A flow sensor
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- XINCHANG RILING TECH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-05-29
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-07
AI Technical Summary
[0002]流量传感器主要是气体和液体方面,在本案中讨论液体流量传感器,尤其是制冷剂等,流量传感器,包括漩涡发生体、检测元件、PCB板和外壳,流体管内设有漩涡发生体,传统的漩涡发生体,其形状比如圆柱状,圆柱状漩涡发生体的几何形状相对固定,其产生漩涡的特性在一定程度上取决于自身的尺寸和形状参数,其产生的漩涡信号可能不够稳定和明显,导致测量精度下降,在流体的粘性作用相对较强,漩涡的形成和脱落规律会受到一定影响
[0019]A flow sensor includes a vortex generator, a detection element, a PCB board, and a housing. The improvement primarily involves modifying the vortex generator by continuously arranging at least two trapezoidal columnar vortex generators, T-shaped vortex generators, or triangular prism-shaped vortex generators, or combining these types of vortex generators. Additionally, an arc-shaped vortex generator is positioned on the inner wall of the fluid pipe. Each generator has at least two protrusions and two concave portions. The fluid velocity difference and vortex flow caused by the protrusions and concave portions are induced by the arc-shaped segments, resulting in clearer and more stable vortex signals that are less affected by interference factors such as fluid fluctuations, thereby improving measurement accuracy and reliability.
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Figure CN224608478U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of fluid flow measurement technology, specifically a flow sensor. Background Technology
[0002] Flow sensors are mainly used for gases and liquids. This case discusses liquid flow sensors, especially for refrigerants. Flow sensors include vortex generators, detection elements, PCB boards, and housings. Vortex generators are installed inside the fluid pipe. Traditional vortex generators are cylindrical in shape. The geometry of cylindrical vortex generators is relatively fixed, and their vortex generation characteristics depend to some extent on their size and shape parameters. The vortex signals they generate may not be stable or obvious enough, leading to a decrease in measurement accuracy. In fluids with relatively strong viscosity, the formation and shedding patterns of vortices will be affected to some extent.
[0003] The single vortex generator structure results in a small amplitude signal when detecting vortex signals, making it susceptible to noise interference and thus affecting the accuracy and reliability of the measurement.
[0004] Moreover, the stability of vortices generated by a single vortex generator is poor under certain operating conditions, and the frequency of vortex shedding may fluctuate, which can also introduce measurement errors.
[0005] Therefore, it is necessary to design a new type of flow sensor to solve the above problems. Utility Model Content
[0006] In view of the problems mentioned above and / or existing flow sensors, this utility model is proposed.
[0007] Therefore, the purpose of this invention is to provide a flow sensor that can solve the aforementioned existing problems.
[0008] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, according to one aspect of the present invention, the present invention provides the following technical solution:
[0009] A flow sensor includes a vortex generator, a detection element, a PCB board, and a housing. The housing includes a fluid tube and a detection tube shell. The vortex generator is disposed inside the fluid tube, and the detection element is disposed inside the detection tube shell. The probe of the detection element extends into the fluid tube. The detection element is connected to the circuitry of the PCB board. The vortex generator has at least two protrusions and two recesses.
[0010] As a preferred embodiment of the flow sensor described in this utility model, the vortex generator is a trapezoidal cylindrical vortex generator, and the number of trapezoidal cylindrical vortex generators is at least 2. The trapezoidal cylindrical vortex generator has at least 2 protrusions and 2 concave parts, with the protrusions close to the fluid pipe inlet and the concave parts far away from the fluid pipe inlet.
[0011] As a preferred embodiment of the flow sensor described in this utility model, the number of T-shaped vortex generators is at least two, and each T-shaped vortex generator has at least two protrusions and two concave portions. The protrusions are close to the fluid pipe inlet, and the concave portions are far from the fluid pipe inlet.
[0012] As a preferred embodiment of the flow sensor described in this utility model, the vortex generator is a triangular prism vortex generator, and there are at least two of them. The triangular prism vortex generator has at least two protrusions and two concave parts. The protrusions are close to the fluid pipe inlet, and the concave parts are far away from the fluid pipe inlet.
[0013] As a preferred embodiment of the flow sensor described in this utility model, the vortex generator is an arc-shaped vortex generator located on the inner wall of the fluid pipe. The arc-shaped vortex generator has at least two protrusions and two concave parts. The protrusions are close to the fluid pipe inlet, and the concave parts are far away from the fluid pipe inlet.
[0014] As a preferred embodiment of the flow sensor described in this utility model, the recess is either a straight line or an arc shape that is recessed into the inner wall of the fluid pipe.
[0015] In a preferred embodiment of the flow sensor described in this utility model, the curvature of the convex portion near the fluid pipe inlet is greater than the curvature of the concave portion away from the fluid pipe inlet.
[0016] As a preferred embodiment of the flow sensor described in this utility model, the detection element is a differential pressure sensor that detects the pressure of the fluid flowing through it.
[0017] As a preferred embodiment of the flow sensor described in this utility model, the detection element includes a probe that extends into the fluid pipe, and the probe is a piezoelectric detection probe.
[0018] Compared with existing technologies:
[0019] A flow sensor includes a vortex generator, a detection element, a PCB board, and a housing. The improvement primarily involves modifying the vortex generator by continuously arranging at least two trapezoidal columnar vortex generators, T-shaped vortex generators, or triangular prism-shaped vortex generators, or combining these types of vortex generators. Additionally, an arc-shaped vortex generator is positioned on the inner wall of the fluid pipe. Each generator has at least two protrusions and two concave portions. The fluid velocity difference and vortex flow caused by the protrusions and concave portions are induced by the arc-shaped segments, resulting in clearer and more stable vortex signals that are less affected by interference factors such as fluid fluctuations, thereby improving measurement accuracy and reliability. Attached Figure Description
[0020] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the present utility model;
[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a trapezoidal columnar vortex generator in this utility model;
[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a T-shaped vortex generator in this utility model;
[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a triangular prism-shaped vortex generator in this utility model.
[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the vortex generator in this utility model, which is a combination of a trapezoidal column vortex generator and a T-column vortex generator.
[0025] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the arc-shaped vortex generator 7 in this utility model, where the spacer portion 73 is a straight line.
[0026] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the spacer 73 of the arc-shaped vortex generator 7 in this utility model. Detailed Implementation
[0027] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the following description will be provided in conjunction with the appendix. Figure 1-7 The embodiments of this utility model will be described in further detail.
[0028] According to a specific embodiment of a flow sensor, it includes a vortex generator, a detection element 2, a PCB board 3, and a housing 4. The housing 4 includes a fluid pipe 41 and a detection tube shell 42. The vortex generator is disposed inside the fluid pipe 41, and the detection element 2 is disposed inside the detection tube shell 42. The probe 21 of the detection element 2 extends into the fluid pipe 41. The detection element 2 is connected to the PCB board 3 by circuitry. The vortex generator has at least two protrusions 11 and two recesses 12. In the fluid flow direction, the protrusions 11 are close to the inlet of the fluid pipe 41, and the recesses 12 are away from the inlet of the fluid pipe 41.
[0029] There are various shapes of vortex generators, such as trapezoidal column vortex generator 1, T-shaped column vortex generator 5, triangular column vortex generator 6, and circular arc segment vortex generator 7.
[0030] Taking a trapezoidal column vortex generator as an example, the vortex signal generated in a single trapezoidal column vortex generator may sometimes be weak, especially when measuring low-velocity fluids. Setting up multiple vortex generators arranged in a continuous manner in the pipe can enhance the vortex signal and improve the measurement accuracy.
[0031] The principle behind its vortex formation is as follows: Figure 2 When the fluid flows horizontally from left to right, a velocity difference and a pressure difference will be formed between the convex part 11 and the concave part 12 on the same side of the vortex generator, which will cause the vortex to be generated and detached regularly, thus generating a continuous and stable vortex. The detection element 2 is a differential pressure sensor for detecting the pressure of the fluid flow. The pressure wave caused by the vortex detachment will act on the detection element 2, which can cause the detection element 2 to generate obvious electrical signal changes.
[0032] like Figure 2 In one specific implementation, three trapezoidal columnar vortex generators 1 are continuously arranged, with three protrusions 11 and three concave parts 12 arranged in a continuous manner. This can generate more vortices, enhance the pressure fluctuations, vibrations and other signals caused by the vortices, make the detection element 2 easier to capture, and more accurately detect signal changes when measuring minute flow rate changes, thereby improving the sensitivity and accuracy of detection. It can sense changes in physical quantities such as pressure changes and vibrations generated by the vortices.
[0033] like Figure 3 Taking a T-shaped vortex generator as an example, in one specific embodiment, three T-shaped vortex generators 5 are continuously arranged, with three protrusions 51 and three concave parts 52 arranged continuously. This can generate more vortices, enhance the pressure fluctuations, vibrations and other signals caused by the vortices, make the detection element 2 easier to capture, and more accurately detect signal changes when measuring minute flow rate changes, thereby improving the sensitivity and accuracy of detection. It can sense changes in physical quantities such as pressure changes and vibrations generated by the vortices, enhance the vortex signal and improve measurement accuracy.
[0034] like Figure 4 Taking a triangular prism-shaped vortex generator as an example, in one specific embodiment, three triangular prism-shaped vortex generators 6 are continuously arranged, with three protrusions 61 and three concave parts 62 arranged continuously. This can generate more vortices, enhance the pressure fluctuations, vibrations and other signals caused by the vortices, make it easier for the detection element 2 to capture them, improve the sensitivity of the measurement system, and more accurately detect signal changes when measuring minute flow rate changes. This improves the sensitivity and accuracy of detection, can sense changes in physical quantities such as pressure changes and vibrations generated by the vortices, and can enhance the vortex signal and improve measurement accuracy.
[0035] like Figure 5 In some specific implementations, the above-mentioned vortex generators can be combined, and vortex generators of different shapes can be flexibly combined and adjusted according to specific flow field requirements. In one specific implementation, a trapezoidal cylindrical vortex generator 1, a T-shaped cylindrical vortex generator 5, and a trapezoidal cylindrical vortex generator 1 are continuously arranged. Compared with a traditional single vortex generator, this can generate more vortices, enhance the pressure fluctuations and vibrations caused by the vortices, make it easier for the detection element 2 to capture them, and enhance the vortex signal and improve measurement accuracy.
[0036] In complex piping systems or under specific process requirements, the flow field can be precisely controlled by changing the number, spacing, and arrangement of vortex generators such as trapezoidal columns and T-columns, thereby achieving fine control over the fluid flow characteristics, which is difficult to achieve with a single traditional vortex generator.
[0037] This flexibility is also reflected in the ability to select the most suitable combination of vortex generators based on different fluid properties (such as viscosity, density, etc.) and flow conditions (such as flow velocity, pressure, etc.) to achieve the best operating results.
[0038] In one specific embodiment, the vortex generator is an arc-shaped vortex generator 7 located on the inner wall of the fluid pipe 41. The arc-shaped vortex generator 7 has at least two protrusions 71 and two recesses 72. The protrusions 71 are close to the inlet of the fluid pipe 41, and the recesses 72 are away from the inlet of the fluid pipe 41.
[0039] The design of the protrusion 71 and the concave portion 72 alters the flow path of the fluid, resulting in a more complex flow pattern as the fluid passes through. The protrusion 71 accelerates the fluid, while the concave portion 72 creates a local low-pressure zone that attracts surrounding fluid. Together, they promote the formation of vortices and enhance their intensity, which is beneficial for improving the effectiveness of related measurement or mixing processes.
[0040] Compared to a traditional single vortex generator, the fluid velocity difference and vortex flow caused by the convex part 71 and the concave part 72 are triggered by the arc segment. The resulting vortex signal is clearer and more stable, and is less affected by interference factors such as fluid fluctuations, thereby improving the accuracy and reliability of the measurement.
[0041] Compared to some vortex generators with sharper shapes, the arc segment design is smoother, which can reduce the resistance of the fluid when it passes around the vortex generator to a certain extent. In particular, the smooth transition between the convex part 71 and the concave part 72 avoids violent separation of the fluid and excessive expansion of the vortex zone, which helps to reduce the energy consumption of the system.
[0042] In a further specific embodiment, a spacer 73 is provided between one of the protrusions 71 and the recess 72, such as... Figure 6 The interval 73 is a straight line, such as Figure 7 The convex part 71 and concave part 72 of the arc-shaped vortex generator 7, which is recessed into the inner wall of the fluid pipe 41, can be connected to the inner wall of the fluid pipe 41 by welding, screw fixing or other means.
[0043] In a further specific embodiment, in adjacent arc segments, for example, there are three consecutive protrusions 71. The curvature of the protrusion 71 near the inlet of the fluid pipe 41 is greater than that of the protrusion 71 far from the inlet of the fluid pipe 41. The arc segment with composite curvature is formed by connecting multiple curves with different radii of curvature. At the inlet end of the fluid pipe 41, a curve with a larger radius of curvature is used to reduce the obstruction to the fluid and help it generate vortices smoothly. At the outlet end of the fluid pipe 41, a curve with a smaller radius of curvature is used to better guide the fluid and allow the vortex to fall off stably. Different curvature parts play their respective roles to ensure the measurement effect of the detection element 2.
[0044] The above implementation combines the design of a circular arc segment vortex generator 7 with both large and small curvature arc segments, which can perform well under both low and high flow rate conditions. At low flow rates, the large curvature arc segment ensures that vortices of sufficient intensity are generated, giving the sensor good sensitivity; at high flow rates, the small curvature arc segment ensures that vortices form and fall off stably and quickly, ensuring the accuracy and stability of the measurement.
[0045] The above non-streamlined vortex generators are made of corrosion-resistant and wear-resistant materials such as stainless steel.
[0046] Regarding the description of the detection element 2 inside the detection tube shell 42, which is existing technology, the probe 21 of the detection element 2 extends into the fluid tube 41. The probe 21 is a piezoelectric detection probe with a built-in piezoelectric crystal element, installed at a suitable position on the vortex generator, which can effectively sense the pulsating pressure generated by the vortex and convert it into an electrical signal. The detection element 2 is connected to the circuitry of the PCB board 3. The pressure data is analyzed by the corresponding analysis module of the PCB board 3, and the flow rate of the pipeline can be measured.
[0047] It also includes a fixing plate fixed inside the lower middle part of the detection tube shell 42, which is connected to the detection rod 22 of the detection element 2 by means of threads or other fixing methods, and then connected to the PCB board 3 through lines. The lines of the PCB board 3 and other circuits are uniformly led out from the bundle tube 43 on the top side of the detection tube shell 42.
[0048] In addition, it can be used to monitor the operating status of pipeline systems, issue alarms when pressure is abnormal, and remind operators to pay attention to potential problems such as pipeline blockage or leakage, so as to ensure the safe operation of the system.
[0049] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to embodiments, various modifications can be made and components can be replaced with equivalents without departing from the scope of the present invention. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the features in the embodiments disclosed in this invention can be combined with each other in any way. The lack of an exhaustive description of these combinations in this specification is merely for the sake of brevity and resource conservation. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.
Claims
1. A flow sensor, characterized in that: The device includes a vortex generator, a detection element, a PCB board, and a housing. The housing includes a fluid tube and a detection tube shell. The vortex generator is located inside the fluid tube, and the detection element is located inside the detection tube shell. The probe of the detection element extends into the fluid tube, and the detection element is connected to the circuitry of the PCB board. The vortex generator has at least two protrusions and two recesses.
2. A flow sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The vortex generator is a trapezoidal column vortex generator, and the number of trapezoidal column vortex generators is at least 2. The trapezoidal column vortex generator has at least 2 protrusions and 2 concave parts. The protrusions are close to the fluid pipe inlet, and the concave parts are far away from the fluid pipe inlet.
3. A flow sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The number of T-shaped vortex generators is at least two, and each T-shaped vortex generator has at least two protrusions and two concave parts. The protrusions are close to the fluid pipe inlet, and the concave parts are far from the fluid pipe inlet.
4. A flow sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The vortex generator is a triangular prism vortex generator, and there are at least two of them. The triangular prism vortex generator has at least two protrusions and two concave parts. The protrusions are close to the fluid pipe inlet, and the concave parts are far away from the fluid pipe inlet.
5. A flow sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The vortex generator is an arc-shaped vortex generator located on the inner wall of the fluid pipe. The arc-shaped vortex generator has at least two protrusions and two concave parts. The protrusions are close to the fluid pipe inlet, and the concave parts are far away from the fluid pipe inlet.
6. A flow sensor according to claim 5, characterized in that, The recess is either a straight line or an arc that is recessed into the inner wall of the fluid pipe.
7. A flow sensor according to claim 5, characterized in that, The curvature of the convex portion near the fluid inlet is greater than the curvature of the concave portion away from the fluid inlet.
8. A flow sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The detection element is a differential pressure sensor that detects the pressure of the fluid flowing through it.
9. A flow sensor according to claim 8, characterized in that, The detection element includes a probe that extends into the fluid tube, and the probe is a piezoelectric detection probe.