonable spatial layout.
It improves the space utilization of ultrasonic water meters, reduces production costs, and supports functional expansion and component upgrades, while enhancing measurement accuracy and overall structural compactness.
Smart Images

Figure CN223538359U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of instrumentation technology, and in particular to an ultrasonic water meter. Background Technology
[0002] An ultrasonic water meter is an instrument used to measure and record water flow, typically used to monitor water consumption in homes, businesses, or industries.
[0003] In related technologies, an ultrasonic water meter is an instrument that uses ultrasonic technology to measure the speed of water flow, thereby calculating the amount of water flowing through the ultrasonic water meter. Ultrasonic water meters are equipped with components such as temperature and pressure sensors.
[0004] However, existing ultrasonic water meters suffer from low flexibility in component installation and consequently low space utilization. Utility Model Content
[0005] This application provides an ultrasonic water meter in which the detection element is connected to the pipe body via a connecting pipe. This allows the installation position of the detection element to be freely adjusted within the cavity, enabling designers to make reasonable layouts inside the ultrasonic water meter, thereby maximizing the use of available space and improving the space utilization rate of the ultrasonic water meter.
[0006] This application provides an ultrasonic water meter, including a housing, a tube, an ultrasonic component, a detection element, a connecting tube, and a control element.
[0007] The shell has a cavity. The tube is located in the cavity, and both ends of the tube are used to connect to water pipes.
[0008] An ultrasonic component is installed in the pipe to detect the flow rate of the water in the pipe.
[0009] The detection element is located in the cavity; the detection element is used to detect at least one of the temperature and pressure of the water in the pipe.
[0010] The connecting tube connects the detection end of the detection device to the tube body cavity.
[0011] The ultrasonic components and detection devices are all electrically connected to the control components.
[0012] In some embodiments of this application, the detection element is disposed on the outer periphery of the tube body, and the detection element is connected to the tube body via a colloid.
[0013] In some embodiments of this application, the connecting tube includes a flexible tube.
[0014] In some embodiments of this application, the connecting pipe includes a polyurethane pipe.
[0015] In some embodiments of this application, the tube body is provided with a through hole, and a first adapter is provided at the through hole. The first end of the connecting tube is connected to the first adapter through the first adapter.
[0016] The detection end of the test piece is equipped with a second adapter, and the second end of the connecting pipe is connected through the second adapter and the second adapter.
[0017] In some embodiments of this application, the housing includes a first housing and a second housing; the first housing and the second housing are disposed opposite to each other; the extending direction of the tube intersects the direction from the first housing to the second housing.
[0018] The second shell is equipped with a support column.
[0019] In some embodiments of this application, the ultrasonic water meter further includes a mounting box located in the cavity, and the control components are disposed in the mounting box.
[0020] The mounting box is located in the first housing.
[0021] The mounting box and the support column are provided with a protrusion, and the other mounting box and the support column are provided with a recess, and the mounting box and the support column are connected by the protrusion and the recess.
[0022] The support column is also equipped with a limiting part, which abuts against the side of the mounting box near the pipe body.
[0023] In some embodiments of this application, the pipe body is provided with a first mounting part and a second mounting part, which are arranged opposite to each other.
[0024] The ultrasonic component includes a first ultrasonic sensor and a second ultrasonic sensor. The first ultrasonic sensor is disposed in a first mounting portion, and the second ultrasonic sensor is disposed in a second mounting portion.
[0025] In some embodiments of this application, the ultrasonic water meter further includes a reflector frame and two reflector plates, both of which are disposed within the tube cavity.
[0026] The extension direction of the reflector frame is the same as that of the tube body, and two reflective plates are set at both ends of the reflector frame.
[0027] The two reflectors are respectively set to correspond to the first ultrasonic sensor and the second ultrasonic sensor.
[0028] In some embodiments of this application, the ultrasonic water meter also includes a power supply component.
[0029] Along the extension direction that intersects the tube body, the power supply component is located on one side of the tube body.
[0030] A fixing plate is provided on the inner circumference of the housing, and the power supply component is located in the fixed end formed by the fixing plate.
[0031] The detection components, ultrasonic components, and control components are all electrically connected to the power supply components.
[0032] This application provides an ultrasonic water meter, including a housing, a tube, an ultrasonic component, a detection element, a connecting pipe, and a control element. The housing has a cavity. The tube is located within the cavity, and both ends of the tube are used to connect to water pipes. The ultrasonic component is disposed in the tube and is used to detect the flow rate of the water. The detection element is located within the cavity and is used to detect at least one of the temperature and pressure of the water in the tube. The connecting pipe connects the detection end of the detection element to the cavity of the tube. The ultrasonic component and the detection element are both electrically connected to the control element.
[0033] Because the detection element can be connected to the tube body via a connecting pipe, its position can be freely adjusted within the cavity. This design provides installation flexibility for the detection element. The installation position of the detection element can be selected according to the specific application requirements or environmental conditions of the ultrasonic water meter, which is beneficial for the layout of other components in the ultrasonic water meter and facilitates future upgrades by adding other parts.
[0034] The adjustable position of the sensing element allows designers to create a rational layout within the ultrasonic water meter, maximizing the use of available space and improving its space utilization rate. The ultrasonic water meter itself features a rational and compact arrangement of structural components. This compact design reduces the overall size of the ultrasonic water meter, saving installation space. Attached Figure Description
[0035] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application.
[0036] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the structure of the ultrasonic water meter provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 1 ;
[0037] Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the structure of the ultrasonic water meter provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 2 ;
[0038] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A cross-sectional view along the OO direction;
[0039] Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the structure of the ultrasonic water meter provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 3 ;
[0040] Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the structure of the ultrasonic water meter provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 4 ;
[0041] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of the ultrasonic water meter body, detection element, connecting pipe, etc. provided in the embodiments of this application;
[0042] Figure 7 for Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the structure in the AA direction;
[0043] Figure 8 for Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the structure in the middle BB direction;
[0044] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the reflector and reflector frame.
[0045] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:
[0046] 100: Housing; 110: First housing; 120: Second housing; 121: Support column; 122: Limiting part;
[0047] 200: tube body;
[0048] 300: Inspection item;
[0049] 400: Connecting pipe; 410: First adapter; 420: First adapter; 430: Second adapter; 440: Second adapter;
[0050] 500: Installation box;
[0051] 600: Reflector mount; 610: Reflector sheet; 620: O-ring;
[0052] 700: Power supply component; 710: Mounting plate;
[0053] 800: Control components.
[0054] The accompanying drawings have illustrated specific embodiments of this application, which will be described in more detail below. These drawings and descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the concept in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of this application to those skilled in the art through reference to specific embodiments. Detailed Implementation
[0055] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this application as detailed in the appended claims.
[0056] In related technologies, ultrasonic water meters are water meters that use ultrasonic waves to measure the flow velocity of water. The propagation speed of ultrasonic waves in water varies with temperature. Water pressure directly affects the flow velocity and flow rate. Therefore, ultrasonic water meters are equipped with temperature and pressure sensors to detect the water temperature and pressure. The ultrasonic water meter then compensates for the water flow velocity based on the water temperature detected by the temperature and pressure sensors to ensure the accuracy of ultrasonic flow measurement.
[0057] Due to limited internal space, ultrasonic water meters often employ miniature temperature and pressure sensors. These sensors are typically located on the outer periphery of the tube body and their detection end is connected to the tube's cavity. Miniature temperature and pressure sensors are small, difficult to manufacture, and relatively expensive.
[0058] Therefore, existing ultrasonic water meters suffer from low flexibility in component installation and consequently low space utilization.
[0059] Therefore, this application provides an ultrasonic water meter, including a housing, a tube, an ultrasonic component, a detection element, a connecting pipe, and a control element. The housing has a cavity. The tube is located in the cavity, and both ends of the tube are used to connect to water pipes. The ultrasonic component is disposed in the tube and is used to detect the flow velocity of water in the tube. The detection element is located in the cavity and is used to detect at least one of temperature and pressure of the water in the tube. The connecting pipe connects the detection end of the detection element and the tube cavity. The ultrasonic component and the detection element are both electrically connected to the control element.
[0060] Since the detection element can be connected to the tube body via a connecting pipe, its position can be freely adjusted within the cavity. This design provides installation flexibility for the detection element, allowing the installation position to be selected according to the specific application requirements of the ultrasonic water meter. This is beneficial for the arrangement of other components in the ultrasonic water meter and facilitates future upgrades and the addition of other parts.
[0061] The adjustable position of the sensing element allows designers to create a rational layout within the ultrasonic water meter, maximizing the use of available space and improving its space utilization rate. The ultrasonic water meter itself features a rational and compact arrangement of structural components. This compact design reduces the overall size of the ultrasonic water meter, saving installation space.
[0062] Because the installation position of the detection element is flexible and adjustable, the ultrasonic water meter provided in this application embodiment can accommodate a larger volume detection element compared to related technologies, thus reducing the production cost of the ultrasonic water meter. At the same time, a larger volume detection element usually means that a higher precision detection element or a more complex detection technology can be used, thereby improving the detection accuracy of the ultrasonic water meter.
[0063] In addition, the flexible installation location of the testing components also supports modular design, which allows for easy functional expansion or component upgrades without changing the overall structure.
[0064] The technical solution of this application and how the technical solution of this application solves the above-mentioned technical problems are described in detail below with specific embodiments. These specific embodiments can be combined with each other, and the same or similar concepts or processes may not be described again in some embodiments. The embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0065] This application provides an ultrasonic water meter, referring to... Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the ultrasonic water meter includes a housing 100, a tube 200, an ultrasonic component, a detection element 300, a connecting pipe 400, and a control element 800. An ultrasonic water meter is an instrument that uses ultrasonic technology to measure water flow.
[0066] The housing 100 has a cavity. The housing 100 provides a protective external structure that protects the internal components of the ultrasonic water meter.
[0067] The tube body 200 is located within the cavity, and its two ends are used to connect to water pipes. This means that water flows through the tube body 200, allowing the ultrasonic water meter to measure flow rate. The tube body 200 is the section through which water flows and is the measurement path for the ultrasonic signal. The tube body 200 needs to provide sufficient strength and durability. The tube body 200 can be a metal tube.
[0068] An ultrasonic transducer is installed in the pipe 200 and is used to detect the flow velocity of the water in the pipe 200. By measuring the time difference of the ultrasonic signal emitted by the ultrasonic transducer into the water, the water flow velocity can be calculated.
[0069] The detection element 300 is located in the cavity; the detection element 300 is used to detect at least one of the temperature and pressure of the water in the tube 200.
[0070] Changes in water temperature cause changes in the speed of sound. Ultrasonic water meters calculate flow velocity by measuring the time it takes for sound waves to travel through water; therefore, changes in the speed of sound directly affect the measurement results. Increased water temperature leads to an increase in the speed of sound, while decreased temperature leads to a decrease. This variation necessitates temperature compensation to ensure the accuracy of ultrasonic water meter measurements.
[0071] In some embodiments, the detection element 300 is used to detect the temperature of the water in the pipe body 200.
[0072] In other embodiments, the detection element 300 is used to detect the pressure of the water in the pipe body 200.
[0073] In some other embodiments, the detection element 300 is used to detect the temperature and pressure of the water in the pipe body 200.
[0074] In addition, temperature changes also affect water density. Although density changes have a relatively small direct impact on flow rate measurements, they need to be considered in some high-precision ultrasonic water meters.
[0075] Water pressure directly affects the speed and flow rate of water. Furthermore, pressure can affect the performance and sensitivity of ultrasonic water meters.
[0076] Thus, the ultrasonic water meter provided in this application obtains the water flow velocity based on water temperature and pressure parameters, thereby improving the accuracy of ultrasonic water meter measurements.
[0077] The detection element 300 can be a temperature and pressure sensor. A temperature and pressure sensor is a sensor device that integrates temperature and pressure measurement functions. It can simultaneously detect the temperature and pressure of water.
[0078] A thermobaric sensor contains a thermistor, such as a thermocouple, resistance temperature detector (RTD), or semiconductor temperature sensor, to measure water temperature. The pressure measurement section of a thermobaric sensor typically uses piezoresistive, piezoelectric, or capacitive sensing elements to detect water pressure.
[0079] Temperature and pressure sensors integrate temperature and pressure measurement functions into a single device, reducing installation space and complexity. This integrated design simplifies system wiring and installation.
[0080] The ultrasonic water meter provided in this application embodiment can more accurately analyze the state of water by simultaneously measuring temperature and pressure. For example, in water flow velocity measurement, the ultrasonic water meter can compensate and correct the flow reading based on temperature and pressure data, thereby improving the measurement accuracy of the ultrasonic water meter.
[0081] The detection element 300 can also be a type of pressure sensor or temperature sensor.
[0082] The connecting pipe 400 connects the detection end of the detection element 300 to the tube cavity of the tube body 200, ensuring that the detection element 300 can directly contact the water in the tube body 200, thereby obtaining accurate temperature and pressure readings.
[0083] The ultrasonic component, detection element 300, and control element 800 are electrically connected. The ultrasonic component is responsible for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals. Through the electrical connection, the ultrasonic component transmits the measured signal data to the control element 800. The detection element 300 includes temperature and pressure sensors that monitor the water temperature and pressure in real time and transmit this data to the control element 800 via the electrical connection. The control element 800 typically contains a microprocessor or microcontroller responsible for receiving data from the ultrasonic component and detection element 300. The control element 800 processes this data to obtain information such as the water flow rate.
[0084] The ultrasonic water meter provided in this application embodiment features a sensor 300 that can be connected to the pipe body 200 via a connecting pipe 400. This allows the position of the sensor 300 to be freely adjusted within the cavity, providing significant installation flexibility. The optimal installation position can be selected based on specific application requirements or environmental conditions, facilitating future upgrades and the addition of other components. Because the connecting pipe 400 enables non-fixed-position installation of the sensor 300, the internal space of the housing, extending along the direction intersecting the pipe body, is approximately 110mm, further aiding in future upgrades and the addition of other components.
[0085] The adjustable position of the 300-position sensor allows designers to create a rational layout within the ultrasonic water meter, maximizing the use of available space and improving its space utilization. The ultrasonic water meter's structural components are arranged in a reasonable and compact manner. This compact design reduces the overall size of the ultrasonic water meter, saving installation space.
[0086] Because the installation position of the detection element 300 is flexible and adjustable, compared with related technologies, the ultrasonic water meter provided in this application embodiment can accommodate a larger volume detection element 300, reducing the production cost of the ultrasonic water meter. At the same time, a larger volume detection element 300 generally means that a higher precision sensor or more complex detection technology can be used, thereby improving the detection accuracy of the ultrasonic water meter.
[0087] The flexible installation location of the 300 test piece also supports modular design, which allows for easy functional expansion or component upgrades without changing the overall structure.
[0088] As one feasible implementation method, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the housing 100 includes a first housing 110 and a second housing 120; the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 are disposed opposite to each other; the extending direction of the tube 200 intersects the direction from the first housing 110 to the first housing 120. A support column 121 is provided on the second housing 120.
[0089] For example, the relative arrangement of the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 can form a closed cavity to protect the internal components of the ultrasonic water meter from the influence of the external environment.
[0090] As one feasible implementation, the detection element 300 is disposed on the outer periphery of the tube body 200, and the detection element 300 is connected to the tube body 200 by a colloid.
[0091] In some embodiments, the detection element 300 is disposed on the outer periphery of the pipe body 200 and does not directly contact the water. This non-invasive installation method reduces interference with the water flow in the pipe body 200, avoiding potential flow resistance and pressure drop. Simultaneously, installing the detection element 300 on the outer periphery of the pipe body 200 reduces the risk of leakage due to the interface of the detection element 300, improving the overall sealing and safety of the ultrasonic water meter. Maintenance and replacement of the ultrasonic water meter become simpler and safer. Repairs can be performed without shutting off the water pipe.
[0092] The detection element 300 can be flexibly installed at different positions on the pipe body 200 as needed to optimize measurement performance or adapt to specific installation environments, thereby improving the space utilization of the ultrasonic water meter.
[0093] In other embodiments, the detection element 300 is mounted on the inner wall of the housing 100.
[0094] For example, the colloid may be a quick-drying adhesive.
[0095] As one possible implementation, the connecting pipe 400 includes a flexible pipe.
[0096] For example, the flexible tube can be bent and adjusted to adapt to different installation environments and space constraints. This flexibility allows for easier installation of the detection element 300 in complex or confined spaces, thereby increasing the installation flexibility of the detection element 300 and thus improving the space utilization of the ultrasonic water meter.
[0097] The flexible tube can absorb vibrations and impacts in the ultrasonic water meter, reducing mechanical stress on the detection element 300 and other connecting components. This helps extend the service life of the detection element 300 and improve its reliability.
[0098] The use of flexible tubes simplifies the maintenance and replacement process of the Detection Components 300, as they can be easily disassembled and reconnected without requiring extensive disassembly of the entire ultrasonic water meter.
[0099] As one possible implementation, the connecting pipe 400 includes a polyurethane pipe.
[0100] For example, polyurethane (PU) tubing possesses flexibility, abrasion resistance, and chemical resistance. Its flexibility allows it to easily adapt to various installation environments. As a connecting pipe 400, it maintains good performance in a variety of environments and is easy to install and adjust.
[0101] By using a polyurethane tube as the connecting pipe 400, the ease of use of the connecting pipe 400 is improved and its service life is extended.
[0102] As one feasible implementation method, refer to Figure 4 , Figure 6, Figure 8 As shown, the pipe body 200 is provided with a through hole, and a first adapter 410 is provided at the through hole. The first end of the connecting pipe 400 is connected to the first adapter 420 and the first adapter 410. The through hole is used to allow water to pass through this position for measurement. At the same time, the design of the through hole does not affect the normal flow of water or the propagation of ultrasonic signals.
[0103] The detection end of the detection component 300 is provided with a second adapter 430, and the second end of the connecting pipe 400 is connected through a second adapter 440 and a second adapter 430.
[0104] For example, the first adapter 410 and the second adapter 430 can be adapters. The first adapter 410 and the second adapter 430 provide a reliable connection and seal, ensuring that the detection element 300 can accurately receive water information. The first adapter 420 and the second adapter 440 can be PU pneumatic connectors, which have pressure resistance and sealing properties. The combination of the PU pneumatic connector and the PU tubing provides good sealing performance, reducing the risk of leakage. The abrasion resistance and chemical resistance of the PU material allow the system to maintain good performance under various environmental conditions.
[0105] By setting up a first adapter 410, a pneumatic connector, a PU tube, and a second adapter 430, quick connection and disconnection can be achieved between the pneumatic connector and the first adapter 410 and the second adapter 430, reducing installation and maintenance time.
[0106] During the use of the ultrasonic water meter, the first adapter 410, the first adapter 420, the connecting pipe 400, the second adapter 440, and the second adapter 430 are in a conductive state. The water in the pipe cavity flows through the first adapter 410, the first adapter 420, the connecting pipe 400, the second adapter 440, and the second adapter 430 to the detection element 300, which is used to measure the temperature, pressure, and pressure of the water.
[0107] As one feasible implementation method, refer to Figure 5 As shown, the ultrasonic water meter also includes a mounting box 500, which is located in the cavity, and the control component 800 is disposed in the mounting box 500.
[0108] Mounting box 500 is disposed on the first housing 110.
[0109] One of the mounting box 500 and the support column 121 is provided with a protrusion, and the other of the mounting box 500 and the support column 121 is provided with a recess. The mounting box 500 and the support column 121 are connected by the protrusion and the recess.
[0110] The support column 121 is also provided with a limiting part 122, which abuts against the side of the mounting box 500 near the tube body 200.
[0111] For example, the control unit 800 includes a motherboard that receives and processes raw data from the ultrasonic component and the detection unit 300. The motherboard processes the signals emitted by the ultrasonic component and the detection unit 300, converting analog signals into digital signals for further data analysis and storage. The motherboard is used to obtain water flow rate, flow velocity, and other relevant parameters.
[0112] In addition, the motherboard controls various functions of the ultrasonic water meter, including starting and stopping the measurement process, managing power, and communicating with other devices.
[0113] The mounting box 500 provides a sealed environment for the motherboard, protecting it from external physical damage such as shock, vibration, and mechanical stress. The mounting box 500 prevents dust, moisture, and other environmental factors from corroding the motherboard, especially in ultrasonic water meters where they may be exposed to humid or dusty environments, thus extending the motherboard's lifespan. The mounting box 500 may also feature electromagnetic shielding to reduce the impact of external electromagnetic interference on the motherboard circuitry, thereby improving the reliability of electronic components and measurement accuracy.
[0114] For example, the motherboard is sealed within the mounting box 500 using potting compound. This potting seal effectively protects the motherboard from external environmental factors such as moisture, dust, chemicals, and other contaminants.
[0115] In some embodiments, the mounting box 500 has a protrusion, and the support column 121 has a recess. When the mounting box 500 is installed, the protrusion of the mounting box 500 is inserted into the recess of the support column 121 to achieve a stable connection.
[0116] In other embodiments, the support column 121 has a protrusion, and the mounting box 500 has a recess. When the mounting box 500 is installed, the protruding part of the support column 121 is inserted into the recess of the mounting box 500 to achieve connection.
[0117] The mounting box 500 and the support column 121 are connected by protrusions and recesses, facilitating quick installation and reducing installation time and complexity. Simultaneously, this connection provides a good mechanical locking effect, ensuring the stability of the mounting box 500 on the support column 121 and preventing loosening. Furthermore, this protrusion and recess design provides self-alignment for the support column 121 and mounting box 500 during installation, reducing installation errors and improving installation accuracy.
[0118] A limiting part 122 is provided on the support column 121 to abut against the side of the mounting box 500 near the tube body 200. The function of the limiting part 122 is to restrict the movement of the mounting box 500 and ensure its stability during operation. Due to the design of the limiting part 122, the mounting box 500 will not easily move when subjected to external forces or vibrations, thereby protecting the internal electronic components and connections.
[0119] The limiting part 122 can be a limiting protrusion.
[0120] As one feasible implementation, the pipe body 200 is provided with a first mounting part and a second mounting part, which are arranged opposite to each other.
[0121] The ultrasonic component includes a first ultrasonic sensor and a second ultrasonic sensor. The first ultrasonic sensor is disposed in a first mounting portion, and the second ultrasonic sensor is disposed in a second mounting portion.
[0122] Both the first and second ultrasonic sensors are electrically connected to the motherboard.
[0123] For example, a first mounting part and a second mounting part are disposed on one side of the pipe body 200. The first ultrasonic sensor is responsible for emitting ultrasonic signals. The second ultrasonic sensor is responsible for receiving ultrasonic signals propagating through the water flow.
[0124] The principle behind using an ultrasonic sensor and receiver to measure water flow velocity is typically based on the Doppler effect or the time-of-flight method. The first ultrasonic sensor emits ultrasonic signals into the water flow. Particles or bubbles in the water flow reflect these ultrasonic signals. The second ultrasonic sensor receives the reflected signals.
[0125] The motherboard calculates the water flow speed by comparing the frequency changes of the transmitted and received signals.
[0126] By embedding the first ultrasonic sensor and the second ultrasonic sensor into the first mounting part and the second mounting part, the direct interference of the first ultrasonic sensor and the second ultrasonic sensor to the water flow is reduced, thereby improving the measurement accuracy.
[0127] The first and second ultrasonic sensors are positioned opposite each other to ensure that the propagation path of the ultrasonic signal in the water flow is fixed and controllable, which helps to improve the accuracy and reliability of the measurement.
[0128] Understandably, the first ultrasonic sensor is positioned upstream of the second ultrasonic sensor, along the direction of water flow.
[0129] For example, the first mounting portion has a first mounting cavity, and the first ultrasonic sensor is located in the first mounting cavity. The second mounting portion has a second mounting cavity, and the second ultrasonic sensor is located in the second mounting cavity.
[0130] As one feasible implementation method, refer to Figure 7 , Figure 9 As shown, the ultrasonic water meter also includes a reflector frame 600 and two reflector plates 610, both of which are located in the tube cavity.
[0131] The extension direction of the reflector 600 is the same as that of the tube 200, and two reflective sheets 610 are disposed at both ends of the reflector 600.
[0132] Two reflectors 610 are respectively set to correspond to the first ultrasonic sensor and the second ultrasonic sensor.
[0133] For example, the reflector 600 is arranged along the extension direction of the tube 200. Two reflectors 610 are respectively disposed at both ends of the reflector 600. Each reflector 610 is disposed corresponding to the first ultrasonic sensor and receiver to guide and reflect ultrasonic signals.
[0134] The reflector 610 is used to alter the propagation path of the ultrasonic signal, enabling it to propagate effectively within the pipe. This helps optimize the signal path in complex pipe geometries. The design of the reflector 610 enhances the intensity and directionality of the ultrasonic signal, improving measurement accuracy. The arrangement of the reflector mount 600 and the reflector 610 allows for a longer signal path within a limited space, thereby improving measurement resolution.
[0135] In some embodiments, the reflector 600 is fixed to the inner circumference of the tube 200 by screws. The inner circumference of the tube 200 is also provided with an annular groove, in which an O-ring 620 is disposed. The opposite ends of the reflector 600 are connected to the inner circumference of the tube 200 via the O-ring 620.
[0136] By setting screws to limit the radial movement of the reflector 600 along the tube 200, and by setting O-rings 620 to limit the axial movement of the reflector 600 along the tube 200, the screws and O-rings 620 achieve dual fixation of the reflector 600, enabling the reflector 600 to maintain a stable installation state within the tube 200 and ensuring accurate reflection of ultrasonic signals.
[0137] As one possible implementation, the ultrasonic water meter also includes a power supply unit 700.
[0138] Along the extension direction intersecting the tube body 200, the power supply unit 700 is located on one side of the tube body 200.
[0139] A fixing plate 710 is provided on the inner periphery of the housing 100, and the power supply component 700 is located in the fixing end formed by the fixing plate 710.
[0140] The detection component 300, ultrasonic component, control component 800 are all electrically connected to the power supply component 700.
[0141] The power supply unit 700 provides the necessary power support for the ultrasonic components, detection unit 300, and control unit 800 of the ultrasonic water meter.
[0142] The power supply unit 700 may include a battery, a charging module, or other power components to ensure the continuous operation of the ultrasonic water meter in different environments.
[0143] A fixing plate 710 is provided on the inner periphery of the housing 100, forming a fixed end for securely accommodating the power supply component 700. This design ensures the stability of the power supply component 700 inside the ultrasonic water meter, preventing displacement or damage caused by vibration or external impact.
[0144] By securing the power supply unit 700 within the housing 100, the design ensures the stability and reliability of the power supply, reducing measurement errors or equipment malfunctions caused by insufficient power. The design of the power supply unit 700 and the mounting plate 710 makes the internal structure of the ultrasonic water meter more compact, saving space and making it suitable for miniaturized and integrated ultrasonic water meter designs. The mounting plate 710 provides a clearly defined installation location, making the replacement and maintenance of the power supply unit 700 more convenient. The design of the mounting plate 710 and the housing 100 provides physical protection for the power supply unit 700, reducing the impact of the external environment on the power assembly.
[0145] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.
[0146] For ease of explanation, the above description has been provided in conjunction with specific embodiments. However, the above exemplary discussion is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the specific forms disclosed above. Various modifications and variations can be obtained based on the above teachings. The selection and description of the above embodiments are for the purpose of better explaining the principles and practical applications, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to better utilize the described embodiments and various different variations of embodiments suitable for specific use considerations.
Claims
1. An ultrasonic water meter, characterized in that, include: A housing (100) having a cavity; A pipe body (200) is located in the cavity, and both ends of the pipe body (200) are used to connect water pipes; An ultrasonic component is disposed in the pipe body (200) for detecting the flow velocity of water in the pipe body (200); A detection element (300) is located in the cavity; the detection element (300) is used to detect at least one of the temperature and pressure of the water in the tube (200); A connecting tube (400) connects the detection end of the detection element (300) to the tube body cavity of the tube body (200); The control unit (800) is electrically connected to both the ultrasonic component and the detection unit (300).
2. The ultrasonic water meter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The detection element (300) is disposed on the outer periphery of the tube body (200), and the detection element (300) is connected to the tube body (200) by a colloid.
3. The ultrasonic water meter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting pipe (400) includes a flexible pipe.
4. The ultrasonic water meter according to claim 3, characterized in that, The connecting pipe (400) includes a polyurethane pipe.
5. The ultrasonic water meter according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The tube body (200) is provided with a through hole, and a first adapter (410) is provided at the through hole. The first end of the connecting tube (400) is connected to the first adapter (410) through a first adapter (420). The detection end of the detection component (300) is provided with a second adapter (430), and the second end of the connecting pipe (400) is connected to the second adapter (440) and the second adapter (430).
6. The ultrasonic water meter according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The housing (100) includes a first housing (110) and a second housing (120); the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) are disposed opposite to each other; the extending direction of the tube (200) intersects the direction from the first housing (110) to the second housing (120); The second housing (120) is provided with a support column (121).
7. The ultrasonic water meter according to claim 6, characterized in that, It also includes a mounting box (500) located in the cavity, and the control element (800) is disposed in the mounting box (500); The mounting box (500) is disposed on the first housing (110); A protrusion is provided on either the mounting box (500) or the support column (121), and a recess is provided on the other of the mounting box (500) and the support column (121). The mounting box (500) and the support column (121) are connected by the protrusion and the recess. The support column (121) is also provided with a limiting part (122), and the limiting part (122) and the mounting box (500) abut against the side of the tube body (200).
8. The ultrasonic water meter according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The tube body (200) is provided with a first mounting part and a second mounting part, which are arranged opposite to each other; The ultrasonic component includes a first ultrasonic sensor and a second ultrasonic sensor; the first ultrasonic sensor is disposed in the first mounting portion, and the second ultrasonic sensor is disposed in the second mounting portion.
9. The ultrasonic water meter according to claim 8, characterized in that, It also includes a reflector frame (600) and two reflectors (610), both of which are disposed in the tube cavity; The extension direction of the reflector (600) is the same as that of the tube (200), and the two reflector sheets (610) are disposed at both ends of the reflector (600). The two reflective sheets (610) are respectively configured to correspond to the first ultrasonic sensor and the second ultrasonic sensor.
10. The ultrasonic water meter according to claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes power supply components (700); Along the extension direction intersecting the tube body (200), the power supply unit (700) is located on one side of the tube body (200); A fixing plate (710) is provided on the inner periphery of the housing (100), and the power supply component (700) is located in the fixing end formed by the fixing plate (710); The detection component (300), the ultrasonic component, the control component (800) are all electrically connected to the power supply component (700).