Fluid monitoring module structure

Abstract

To solve the problem in which: a fluid monitoring module causes an increase in manufacturing cost, huge amount of lead time, and an undesirably large laminar flow element component in many cases due to general length-to-diameter requirements of a restrictive flow passage of the LFE.SOLUTION: A flow monitoring module includes a flow sensing device and a controller which are disposed in an enclosure. The flow sensing device has a body including an inlet port, an outlet port, an upstream sensor port, a downstream sensor port, and a flow passage disposed between the inlet port and outlet port and between the upstream sensor port and the downstream sensor port. A first fluid sensor is assembled to the upstream sensor port, and a second fluid sensor is assembled to the downstream sensor port. The controller is in circuit communication with the first and second fluid sensors because the controller receives at least one of a pressure display signal and a temperature display signal from each of the first and second fluid sensors and measures fluid data on the basis of a reception signal.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This application is in conjuction with U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 732,848 entitled LAMINAR FLOW ELEMENT, filed September 18, 2018; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 775,066 entitled FLOW SENSING MODULE, filed December 4, 2018; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 844,383 entitled FLUID MONITORING MODULE ARRANGEMENTS, filed May 7, 2019; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 844,390 entitled FLUID MONITORING MODULE ARRANGEMENTS, filed May 7, 2019; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 844,391 entitled FLUID MONITORING MODULE ARRANGEMENTS, filed May 7, 2019; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 844,392 entitled FLUID MONITORING MODULE ARRANGEMENTS, filed May 7, 2019; No. 62 / 844,399, entitled FLUID MONITORING MODULE ARRANGEMENTS, filed on September 3, 2019, and claims priority to and the benefit of all of the following provisional patent applications: U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 895,115, entitled FLUID MONITORING MODULE ARRANGEMENTS, filed on September 3, 2019. [Background technology]

[0002] Laminar flow elements (or LFEs) are commonly used to measure gas flow rates, for example, for use with a mass flow meter or other such monitoring device. Conventional laminar flow elements operate by generating a differential pressure proportional to the velocity of gas passing through a portion of the laminar flow element that is specifically configured to maintain the gas flow in a laminar state. Upstream and downstream pressure sensors detect this pressure difference, which is used to calculate the flow rate. Due to typical length-to-diameter requirements (e.g., a 25:1 ratio) of the restrictive flow passages of laminar flow elements, large size, complex machining, or complex assembly requirements often result in increased manufacturing costs, extensive lead times, and / or undesirably large LFE parts. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] According to an aspect of the disclosure, a flow sensing device includes a cruciform body including laterally extending inlet and outlet ports, axially extending upstream and downstream sensor ports, an upstream pressure sensor mounted within the upstream sensor port, and a downstream pressure sensor mounted within the downstream sensor port. The inlet port is connected in fluid communication with the upstream sensor port by an inlet branch port, and the outlet port is connected in fluid communication with the downstream sensor port by an outlet branch port. The upstream and downstream sensor ports are connected in fluid communication by a laminar flow restricting passage extending generally axially from the upstream sensor port to the downstream sensor port.

[0004] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a fluid monitoring module includes a flow sensing device and a controller disposed within an enclosure. The flow sensing device includes a body including an inlet port, an outlet port, an upstream sensor port, a downstream sensor port, and a flow path disposed between the inlet port and the outlet port and between the upstream sensor port and the downstream sensor port. A first fluid sensor is assembled to the upstream sensor port and a second fluid sensor is assembled to the downstream sensor port. The controller is in circuit communication with the first and second fluid sensors for receiving at least one of a pressure indicative signal and a temperature indicative signal from each of the first and second fluid sensors and for determining fluid data based on the received signals.

[0005] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a flow sensing device includes first and second body members, a flow restricting element, and upstream and downstream pressure sensors. The first body member includes an inlet port, an upstream sensor port, and a first connection port, each connected by an internal upstream passage. The second body member includes an outlet port, a downstream sensor port, and a second connection port, each connected by an internal downstream passage. The flow restricting element includes a first end connection coupled to the first connection port, a second end connection coupled to the second connection port, and a flow restricting passage disposed between the first and second end connections. The upstream pressure sensor is mounted within the upstream sensor port, and the downstream pressure sensor is mounted within the downstream sensor port.

[0006] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of monitoring a fluid condition in a fluid line is contemplated. In an exemplary method, a fluid monitoring module is provided that includes a first pressure sensor hermetically mounted within a first sensor port and electrically connected to a controller. The first sensor port is coupled to a first branch connector of the fluid line for generation of a first pressure indicative data signal by the first pressure sensor. The pressure indicative data signal is transmitted to the controller, and fluid data based on the received data signal is determined.

[0007] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a flow sensing device includes a body, an upstream pressure sensor, and a downstream pressure sensor. The body includes inlet and outlet ports and upstream and downstream sensor ports. The inlet port is connected in fluid communication with the upstream sensor port by an internal upstream passage, and the outlet port is connected in fluid communication with the downstream sensor port by a downstream internal passage. The upstream and downstream sensor ports are connected in fluid communication by a flow restricting element disposed in a cavity in the body. The upstream pressure sensor is mounted within the upstream sensor port, and the downstream pressure sensor is mounted within the downstream sensor port. The flow restricting element includes a central portion defining a flow path and a peripheral solid portion forming an annular recess, wherein fluid contaminants collect within the annular recess without blocking or further restricting the flow path.

[0008] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a flow sensing device includes a body, an upstream pressure sensor, and a downstream pressure sensor. The body includes inlet and outlet ports and upstream and downstream sensor ports. The inlet port is connected in fluid communication with the upstream sensor port by an internal upstream passage, and the outlet port is connected in fluid communication with the downstream sensor port by a downstream internal passage. The upstream and downstream sensor ports are connected in fluid communication by a flow restricting element that includes a flow path. The upstream pressure sensor is mounted within the upstream sensor port, and the downstream pressure sensor is mounted within the downstream sensor port. A heating apparatus surrounds the flow paths and is operable to mitigate or prevent the formation of condensation within the flow paths.

[0009] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a fluid monitoring and grab sampling system includes a fluid line, a fluid monitoring module, a wireless transmitter, an RFID reader, and a sample cylinder. The fluid monitoring module is connected in fluid communication with the fluid line and includes a fluid sensor and a controller in circuit communication with the fluid sensor, the wireless transmitter, and the RFID reader. The controller receives fluid data from the fluid sensor, including at least one of pressure indicative data and temperature indicative data. The sample cylinder includes an RFID tag connectable to a branch port in the fluid line and configured to communicate cylinder data including at least an identification code to the RFID reader upon connection with the branch port. The wireless transmitter is configured to wirelessly communicate the fluid data and the cylinder data to a remote device.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of monitoring grab sampling operations is contemplated. In an exemplary method, fluid data is transmitted from a fluid sensor in fluid communication with a fluid line to a controller coupled to the fluid sensor, the fluid data including at least one of a pressure indicative signal and a temperature indicative signal generated by the fluid sensor. A sample cylinder is connected to a branch port in the fluid line to collect a sample from the fluid line. Cylinder data is transmitted from the sample cylinder to the controller, the cylinder data including at least a cylinder identification code. The fluid data and the cylinder data are transmitted from the controller to a remote device.

[0011] Further advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art after considering the following description and appended claims in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary flow sensing device according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 1A] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the flow sensing device of FIG. 1. [Figure 1B] FIG. 13 is a side view of a multiple flow sensing device system according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary flow sensing device according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary flow sensing device according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary flow sensing device according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary flow sensing device according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary flow sensing device according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary flow sensing device according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 8]FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a flow sensing device according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 13 is a schematic diagram of another flow sensing device according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 10A] FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of an exemplary wireless fluid monitoring module according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B is a rear perspective view of the wireless fluid monitoring module of FIG. 10A. [Figure 10C] FIG. 10B is an exploded perspective view of the wireless fluid monitoring module of FIG. 10A. [Figure 11A] FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional side view of the wireless fluid monitoring module of FIG. 10A. [Figure 11B] FIG. 10B is a top cross-sectional view of the wireless fluid monitoring module of FIG. 10A. [Figure 12] 1 is a side cross-sectional view of another exemplary wireless fluid monitoring module according to another aspect of the present application. [Figure 13A] 1 is a perspective view of another exemplary wireless fluid monitoring module according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 13B] 1 is a perspective view of another exemplary wireless fluid monitoring module according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 13C] 1 is a perspective view of another exemplary wireless fluid monitoring module according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a fluid monitoring module according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Fig. 14A-14I] 13 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary flow restricting element for a fluid monitoring module according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] 13 is a schematic diagram of another fluid monitoring module according to another aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 16A] 1 is a side view of an exemplary wireless fluid monitoring module having an external flow restricting element according to another aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 16B] 1 is a side view of another exemplary wireless fluid monitoring module having an external flow restricting element in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 16C]1 is a side view of another exemplary wireless fluid monitoring module having an external flow restricting element in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 16D] 1 is a side view of another exemplary wireless fluid monitoring module having an external flow restricting element in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 16E] 1 is a side view of another exemplary wireless fluid monitoring module having an external flow restricting element in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] 1 is a side cross-sectional view of an exemplary sensor port mounting structure for a wireless fluid monitoring module having an external flow restricting element. [Figure 18A] FIG. 13 is a side view of an exemplary wireless fluid monitoring module having a dual fluid monitoring configuration in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 18B] 1 is a side view of another exemplary wireless fluid monitoring module having a dual fluid monitoring configuration in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 18C] 1 is a side view of another exemplary wireless fluid monitoring module having a dual fluid monitoring configuration in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 18D] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional perspective view of an exemplary blank coupling connection according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 18E] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional perspective view of an exemplary coupling connection having a blank disc insert according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] 1 is a schematic diagram of a fluid system having a portable fluid monitoring module according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] 1 is a schematic diagram of another fluid system having another portable fluid monitoring module according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 21] 1 is a schematic diagram of another fluid system having another portable fluid monitoring module according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 22] 1 is a schematic diagram of another fluid system having another portable fluid monitoring module according to another aspect of the present disclosure. [Diagram 23]FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary fluid monitoring and grab sampling system according to another aspect of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Although various inventive aspects, concepts, and features of the present invention may be described and illustrated herein as embodied in combination in exemplary embodiments, these various aspects, concepts, and features may be used in numerous alternative embodiments, individually or in various combinations and subcombinations thereof. Unless expressly excluded herein, all such combinations and subcombinations are intended to be within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, various alternative embodiments of various aspects, concepts, and features of the present invention may be described herein, such as, for example, alternative materials, structures, configurations, methods, circuits, devices and components, software, hardware, control logic, form, fit, and function alternatives, and such descriptions are not intended to be a complete or exhaustive list of available alternative embodiments, whether currently known or developed in the future. Those skilled in the art can readily incorporate one or more of the inventive aspects, concepts, or features into additional embodiments and use within the scope of the present invention even if such embodiments are not expressly disclosed herein. In addition, although some features, concepts, or aspects of the invention may be described herein as preferred structures or methods, such description is not intended to suggest that such features are necessary or essential unless expressly described as such. It should be noted that while typical or representative values ​​and ranges may be included to aid in the understanding of the present disclosure, such values ​​and ranges should not be construed in a limiting sense, and are intended to be critical values ​​or ranges only when expressly described as such. Parameters identified as "approximately" or "about" a designated value are intended to include both the designated value and values ​​within 10% of the designated value, unless otherwise noted. It should be understood that the drawings accompanying this disclosure may be, but are not necessarily, drawn to scale, and therefore may be understood as teaching various ratios and proportions appearing therein.Also, although various aspects, features, and concepts may be expressly identified herein as inventive or forming part of the invention, such identification is not intended as exclusive, and there may be inventive aspects, concepts, and features that are described in detail herein without being expressly identified as such or as part of a particular invention, which inventions are instead set forth in the appended claims. The description of an exemplary method or process is not limited to the inclusion of every step as required in all instances, or the order in which steps are presented as necessary or essential unless expressly so stated.

[0014] The detailed description merely describes exemplary embodiments and is not intended to limit the claims in any way. Indeed, the claimed invention is broader than and is not limited by the exemplary embodiments, and the terms used in the claims have their general ordinary meaning. For example, while certain exemplary embodiments in the present disclosure describe flow sensing devices having pressure sensors for measuring differential pressure and correlating the differential pressure to flow rate, in other embodiments, one or more of the features described herein may be applied to other fluid system components, including, for example, conduit fittings and valves.

[0015] According to an aspect of the disclosure, as shown in cross-sectional view in FIG. 1, a flow sensing device 100 may be provided with a cruciform body 110 including laterally extending inlet and outlet ports 111, 112 and axially extending upstream and downstream sensor ports 113, 114. As shown, the input port 111 may, but is not necessarily, generally coaxial with the outlet port 112 (along the X-axis as shown), and the upstream sensor port 113 may, but is not necessarily, generally coaxial with the downstream sensor port 114 (along the Y-axis as shown). The inlet and outlet ports 111, 112 may include any suitable fluid system connectors including, for example, one or more tube fittings, face seal fittings, threaded tube ends, or welded ends. The input port 111 is connected in fluid communication with the upstream sensor port 113 by an input bifurcation port 116, and the outlet port 112 is connected in fluid communication with the downstream sensor port 114 by an outlet bifurcation port 117. The upstream and downstream sensor ports 113, 114 are connected by a flow-restricting passage 115 that extends generally axially from the upstream sensor port 113 to the downstream sensor port 114. The flow-restricting passage 115 may be specifically configured to maintain laminar flow through the device 100 (e.g., as a laminar flow element, or LFE), although in other embodiments, the flow-restricting passage may allow turbulent flow, or a combination of laminar and turbulent flow, while also providing a consistent desired flow rate or range of flow rates. As shown, other than the branch ports 116, 117, the body 110 may (but is not necessarily) generally symmetrical about either or both of the X and Y axes.

[0016] The upstream pressure sensor 120 is mounted to the upstream sensor port 113 and configured to generate a signal corresponding to the upstream pressure, and the downstream pressure sensor 130 is mounted to the downstream sensor port and configured to generate a signal corresponding to the downstream pressure. The pressure sensors 120, 130 may transmit signals to an electronic controller, shown generally at 150, in circuit communication with the pressure sensors, e.g., by wired or wireless communication, and the electronic controller is configured to evaluate the upstream and downstream pressures corresponding to the received signals to determine the pressure differential across the flow restricting passage and the corresponding flow rate through the flow sensing device 100.

[0017] The upstream and downstream pressure sensors 120, 130 may include any suitable type of pressure sensor (e.g., piezoresistive strain gauge, capacitive pressure sensor, electromagnetic pressure sensor, piezoelectric sensor) that may be fixedly retained within the corresponding sensor port 113, 114, e.g., using retaining rings 121, 131, and sealed within the corresponding sensor port 113, 114, e.g., using O-ring or gasket seals 122, 132. In an exemplary embodiment, the sensors may be configured to detect or measure both pressure and temperature and transmit pressure and temperature indicative signals to the controller. The controller may be configured to process the pressure and temperature indicative signals, e.g., to determine pressure, temperature, and / or flow rate, and / or provide a measurement output of any one or more of these parameters. An exemplary sensor configured to measure pressure and temperature is the LD series piezoresistive OEM pressure transmitter manufactured by Keller Corporation.

[0018] The compact configuration of the cruciform body 110 of the flow sensing device 100 may allow the flow sensing device to be incorporated into smaller enclosures or smaller equipment, or to be more seamlessly integrated into existing systems. A system including multiple flow sensing devices may include a separate controller connected with each of the flow sensing devices, although in other embodiments, the compact flow sensing devices may be arranged and configured for electrical connection with a single controller. Figure 1B shows an exemplary system 10 including multiple flow sensing devices 100 arranged in tandem, with upstream and downstream pressure sensors 120, 130 electrically connected to a controller 150, and inlet and outlet ports 111, 112 connected to parallel fluid lines 11, 12.

[0019] A number of different suitable laminar flow restricting passages may be used. In some embodiments, the one or more flow restricting passages may be integrally formed in the body, for example by drilling, machining, or additive manufacturing (e.g., 3D printing). In other embodiments, the one or more flow restricting passages may be defined by a flow restricting element formed from one or more inserts (e.g., plugs, plates, etc.) mounted in a cavity in the body between the upstream and downstream sensor ports. This type of flow path insert structure may facilitate the formation of the flow paths and / or allow adaptability of the flow sensing device, for example, by accommodating a range of flow velocities and pressure differentials.

[0020] In one example, as shown in Figure 2, the body 110a of the flow sensing device 100a includes a thin, axially extending (e.g., capillary) passage 115a extending between the upstream sensor port 113a and the downstream sensor port 114a. In another exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figure 3, the body 110b of the flow sensing device 100b includes a plurality of thin, axially extending passages 115b extending between the upstream sensor port 113b and the downstream sensor port 114b, for example, to provide increased laminar flow while limiting the axial length of the body 110b.

[0021] In other exemplary embodiments, as shown diagrammatically in FIG. 4, the body 110c of the flow sensing device 100c may be provided with one or more narrow laminar flow restriction passages 115c between the upstream and downstream sensor ports 113c, 114c, having multiple convolutions or bellows configured to provide a long passage length across the limited axial dimension of the body. These convolution or bellows-like passages may be formed, for example, by additive manufacturing to facilitate the manufacture of the one or more bellows-like laminar flow restriction passages 115c between the upstream sensor port 113c and the downstream sensor port 114c. In other exemplary embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5, the body 110d of the flow sensing device 100d may include a central cavity 119d that holds a plate stack 140d having holes and / or slots aligned to define the passage(s) 115d. In other embodiments, bellows-like or selectively contoured passages (e.g., formed by additive manufacturing) may be used to provide or perform other fluid flow functions, such as, for example, mixing, swirling, hot / cold tracing, or other such functions.

[0022] In another exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the body 110e of the flow sensing device 100e may include a flow restricting element 140e (e.g., a sintered element) mounted within a cavity 119e of the body 110e to define a flow passage 115e that restricts the flow to a desired flow condition (e.g., laminar flow and / or a desired flow range). An O-ring or other such gasket seal 149e may be provided around the flow restricting element 140e (e.g., in an inner circumferential groove in the body cavity 119e and / or in an outer circumferential groove in the flow restricting element 140e) to seal leakage / flow through the periphery of the flow restricting element. In another exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the body 110f of the flow sensing device 100f may be formed by additive manufacturing to facilitate the manufacture of an axially extending porous portion 140f of the body between the upstream and downstream sensor ports 113f, 114f having a pore size and density selected to provide the desired flow condition.

[0023] Flow-restricting sintered elements or other such porous or narrow passage restricting portions may be prone to blockage or occlusion by contaminants in the system fluid, affecting the system flow rate and flow readings provided by the device. According to other aspects of the present disclosure, the flow sensing device body may be provided with a flow-restricting element that is shaped or configured to deflect or collect contaminants in a recessed portion of the body cavity, thereby minimizing blockage or occlusion of the porous flow-restricting element.

[0024] 8 illustrates a schematic of an exemplary flow sensing device 1100 including a body member 1110 having inlet and outlet ports 1111, 1112 and upstream and downstream sensor ports 1113, 1114. The inlet and outlet ports 1111, 1112 may include any suitable fluid system connector including, for example, one or more tube fittings, face seal fittings, threaded tube ends, or welded ends. The inlet port 1111 is connected in fluid communication with the upstream sensor port 1113 by an internal upstream passage 1116, and the outlet port 1112 is connected in fluid communication with the downstream sensor port 1114 by an internal downstream passage 1117. The upstream and downstream sensor ports 1113, 1114 are connected by a porous flow restricting element 1140 disposed within a cavity 1119 of the body 1110 to sealingly retain the sensors 1120, 1130 and define a flow restricting passage 1115. The flow restricting passage 1115 may be specifically configured to maintain laminar flow through the device 1100, although in other embodiments, the flow restricting passage may allow turbulent flow, or a combination of laminar and turbulent flow, while also providing a consistent desired flow rate or range of flow rates.

[0025] As shown, a typical flow restricting element 1140 includes a conical central porous portion 1141 and an outer circumferential solid or non-porous portion 1142 that forms an annular recess into which fluid contaminants may collect without blocking or further restricting the flow path. The internal upstream passages 1116 may be shaped to direct the fluid flow toward the body cavity 1119 and the surface of the annular recess 1142. Alternatively, as shown, the upstream end or tip 1143 of the flow restricting element may also be solid or non-porous, and the internal upstream passages 1116 within the body 1110 may be shaped to direct the fluid flow toward the solid restricting element tip, with the contoured tip directing contaminants radially outward while minimizing any tendency for contaminants to become embedded in the porous portion of the flow restricting element. Other porous element shapes may be used, including, for example, hemispherical or pyramidal elements. The flow restricting element 1140 may be provided as an insert for mounting within the body cavity 1119, similar to the embodiment of FIG. 6. Alternatively, the flow restricting element 1140 may be integrally formed with the body 1110, similar to the embodiment of Figure 7. In either case, the flow restricting element may be formed using additive manufacturing (e.g., 3D printing), which may be suitable for selectively forming portions of the element from porous and non-porous materials.

[0026] A porous restriction or narrowed restriction passage may be partially blocked or occluded by condensation in a gaseous fluid system, for example, when the fluid system is exposed to a lower temperature or a sudden temperature change. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the flow sensing device body may be provided with a flow restricting heating apparatus to prevent occlusion of such a restricting element, for example, by maintaining the flow restricting element at a temperature that selectively evaporates or boils or prevents condensation.

[0027] 9 illustrates a schematic of an exemplary flow sensing device 1200 including a body member 1210 having inlet and outlet ports 1211, 1212 and upstream and downstream sensor ports 1213, 1214. The inlet and outlet ports 1211, 1212 may include any suitable fluid system connectors including, for example, one or more tube fittings, face seal fittings, threaded tube ends, or welded ends. The inlet port 1211 is connected in fluid communication with the upstream sensor port 1213 by an internal upstream passage 1216, and the outlet port 1212 is connected in fluid communication with the downstream sensor port 1214 by an internal downstream passage 1217. The upstream and downstream sensor ports 1213, 1214 are connected by a flow restricting element 1240 that sealingly retains the sensors 1220, 1230 and is disposed within a cavity 1219 of the body 1210 and defines a flow restricting passage 1215 (e.g., one or more formed passages or a porous flow restricting material). The flow restricting passage 1215 may be specifically configured to maintain laminar flow through the device 1200, although in other embodiments, the flow restricting passage may allow turbulent flow, or a combination of laminar and turbulent flow, while also providing a consistent desired flow rate and flow rate range.

[0028] As shown, the flow-restricting device 1200 includes a flow-restricting heating arrangement surrounding the flow passage 1215 in the flow-restricting element 1240. The heating arrangement 1270 may be formed within the flow-restricting element 1240, around the flow-restricting element (e.g., between the outer surface of the flow-restricting element and the inner surface of the body cavity 1219), or around the body member 1210 in line with the flow passage. A wide variety of flow-restricting heating arrangements may be used, including, for example, one or more heating circuits configured to receive an electrical current to heat the flow-restricting element, or one or more heat tracing passages to pass a heated fluid (e.g., steam) through or around the flow-restricting element. The flow-restricting element 1240 may be provided as an insert for mounting within the body cavity 1219, similar to the embodiment of FIG. 6. Alternatively, the flow-restricting element 1240 may be integrally formed with the body 1210, similar to the embodiment of FIG. 7. In either case, the flow restricting element may be formed using additive manufacturing (eg, 3D printing) that may be suitable for forming heat tracing or circuit receiving passages in or around the flow restricting element.

[0029] The controller(s) may be separate from and physically and electrically tethered to the flow sensing element(s), although in other embodiments, the flow sensing element may be provided in a self-contained module with an enclosure containing the flow sensing device (having external connectors for connecting the flow sensing device with a fluid system) and the controller, for example to facilitate installation within a fluid system. The controller may be configured to communicate (e.g., via wired or wireless communication) with an external device (e.g., a server, router, computer, tablet, smartphone) to communicate information regarding the fluid flow conditions (e.g., pressure, temperature, flow rate). Additionally or alternatively, the module may be provided with a user interface for providing information regarding the fluid flow conditions at the module (e.g., using an LED array or LCD display screen).

[0030] 10A-11B show various views of an exemplary fluid monitoring module 500 including an enclosure 501 formed from a housing 502 and a cover 503 (e.g., secured together using bolts or other fasteners) that enclose a flow sensing device 505 and a controller 550. The flow sensing device 505 may be similar to, for example, any of the flow sensing devices 100a-f described herein and may be provided with an end connector 506 that extends through an opening in the enclosure 501. A gasket or other such seal 504 (FIG. 11A) may surround the end connector 506 at the opening, for example to prevent moisture or other contaminants from entering the enclosure. While the end connector may be provided in a variety of positions and orientations, in the illustrated embodiment, the end connector 506 extends from a common wall of the enclosure, for example to facilitate installation into an existing fluid system. As shown in FIGS. 10C and 11A, the flow sensing device 505 may be provided with an elbow fitting or other such connector and adapter for positioning the end connector 506 in a desired position and orientation. In one such example, the end connectors 506 of the module 500 may be positioned and oriented to correspond with conventional flow measurement devices (e.g., rotameter flow measurement devices) in existing systems such that such devices may be easily replaced with the module 500. In other embodiments (not shown), the end connectors may extend axially from the fluid monitoring module to facilitate in-line mounting of, for example, a flow sensing device or multiple flow sensing devices having multiple parallel and closely spaced fluid lines. In still other embodiments, the end connectors may be offset from one another and may extend in opposite directions from opposing sides of the housing or perpendicularly from adjacent sides of the housing.

[0031] The module may be provided with external wiring for connection to an external power source (e.g., a wall outlet), but the module 500 may additionally or alternatively include one or more batteries 560 in electrical communication with the controller 550 to power the controller hardware (e.g., processor, transmitter, LEDs) and the sensors 520, 530 of the flow sensing device 505, as shown in FIG. 11A. As shown, the battery 560 may be located within a sleeve 561, for example, to protect and securely position the battery. In some embodiments, the module may be provided with a rechargeable battery that may be recharged, for example, by electrically connecting the module's external wiring to an external power source. Additionally or alternatively, the enclosed battery may serve as a backup power source (e.g., in case of a building power outage), in which case the module operates primarily from the external power source. As shown in FIG. 10C, spacer brackets 509 may be provided within the enclosure 501, for example, to secure the internal components of the module in a desired position.

[0032] A typical flow sensing device assembly 505 includes upstream and downstream sensors 520, 530 mounted within upstream and downstream sensor ports 513, 514 of a body member 510. The sensors 520, 530 are connected to a controller 550 (e.g., by wiring within the module enclosure) for transmitting pressure and temperature indicative signals to the controller. The controller 550 is configured to process the pressure and temperature indicative signals, for example, to determine the pressure, temperature, and / or flow rate of the fluid passing through the flow sensing device and / or to provide an output measurement of any one or more of these parameters.

[0033] 10A-11B, the sensor ports 513, 514 of the body 510 are oriented to face the sides of the housing 502. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 12, the sensor ports 513', 514' of the body 510' may be oriented to face the rear wall and cover 503 of the housing to reduce the width of the enclosure. Additionally or alternatively, the battery size may be reduced (e.g., by replacing the two C batteries 560 with one D battery 560' as shown in FIG. 12) to reduce the height of the enclosure.

[0034] The module may be provided with external wiring for wired connection to an external device (e.g., a computer). Additionally or alternatively, as shown, the module 500 may be provided with a wireless transmitter (e.g., provided on the circuit board of the controller 550) for wirelessly transmitting fluid data to a remote device (e.g., a server, router, computer, tablet, smartphone), e.g., using direct or indirect wireless communication with the remote device. The transmitter may be configured to communicate using any number of suitable wireless communication protocols and capabilities, e.g., WiFi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, RFID, NFC, and wireless USB communication. As shown, the module 500 may include an external antenna 555 electrically connected to the controller transmitter for improved wireless communication with the remote device. In a typical system, a WiFi gateway router may be provided for wireless communication with one or more modules, e.g., to establish a browser interface (which may eliminate the need for desktop software), to facilitate commissioning of field devices, to establish a data system / cloud interface, and to provide simplified troubleshooting and diagnostics.

[0035] To facilitate commissioning and control of the module (e.g., power on / off, synchronization), the module may be provided with a user interface, such as, for example, one or more knobs, switches, or buttons. In the illustrated embodiment, the module 500 includes an external user-depressible button 507 disposed in an opening in the cover 503 and provided for actuation of a button switch 557 on the controller 550, which may be actuated, for example, to turn the controller on, turn the controller off, or commission / synchronize the controller. The button 507 may be provided in a transparent or translucent material to provide illumination by one or more LEDs 558 on the controller 550, which may be illuminated, for example, to provide a user indication of the controller status (e.g., power on / off, connectivity, recognized user actions). The LEDs 558 may provide multi-color illumination (by providing multiple LEDs each having a different color illumination or one or more multi-color LEDs) and / or pulsed illumination, for example, to identify multiple distinguishable status conditions.

[0036] In addition to or instead of wired or wireless communication with external devices, the module may be provided with a user interface configured to display fluid flow data on the module. FIG. 13A shows an exemplary module 500a including a user interface display screen 559a (e.g., LCD, OLED) disposed on an exterior surface of the enclosure (e.g., on a cover 503a) and connected in circuit communication with the module controller to display one or more fluid conditions (e.g., flow rate, temperature, pressure). Alternatively, to provide a simpler output display, the LED array 559b, 559c may be used to provide a digital display (e.g., one or more numeric values) as shown in FIG. 13B, or a multi-bar proportional readout display (e.g., three or more LEDs indicating proportional levels of flow rate, pressure, and / or temperature) as shown in FIG. 13C. In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the digital or multi-bar LED display may use multi-color LEDs to display multiple types of fluid data using the same set of LEDs. For example, the digital LED indicator 559b of FIGURE 13B may provide illumination of corresponding LEDs in a first color (e.g., white) to identify a measured flow rate, a second color (e.g., red) to identify a measured pressure, and a third color (e.g., green) to identify a measured temperature. Similarly, the digital LED indicator 559c of FIGURE 13C may provide illumination of corresponding LEDs in a first color (e.g., white) to identify a proportional flow rate level, a second color (e.g., red) to identify a proportional pressure level, and a third color (e.g., green) to identify a proportional temperature level. A user may selectively switch between the fluid data by actuating a user interface (e.g., a button or knob), or the indicator may be configured to automatically and periodically (e.g., every 3-10 seconds) switch between various fluid flow data.

[0037] In one or more exemplary embodiments, a fluid monitoring module, such as any of the modules described herein, may be configured to provide a number of desired characteristics and conditions. For example, a fluid monitoring module may be configured to provide a general desired sample flow and bypass flow range, including, for example, a gas flow rate (analyzer) of about 0.05-20 SLPM, or a liquid flow rate (bypass) of about 0.05-20 LPM. A typical fluid monitoring module may be configured to provide flow measurement accuracy of less than about 10% of full scale (e.g., about + / - 5% accuracy), and may be configured to provide excellent repeatability and stability. A typical fluid monitoring module may be compatible for use at ambient temperatures of, for example, about -20C to 80C, or up to about 85C. A typical fluid monitoring module may be compatible for operating pressures of, for example, about 50 psig to 150 psig, and may be compatible with 1900 psig proof or 3500 psig burst. Typical materials of construction may include, for example, 316 stainless steel, Hastelloy, FKM, and FFKM. Exemplary fluid monitoring modules may include appropriate safety ratings including, for example, Class 1 Type 1 for the transmitter, Class 1 Type 2 for the gateway, ATEX Zone 1, and / or IECEx Zone 1. Exemplary fluid monitoring modules may be configured for 2.4 GHz mesh wireless communication. Exemplary fluid monitoring modules may include a disposable lithium battery with at least a 5 year life. Exemplary fluid monitoring modules may support a maximum T90=5 second lag time for 0.2 SLPM gas flow.

[0038] In one or more exemplary embodiments, a fluid monitoring module, such as any of the modules described herein, may be used in a variety of applications including, for example, any one or more locations within a process analytical system, examples of which include field stations, fast loop systems, grab sampling locations, calibration and changeover locations, sample conditioning locations, gas and / or utility analyzers, and sample waste locations.

[0039] According to other aspects of the present disclosure, the flow sensing device may be configured to facilitate removal of the flow restricting element without removing the flow sensing device from the system, for example to replace a damaged or contaminated flow restricting element, to facilitate inspection of the flow restricting element, or to replace the flow restricting element with a second flow restricting element that provides a different flow condition (e.g., a different flow rate). In one such embodiment, the flow sensing element may be provided with first and second end connections that facilitate disconnection and removal of the flow sensing element from the inlet / outlet ports and the upstream / downstream sensor ports. As an example, the first and second end connections of the flow sensing element may include zero clearance fittings (e.g., gasketed VCO fittings manufactured by Swagelok Corporation) that facilitate removal and reinstallation / replacement of the flow sensing element without repositioning the port ends of the flow sensing device.

[0040] 14 illustrates an exemplary fluid monitoring module 600 including a flow sensing device 605 configured to facilitate removal of a flow restricting element 640. The exemplary flow sensing device 605 includes first and second T-shaped body members 610-1, 610-2 including a first ramport defining laterally outwardly extending inlet and outlet ports 611, 612, a second ramport defining laterally inwardly extending upstream and downstream sensor ports 613, 614, and branch or connection ports defining axially extending first and second restrictor connections 618, 619 for connecting with first and second end connectors 648, 649 of the flow restricting element 640. The upstream and downstream sensors 620, 630 (which may be similar to the sensors 120, 130, 520, 530 of the embodiment of FIGS. 1-13) are sealingly mounted within the upstream and downstream sensor ports 613, 614.

[0041] The inlet port 611, upstream sensor port 613, and first restrictor connection 618 of the first body member 610-1 are fluidly connected by an internal T-shaped upstream passage 616 of the first body member 610-1, and the outlet port 612, downstream sensor port 614, and second end connection 619 are fluidly connected by an internal T-shaped downstream passage 617 of the second body member 610-2. The ports may include any suitable fluid system connectors including, for example, one or more tube fittings, face seal fittings, threaded pipe ends, or welded ends.

[0042] The upstream and downstream passages 616, 617 are connected by a flow restricting passage 615 in the flow restricting element 640. As mentioned above, the flow restricting passage 615 may take one or more of a variety of forms, including, for example, one or more straight or bellows-shaped passages, or one or more sintered or other such flow restricting materials. The passage(s) may be formed using one or more of a variety of processes, including machining or additive manufacturing. The flow restricting passage(s) may be formed in one or more inserts 641 (e.g., plugs, plates, etc.) held in a coupling 642 to which the first and second end connections 648, 649 are attached (e.g., by welding or integral formation). In one embodiment, the flow restricting insert(s) may be removable from the coupling for replacement with an alternative flow restricting insert providing a different flow rate, flow path, material, or other such characteristics. In other embodiments, the flow restricting components may be integrally or monolithically formed with the coupling such that the entire flow restricting element is replaced. In other embodiments, the flow restricting element 640 may be replaced with a flow restricting element having a different axial length, for example to adjust the offset of the inlet and outlet ports 611, 612. In still other embodiments, variations in the offset of the inlet and outlet ports may be accommodated by providing the inlet and outlet ports with flexible end connections, such as, for example, hose connections.

[0043] The first and second end connections 648, 649 of the exemplary flow restricting element 640 include zero clearance connectors for connecting with the mating zero clearance connectors of the first and second connections 618, 619 of the first and second body members 610-1, 610-2. An exemplary zero clearance fitting is a VCO fitting manufactured by Swagelok. In one embodiment, the coupling body 642 is provided with an externally threaded body connector and the body members 610-1, 610-2 are provided with a weld gland and a captive internal thread nut for connecting with the externally threaded body connector. In another embodiment, the body members 610-1, 610-2 are provided with an externally threaded body connector and the coupling body 642 is provided with a weld gland and a captive internal thread nut for connecting with the captive nut. In yet another embodiment, the coupling 642 is provided with a male threaded connector for connecting with a captive female nut on one of the first and second body members, and a captive female threaded nut for connecting with a male threaded connector on the other of the first and second body members. This configuration may provide assurance that the flow restricting element is installed in the correct orientation.

[0044] The flow restricting element may be provided as a multi-piece subassembly including one or more connectors that are removable to facilitate removal and / or replacement of the flow restricting insert from the coupling. FIG. 14A shows an exemplary flow restricting element 640a having a two-piece body including a male threaded gland 643a mated with a female threaded connector 644a to form a coupling 642a. A flow restricting insert 641a defining a flow restriction or orifice 615a is received in a recess in the connector 644a, and the exemplary gland 643a includes a face seal O-ring 645a that seals the retainer recess and the insert. The gland 643a retains a female threaded zero clearance fitting nut 648a for connecting with a male threaded zero clearance fitting body in a first body member of the flow restricting device, and the retainer defines a male threaded zero clearance fitting body 649a for connecting with a female threaded zero clearance fitting nut in a second body member of the flow restricting device. To repair (e.g., clean) or replace the flow restricting insert 641a, the fitting nut 648a is unscrewed from the male threaded fitting body of a device (not shown) and the connector 644a is unscrewed from the female threaded nut of a device (not shown) to remove the flow restricting element subassembly 640a from the device. The gland 643a is then unscrewed from the connector 644a for removal and repair / reinstallation or replacement of the flow restricting insert 641a. Alternatively, the entire flow restricting element subassembly 640a may be replaced.

[0045] 14B illustrates another exemplary flow restricting element 640b having a two-piece body 642b including a first male-threaded zero-clearance connector 643b having a female-threaded (e.g., NPT-threaded) end and a second male-threaded zero-clearance connector 644b having a mating male-threaded (e.g., NPT-threaded) end mated with the female-threaded end to form a coupling. A flow restricting insert 641b defining a flow restricting orifice 615b may be received in a recess of the first connector 643b and secured to a counterbore 645b of the first connector by an end face 646b of the male-threaded end of the second connector 644b. To repair (e.g., clean) or replace the flow restricting insert 641b, the first and second male connectors 643b, 644b are unscrewed from the corresponding female-threaded nuts (not shown) of the device to remove the flow restricting element subassembly 640b from the device. The first and second male connectors 643b, 644b may then be unscrewed from one another for removal and repair / reinstallation or replacement of the flow restricting insert 641b. Alternatively, the entire flow restricting element subassembly 640b may be replaced.

[0046] 14C illustrates an exemplary flow restricting element 640c having a two-piece construction including a male threaded zero clearance connector 643c joined to a gland 644c by a female threaded zero clearance nut 648c. A flow restricting insert 641c defining a flow restricting orifice 615c is received and sealed between a face seal O-ring 645c assembled to the male connector 643c (e.g., held in an end face groove in the male threaded end) and a face seal O-ring 646c assembled to the gland 644c (e.g., held in an end face groove in the gland). In an exemplary embodiment, the male connector 643c may be attached (e.g., welded, coupled, or machined together) with a first fitting body defining a first (e.g., inlet, outlet) port and a sensor carrying a first (e.g., upstream, downstream) sensor port, and the gland may be attached (e.g., welded, coupled) with a second fitting body defining a second (e.g., inlet, outlet) port and a sensor carrying a second (e.g., upstream, downstream) sensor port. To repair (e.g., clean) or replace the flow restricting insert 641c, the female threaded nut 648c is unscrewed from the male threaded connector 643c and the flow restricting insert 641c is extracted from engagement with the face seal O-rings 645c, 646c for repair / reinstallation or replacement of the flow restricting insert 641c.

[0047] In other embodiments, the flow restricting element may be provided as a single piece body with the flow restriction assembled or integral with the body. Figure 14D shows an exemplary flow restricting element 640d having a single piece body 642d including first and second male threaded zero clearance connections 648d, 649d and a flow restriction 615d integrally formed along a through bore 647d (e.g., centrally located as shown). To repair (e.g., clean) or replace the flow restriction 615d, the first and second male connections 648d, 649d are unthreaded from corresponding female threaded nuts (not shown) of the device to remove the flow restricting element 640d from the device.

[0048] In other embodiments, the flow restricting insert may be assembled to the single-piece flow restricting element body using, for example, threaded, press-fit, or retaining clip engagements, and in some embodiments may include a gasket or seal to prevent leakage between the flow restricting element body and the outer periphery of the insert. Figure 14E shows an exemplary flow restricting element 640e having a single-piece body 642e including first and second male threaded zero clearance connections 648e, 649e and a press-fit orifice disk or aperture insert 641e (defining an orifice 615e) mounted within a through bore 647e of the body (e.g., seated in a counterbore within the through bore). Figure 14F illustrates an exemplary flow restricting element 640f having a single piece body 642f including first and second male threaded zero clearance connections 648f, 649f and a pressed-in sintered element or porous insert 641f mounted within a through bore 647f of the body (e.g., seated in a counterbore within the through bore) to define a porous flow passage 615f. The flow restricting insert may be located in the center of the through bore between the end connections as shown in Figures 14E and 14F, although in other embodiments the flow restricting insert may be mounted within at least one of the end connections at the ends of the through bore. Figure 14G shows an exemplary flow restricting element 640g having a single piece body 642g including first and second male threaded zero clearance connections 648g, 649g and a press fit sintered element or porous insert 641g attached to the end of a through bore 647g at a first end connection 648g (e.g., seated in a counterbore within the through bore) to define a porous flow passage 615g. Figure 14H shows an exemplary flow restricting element 640h having a single piece body 642h including first and second male threaded zero clearance connections 648h, 649h and a restrictor set screw or threaded opening insert 641h (defining an orifice 615h) attached to the female threaded end of a through bore 647h at a first end connection 648h.14I illustrates an exemplary flow restricting element 640i having a single-piece body 642i including first and second male threaded zero clearance connections 648i, 649i and an orifice disk or aperture insert 641i (defining an orifice 615i) attached (e.g., snap-fit ​​or press-fit) to an end face counterbore of a through bore 647i at the first end connection 648i. In one such embodiment, an O-ring seal 645i at the first end connection 648i provides a seal between the outer periphery of the orifice disk 641i and the counterbore.

[0049] To repair (e.g., clean) or replace the flow restricting insert 641e-h, the first and second male connections 648e-h, 649e-h are unthreaded from corresponding female threaded nuts (not shown) of the device to remove the flow restricting element 640e-h from the device. The insert 641e-h may be removed (e.g., unthreaded and pushed out) from the body 642e-h for cleaning or repair. Alternatively, the entire flow restricting element 640e-h may be replaced.

[0050] Returning to FIG. 14, an exemplary fluid monitoring module 600 includes an enclosure (illustrated at 601) that is attached to (e.g., at least partially encapsulates) a flow sensing device 605 and encapsulates a controller (which may be similar to controller 550 of the embodiment of FIGS. 10A-13C) illustrated at 650. The sensors 620, 630 are connected (e.g., by wiring within the module enclosure) to the controller 650 for transmitting pressure and temperature indicative signals to the controller. The controller 650 is configured to process the pressure and temperature indicative signals, for example, to determine the pressure, temperature, and / or flow rate of the fluid passing through the flow sensing device and / or provide output measurements of any one or more of these parameters. Similar to the exemplary embodiments of Figures 10A-13C, the module 600 may further be provided with one or more internal batteries 660, a wireless transmitter (e.g., provided on the circuit board of the controller 650) for wirelessly transmitting fluid data to a remote device, an external antenna 655 electrically connected to the controller transmitter for improved wireless communication with the remote device, a user interface, such as, for example, one or more knobs, switches, or buttons, for example, for turning the controller on, turning the controller off, or commissioning / synchronizing the controller, and one or more display elements (e.g., indicator LEDs and / or a display screen), as described in detail above.

[0051] The enclosure 601 may be provided with a cover or lid (not shown) for selectively enclosing the flow sensing device 605 while being movable or removable to expose the flow sensing device, for example to facilitate removal and / or replacement of the flow restricting element.

[0052] Other structures may also be used to facilitate removal and / or replacement of the flow restricting element from the flow sensing device. Figure 15 shows a schematic of a fluid monitoring module 700 including a flow sensing device 705 having first and second T-shaped body members 710a, 710b including a first lamport defining laterally outwardly extending inlet and outlet ports 711, 712, a second lamport defining laterally inwardly extending upstream and downstream sensor ports 713, 714 (holding upstream and downstream sensors 720, 730), and a branch port defining first and second connections 718, 719 extending laterally perpendicular to the inlet / outlet ports 711, 712 and sensor ports 713, 714 (extending outwardly from the drawing) for connecting with laterally extending connectors 748, 749 at first and second ends of a U-shaped flow restricting element 740. The U-shaped flow restricting element 740 includes an axially extending portion defining one or more flow restricting passages 715, which may be formed, for example, in one or more inserts 741 (e.g., plugs, plates, etc.) held within a U-shaped coupling 742 to which first and second end connections 748, 749 are attached (e.g., by welding or integral formation). The coupling 742 may be provided as a multi-piece assembly including one or more connectors 744 that are removable to facilitate removal and / or replacement of the insert 741 from the coupling. In one embodiment, the flow restricting insert(s) may be removable from the coupling for replacement with an alternative flow restricting insert providing a different flow rate, flow path, material, or other such characteristic. In other embodiments, the flow restricting components may be integrally or monolithically formed with the coupling such that the entire flow restricting element is replaced.

[0053] The U-shaped configuration of the flow restricting element 740 may facilitate removal from the flow sensing device 705 and facilitate the use of end connections that are not zero clearance connections (e.g., fittings that do not use elastomeric seals to accommodate a wide range of system conditions), including, for example, tube fittings, quick-disconnect fittings, and push-fit fittings.

[0054] According to other aspects of the disclosure, a fluid monitoring module may be provided with a flow sensing device arranged such that at least the flow restricting element of the flow sensing device is outside the housing of the fluid monitoring module, for example, to facilitate removal of the flow restricting element without removing, disassembling, or adjusting the module housing. As an example, as shown in FIG. 16A, a fluid monitoring module 400a may be provided with a flow sensing device 405a having first (e.g., upstream) and second (e.g., downstream) sensor ports 413a, 414a attached to the module enclosure 401a for electrically connecting a retained sensor (which may be similar to sensors 120, 130, 520, 530 of the embodiments of FIGS. 1-13C) to a controller enclosed within the module enclosure 401a, such that the flow restricting element 440a (e.g., any of the exemplary flow restricting elements 640a-i of FIGS. 14A-I) is located outside the module enclosure 401a, for example, to facilitate removal and replacement / repair of the flow restricting element 440a.

[0055] 16A embodiment, the flow sensing device 405a includes first and second T-shaped body members 410a-1, 410a-2 including a first ramport defining laterally outwardly extending inlet and outlet ports 411a, 412a, a second ramport defining laterally inwardly extending upstream and downstream sensor ports 413a, 414a, and branch or connecting ports defining axially extending first and second restrictor connections 418a, 419a for connection to the flow restricting element 440a. As discussed above, the restrictor connections 418a, 419a may be zero clearance connections to facilitate removal of the flow restricting element 440a.

[0056] In another exemplary construction, as shown in FIG. 16B, a fluid monitoring module 400b includes an external flow sensing device 405b having first and second T-shaped body members 410b-1, 410b-2 including a first lamport defining axially extending inlet and outlet ports 411b, 412b, a second lamport defining axially extending first and second restrictor connections 418b, 419b for connection to a flow restricting element 440b (e.g., any of the exemplary flow restricting elements 640a-i of FIGS. 14A-I), and branch or connection ports defining laterally inwardly extending sensor ports 413b, 414b mounted to the module enclosure 401b for electrically connecting a retained sensor (which may be similar to the sensors 120, 130, 520, 530 of the embodiments of FIGS. 1-13C) to a controller enclosed within the module enclosure 401b.

[0057] In another exemplary construction, as shown in FIG. 16C, a fluid monitoring module 400c includes a first lambda port defining laterally outwardly extending inlet and outlet ports 411c, 412c, and a laterally inwardly extending axial ... The external flow sensing device 405c includes first and second T-shaped body members 410c-1, 410c-2 including a second lambda port defining first and second (e.g., upstream and downstream) sensor ports 413c, 414c extending in a vertical lateral direction, and a branch port defining first and second restrictor connections 418c, 419c extending in a vertical lateral direction for connecting to a U-shaped curved flow restricting element 440c (which may be similar to flow restricting element 740 in FIG. 15 ).

[0058] A number of different structures can be used to mount the sensor port of the flow sensing device to the module enclosure. Figure 17 shows a typical structure including a flow sensing device body member 410' including a male threaded sensor port or connector 413' received through a mounting opening 408' in the module enclosure 401' and secured to the module enclosure by a panel nut 481' threadedly engaging the male connector 413'. A sensor 420' is mounted within the sensor port connector 413' and secured to the counterbore 483' by a retaining collar 485' that extends through the sensor port 413' to engage a surface of the sensor 420'. A fitting nut 487' is threadably assembled to the male connector 413' to secure an end 486' of the retaining collar 485', and a wire connector 489' (e.g., an M8 connector) is mounted within a central bore of the retaining collar end 486' to provide a connection between a wire 423' from the sensor 420' and a controller (not shown). Gasket seals 482', 484', 488' (e.g., O-ring seals) may be provided between the body member 410' and the module enclosure 401', between the retaining collar 485' and the male connector 413', and between the male connector 413' and the wire connector 489', for example, to seal the module enclosure 401' from moisture or other contaminants. A gasket seal 422' (e.g., O-ring seal) around the sensor 420' provides a leak-proof seal to prevent system fluid leakage past the sensor 420'.

[0059] In another exemplary construction, as shown, for example, in FIG. 16D , a fluid monitoring module 400d may be provided with a flow sensing device 405d having a first body member 410d-1 having a first (e.g., upstream) sensor port 413d attached to the module enclosure 401d (e.g., using the construction of FIG. 17 ) for electrically connecting a retained sensor (e.g., as described above) to a controller enclosed within the module enclosure 401d, such that the flow restricting element 440d is located outside the module enclosure 401d to facilitate removal and replacement / repair of the flow restricting element 440d, and a second body member 410d-2 having a second (e.g., downstream) sensor port 414d spaced from the module enclosure and holding a sensor (e.g., as described above) electrically connected (e.g., by a flexible wire 452d extending from the second sensor port 414d to the module enclosure 401d) to a controller enclosed within the module enclosure 401d. The single sensor port mounting structure may allow for the use of flow restricting elements of various sizes (e.g., various offset dimensions between the sensor ports, various length flow restrictions) and / or various size module enclosures. The single sensor port mounting structure may also facilitate removal of the flow restricting element 440d from the flow sensing device 405d without using a zero clearance connection (e.g., to eliminate a polymer seal in the connection) since the second sensor port is not fixedly attached.

[0060] In yet another exemplary construction, as shown, for example, in FIG. 16E, a fluid monitoring module 400e may be provided with a flow sensing device 405e having first and second body members 410e-1, 410e-2 defining inlet and outlet ports 411e, 412e, and first and second (e.g., upstream and downstream) sensor ports 413e, 414e carrying sensors (e.g., as described above) spaced from the module enclosure 401e and electrically connected (e.g., by flexible wiring 451e, 452e extending from the first and second sensor ports 413e, 414e to the module enclosure 401e) to a controller enclosed within the module enclosure 401e, such that the flow restricting element 440e is located outside the module enclosure 401e to facilitate removal and replacement / repair of the flow restricting element 440e. A separate or remote wired sensor port structure may allow for the use of flow restricting elements of various sizes (e.g., various offset dimensions between sensor ports, various length flow restrictions) and / or various sized module enclosures. A wired sensor port structure may also facilitate removal of the flow restricting element 440e from the flow sensing device 405e without using a zero clearance connection (e.g., to eliminate a polymer seal in the connection) since the sensor ports are not fixedly attached and can be easily moved relative to one another. Also, in one such configuration, the module 400e may be configured to be easily disconnected from the sensor wiring 451e, 452e, for example, to allow for the use of a monitoring module with multiple flow sensing devices or to perform maintenance on the monitoring module.

[0061] According to other aspects of the disclosure, a fluid monitoring module may be configured or adapted to provide separate sensing of fluid conditions in multiple fluid lines, or at multiple locations in a single fluid line, for example, to monitor pressure changes over time (e.g., as an indication of filter or fluid line contamination). In one such configuration, flow restrictions may be eliminated and the flow sensing configuration provides separate sensor-engaged flow paths. As an example, as shown in FIG. 18A, a fluid monitoring module 300a may be provided with separate first and second sensing devices 305a-1, 305a-2 having first and second (e.g., inlet and outlet) ports 311a-1, 311a-2, 312a-1, 312a-2, and first and second sensor ports 313a-1, 313a-2 mounted to the module enclosure 301a for electrically connecting the retained sensors (as described above) to a controller enclosed within the module enclosure 301a.

[0062] As another example, a fluid monitoring module with an external flow restricting element can be converted to a fluid monitoring module with a separate flow sensing device by isolating the flow restriction with one or more blind or blank coupling members. Figure 18B shows an exemplary fluid monitoring module 300b that is similar to the fluid monitoring module 400a of Figure 16A, except that the flow restricting element has been replaced with a fluid blocking blind or blank coupling 340b mounted between the connections 318b, 319b of the first and second body members 310b-1, 310b-2 to provide two separate dead leg fluid monitoring locations. As an alternative (not shown), separate plugs can be assembled to the opposing body member connections.

[0063] FIG. 18C shows an exemplary fluid monitoring module 300c including sensor ports 313c, 314c mounted in a module enclosure 301c, first and second cross-shaped flow sensing bodies 310c-1, 310c-2 having first axially outwardly extending ports 311c-1, 311c-2, second laterally outwardly extending ports 312c-1, 312c-2, and axially inwardly extending restrictor connections 318c, 319c. To monitor flow rate using the monitoring module 300c, a flow restricting element (e.g., any of the flow restricting elements 440a-h in Figures 14A-14I) may be assembled to the restrictor connections 318c, 319c, one of the ports 311c-1, 312c-1 of the first flow sensing body 310c-1 may be connected to a fluid inlet line, one of the ports 311c-2, 312c-2 of the second flow sensing body 310c-2 may be connected to a fluid outlet line, and the two unused ports may be blocked. To monitor two separate fluid locations using the monitoring module 300c, a blank or blind coupling 340c (e.g., as shown in FIG. 18D) or a blank / blind insert 341c (e.g., as shown in FIG. 18E) may be assembled to the restrictor connections 318c, 319c, and one of the ports 311c-1, 312c-1, 311c-2, 312c-2 of each of the first and second flow sensing bodies 310c-1, 310c-2 may be connected to the first and second fluid inlet lines, and the other port of each of the first and second flow sensing bodies 310c-1, 310c-2 may be connected to the first and second fluid outlet lines.

[0064] In accordance with other aspects of the present disclosure, the fluid monitoring module may be configured to be provided as a standalone portable device that may be configured to be selectively connected to fluid lines for measurement of flow, temperature, and / or pressure conditions, thereby enabling a single fluid monitoring module to be used for multiple fluid lines.

[0065] 19 shows an exemplary system including a fluid line L having an engineered flow restriction R (e.g., provided in a flow restriction coupling, valve, etc.) and a fluid monitoring module 800. The fluid line L includes branch connectors C1, C2 (e.g., quick-disconnect couplings) upstream and downstream of the flow restriction R for connection (e.g., with mating quick-disconnect couplings) with sensor port connectors 811, 812 of upstream and downstream sensor ports 813, 814 of the fluid monitoring module 800. Upstream and downstream sensors 820, 830 (which may be similar to the sensors described above) are hermetically mounted within the upstream and downstream sensor ports 813, 814 and electrically connected to a controller 850 located within the enclosure 801 of the fluid monitoring module 800. 10A-13C, module 800 may further be provided with one or more internal batteries, a wireless transmitter (e.g., provided on a circuit board of controller 850) for wirelessly transmitting flow data to a remote device, an external antenna electrically connected to the controller transmitter for improved wireless communication with the remote device, a user interface, e.g., one or more knobs, switches, or buttons, e.g., for turning on the controller, turning off the controller, or commissioning / synchronizing the controller, and one or more display elements (e.g., indicator LEDs and / or a display screen), as described in detail above.

[0066] To monitor flow conditions in fluid line L, the upstream sensor port connector 811 is connected with an upstream fluid line branch connector C1 for measuring pressure and / or temperature upstream of the flow restriction R, and the downstream sensor port connector 812 is connected with a downstream fluid line branch connector C2 for measuring pressure and / or temperature downstream of the flow restriction R. Corresponding signals are sent from the sensors 820, 830 to a controller 850 for calculation and identification (e.g., by data communication to a user interface or remote computer) of pressure, temperature, flow rate, and / or other fluid conditions.

[0067] In other embodiments, the fluid monitoring module may be configured to measure only the pressure and temperature of the fluid, and not the flow rate. In such a configuration, the module may be provided with a single sensor port and sensor. FIG. 20 shows an exemplary system including a fluid line L and a fluid monitoring module 900. The fluid line L includes a branch connector C (e.g., a quick disconnect coupling) for connecting with a sensor port connector 911 of a sensor port 913 of the fluid monitoring module 900 (e.g., using a mating quick disconnect coupling). A sensor 920 (which may be similar to the sensor described above) is hermetically mounted within the sensor port 913 and electrically connected to a controller 950 located within the enclosure 901 of the fluid monitoring module 900. 10A-13C, the module 900 may further be provided with one or more internal batteries, a wireless transmitter (e.g., provided on the circuit board of the controller 950) for wirelessly transmitting fluid data to a remote device, an external antenna electrically connected to the controller transmitter for improved wireless communication with the remote device, a user interface, e.g., one or more knobs, switches, or buttons, e.g., for turning the controller on, turning the controller off, or commissioning / synchronizing the controller, and one or more display elements (e.g., indicator LEDs and / or a display screen), as described in detail above. In other applications, a single sensor monitoring module 900 may be used to measure pressure continuously upstream and downstream of a designed engineered flow restriction R in the fluid line L, at the upstream branch connector C1, and at the downstream branch connector C2 (see FIG. 16), thereby allowing the controller 950 to calculate the flow rate in the fluid line using only one sensor.

[0068] In other embodiments, the portable, selectively connectable fluid monitoring module may include a bypass flow path having a flow restriction passage between the upstream and downstream sensor ports, thereby allowing for the elimination of flow restrictions from the fluid line, for example to minimize contamination or corrosion of the flow restrictions.

[0069] 21 shows a typical system including a fluid line L and a fluid monitoring module 1000. The fluid line L includes upstream and downstream branch connectors C1, C2 (e.g., quick-disconnect couplings) for connecting with inlet and outlet connectors 1011, 1012 (e.g., mating quick-disconnect couplings) of the module 1000. The module 1000 further includes an upstream sensor port 1013 connected to the input connector 1011 by an upstream passage 1016, and a downstream sensor port 1014 connected to the outlet connector 1012 by a downstream passage 1017. Upstream and downstream sensors 1020, 1030 (which may be similar to the sensors described above) are hermetically mounted within the upstream and downstream sensor ports 1013, 1014 and electrically connected to a controller 1050 located within the enclosure 1001 of the fluid monitoring module 1000. The upstream and downstream passages 1016, 1017 are connected by a flow restriction passage 1015. Inlet and outlet connectors 1011, 1012, upstream and downstream sensor ports 1013, 1014, internal passages 1016, 1017, and flow restriction passage 1015 may be provided within a flow sensing device 1005 assembled to the module enclosure 1001, as shown in numerous exemplary embodiments described herein.

[0070] Similar to the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 10A-13C, the module 1000 may further be provided with one or more internal batteries, a wireless transmitter (e.g., provided on the circuit board of the controller 1050) for wirelessly transmitting flow data to a remote device, an external antenna electrically connected to the controller transmitter for improved wireless communication with the remote device, a user interface, e.g., one or more knobs, switches, or buttons, e.g., for turning the controller on, turning the controller off, or commissioning / synchronizing the controller, and one or more display elements (e.g., indicator LEDs and / or a display screen), as described in detail above.

[0071] To monitor the flow condition of the fluid line L, the inlet connector 1011 of the module is connected to an upstream fluid line branch connector C1 and the outlet connector 1012 is connected to a downstream fluid line branch connector C2. A shutoff valve V may be disposed in the fluid line L between the upstream and downstream branch connectors C1, C2 and may shut off all fluid line flow through the fluid monitoring module 1000 to bypass it. Alternatively, a switching valve (shown in phantom at V1, V2) may be used to divert fluid flow from the fluid line L through the fluid monitoring module 1000. An upstream sensor 1020 measures pressure and / or temperature upstream of the flow restriction passage 1015 and a downstream sensor 1030 measures pressure and / or temperature downstream of the flow restriction passage 1015. Corresponding signals are sent from the sensors 1020, 1030 to a controller 1050 for calculation and identification (e.g., by data communication to a user interface or remote computer) of pressure, temperature, flow rate, and / or other fluid conditions.

[0072] In yet other embodiments, the portable fluid monitoring module may not be provided with fluid components (e.g., ports, connectors, passages), but may be provided with a wireless transceiver for wirelessly communicating with one or more fluid sensors integrated into the fluid lines of the system such that an operator may perform fluid monitoring operations at one or more locations within the fluid system by bringing the portable fluid monitoring module near the integrated fluid sensor(s).

[0073] 22 illustrates an exemplary system including a fluid line L having an engineered flow restriction R (e.g., provided in a flow restriction coupling, valve, etc.) and a portable fluid monitoring module 1400. The fluid line L includes fluid sensors 1420, 1430 (which may be similar to the sensors described above) upstream and downstream of a flow restriction 1415. While the fluid sensors 1420, 1430 and the flow restriction 1415 may be integrated into the fluid line L, in an exemplary embodiment, the fluid sensors and flow restriction may be provided in a separate flow sensing device 1405 that includes connectors 1411, 1412 (e.g., zero clearance fittings) configured to facilitate coupling and decoupling from the fluid line L. The flow restriction 1415 may be provided in a flow restricting element 1440 having connectors 1448, 1449 to facilitate removal of the flow restricting element from the flow sensing device 1405.

[0074] The fluid monitoring module 1400 includes a transceiver 1470 configured to wirelessly communicate (e.g., RFID, Bluetooth, NFC, or other such wireless communication) with the fluid sensors 1420, 1430, e.g., via an antenna 1475, when the fluid monitoring module 1400 is in proximity to the sensors 1420, 1430. The wireless communication may be initiated automatically upon proximity (e.g., as a result of periodic queries or pings by the transceiver) or may be due to activation of a button or other such user interface. The transceiver 1470 communicates received data signals corresponding to the fluid system (e.g., identification codes, upstream / downstream pressures, temperatures, timestamps) to a controller 1450 in the module enclosure 1401. 10A-13C, the module 1400 may further be provided with one or more internal batteries 1460, a wireless transmitter (e.g., provided on the circuit board of the controller 1450) for wirelessly transmitting flow data to a remote device, an external antenna 1455 electrically connected to the controller transmitter for improved wireless communication with the remote device, a user interface, e.g., one or more knobs, switches, or buttons, e.g., for turning the controller on, turning the controller off, or commissioning / synchronizing the controller, and one or more display elements (e.g., indicator LEDs and / or a display screen), as described in detail above.

[0075] In one embodiment, the fluid monitoring module 1400 may be a smartphone or other such portable computing device that may be provided with software or a web-based application configured to initiate communication with the sensors 1420, 1430, process received data signals, display data regarding the fluid system condition, and / or transmit fluid data to a remote system.

[0076] According to other aspects of the disclosure, a fluid monitoring module having a controller configured to communicate with an external device may further be configured to receive data transmissions from other proximate fluid system components to communicate properties and characteristics of these proximate fluid system components to an external device for tracking or monitoring. As an example, a portable sample cylinder selectively connected to a fluid system (e.g., to obtain grab sampling for off-site laboratory analysis) may include communication circuitry (e.g., an RFID tag) configured to communicate directly or indirectly with the fluid monitoring module of the fluid system when the sample cylinder is in proximity to the fluid monitoring module. As an example, the fluid monitoring module may include an RFID reader configured to initiate wireless communication (e.g., short-range communication, Bluetooth® communication, or other such short-range wired or wireless communication) with an RFID tag or transmitter provided with the sample cylinder (e.g., by responding to periodic queries or pings from the reader) when the sample cylinder is brought within range of the fluid monitoring module, or may be connected (e.g., by a wired or wireless connection) to the RFID reader. In other embodiments, communication between the RFID tag / transmitter and the RFID reader may be initiated by a user-activated push button switch, or by a switch that is activated automatically when a sample cylinder is connected to the fluid system or when a valve is opened to fill the cylinder.

[0077] 23 illustrates generally an exemplary system including a fluid line L mounted with a fluid monitoring module 1300 (e.g., any of the fluid monitoring modules described herein). The fluid line L includes a branch connector C to which a sample cylinder 1370 may be connected (e.g., by a quick-disconnect coupling connection) to, for example, obtain a grab sample of fluid in the fluid line. The sample cylinder 1370 includes an RFID tag / transmitter 1375 for communicating data regarding the sample cylinder (e.g., serial / ID number, timestamp associated with the time of connection to the fluid line L) to an RFID reader 1380 provided or connected to the fluid monitoring module 1300. Data received by the RFID reader 1380 may be communicated to the controller 1350 of the module 1300 (e.g., by a wired or wireless connection between the controller and the RFID reader) and compiled with other contemporaneous fluid system data collected by the controller (e.g., fluid flow rate, pressure, temperature in the fluid lines as measured by the sensors 1320, 1330, serial / ID number of the module 1300) and wirelessly communicated to an external device via the transmitter antenna 1355, e.g., via a wireless gateway 1390 when powered, e.g., by the module battery 1360. Such a configuration allows for real-time tracking of grab sampling operations without providing independent power and wireless transmission capabilities to the grab sample apparatus, by using the fluid monitoring module as a hub for such data collection and wireless communication.

[0078] In other applications, other data may be collected and communicated via the fluid monitoring module. For example, operator identification data (e.g., as collected from a user ID RFID tag) and associated timestamps may be transmitted to the controller when one or more actions are taken, such as grab sampling, maintenance, system shutdown, etc.

[0079] Aspects of the present invention have been described with reference to exemplary embodiments. Modifications and alterations will occur to others upon reading and understanding this specification. It is intended to cover all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. An enclosure; a fluid sensing device mounted outside the enclosure, a body member defining a fluid port exterior to the enclosure and a male threaded sensor port attached to the enclosure and extending laterally into the enclosure; A female thread nut assembled to the sensor port; a fluid sensor mounted in a counterbore of the sensor port; a retaining collar having a neck portion that engages the fluid sensor and extends into the sensor port and a head portion that is captured between the female threaded nut and an end face of the sensor port; A fluid sensing device comprising: a controller disposed within the enclosure and in circuit communication with the fluid sensor for receiving at least one of a pressure indicative signal and a temperature indicative signal from the fluid sensor and for determining fluid data based on the received signals; A fluid monitoring module comprising:

2. The fluid monitoring module of claim 1 , further comprising a panel nut threadedly engaging said male threaded sensor port for said enclosure.

3. The fluid monitoring module of claim 1 , wherein the fluid sensor is connected to the controller by a wire extending through a central bore of the retaining collar.

4. the fluid sensing device is a first fluid sensing device, and the fluid monitoring module further comprises a second fluid sensing device mounted to the enclosure; 2. The fluid monitoring module of claim 1, wherein the controller is in circuit communication with a fluid sensor of the second fluid sensing device to receive at least one of a pressure indication signal and a temperature indication signal from the fluid sensor and to measure fluid data based on the received signals.

5. The second fluid sensing device comprises: a body member defining a fluid port exterior to the enclosure and a male threaded sensor port attached to and extending into the enclosure; A female thread nut assembled to the sensor port; a fluid sensor mounted in a counterbore of the sensor port; a retaining collar having a neck portion that engages the fluid sensor and extends into the sensor port and a head portion that is captured between the female threaded nut and an end face of the sensor port; The fluid monitoring module of claim 4 , comprising:

6. 6. The fluid monitoring module of claim 5, wherein each of the body members of the first and second fluid sensing devices includes an axially extending connection port, the connection port of the first fluid sensing device extending toward the connection port of the second fluid sensing device.

7. The fluid monitoring module of claim 5 , wherein the fluid ports of the first and second fluid sensing devices extend laterally away from the enclosure.

8. The fluid monitoring module of claim 6, further comprising a blind coupling member having a first end coupled to a connection port of the first fluid sensing device and a second end coupled to a connection port of the second fluid sensing device.

9. 7. The fluid monitoring module of claim 6, further comprising a flow restricting element defining a flow restricting passage and including a first end connection coupled to a connection port of the first fluid sensing device and a second end connection coupled to a connection port of the second fluid sensing device.

10. 10. The fluid monitoring module of claim 9, wherein the first and second end connections comprise zero clearance connectors that provide for removal and reattachment of the flow restricting element from the first and second fluid sensing devices without repositioning the connection ports.

11. The fluid monitoring module of claim 10 , wherein each of the zero clearance connectors includes an externally threaded connector having an end face groove that retains an O-ring seal.

12. 1. A flow sensing device comprising: a first body member defining a first fluid port, a first sensor port, and a first connection port; a second body member defining a second fluid port, a second sensor port, and a second connection port; a first fluid sensor mounted to the first sensor port; a second fluid sensor mounted to the second sensor port; a flow blocking element including a first end connection coupled to the first connection port and a second end connection coupled to the second connection port, blocking flow between the first fluid port and the second fluid port to provide two separate dead leg fluid monitoring locations for the first and second fluid ports; A flow sensing device comprising: a controller in circuit communication with the first and second fluid sensors for receiving at least one of a pressure indicative signal and a temperature indicative signal from each of the first and second fluid sensors and for determining fluid data based on the received signals; Equipped with Fluid monitoring module.

13. The fluid monitoring module of claim 12 , wherein the flow interrupting element comprises a blind coupling.

14. 13. The fluid monitoring module of claim 12, wherein the first and second end connections comprise zero clearance connectors that provide for removal and reattachment of the flow blocking element from the first and second body members without repositioning the first and second connection ports.

15. The fluid monitoring module of claim 14 , wherein each of the zero clearance connectors includes an externally threaded connector having an end face groove that retains an O-ring seal.

16. 13. The fluid monitoring module of claim 12, further comprising an enclosure holding the controller, with first and second sensor ports extending laterally inward through first and second mounting openings in the enclosure, the first and second sensor ports being disposed within the enclosure.

17. The fluid monitoring module of claim 16 , wherein the first fluid port, the second fluid port, the first connection port, the second connection port, and the flow interruption element are external to the enclosure.

18. The fluid monitoring module of claim 16 , wherein the first and second fluid ports extend laterally away from the enclosure.

19. 1. A fluid monitoring and grab sampling system comprising: A fluid line; a fluid monitoring module connected in fluid communication with the fluid line, An enclosure; a fluid sensing device assembled to the enclosure, the fluid sensing device including a fluid port exterior to the enclosure, a sensor port extending into the enclosure, and a fluid sensor retained within the sensor port; a controller disposed within the enclosure and in circuit communication with the fluid sensor for receiving at least one of a pressure indicative signal and a temperature indicative signal from the fluid sensor and for determining fluid data based on the received signals; a wireless transmitter disposed within the enclosure and in circuit communication with the controller; a wireless receiver disposed within the enclosure and in circuit communication with the controller; a fluid monitoring module comprising: a sample cylinder connectable to a branch port of the fluid line, the sample cylinder including a wireless transponder configured to communicate cylinder data including at least an identification code to the wireless receiver when the sample cylinder is connected to the branch port; Equipped with the wireless transmitter is configured to wirelessly communicate the fluid data and the cylinder data to a remote device. system.

20. 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the wireless receiver comprises an RFID reader and the wireless transponder comprises an RFID tag.

21. 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the fluid sensing device is a first fluid sensing device and the fluid monitoring module further comprises a second fluid sensing device assembled to the enclosure, the second fluid sensing device including a fluid port outside the enclosure, a sensor port extending into the enclosure, and a fluid sensor held within the sensor port.

22. 22. The system of claim 21, wherein the fluid monitoring module further comprises a flow restricting element defining a flow restricting passage and including a first end connection coupled to a connection port of the first fluid sensing device and a second end connection coupled to a connection port of the second fluid sensing device.

23. 22. The system of claim 21, wherein the fluid monitoring module further comprises a flow blocking element including a first end connection coupled to a connection port of the first fluid sensing device and a second end connection coupled to a connection port of the second fluid sensing device, the flow blocking element blocking flow between the fluid ports of the first and second fluid sensing devices to provide two separate dead leg fluid monitoring locations for the fluid ports of the first and second fluid sensing devices.

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