Induction type water flow switch

By combining a reed switch and a magnet in an inductive flow switch design, the accuracy problem of flow switches under low flow conditions is solved, achieving high-precision and reliable flow control. It is suitable for various flow conditions and supports intelligent control systems.

CN224264026UActive Publication Date: 2026-05-19YONGKANG XINGHE INTELLIGENT TECH CO LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
YONGKANG XINGHE INTELLIGENT TECH CO LTD
Filing Date
2025-08-08
Publication Date
2026-05-19

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing flow switches have reduced accuracy when the flow rate is low, which fails to meet the usage requirements.

Method used

The design combines a reed switch and a control plate, utilizing the magnetic induction effect of the magnet and the reed switch. The rotation of the control plate senses the water flow status, and the stability and accuracy of the switch are ensured by a return spring and a torsion spring.

Benefits of technology

It improves the accuracy and reliability of the flow switch under low flow conditions, adapts to different flow and water pressure conditions, simplifies the maintenance and replacement process, and supports IoT intelligent control.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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    Figure CN224264026U_ABST
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Abstract

The utility model belongs to the technical field of water flow switches, and particularly relates to an induction type water flow switch. The utility model provides an induction type water flow switch, and aims to solve the problem of low precision of a water flow switch in the prior art. An induction type water flow switch comprises a lower seat body and an upper seat body arranged on the lower seat body. The upper seat body is provided with a water flow channel for water flow to pass through; by means of the design that the reed pipe is combined with the control piece, the water flow state in the water flow channel can be sensitively sensed. No matter how large water flow reaches a certain flow threshold value, the switch can be triggered to act, and accurate flow control is achieved. Compared with a traditional water flow switch, the induction type water flow switch is not only suitable for the large-flow field, but also excellent in small-flow application. Due to the high-precision sensing capability, the switch can stably work under various water flow conditions, and the requirements of different devices are met.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of water flow switch technology, specifically relating to an inductive water flow switch. Background Technology

[0002] A flow switch is a switch structure used to turn water flow on or off. It is widely used in devices with water circulation control, such as electric water heaters, solar water heaters, and air conditioners. Its main function is to convert water flow into a switch-type electrical signal when a certain flow rate is reached.

[0003] Existing flow switches utilize water flow to directly push a slide, which in turn triggers a corresponding switch. This type of flow switch is suitable for applications with high flow rates. However, for applications with low flow rates, the accuracy of this type of flow switch will be significantly reduced, and it may even fail to meet the requirements. Utility Model Content

[0004] This invention provides an inductive flow switch, which aims to solve the problem of low accuracy in existing flow switches.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the technical solution adopted by this utility model is as follows:

[0006] An inductive water flow switch includes a lower base and an upper base disposed on the lower base; the upper base is provided with a water flow channel for water to pass through.

[0007] A reed switch is provided in the lower seat body, and a control plate is provided in the upper seat body. The control plate is rotatably connected to the upper seat body, the upper end of the control plate extends into the water flow channel, and a magnet is provided at the lower end of the control plate.

[0008] When water flows through the water channel, the water flow pushes the control plate to rotate by a certain angle and causes the magnet to move away from the reed switch, and the reed switch outputs a first switch signal; when no water flows through the water channel, the control plate rotates in the opposite direction by a certain angle and causes the magnet to move closer to the reed switch, and the reed switch outputs a second switch signal.

[0009] Alternatively, when water flows through the water channel, the water flow pushes the control plate to rotate at a certain angle and causes the magnet to move closer to the reed switch, and the reed switch outputs a first switch signal; when no water flows through the water channel, the control plate rotates at a certain angle in the opposite direction and causes the magnet to move away from the reed switch, and the reed switch outputs a second switch signal.

[0010] A further improved solution: The control plate is rotatably connected to the upper body via a rotating shaft. The control plate includes an upper part extending into the water flow channel and a lower part on which the magnet is mounted. The upper part and the lower part are connected by a connecting part, and the rotating shaft is disposed on the connecting part.

[0011] Based on the above technical solution: because the control plate is in direct contact with the water flow and is flexibly connected to the upper body via a rotating shaft, it can respond quickly to changes in the water flow. Even a small water flow can generate sufficient driving force to rotate the control plate, thereby triggering the switch. The rotating shaft, as the rotation center of the control plate, ensures stable rotation of the control plate under the driving force of the water flow. This stable transmission not only improves the reliability of the switch but also extends its service life. The upper and lower parts of the control plate are connected by a connecting part, and the rotating shaft is mounted on the connecting part. This structure allows the control plate to maintain a certain rigidity and stability during rotation, thereby ensuring precise and controllable changes in the relative position between the magnet and the reed switch. This helps improve the accuracy and reliability of the switch. The design of the control plate being connected to the upper body via a rotating shaft makes the installation and maintenance of the switch simpler and more convenient. When it is necessary to replace or repair the control plate, the operation can be easily completed by simply disassembling the upper body.

[0012] A further improvement: The upper body is also equipped with a reset spring to restore the control plate to an unforced state.

[0013] Based on the above technical solution: when water flows through and pushes the control plate to rotate, once the water flow stops, the return spring will activate, pulling the control plate back to its initial position, i.e., the unloaded state. This automatic reset function ensures that the switch can reliably return to the closed state when there is no water flow, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the switch. The presence of the return spring allows the control plate to return to its initial position quickly and accurately after being pushed by the water flow, which helps reduce switching errors caused by the control plate stagnation or deviation. Therefore, the return spring enhances the accuracy of the switch, enabling it to more accurately reflect the water flow state. The elasticity of the return spring can alleviate the impact and wear on the control plate during rotation, thereby extending its service life. In addition, the automatic reset function also reduces the potential damage to the switch caused by improper manual reset. Since the return spring can automatically restore the control plate to its initial position, the user does not need to perform a manual reset operation. This simplifies the use of the switch and improves the user experience. The design of the return spring allows the inductive flow switch to adapt to different flow and water pressure conditions. Regardless of changes in water flow, the return spring ensures that the control plate returns to its initial position at the appropriate time, thereby triggering the corresponding switching action.

[0014] A further improved solution: The reset spring is a torsion spring, one end of which is snapped onto the control plate, and the other end of which is fixed onto the rotating shaft. The control plate is provided with a slot for snapping onto the torsion spring.

[0015] Based on the above technical solution: As a spring capable of storing and releasing torsional energy, the torsion spring provides a relatively stable and reliable reset force. When the water flow stops pushing the control plate, the torsion spring can quickly and accurately pull the control plate back to its initial position, ensuring timely reset of the switch. By tightly connecting the torsion spring and the control plate through a slot, the reset force of the torsion spring can be ensured to act directly and accurately on the control plate, thereby achieving precise control of the control plate's rotation angle. This helps improve the switch's accuracy and response speed. Fixing one end of the torsion spring to the rotating shaft and engaging the other end in the slot of the control plate makes the entire switch structure more compact and easier to install. It also reduces the possibility of switch malfunction due to external interference. The slot connection design between the torsion spring and the control plate effectively disperses the stress generated by the torsion spring during reset, thereby reducing wear on the control plate and the rotating shaft. This helps extend the switch's service life and improve its reliability. Since the reset force of the torsion spring can be adjusted by modifying its material and size, this design allows the inductive flow switch to adapt to different flow rate and water pressure conditions. Regardless of changes in water flow, the torsion spring ensures that the control plate returns to its initial position at the appropriate time.

[0016] A further improved solution: at least two sides of the magnet are fixed to the lower part.

[0017] Based on the above technical solution: by fixing the side and bottom of the magnet, it is ensured that the magnet maintains a stable position and posture during the rotation of the control plate. This helps ensure that the magnetic induction effect between the magnet and the reed switch remains consistent, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the switch. The fixed connection between the magnet and the bottom of the control plate enhances the strength of the entire control plate structure. Under the propulsion of water flow, the control plate needs to withstand a certain force and torque. Fixing the side of the magnet can reduce deformation or damage caused by uneven force, thereby extending the service life of the switch. The fixed position of the magnet can serve as a reference point to help precisely control the rotation angle of the control plate. When the water flow propels the control plate to rotate, the change in distance between the magnet and the reed switch will determine the trigger point of the switch. By fixing the side of the magnet, this distance can be more easily adjusted and controlled, thereby achieving more precise switch control.

[0018] A further improved solution: The lower part includes a first part and a second part, one side of the magnet is fixed to the first part, and the other side of the magnet is fixed to the second part.

[0019] Based on the above technical solution, a more stable structure can be formed by fixing the two sides of the magnet to the two lower parts respectively. This design helps reduce magnet displacement or loosening caused by water flow impact or vibration, thereby ensuring the stability and reliability of the switch. The fixed position of the magnet is crucial to its magnetic induction effect with the reed switch. Fixing the two sides of the magnet to the two lower parts respectively allows for more precise control of the distance and relative position between the magnet and the reed switch, thereby optimizing the magnetic induction effect and improving the sensitivity and accuracy of the switch. Dividing the lower part into two sections and fixing the sides of the magnet to each section separately makes the assembly process more flexible and convenient. During manufacturing or maintenance, the position and orientation of the magnet can be more easily adjusted to meet different application requirements.

[0020] A further improved solution: the first part is perpendicular to the second part, one side of the magnet is attached to the first part, and the other side of the magnet is attached to the second part.

[0021] Based on the above technical solution: the vertically designed first and second parts support each other, forming a stable frame. Magnets are bonded to these two parts, further enhancing the overall structural stability. This design resists water flow impact and vibration, ensuring the switch remains stable during long-term use. The two sides of the magnet are bonded to the vertical first and second parts respectively, facilitating more precise control of the relative position between the magnet and the reed switch. This design optimizes the magnetic induction effect, improving the switch's sensitivity and accuracy. When the water flow drives the control plate to rotate, the distance between the magnet and the reed switch changes more stably, ensuring reliable switch triggering. The vertical design of the first and second parts, along with the bonding method of the magnet, simplifies and facilitates the manufacturing and assembly process. During manufacturing, the first and second parts can be processed separately, and then the magnet is fixed to them by bonding. This modular design improves production efficiency and reduces manufacturing costs. Under the influence of water flow, the control plate needs to withstand certain forces and torques. The vertical design of the first and second parts, along with the bonding method of the magnet, can more effectively distribute these stresses, reducing structural damage caused by uneven stress. This helps improve the switch's durability and extend its service life.

[0022] A further improved solution: The upper seat is inserted into the lower seat, and the lower seat is also provided with an insertion groove. The lower end of the upper seat is inserted into the insertion groove. The upper seat is provided with a retaining ridge, and the side wall of the insertion groove is provided with a retaining groove that cooperates with the retaining ridge.

[0023] Based on the above technical solution: the plug-in design makes the assembly of the upper and lower seats very simple and quick. Users only need to align the lower end of the upper seat with the plug-in slot and insert it to achieve a preliminary connection. This installation method greatly saves time and reduces installation difficulty. The engaging design of the locking ridge and slot enhances the stability of the connection between the upper and lower seats. Once the upper seat is inserted into the plug-in slot, the locking ridge will tightly engage with the slot, preventing the upper seat from accidentally falling off or loosening during use. This stable connection ensures the overall performance and reliability of the device. The design of the plug-in slot and locking ridge not only realizes the connection function but also ensures precise positioning between the upper and lower seats. This positioning accuracy is crucial for ensuring the correct cooperation and coordinated operation of the internal components of the device. When maintenance or component replacement is required, this plug-in design makes disassembly equally simple and quick. Users only need to gently push or rotate the upper seat to separate it from the lower seat, facilitating subsequent maintenance. This plug-in design also has a certain degree of adaptability, accommodating upper and lower seats of different sizes and specifications. By adjusting the dimensions of the insertion slots and locking edges, compatibility and fit between different components can be easily achieved.

[0024] A further improved solution: The upper body includes a front half and a rear half, the front half is inserted into the rear half, the front half is provided with a first recess, and the rear half is provided with a second recess, the first recess and the second recess cooperate to form the water flow channel.

[0025] Based on the above technical solution, dividing the upper body into a front and rear section makes the manufacturing and assembly process more modular and flexible. This design allows for separate processing of the front and rear sections before assembling them, thereby improving production efficiency and reducing manufacturing costs. When the flow switch requires maintenance or component replacement, this modular design simplifies and expedites the disassembly and reinstallation process. Users can easily separate the front and rear sections to inspect, clean, or replace internal components. The mating design of the first and second recesses precisely controls the shape and size of the water flow channel. This precise control is crucial for ensuring the sensitivity and accuracy of the flow switch, as it affects the impact force and rotation angle of the water flow on the control plate. Combining the front and rear sections creates a more robust structure. This design resists water flow impact and vibration, ensuring the flow switch maintains stability and reliability during long-term use.

[0026] A further improved solution: The front half is provided with a plug, and the rear half is provided with a socket that mates with the plug. There are at least two plugs, and the plugs and sockets correspond one-to-one. The plugs and the front half are an integral structure.

[0027] Based on the above technical solution, the mating design of the plugs and sockets achieves a stable connection between the front and rear halves. Since there are at least two plugs, each corresponding to a socket, this multi-point connection method can more effectively resist external impacts and vibrations, ensuring the stability and reliability of the device during long-term use. The mating of the plugs and sockets not only achieves the connection function but also ensures precise positioning between the front and rear halves. This positioning accuracy is crucial for ensuring the correct fit and coordinated operation of the internal components, contributing to improved overall device performance and accuracy. The plugs and the front half are an integrated structure, meaning the plugs are not added as independent components to the front half but are manufactured as a whole. This integrated design enhances the structural integrity and strength, reducing interfaces and potential failure points between components. Because the plug-and-socket mating design is simple and intuitive, it makes the assembly and maintenance process easier and faster. Users simply align the plugs of the front half with the sockets of the rear half and insert them to achieve connection. Similarly, users can easily separate the front and rear halves when maintenance or component replacement is required.

[0028] The beneficial effects of this utility model are as follows:

[0029] This invention, through a design that combines a reed switch with a control plate, can sensitively sense the water flow state within the water channel. Regardless of the water flow rate, as long as a certain flow threshold is reached, the switch will be triggered, achieving precise flow control. Compared to traditional flow switches, the inductive flow switch is not only suitable for high-flow applications but also performs exceptionally well in low-flow applications. Its high-precision sensing capability allows the switch to operate stably under various water flow conditions, meeting the needs of different devices.

[0030] By employing a control plate and magnet structure, the inductive flow switch can rotate stably under the impetus of water flow and accurately trigger the reed switch. This design not only improves the stability of the switch but also ensures its reliability during long-term use. The inductive flow switch has a relatively simple structure, with compact and robust connections between its components. This makes maintenance and replacement easier, reducing the user's operating costs.

[0031] With the development of IoT technology, inductive flow switches can also be combined with intelligent control systems to achieve remote monitoring and automated control of water flow. This not only improves the intelligence level of the equipment but also provides users with a more convenient operating experience. Attached Figure Description

[0032] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this utility model and should not be regarded as a limitation on the scope. For users of ordinary skills in the art, other related drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of an inductive water flow switch according to this utility model.

[0034] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an inductive water flow switch according to this utility model.

[0035] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the front half of an inductive flow switch according to this utility model.

[0036] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the rear half of an inductive flow switch according to this utility model.

[0037] Explanation of the labels in the diagram:

[0038] 1-Lower seat; 2-Upper seat; 3-Water flow channel; 4-Control plate; 5-Magnet; 6-Rotating shaft; 7-First part; 8-Second part; 9-Clamping edge; 10-Front half; 11-Rear half; 12-Insertion hole; 13-Insertion post. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely for explaining the present utility model and are not intended to limit the present utility model. All other embodiments obtained by users of the art based on the embodiments of the present utility model without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0040] refer to Figures 1 to 4 An inductive water flow switch includes a lower base 1 and an upper base 2 disposed on the lower base 1; the upper base 2 is provided with a water flow channel 3 for water to flow through.

[0041] A reed switch is provided inside the lower seat 1, and a control plate 4 is provided inside the upper seat 2. The control plate 4 is rotatably connected to the upper seat 2. The upper end of the control plate 4 extends into the water flow channel 3, and a magnet 5 is provided at the lower end of the control plate 4.

[0042] When water flows through the water channel 3, the water flow in the water channel 3 pushes the control plate 4 to rotate at a certain angle and causes the magnet 5 to move away from the reed switch, and the reed switch outputs a first switch signal; when no water flows through the water channel 3, the control plate 4 rotates at a certain angle in the opposite direction and causes the magnet 5 to move closer to the reed switch, and the reed switch outputs a second switch signal;

[0043] Alternatively, when water flows through the water channel 3, the water flow in the water channel 3 pushes the control plate 4 to rotate at a certain angle and causes the magnet 5 to move closer to the reed switch, and the reed switch outputs a first switch signal; when no water flows through the water channel 3, the control plate 4 rotates at a certain angle in the opposite direction and causes the magnet 5 to move away from the reed switch, and the reed switch outputs a second switch signal.

[0044] The control piece 4 is rotatably connected to the upper body 2 via a rotating shaft 6. The control piece 4 includes an upper part extending into the water flow channel 3 and a lower part on which the magnet 5 is mounted. The upper and lower parts are connected by a connecting part, and the rotating shaft 6 is disposed on the connecting part. Both the upper and lower parts are integrally formed with the connecting part. A shaft hole that mates with the rotating shaft 6 can be provided on the connecting part. The shaft hole can be a semi-open shaft hole formed by bending the connecting part.

[0045] Specifically, the upper seat 2 is also equipped with a return spring to restore the control plate 4 to an unloaded state. The return spring is a torsion spring, one end of which is engaged with the control plate 4, and the other end is fixed to the rotating shaft 6. The control plate 4 has a slot for engaging the torsion spring. When one end of the torsion spring is fixed to the rotating shaft 6, the rotating shaft 6 will not rotate relative to the upper seat 2. When the rotating shaft 6 can rotate relative to the upper seat 2, one end of the torsion spring can be fixed to the upper seat 2.

[0046] Wherein: at least two sides of the magnet 5 are fixed to the lower part. The lower part includes a first part 7 and a second part 8. One side of the magnet 5 is fixed to the first part 7, and the other side of the magnet 5 is fixed to the second part 8. The first part 7 is perpendicular to the second part 8. One side of the magnet 5 is adhered to the first part 7, and the other side of the magnet 5 is adhered to the second part 8. The magnet 5 can be rectangular or prism in shape.

[0047] Specifically: the upper seat 2 is inserted into the lower seat 1. The lower seat 1 is also provided with an insertion groove. The lower end of the upper seat 2 is inserted into the insertion groove. The upper seat 2 is provided with a retaining ridge 9. The side wall of the insertion groove is provided with a retaining groove that mates with the retaining ridge 9. The retaining ridge 9 and the upper seat 2 are an integral structure. The upper seat 2 includes a front half 10 and a rear half 11. The front half 10 is inserted into the rear half 11. The front half 10 is provided with a first recess, and the rear half 11 is provided with a second recess. The first recess and the second recess mate to form the water flow channel 3. The front half 10 is provided with a insertion post 13, and the rear half 11 is provided with a insertion hole 12 that mates with the insertion post 13. There are at least two insertion posts 13, and each insertion post 13 corresponds to one insertion hole 12. The insertion post 13 and the front half 10 are an integral structure. The cross-sectional shape of the insertion post 13 can be circular or polygonal.

[0048] The working principle of this embodiment:

[0049] When no water flows through, control plate 4 is in its initial position, and the magnet 5 at its lower end maintains a certain distance from the reed switch. At this time, the reed switch is in the off state and does not output any switching signal.

[0050] When water flows through the water channel 3, the water flow exerts a certain thrust on the control plate 4, causing it to rotate around the rotating axis at a certain angle. As the control plate 4 rotates, the magnet 5 at its lower end gradually moves closer to or further away from the reed switch.

[0051] When magnet 5 approaches the reed switch, the two reeds inside the reed switch close due to the magnetic field, thus outputting the first switch signal (usually indicating the presence of water flow). Conversely, when magnet 5 moves away from the reed switch, the reeds open due to the loss of the magnetic field, outputting the second switch signal (usually indicating the cessation of water flow).

[0052] The switching signal output by an inductive flow switch can be connected to a control circuit or intelligent system for monitoring and controlling the water flow status. For example, in devices such as electric water heaters and solar water heaters, this switch can be used to control the start and stop of the heating element to ensure stable and safe water temperature.

[0053] This utility model is not limited to the above-mentioned optional embodiments. Under the premise of non-contradiction, the various solutions can be combined arbitrarily. Anyone can derive other forms of products under the guidance of this utility model. However, no matter what changes are made in their shape or structure, all technical solutions that fall within the scope of the claims of this utility model are within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. An inductive flow switch, characterized in that: It includes a lower seat and an upper seat disposed on the lower seat; the upper seat is provided with a water flow channel for water to flow through. A reed switch is provided in the lower seat body, and a control plate is provided in the upper seat body. The control plate is rotatably connected to the upper seat body, the upper end of the control plate extends into the water flow channel, and a magnet is provided at the lower end of the control plate. When water flows through the water channel, the water flow pushes the control plate to rotate at a certain angle and causes the magnet to move away from the reed switch, and the reed switch outputs a first switch signal; when no water flows through the water channel, the control plate rotates at a certain angle in the opposite direction and causes the magnet to move closer to the reed switch, and the reed switch outputs a second switch signal. Alternatively, when water flows through the water channel, the water flow pushes the control plate to rotate at a certain angle and causes the magnet to move closer to the reed switch, and the reed switch outputs a first switching signal; when no water flows through the water channel, the control plate rotates at a certain angle in the opposite direction and causes the magnet to move away from the reed switch, and the reed switch outputs a second switching signal.

2. The inductive flow switch according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control plate is rotatably connected to the upper body via a rotating shaft. The control plate includes an upper part extending into the water flow channel and a lower part on which the magnet is mounted. The upper part and the lower part are connected by a connecting part, and the rotating shaft is disposed on the connecting part.

3. The inductive flow switch according to claim 2, characterized in that: The upper body is also equipped with a reset spring to restore the control plate to an unforced state.

4. The inductive flow switch according to claim 3, characterized in that: The reset spring is a torsion spring, one end of which is snapped onto the control plate, and the other end of which is fixed onto the rotating shaft. The control plate is provided with a slot for snapping onto the torsion spring.

5. The inductive flow switch according to claim 2, characterized in that: At least two sides of the magnet are fixed to the lower part.

6. The inductive flow switch according to claim 5, characterized in that: The lower part includes a first part and a second part, one side of the magnet is fixed to the first part, and the other side of the magnet is fixed to the second part.

7. The inductive flow switch according to claim 6, characterized in that: The first part is perpendicular to the second part, one side of the magnet is attached to the first part, and the other side of the magnet is attached to the second part.

8. The inductive flow switch according to claim 1, characterized in that: The upper seat is inserted into the lower seat, and the lower seat is also provided with an insertion groove. The lower end of the upper seat is inserted into the insertion groove. The upper seat is provided with a retaining ridge, and the side wall of the insertion groove is provided with a retaining groove that mates with the retaining ridge.

9. The inductive flow switch according to claim 1, characterized in that: The upper body includes a front half and a rear half, the front half is inserted into the rear half, the front half is provided with a first recess, and the rear half is provided with a second recess, the first recess and the second recess cooperate to form the water flow channel.

10. An inductive flow switch according to claim 9, characterized in that: The front half is provided with a plug, and the rear half is provided with a socket that mates with the plug. There are at least two plugs, and the plugs and sockets correspond one-to-one. The plugs and the front half are an integral structure.