An eddy current sensor

Abstract

An eddy current sensor, relating to the field of eddy current sensors, is used to prevent lubricating oil from entering the eddy current sensor through the data interface of a disc-shaped eddy current sensor. The eddy current sensor includes a disc-shaped sensor body, a cylindrical data interface, a disc-shaped cover, and a sealing ring. The cylindrical data interface is disposed on the end face of the disc-shaped sensor body and located at the edge of the disc-shaped sensor body. The disc-shaped cover is disposed on the disc-shaped sensor body and has a mounting hole. The cylindrical data interface passes through the mounting hole and extends out of the disc-shaped cover, with a gap between the cylindrical data interface and the mounting hole. An annular groove is formed on the outer ring wall of the cylindrical data interface within the disc-shaped cover, and the annular groove surrounds the cylindrical data interface. The sealing ring is disposed within the annular groove, and at all points along the cross-section of the annular groove, the sealing ring abuts against the inner wall of the mounting hole.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of eddy current sensors, and more particularly to an eddy current sensor. Background Technology

[0002] The disc-shaped eddy current sensor is a special type of non-contact eddy current displacement and vibration sensor, and its design focuses on high-precision non-contact measurement of metal targets.

[0003] Because this type of eddy current sensor induces eddy currents on the surface of a metal target through a high-frequency alternating electromagnetic field, the disc-shaped eddy current sensor with a disc-shaped probe and a circular data plug is often used for shaft monitoring in equipment such as steam turbines, generators, motors, and pumps.

[0004] Since the service equipment for disc-type eddy current sensors requires regular lubrication, and the circular data plug of the eddy current sensor and the target device are usually clearance fit, lubricating oil may slip into the eddy current sensor. Utility Model Content

[0005] This application provides an eddy current sensor to prevent lubricating oil from entering the eddy current sensor through the data interface of the disc-shaped eddy current sensor.

[0006] This application provides an eddy current sensor, including a disc-shaped sensor body, a cylindrical data interface, a disc-shaped cover, and a sealing ring. The cylindrical data interface is disposed on the end face of the disc-shaped sensor body and located at the edge of the disc-shaped sensor body. The disc-shaped cover is disposed on the disc-shaped sensor body and has a mounting hole. The cylindrical data interface passes through the mounting hole and extends out of the disc-shaped cover, with a gap between the cylindrical data interface and the mounting hole. An annular groove is formed on the outer ring wall of the cylindrical data interface within the disc-shaped cover, and the annular groove surrounds the cylindrical data interface. The sealing ring is disposed within the annular groove, and at all points on the cross-section of the annular groove, the sealing ring abuts against the inner wall of the mounting hole.

[0007] This application provides a fixed space for the sealing ring through an annular groove, preventing the sealing ring from shifting or falling off during sensor operation (such as vibration), ensuring a stable sealing position, and ensuring that the sealing ring "abuts" against the inner wall of the mounting hole everywhere, achieving complete filling of the gap, blocking the channel for lubricating oil to penetrate from the gap, and preventing lubricating oil from entering the eddy current sensor through the data interface of the disc-shaped eddy current sensor.

[0008] In some embodiments of this application, the sealing ring is made of rubber or polyurethane elastomer. Rubber and polyurethane elastomers have high elasticity and can compensate for dimensional errors between the mounting hole and the data interface through their own deformation, ensuring a tight fit between the sealing ring and the inner wall and preventing leakage due to uneven gaps.

[0009] In some embodiments of this application, the sealing ring is made of nitrile rubber or fluororubber. Nitrile rubber has excellent resistance to mineral oil and is relatively inexpensive, while fluororubber has better temperature and chemical resistance. For high-temperature and harsh lubricating oil environments, it can prevent the sealing ring from failing due to high-temperature aging or oil corrosion, thus improving the sealing reliability under extreme operating conditions.

[0010] In some embodiments of this application, multiple annular grooves are provided, spaced apart along the axial direction of the cylindrical data interface, and each annular groove contains a sealing ring. Multiple sealing rings can form a multi-layered sealing barrier, and the spaced-apart sealing rings increase the penetration path length of the lubricating oil, further reducing the probability of leakage and enhancing the sealing effect.

[0011] In some embodiments of this application, an annular protrusion is formed on the side of the disc-shaped cover opposite to the main body of the disc-shaped sensor. The annular protrusion is located at the mounting hole, and some of the multiple sealing rings abut against the annular protrusion. The annular protrusion itself constitutes a physical barrier, changing the flow direction of the lubricating oil on the disc-shaped cover. At the same time, the inner wall of the annular protrusion can cooperate with the sealing rings to form a seal.

[0012] In some embodiments of this application, the cylindrical data interface includes a cylindrical portion and a prismatic portion, the cylindrical portion and the prismatic portion being integrally formed, the cylindrical portion being located between the prismatic portion and the disk-shaped sensor body; an annular groove is disposed on the cylindrical portion.

[0013] The cylindrical part has a smooth surface, which facilitates the control of the machining accuracy of the annular groove, ensuring that the sealing ring is subjected to uniform force after installation and avoiding sealing failure caused by uneven interface surface; the prismatic part (non-circular) can be used for the insertion and removal positioning of the data interface, preventing the interface from rotating when connected to external equipment, avoiding displacement or wear of the sealing ring due to rotational friction, and indirectly ensuring sealing stability. Attached Figure Description

[0014] The accompanying drawings are provided to further illustrate the technical solution of this utility model and constitute a part of the specification. They are used together with the embodiments of this application to explain the technical solution of this utility model and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solution of this utility model.

[0015] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an eddy current sensor provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an eddy current sensor after the disc-shaped cover has been removed, as provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0017] Reference numerals: 1-Disc-shaped sensor body; 2-Cylindrical data interface; 21-Annular groove; 22-Cylindrical part; 23-Prismatic part; 3-Disc-shaped cover; 31-Mounting hole; 32-Annular protrusion; 4-Sealing ring. Detailed Implementation

[0018] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0019] It should be noted that all directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) in this utility model embodiment are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of each component in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indicator will also change accordingly.

[0020] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0021] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly, for example, as a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances. Furthermore, when describing pipelines, the terms "connected" and "linked" as used in this application have the meaning of establishing electrical connection. The specific meaning needs to be understood in conjunction with the context.

[0022] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that something is an example, illustration, or description. Any embodiment or design that is described as "exemplary" or "for example" in the embodiments of this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design. Specifically, the use of the terms "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0023] This application provides an eddy current sensor; please refer to... Figure 1 It includes a disc-shaped sensor body 1, a cylindrical data interface 2, a disc-shaped cover 3, and a sealing ring 4.

[0024] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The main body 1 of the disc-shaped sensor is a flat disc with a diameter ranging from 50-100mm and a thickness of 5-10mm. Its edges are smoothly rounded to avoid scratching the installation environment. The outer shell is made of 304 stainless steel, providing both rust resistance and structural strength. Internally, it encapsulates the core component of the eddy current sensor, which is fixed with epoxy resin potting to enhance shock resistance and sealing. As the basic supporting component of the sensor, it is placed horizontally on the surface of the monitoring equipment, with the side facing the equipment aligned with the monitoring target, and the side facing away from the equipment featuring a cylindrical data interface 2 and a disc-shaped cover 3.

[0025] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The cylindrical data interface 2 is shaped like a stepped shaft, comprising an integrally formed cylindrical portion 22 and a prismatic portion 23. The cylindrical portion 22 has a diameter of 8-12 mm and a length of 15-20 mm, with a smooth surface. The prismatic portion 23 is a regular hexagonal prism with a side-to-side distance of 10-14 mm and a length of 10-15 mm, positioned away from the disc-shaped sensor body 1. It is made of brass and nickel-plated to enhance corrosion resistance. This interface is vertically fixed to the outer end face of the disc-shaped sensor body 1, located at the edge of the end face, with its axis perpendicular to the end face of the disc-shaped sensor body 1. The cylindrical portion 22 is close to the disc-shaped sensor body 1, and the prismatic portion 23 is located on the outer side, fixed to the disc-shaped sensor body 1 by laser welding, and is hollow inside.

[0026] Please refer to Figure 1 The disc-shaped cover 3 is disc-shaped, with the same diameter as the disc-shaped sensor body 1 and a thickness of 3-5mm. The central area bulges slightly outwards to allow space for internal components. A mounting hole 31 is provided on the cover for the cylindrical data interface 2 to pass through. The diameter of the mounting hole 31 is 0.5-1mm larger than the cylindrical portion 22 of the cylindrical data interface 2. It is made of 316 stainless steel, with a sandblasted surface to enhance friction and facilitate installation and removal. The cover is placed on the outer end face of the disc-shaped sensor body 1, and its edges are fixed to the sensor body by 4-6 M3 countersunk bolts. Sealant is applied to the contact surface with the disc-shaped sensor body 1 to further prevent leakage at the edges.

[0027] Please refer to Figure 1 The annular groove 21 is an annular groove that surrounds the outer ring wall of the cylindrical part 22 of the cylindrical data interface 2. It has a rectangular cross-section and rounded edges. It is located on the cylindrical part 22 of the cylindrical data interface 2 and inside the disc-shaped cover 3. The bottom of the groove is 5-8mm away from the end face of the disc-shaped sensor body 1 to ensure that the sealing ring 4 is completely inside the cover and avoids direct contact with external oil stains.

[0028] Please refer toFigure 1 The sealing ring 4 is an O-ring, with its outer diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the mounting hole 31 in its natural state. Its material is selected according to the operating conditions: nitrile rubber is used for ordinary operating conditions; fluororubber is used for high-temperature / synthetic oil operating conditions; and polyurethane elastomer is used for dynamic sealing operating conditions. The sealing ring 4 is embedded in the annular groove 21. After assembly, it undergoes elastic deformation due to the interference fit, tightly abutting against the inner wall of the mounting hole 31. The number of sealing rings 4 can be 1 to 3, selected according to need.

[0029] Please refer to Figure 1 The annular protrusion 32 is an optional structure, forming an annular boss around the mounting hole 31, with a height of 0.5-1mm, a width of 2-3mm, and a right-angled trapezoidal cross-section. It is located on the side of the disc-shaped cover 3 opposite to the disc-shaped sensor body 1, and is concentrically set with the mounting hole 31. Its inner edge smoothly transitions with the inner wall of the mounting hole 31. Its function is to form local compression on the sealing ring 4, increase the sealing pressure, and enhance the fit.

[0030] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 When the sensor is in an environment containing lubricating oil, the lubricating oil may seep through the gap between the cylindrical data interface 2 and the mounting hole 31. Since the sealing ring 4 is embedded in the annular groove 21 and tightly abuts against the inner wall of the mounting hole 31, it forms an elastic sealing barrier that can block the seepage path of the lubricating oil. If multiple sealing rings 4 are provided, multiple barriers are formed, further improving the reliability of anti-seepage.

[0031] This application provides Embodiment 1, please refer to it. Figure 1 An eddy current sensor is provided, which is suitable for scenarios with low lubricating oil flow and ambient temperature of -40℃ to 120℃ (such as monitoring of ordinary motor bearings).

[0032] The disc-shaped sensor body 1 has a diameter of 60mm and a thickness of 8mm, made of 304 stainless steel with an internal epoxy resin potting layer. The cylindrical data interface 2 has a cylindrical portion 22 with a diameter of 10mm and a length of 18mm, and a prismatic portion 23 (regular hexagon) with a side-to-side distance of 12mm and a length of 12mm, made of nickel-plated brass, laser-welded to the edge of the sensor body (6mm from the edge). The disc-shaped cover 3 has a diameter of 60mm and a thickness of 4mm, made of 316 stainless steel, with a mounting hole 31 of 10.8mm in diameter (forming a 0.8mm gap with the cylindrical portion 22), and is fixed to the sensor body with four M3 bolts. A single annular groove 21 is selected, located in the middle of the cylindrical portion 22 (6mm from the end face of the sensor body), with a cross-sectional dimension of 1.2mm (depth) × 1.8mm (width). The sealing ring 4 is made of nitrile rubber (hardness 70 Shore A), with a cross-sectional diameter of 2mm and an outer diameter of 11mm in its natural state (0.2mm interference with the mounting hole 31). After being embedded in the annular groove 21, it completely abuts against the inner wall of the mounting hole 31.

[0033] In this embodiment, a reliable seal is formed by a single sealing ring 4, blocking the lubricating oil penetration path, which is suitable for normal working conditions.

[0034] This application provides Embodiment 2, an eddy current sensor, which is suitable for scenarios with large lubricating oil flow and temperatures ranging from -20°C to 200°C (such as high-temperature gearbox monitoring).

[0035] The disc-shaped sensor body 1 has a diameter of 80mm and a thickness of 10mm, with a 304 stainless steel shell and internally potted with high-temperature resistant epoxy resin (temperature resistance 200℃). The cylindrical data interface 2 has a cylindrical portion 22 with a diameter of 12mm and a length of 20mm, and a prismatic portion 23 (regular hexagon) with a side-to-side distance of 14mm and a length of 15mm, made of nickel-plated brass, laser-welded to the edge of the sensor body (8mm from the edge). The disc-shaped cover 3 has a diameter of 80mm and a thickness of 5mm, made of 316 stainless steel, with a mounting hole 31 with a diameter of 13mm (forming a 1mm gap with the cylindrical portion 22); the outer side of the cover has an annular protrusion 32 (0.8mm high, 2.5mm wide) located at the mounting hole 31.

[0036] Two annular grooves 21 are provided, distributed at 5mm intervals along the axis of the cylindrical portion 22. The one closer to the sensor body is the first annular groove 21 (7mm from the end face), and the one farther away is the second annular groove 21 (12mm from the end face); both have a cross-section of 1.5mm (depth) × 2mm (width). Two sealing rings 4 are provided, both made of fluororubber (hardness 75 Shore A), with a cross-sectional diameter of 2.2mm and an outer diameter of 13.2mm in its natural state (interference with the mounting hole 31 by 0.2mm); the first sealing ring 4 is embedded in the first annular groove 21, and the second sealing ring 4 is embedded in the second annular groove 21 and abuts against the annular protrusion 32 (the protrusion exerts additional pressure on it).

[0037] In this second embodiment, a double barrier is formed by the double sealing rings 4, and the second sealing ring 4 cooperates with the annular protrusion 32 to enhance the sealing pressure, which can effectively resist the penetration of high temperature and high flow rate lubricating oil.

[0038] In the description of this specification, specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0039] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An eddy current sensor, characterized in that, include: Disc-shaped sensor body; A cylindrical data interface is disposed on the end face of the disc-shaped sensor body and located at the edge of the disc-shaped sensor body; A disc-shaped cover is provided on the disc-shaped sensor body. The disc-shaped cover is provided with a mounting hole. The cylindrical data interface passes through the mounting hole and extends out of the disc-shaped cover. A gap is provided between the cylindrical data interface and the mounting hole. The cylindrical data interface is provided with an annular groove on the outer ring wall of the disc-shaped cover body, and the annular groove is arranged around the cylindrical data interface. The eddy current sensor also includes a sealing ring, which is disposed in the annular groove, and the sealing ring abuts against the inner wall of the mounting hole at all points on the cross section of the annular groove.

2. The eddy current sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sealing ring is made of rubber or polyurethane elastomer.

3. The eddy current sensor according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sealing ring is made of nitrile rubber or fluororubber.

4. The eddy current sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The annular grooves are configured in multiple ways, and the multiple annular grooves are distributed at intervals along the axial direction of the cylindrical data interface. Each annular groove is provided with a sealing ring.

5. The eddy current sensor according to claim 4, characterized in that, The disc-shaped cover has an annular protrusion on the side opposite to the disc-shaped sensor body. The annular protrusion is located at the mounting hole, and some of the multiple sealing rings abut against the annular protrusion.

6. The eddy current sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cylindrical data interface includes a cylindrical part and a prismatic part, the cylindrical part and the prismatic part are integrally formed, and the cylindrical part is located between the prismatic part and the disk-shaped sensor body; The annular groove is provided on the cylindrical portion.

Images