Pipe construction, exhaust system having a pipe construction and vehicle having an exhaust system or a pipe construction

Abstract

The invention relates to a pipe construction (10), preferably for integration into an exhaust system of a vehicle. The invention further relates to an exhaust system comprising an exhaust pipe which is fluidically connected to the pipe construction (10) and to a vehicle comprising the pipe construction (10) or the exhaust system.The pipe construction comprises: a pipe (12) for conveying a fluid, preferably for conveying exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine, wherein the pipe (12) has a pipe cross-section (13); and at least one collecting pipe (14), wherein the at least one collecting pipe (14) is arranged in the pipe cross-section (13) and has two open pipe ends and at least one opening (16) for extracting fluid from the pipe cross-section (13) and preferably extends over the entire pipe cross-section (13), wherein the pipe construction has a collecting chamber (18) which is fluidically connected to the two open pipe ends and can be supplied to a measuring device (20) via the extracted fluid.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a pipe construction, preferably for integration into an exhaust system of a vehicle. The invention further relates to an exhaust system comprising an exhaust pipe fluidically connected to the pipe construction, and to a vehicle comprising the pipe construction or the exhaust system.

[0002] Regarding the state of the art, reference should first be made to the documents DE 10 2017 101940 A1, DE 10 2011 086447 A1, US 2013 / 213013 A1, EP 3 978 896 A1, US 8 756 913 B2 and DE 102 45 297 B3.

[0003] Document DE 102017 101940 A1 describes a method and system for sensing particulate matter in a vehicle's exhaust system. An exemplary system includes a particulate matter sensor within a tube configured to receive a portion of exhaust gas in the exhaust passage.

[0004] Document DE 10 2011 086447 A1 discloses an exhaust gas sampling device designed to be coupled into an exhaust line and to take a sample from a component of an engine exhaust gas flowing therein. The sampling device comprises an enclosure having an upstream and a downstream surface connected by a curved side surface.

[0005] Document US 2013 / 213013 A1 relates to a sensor module for detecting the properties of a fluid flowing through a fluid conduit. The sensor module comprises a sample probe having at least one sample arm extending radially inward from a sidewall portion of the fluid conduit to a central portion of the fluid conduit, defining a fluid flow channel, and including a plurality of inlet openings.

[0006] Document EP 3 978 896 A1 relates to an exhaust system comprising an exhaust duct having an inner surface defining an exhaust passage extending along an axis. At least one sensor opening is located in the exhaust duct and configured to receive an exhaust gas sensor.

[0007] Document US 8,756,913 B2 relates to a sensor module comprising a sensor probe having at least two arms coupled together at a central position. Each of the at least two arms extends radially outward from the central position.

[0008] Document DE 102 45 297 B3 discloses a device for measuring gas components in an exhaust pipe. The device comprises an inlet, a measuring chamber, and a bypass with a return flow, through which a partial gas flow branched off from the main gas flow is fed to the measuring chamber, in which a gas measuring probe is provided.

[0009] Commercially available fluid sensors (e.g., NOx or NH3 sensors), such as those used in exhaust systems for motor vehicles, are typically screwed into the exhaust pipe via threaded connectors and, depending on the pipe diameter, only protrude slightly into the pipe cross-section. Therefore, they are not capable of detecting measured values, such as concentrations, in the cross-section that are present outside the penetration depth of the sensor.

[0010] For example, due to an unevenly distributed flow across a pipe cross-section (or due to an inhomogeneous flow profile) or due to unevenly distributed substance values ​​(e.g., NOx or NH3) across the pipe cross-section, it may be desirable to also record measured values, such as concentrations, that lie outside the sensor's penetration depth and closer to a center point of the pipe cross-section. To record an average measured value, it may also be desirable to achieve the best possible homogenization of the fluid and the exhaust gas components it contains prior to measurement.

[0011] Document EP 1 624 295 A1 describes a device with a sensor for determining one or more components of a medium flowing in an installation duct. The device has a housing and a main duct connected to it, which is closed at an end facing away from the housing and projects into the installation duct. The main duct has an opening remote from the end that creates a connection between the main duct and the installation duct. The main duct also has another opening that creates a connection between the main duct and the installation duct. The medium thus flows between the openings, through the main duct, past the sensor.

[0012] In such arrangements, the averaging of measured value or concentration differences across the pipe cross-section is still incomplete. Furthermore, in known solutions, the fluid is usually insufficiently homogenized prior to measurement, which favors inaccurate measurements.

[0013] An object of the invention is to provide an improved and / or alternative technique for withdrawing fluid and supplying the withdrawn fluid to a measuring device, by means of which advantageously a better averaging of measured value differences present over a pipe cross-section is enabled, in particular a substantial homogenization of the withdrawn fluid upstream of the measuring device.

[0014] This object can be achieved with the features of the independent claim. Advantageous further developments are disclosed in the subclaims or emerge from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0015] The invention relates to a pipe construction, preferably for integration into an exhaust system of a vehicle.

[0016] The pipe structure comprises a pipe for conducting a fluid (e.g., for conducting exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine) and at least one manifold. In the context of the invention, the pipe structure may also comprise multiple manifolds.

[0017] The pipe has a (e.g. changing and / or essentially constant) pipe cross-section.

[0018] The at least one collecting tube has two open tube ends and at least one opening for withdrawing fluid from the tube cross-section. The at least one collecting tube can be designed, for example, as a multi-hole probe.

[0019] The at least one collecting pipe is arranged in the pipe cross-section. For example, the at least one collecting pipe can protrude into the pipe cross-section. Optionally, the at least one collecting pipe extends across the entire pipe cross-section.

[0020] The pipe construction also features a collection chamber that is fluidically connected to the two open pipe ends. Extracted fluid can be fed to a measuring device via the collection chamber.

[0021] The measuring device is preferably used to measure a substantially average concentration of exhaust gas components in an exhaust system, in particular to determine the nitrogen and / or ammonia concentration, expediently by means of at least one NOx sensor.

[0022] One advantage of the invention may, for example, be that fluid sampling is possible at a more internal position and / or across a larger pipe cross-section. Furthermore, better homogenization of the fluid can occur. Overall, better averaging (e.g., for measuring the average concentration of exhaust gas components in an exhaust system) of any differences present in the pipe with regard to the measured variable to be recorded (e.g., nitrogen, nitrogen oxide, and / or ammonia concentration) can result. This can increase measurement accuracy. This makes it possible to generate a sensor signal that approximately reflects the average concentration of the component to be measured, e.g., exhaust gas component, expediently in the main stream.

[0023] The term "pipe construction," "pipe," "manifold," and / or "pipe cross-section" as used herein is preferably not limited to circular cross-sections. Rather, any cross-sectional shape is encompassed, such as a rectangular, polygonal, oval, and / or asymmetrical cross-sectional shape.

[0024] It is possible for the at least one collecting pipe to comprise several (e.g., at least two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or nine) collecting pipes. Optionally, the collecting pipes each have two open pipe ends and at least one opening for removing fluid from the pipe cross-section, with the plurality of collecting pipes expediently extending into the pipe cross-section. Optionally, the plurality of collecting pipes each extend across the entire pipe cross-section.

[0025] The pipe structure can also expediently include the measuring device. The measuring device is preferably a fluid sensor, such as an exhaust gas sensor, NH3 sensor, and / or NOx sensor. This offers the particular advantage that commercially available NOx sensors can be used.

[0026] The tube can have an axial direction and a radial direction (e.g., oriented orthogonally to the axial direction A). Preferably, the tube cross-section is oriented orthogonally to the axial direction. The tube cross-section can, for example, have the shape of a circular disk. The tube cross-section can, for example, be delimited by an inner circumference of the tube.

[0027] The collecting chamber is located outside the pipe. The collecting chamber can, for example, extend at least partially along an outer circumference of the pipe. Alternatively or additionally, the collecting chamber can be delimited on the inside by the pipe. Alternatively or additionally, the collecting chamber can be designed as an annular chamber. Alternatively or additionally, the collecting chamber can extend (e.g., at least partially) coaxially to the pipe.

[0028] For example, the collecting space can surround the pipe at least partially along its outer circumference, preferably completely concentrically. The collecting space is, for example, an outer pipe that concentrically surrounds the pipe. The pipe and the collecting space can be designed, for example, as a double-walled pipe.

[0029] The collection chamber may have a first region in which at least one of the pipe ends is fluidically connected to the collection chamber, and a second region (e.g., the converging chamber described below) in which the measuring device is arranged. The first region and the second region may be offset from one another in a circumferential direction of the pipe.

[0030] The measuring device may have an alignment axis (e.g., a longitudinal and / or central axis). The at least one collecting tube may have a longitudinal axis, wherein the alignment axis of the measuring device is arranged, for example, transversely and / or skewed to the longitudinal axis of the at least one collecting tube.

[0031] The longitudinal axis of the collecting tube can, for example, be an axis along a largest spatial dimension of the collecting tube. The alignment axis of the measuring device can, for example, be an axis along a largest spatial dimension of the measuring device. The longitudinal axis of the collecting tube and the alignment axis of the measuring device are preferably offset from one another in the axial direction of the tube.

[0032] The at least one collecting pipe can comprise a plurality of collecting pipes, each of which has a longitudinal axis and is arranged, for example, transversely and / or skewed relative to the alignment axis of the measuring device. The alignment axis of the measuring device can also be arranged, for example, transversely and / or skewed relative to the pipe cross-section.

[0033] A first of the two pipe ends is fluidically connected to the collecting chamber at a first region of the pipe cross-section. A second of the two pipe ends is fluidically connected to the collecting chamber at a second region of the pipe cross-section opposite the first region. The first region can be, for example, an inner wall section of the pipe. The second region can be, for example, a further inner wall section of the pipe opposite the inner wall section. It is conceivable for the at least one collecting pipe to extend orthogonally to a longitudinal axis (e.g., to a central axis) of the pipe (12).

[0034] For example, the at least one collecting pipe can extend across the entire width of the pipe cross-section. The at least one collecting pipe can, for example, also run through a center point of the pipe cross-section. However, it is also conceivable for the at least one collecting pipe to be arranged eccentrically with respect to the center point of the pipe cross-section, i.e., not to run through the center point of the pipe cross-section.

[0035] The pipe construction may include a return area for returning extracted fluid from the collection chamber to the pipe. It is possible for the measuring device to be arranged in the return area and / or adjacent to the return area. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for the measuring device to extend (e.g., transversely) through the collection chamber and the return area into the pipe.

[0036] The measuring device is preferably arranged to measure in the return region, adjacent to the return region and / or in the pipe.

[0037] The return area can, for example, have a passage opening in the pipe. A first (e.g., wide and / or external) section of the measuring device can be arranged in the collection chamber. Optionally, a second (e.g., narrower and / or internal) section of the measuring device can protrude through the passage opening into the pipe.

[0038] The measuring device can have at least one inlet opening through which extracted fluid can be introduced into a measuring section (e.g., a measuring chamber) of the measuring device. Alternatively or additionally, the measuring device can have at least one outlet opening through which extracted fluid can be returned to the pipe. Preferably, the first section has at least the inlet opening through which extracted fluid can be introduced into a measuring section of the measuring device, and / or the second section has at least the outlet opening through which extracted fluid can be returned to the pipe.

[0039] Optionally, the return area can have a gap. The gap is preferably a circumferential gap (e.g., an annular gap) extending around the measuring device. Extracted fluid can be returned from the collection chamber into the pipe via the gap (e.g., laterally past the measuring device and / or bypassing the measuring section of the measuring device).

[0040] The measuring device is preferably designed as a fluid sensor. The measuring area (e.g., the measuring chamber) is preferably delimited by a sensor protective cap of the fluid sensor. The fluid sensor can be, for example, a NOx sensor or an NH3 sensor and / or generally an exhaust gas sensor. The outer section is, for example, an outer half of the measuring device (preferably an outer half of the sensor protective cap), and the inner section is, for example, an inner half of the measuring device (preferably an inner half of the sensor protective cap).

[0041] The pipe cross-section can have a pipe diameter. The pipe diameter is preferably oriented along the radial direction. The collecting chamber can extend along an axial direction of the pipe over a length corresponding to at least 50%, at least 75%, at least 100%, at least 125%, or at least 150% of the pipe diameter.

[0042] The collecting chamber can further have a longitudinal extension up to the measuring device. The longitudinal extension can correspond to at least 50%, at least 75%, at least 100%, at least 125%, or at least 150% of the pipe diameter. Alternatively or additionally, the collecting chamber can have a clear gap (e.g., in a radial direction of the pipe) of at most 5%, at most 10%, at most 15%, or at most 20% of the pipe diameter. Alternatively or additionally, the collecting chamber can be slot-shaped.

[0043] The at least one collecting pipe may have a pipe diameter corresponding to a maximum of 5%, a maximum of 10%, a maximum of 15% or a maximum of 20% of the pipe diameter of the pipe cross-section.

[0044] The collection chamber may have a merging chamber to combine (e.g. mix and / or homogenize) extracted fluid and feed it to the measuring device.

[0045] The measuring device can be located in the converging chamber. Alternatively or additionally, the return area can be located in the converging chamber.

[0046] The merging chamber can protrude from the collecting space (e.g., axially). It is conceivable that the merging chamber is arranged axially offset from the at least one collecting pipe.

[0047] It is conceivable that the converging chamber has a smaller fluid holding volume than the collection chamber. Alternatively or additionally, the converging chamber can extend over a maximum of 30%, 20%, or 10% of the outer circumference of the pipe.

[0048] Optionally, the collection space extends over at least 70%, 80% or 90% or substantially 100% of the outer circumference of the pipe.

[0049] Preferably, the pipe diameter is substantially constant along an axial direction, at least over the longitudinal extent of the collecting space.

[0050] The at least one opening can be designed (e.g. as a bore) in a lateral surface of the at least one collecting pipe.

[0051] Optionally, the at least one opening can comprise a plurality of adjacent openings. The plurality of adjacent openings can be arranged equidistantly from one another and (e.g., individual ones of the plurality of adjacent openings) from an inner wall of the tube, as viewed in a longitudinal direction of the at least one collecting tube. For example, the at least one collecting tube can be a multi-hole probe.

[0052] The at least one manifold can have at least two manifolds. The at least two manifolds can be arranged offset from one another in the pipe cross-section. The at least two manifolds can have a (e.g. identical) pipe diameter. The at least two manifolds can be spaced apart from one another in an axial direction of the pipe (e.g. between their lateral surfaces or between their center points) by a distance that has at least a value of I a = 1 to 5 xd (e.g. at least 1 to 3 xd or at least 1 to 2 xd), where I a indicates the distance and d indicates the diameter of one of the manifolds (e.g. the diameter of the narrower of the manifolds). This has the advantage that the manifolds arranged in rows offset from one another and spaced from one another continue to allow fluid flow past the manifolds and blockage of the pipe is prevented.

[0053] The at least one collecting pipe may, for example, comprise a plurality of collecting pipes. The plurality of collecting pipes may, for example, be arranged perpendicular to a main flow axis of the fluid.

[0054] The plurality of collecting pipes can, for example, be arranged offset from one another in an axial direction and / or radial direction of the pipe.

[0055] The plurality of manifolds preferably extend substantially parallel to one another.

[0056] Preferably, the plurality of collecting pipes are, for example, offset parallel to one another and / or spaced equidistant from one another. For example, individual ones of the plurality of collecting pipes can be arranged equidistant from an inner wall of the pipe.

[0057] The plurality of collecting pipes can, for example, be arranged offset from one another in an axial direction of the pipe (e.g., offset from one another in steps).

[0058] Alternatively or additionally, the plurality of header pipes can be arranged substantially in a V-shape, viewed in an axial direction of the pipe, e.g., such that the pipe cross-section is not substantially blocked by the header pipes and / or a pressure loss generated by the header pipes can be advantageously reduced.

[0059] The plurality of manifolds may extend substantially parallel to one another.

[0060] It is conceivable that the openings are spaced from each other and the collecting pipes are spaced from each other in such a way that a substantially uniform distribution of openings over the pipe cross-section results.

[0061] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the collecting pipes have a substantially equal and / or identical diameter.

[0062] The invention further relates to an exhaust system comprising an exhaust pipe for conducting exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine. The exhaust pipe is fluidly connected to a pipe structure as disclosed herein. However, it is also conceivable for the pipe to partially form part of this exhaust system.

[0063] The invention further relates to a vehicle having a pipe structure or an exhaust system as disclosed herein. The vehicle can be, for example, a watercraft (e.g., a ship or a boat), a motor vehicle (e.g., a passenger car), a commercial vehicle (e.g., a truck, a snowcat, or a tractor), or a rail vehicle (e.g., a rail vehicle, preferably a traction vehicle).

[0064] A commercial vehicle can be a motor vehicle whose design and equipment are designed for the transportation of passengers, goods, or trailers. For example, a commercial vehicle can also be a bus and / or a tractor unit.

[0065] The invention further relates to a stationary unit (e.g. a generator) comprising a pipe construction or an exhaust system as disclosed herein.

[0066] The previously described preferred embodiments and features of the invention can be advantageously combined with one another. Other advantageous developments of the invention are disclosed in the subclaims or emerge from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying figures. Figure 1 shows a pipe construction according to an embodiment of the invention (sectional view), Figure 2 shows a pipe construction according to the embodiment of the Figure 1 (perspective view), Figure 3 shows a pipe construction according to the embodiment of the Figure 1 (sectional view), Figure 4 shows a supplementary perspective view of a pipe construction according to an embodiment of the invention, Figure 5 shows a supplementary perspective view of a pipe construction according to an embodiment of the invention, Figure 6 shows an enlarged view in particular of a collecting space and a measuring device of a pipe construction according to an embodiment of the invention (detail view, sectional view), and Figure 7 shows a pipe construction according to the embodiment of the Figure 6 , especially to illustrate a possible flow pattern (sectional view).

[0067] The embodiments shown in the figures partially correspond, with similar or identical parts being provided with the same reference numerals, and for their explanation reference can also be made to the description of other embodiments in order to avoid repetition.

[0068] Figure 1 shows a pipe construction 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. This is preferably a pipe construction 10 for integration into an exhaust system of a vehicle (not shown). For better visibility of the components arranged in the pipe 12, the pipe 12 is shown in section.

[0069] The tubular structure 10 comprises a pipe 12 for conducting a fluid. For example, the pipe is designed to conduct exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine of the vehicle. It is therefore conceivable that the pipe 12 of the tubular structure is fluidically connected to an exhaust system (not shown) of the vehicle or partially forms part of this exhaust system.

[0070] The tube 12 may have an axial direction A, a radial direction R (e.g. oriented orthogonally to the axial direction A), and a circumferential direction U. The tube may have a longitudinal axis L.

[0071] The tube 12 further has a tube cross-section 13. Preferably, the tube cross-section 13 is oriented perpendicular to the axial direction A. The tube cross-section can, for example, have the shape of a circular disk. The tube cross-section can, for example, be delimited by an inner circumference of the tube 12.

[0072] The pipe construction 10 has at least one collecting pipe 14. It is possible for the pipe construction to comprise several, in particular at least two or three or four or five or six or seven or eight or nine, collecting pipes 14. In Figure 1 a possible embodiment with several collecting pipes 14a-e, namely with five collecting pipes 14a-e, is shown.

[0073] The collecting pipes 14a-e each comprise two open pipe ends (e.g., each arranged at the ends of their respective longitudinal axis 15) and at least one opening 16 (e.g., bore) for removing fluid from the pipe cross-section 13 (e.g., in a lateral surface of the at least one collecting pipe 14).

[0074] It is possible that individual or each of the manifolds 14a-e each comprise several openings. In Figure 1 a possible embodiment is shown in which each of the collecting tubes 14a-e has a plurality of openings which are Figure 2For example, the manifold 14b is designated by the reference numerals 16a-f. It is conceivable that no opening is arranged on the opposite section of the lateral surface of the respective manifold 14a-e (see Figure 4 ).

[0075] The plurality of adjacent openings 16a-f can be arranged equidistantly to one another and (e.g., the first opening 16a and the last opening 16f) to the inner walls of the tube 12, as seen in a longitudinal direction of the collecting tube 14.

[0076] The openings 16a-f may, for example, have the same or different cross-sections on a collecting pipe 14 and / or expediently have the same or different cross-sections on each collecting pipe 14.

[0077] The openings 16a-f can, for example, be round, in particular as a substantially round, particularly circular, bore. However, any other suitable shape is also conceivable, for example, a slotted shape or an oval shape.

[0078] The collecting pipes 14a-e are arranged in the pipe cross-section 13 (see Figure 2 ). For example, the collecting pipes 14a-e protrude into the pipe cross-section 13. Optionally, the collecting pipes 14a-e extend over the entire pipe cross-section 13.

[0079] The pipe structure 10 further comprises a collecting chamber 18. The collecting chamber 18 is fluidically connected to the two open pipe ends. Fluid extracted from the pipe cross-section 13 (e.g., via the collecting pipes 14a-e through the plurality of openings 16a-f) can be fed to a measuring device 20 via the collecting chamber 18.

[0080] The collecting chamber 18 can be arranged outside the pipe 12 and preferably extend at least partially along an outer circumference of the pipe 12. Optionally, the collecting chamber 18 can be designed as an annular chamber. Furthermore, the collecting chamber 18 can be delimited on the inside by the pipe 12. Furthermore, the collecting chamber 18 can extend (e.g., at least partially) coaxially to the pipe 12.

[0081] The collecting chamber 18 is optionally configured to mix (e.g., homogenize) the fluid withdrawn through the at least one collecting pipe 14 and to supply it in mixed form to the measuring device 20.

[0082] The collection chamber 18 may have a merging chamber 18.1 to combine (e.g. mix and / or homogenize) extracted fluid and supply it to the measuring device 20.

[0083] The measuring device 20 can be arranged in the converging chamber 18.1. Alternatively or additionally, the return area 22 can be arranged in the converging chamber 18.1.

[0084] The merging chamber 18.1 can protrude from the collecting space 18 (e.g., axially). It is conceivable that the merging chamber 18.1 is arranged axially offset from the collecting tubes 14a-e.

[0085] It is conceivable that the merging chamber 18.1 has a smaller fluid receiving volume than the collecting space 18. Alternatively or additionally, the merging chamber 18.1 can extend over a maximum of 30%, 20% or 10% of the outer circumference of the pipe 12.

[0086] Optionally, the collecting space 18 extends over at least 70%, 80% or 90% or substantially 100% of the outer circumference of the pipe 12.

[0087] For example, the collecting chamber 18 can have a first region in which one of the pipe ends is fluidically connected to the collecting chamber 18. Furthermore, the collecting chamber 18 can have a second region (e.g., the converging chamber 18.1) in which the measuring device 20 is arranged. The first region and the second region can be offset from one another in the circumferential direction U of the pipe 12.

[0088] In particular, the measuring device 20 can comprise an alignment axis 21 (e.g. a longitudinal axis). Preferably, the collecting tubes 14a-e can each have a longitudinal axis, of which Figure 1 By way of example, only one longitudinal axis 15 of the collecting tube 14b is shown and provided with a reference numeral. The alignment axis 21 of the measuring device 20 can be arranged transversely and / or skewed to the longitudinal axis 15 of the collecting tube 14b (and, for example, also transversely and / or skewed to each of the further longitudinal axes of the further collecting tubes 14a, 14c-e).

[0089] It is conceivable that the longitudinal axis 15 of the collecting tube 14c (or the longitudinal axis 21 of the measuring device 20) is the axis along the largest spatial extent of the collecting tube 14c (or the measuring device 20) (see e.g. Figures 1 or 2 ).

[0090] A first of the two pipe ends of each of the manifolds 14a-e can be connected to a first region of the pipe cross-section 13 (e.g. at the Figure 1 shown inner wall section of the tube 12) can be fluidically connected to the collecting space 18. Alternatively or additionally, a second of the two tube ends of each of the collecting tubes 14a-e can be fluidically connected to the collecting space 18 at a second region of the tube cross-section 13 opposite the first region.

[0091] For example, the at least one collecting pipe 14 may extend orthogonally to the longitudinal axis L of the pipe 12.

[0092] For example, the header pipes 14a-e can extend over the entire width of the pipe cross-section. Individual header pipes (as in Figure 1 exemplarily the collecting pipe 14c) can run through a center point of the pipe cross-section 13, while other collecting pipes (as in Figure 1 for example, the collecting pipes 14a, 14b, 14d and 14e) can be arranged eccentrically with respect to the center of the pipe cross-section 13, i.e. they cannot run through the center of the pipe cross-section 13.

[0093] Preferably, the pipe structure 10 has a return region 22 for returning the fluid removed from the collection chamber 18 into the pipe 12. Optionally, the measuring device 20 is arranged in and / or adjacent to the return region 22. It is also conceivable for the measuring device 20 to extend (e.g., transversely) through the collection chamber 18 and the return region 22 into the pipe 12.

[0094] The return region 22 may have a passage opening 24 in the pipe 12. A first (e.g., wider, outer) section 26 of the measuring device 20 may be arranged in the collection chamber 18. Optionally, a second (e.g., slimmer, inner) section 28 of the measuring device 20 may protrude through the passage opening 24 into the pipe 12.

[0095] The measuring device 20 can have at least one inlet opening through which extracted fluid can be introduced into a measuring section 30 (e.g., a measuring chamber) of the measuring device 20. Furthermore, the measuring device can optionally have at least one outlet opening through which extracted fluid can be returned to the pipe 12. Preferably, the first section 26 has at least the inlet opening through which extracted fluid can be introduced into a measuring section of the measuring device 20, and / or the second section 28 has at least the outlet opening through which extracted fluid can be returned to the pipe 12.

[0096] As in Figure 7 As can be seen, fluid flowing in the pipe cross-section 13 can pass through the openings of the collecting pipes 14a-e and the respective open ends of the collecting pipes 14a-e into the collecting chamber 18. In the (e.g. slot-shaped) collecting chamber 18, it can be guided along the outer circumference of the pipe 12 to the measuring device 20. Through the inlet openings of the outer section 26, the fluid can enter the measuring section 30 designed as a measuring chamber (see Figure 6 ), where a fluid measurement can be performed. The fluid can then be returned to the pipe 12 through the outlet openings of the inner section 28.

[0097] The return region 22 can have a gap 23 (e.g., a circumferential gap extending around the measuring device 20). Optionally, fluid withdrawn via the gap 23 (e.g., laterally past the measuring device 20 and / or bypassing the measuring section 30 of the measuring device 20) can be returned from the collection chamber 18 into the pipe 12. The measuring device 20 preferably does not rest against wall sections of the passage opening 24.

[0098] For example, the gap 23 may be arranged between the second section 28 and a wall section of the tube 12 which has the passage opening 24 (see Fig. 6 ).

[0099] Preferably, the outer portion 26 is an outer portion 26 of a sensor protective cap. Preferably, the inner portion 28 is an inner portion 28 of the sensor protective cap.

[0100] How Figure 3shows, the pipe cross-section 13 can have a pipe diameter D. The collecting space 18 can extend along an axial direction A of the pipe 12 over a length which corresponds to at least 50%, at least 75%, at least 100%, at least 125% or at least 150% of the pipe diameter D.

[0101] Optionally, the collecting space 18 can have a longitudinal extension up to the measuring device 20 that corresponds to at least 50%, at least 75%, at least 100%, at least 125%, or at least 150% of the pipe diameter D. Preferably, the collecting space 18 has a clear gap dimension 25 (e.g., in a radial direction of the pipe 12) of at most 5%, at most 10%, at most 15%, or at most 20% of the pipe diameter D.

[0102] Optionally, the collecting pipes 14a-e can each have a pipe diameter d, of which Figure 3The pipe diameter d of the central collecting pipe 14c is shown as an example. Preferably, all collecting pipes 14a-e have the same pipe diameter d. The pipe diameter d of the collecting pipes 14a-e can correspond to at most 5%, at most 10%, at most 15%, or at most 20% of the pipe diameter D of the pipe cross-section 13.

[0103] The collecting tubes 14a-e can be arranged offset from one another in a radial direction R of the tube 12. The collecting tubes 14a-e preferably extend parallel to one another. Optionally, the collecting tubes 14a-e are arranged equidistant from one another and spaced from an inner wall of the tube 12. Optionally, the plurality of collecting tubes 14a-e can be arranged offset from one another in an axial direction A of the tube 12 (e.g., offset in steps from one another) (see, for example, Figure 4 ). It is conceivable that the collecting tubes 14a-e, viewed in axial direction A, form a lattice structure (see Figure 5 ).

[0104] It is conceivable that the collecting pipes 14a-e have a (e.g. identical) pipe diameter d and are spaced apart from one another by a distance I a in the axial direction A of the pipe 12 which has at least a value of I a = 1 to 5 xd (e.g. I a = 1 to 3 xd or I a = 1 to 2 xd).

[0105] The invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Rather, numerous variants and modifications are possible, which also utilize the inventive concept and therefore fall within the scope of protection. Furthermore, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and features of the subclaims, independent of the features and claims referred to. List of reference symbols

[0106] 10Pipe construction 12Pipe 13Pipe cross-section 14Collector 14a-eCollector pipes 15Longitudinal axis of the collector 16Opening 16a-fOpenings 18Collector chamber 18.1Combination chamber 20Measuring device 21Alignment axis of the measuring device 22Return area 23Gap 24Passage opening 25Clear gap 26Radial outer section 28Radial inner section 30Measuring chamber A Axial direction of the pipe L Longitudinal axis of the pipe I a Distance in axial direction R Radial direction of the pipe U Circumferential direction of the pipe

Claims

1. Pipe construction (10), preferably for integration into an exhaust system of a vehicle, comprising: a pipe (12) for guiding a fluid, preferably for guiding an exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine, wherein the pipe (12) comprises a pipe cross-section (13); and at least one collecting pipe (14), wherein the at least one collecting pipe (14) is arranged in the pipe cross-section (13) and comprises two open pipe ends and at least one opening (16) for extracting fluid from the pipe cross-section (13) and preferably extends over the entire pipe cross-section (13), and a collection chamber (18) which is fluidically connected to the two open pipe ends and via which extracted fluid can be supplied to a measuring device (20), characterized in that the collection chamber (18) is arranged outside the pipe (12) and a first of the two pipe ends is fluidically connected to the collection chamber (18) at a first region of the pipe cross section (13), and a second of the two pipe ends is fluidically connected to the collection chamber (18) at a second region of the pipe cross section (13), which is located opposite the first region.

2. Pipe construction (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the collection chamber (18) extends at least in sections along an outer circumference of the pipe (12); is bounded on the inside by the pipe (12); is designed as an annular chamber; and / or extends at least in sections coaxially to the pipe (12).

3. Pipe construction (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the collection chamber (18) is configured to mix and / or homogenize extracted fluid and to supply it to the measuring device (20).

4. Pipe construction (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the collection chamber (18) comprises a first region, in which at least one of the pipe ends is fluidically connected to the collection chamber (18) and comprises a second area in which the measuring device (20) is arranged, wherein the first area and the second area are arranged offset to one another in a circumferential direction (U) of the pipe (12).

5. Pipe construction (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the measuring device (20) comprises an alignment axis (21), preferably a longitudinal axis, and the at least one collecting pipe (14) comprises a longitudinal axis (15), wherein the alignment axis (21) of the measuring device (20) is arranged transversely and / or skew to the longitudinal axis (15) of the at least one collecting pipe (14).

6. Pipe construction (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one collecting pipe (14) extends orthogonally to a longitudinal axis (L) of the pipe (12).

7. Pipe construction (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a return region (22) for returning extracted fluid from the collection chamber (18) into the pipe (12).

8. Pipe construction (10) according to claim 7, characterized in that the measuring device (20) is arranged in and / or adjacent to the return region (22); and / or extends into the pipe (12) through the collection chamber (18) and the return region (22).

9. Pipe structure (10) according to one of claims 7 or 8, characterized in that the return region (22) comprises a passage opening (24) in the pipe (12), wherein a first, preferably externally arranged, section (26) of the measuring device (20) is arranged in the collection chamber (18) and a second, preferably internally arranged, section (28) of the measuring device (20) extends through the passage opening (24) into the pipe (12).

10. Pipe construction (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the measuring device (20) comprises at least one inlet opening via which extracted fluid can be introduced into a measuring section of the measuring device (20) and / or at least one outlet opening via which extracted fluid can be returned to the pipe (12).

11. Pipe construction (10) according to one of claims 7 to 10, characterized in that the return region (22) comprises a gap (23), preferably a circumferential gap extending around the measuring device (20), via which extracted fluid can be returned from the collection chamber (18) into the pipe (12), preferably laterally past the measuring device (20) and / or bypassing the measuring section of the measuring device (20).

12. Pipe construction (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pipe cross section (13) comprises a pipe diameter (D), wherein the collection chamber (18) extends along an axial direction (A) of the pipe (12) over a length which corresponds to at least 50%, at least 75%, at least 100%, at least 125% or at least 150% of the pipe diameter (D).

13. Pipe construction (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pipe cross section (13) comprises a pipe diameter (D) and the collection chamber (18) comprises a longitudinal extend up to the measuring device (20), which corresponds to at least 50%, at least 75%, at least 100%, at least 125% or at least 150% of the pipe diameter (D); and / or comprising a clear gap dimension (25), preferably in a radial direction (R) of the pipe (12), of at most 5%, at most 10%, at most 15% or at most 20% of the pipe diameter (D).

14. Pipe construction (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the collection chamber (18) comprises a merging chamber (18.1) to merge extracted fluid and supplying it to the measuring device (20).

15. Pipe construction (10) according to claim 14, characterized in that the measuring device (20) and / or the return region (22) is arranged in the merging chamber (18.1).

16. Pipe construction (10) according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the merging chamber (18.1) protrudes from the collection chamber (18); comprises a smaller fluid receiving volume than the collection chamber (18); and / or extends over a maximum of 30%, 20% or 10% of the outer circumference of the pipe (12).

17. Pipe construction (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the collection chamber (18) extends over at least 70%, 80% or 90% or essentially 100% of the outer circumference of the pipe (12).

18. Pipe construction (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one collecting pipe (14) comprises a pipe diameter (d) and the pipe cross-section (13) comprises a pipe diameter (D) wherein the pipe diameter (d) of the at least one collecting pipe (14) corresponds to at most 5%, at most 10%, at most 15% or at most 20% of the pipe diameter (D) of the pipe cross section (13).

19. Pipe construction (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one opening (16) is formed in a lateral surface of the at least one collecting pipe (14), preferably as a bore in the lateral surface; and / or comprises a plurality of adjacent openings (16a-f), wherein the plurality of adjacent openings, viewed in a longitudinal direction of the at least one collecting pipe (14), are arranged equidistantly relative to one another and to an inner wall of the pipe (12).

20. Pipe construction (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one collecting pipe (14) comprises at least two collecting pipes (14a-e), wherein the at least two collecting pipes (14a-e) are arranged offset to one another in the pipe cross-section (12), comprise a pipe diameter (d) and are spaced apart from one another by a distance (Ia) in an axial direction (A) of the pipe (12), which comprises at least one value of Ia = 1 to 5 x d, preferably at least one value of Ia = 1 to 3 x d or at least one value of Ia = 1 to 2 x d.

21. Pipe construction (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one collecting pipe (14) comprises a plurality of collecting pipes (14a-e), wherein the plurality of collecting pipes (14a-e) are arranged offset from one another in a radial direction (R) of the pipe (12), preferably offset parallel to one another and / or arranged equidistantly from one another and spaced apart from an inner wall of the pipe (12); are arranged offset from one another in an axial direction (A) of the pipe (12), are preferably arranged offset from one another in a stepped manner; are arranged in a V-shaped manner as viewed in an axial direction (A) of the pipe (12), and / or the plurality of collecting pipes (14a-e) extend parallel to one another.

22. Exhaust system comprising an exhaust pipe for guiding exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine, wherein the exhaust pipe is fluidically connected to a pipe construction (10) according to one of the preceding claims.

23. Vehicle or stationary aggregate comprising a pipe construction (10) according to one of the claims 1 to 21 or an exhaust system according to claim 22.

24. Vehicle or stationary aggregate according to claim 23, wherein the vehicle is a water-vehicle, motor vehicle, commercial vehicle or rail vehicle or the stationary unit is a generator.

Images