Systems and Methods for a Helical Pressure Buffer

Abstract

To provide a pressure sensor that reduces transient pressure spikes.SOLUTION: A snubber includes a head portion 302, a shank portion 304, and a threaded portion. The shank portion 304 is attached to the head portion 302, and the shank portion 304 defines a shank diameter 316. The threaded portion is attached to the shank portion 304, and the threaded portion includes an external helical thread 324 wrapped around a central shaft 322. The external helical thread 324 defines a threaded diameter 336, and the central shaft 322 defines a central shaft diameter 326. The shank diameter 316 and the thread diameter 336 are sized such that the shank portion 304 and the threaded portion define at least one fluid flow path 232, 233 when the snubber 206 is installed in a pressure sensor.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Field of the Technology

[0001]

[0001] The field of the present disclosure generally relates to fluid flow systems, and more specifically to systems and methods for helical pressure buffers.

Background Art

[0002]

[0002] At least some known aircraft include fluid systems, typically hydraulic or pneumatic systems, for guiding fluids, typically air or water, to multiple locations within the aircraft. For example, an aircraft typically includes a hydraulic system that guides hydraulic fluid, typically hydraulic oil or water, to at least the landing gear of the aircraft to control and operate the landing gear. The hydraulic fluid is maintained at a high pressure and can transmit a large force with a small amount of fluid. The landing gear is controlled and operated by changes in the pressure of the hydraulic system. The hydraulic system includes a plurality of pressure transducers configured to monitor the pressure of the hydraulic fluid. The hydraulic system further includes a plurality of hydraulic mechanisms, such as valves and / or fluid actuators, that control the pressure and movement of the hydraulic fluid within the hydraulic system. Transient pressure spikes may occur within the system due to the opening and closing of valves and / or the use of other hydraulic mechanisms within the hydraulic system.

[0003]

[0003] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of technologies that may be related to the various aspects of the present disclosure described and / or claimed below. This discussion is thought to be helpful in providing background information to the reader to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that these descriptions are to be read in this light and should not be read as an admission of prior art.

Summary of the Invention

[0004]

[0004] One aspect of the present disclosure includes a shock absorber comprising a head portion, a shank portion, and a threaded portion. The shank portion is attached to the head portion and defines the shank diameter. The threaded portion is attached to the shank portion and includes a helical thread wound around a central shaft. The helical thread defines the thread diameter, and the central shaft defines the central shaft diameter. The shank diameter and thread diameter are determined such that when the shock absorber is attached to a pressure sensor, the shank portion and the threaded portion define at least one fluid passage.

[0005]

[0005] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes a pressure sensor comprising a transducer, a fitting, and a shock absorber. The fitting has a first end defining an opening and a threaded portion therein. The fitting is coupled to the transducer. The threaded portion includes an inner surface and a helical female thread positioned on the inner surface. The first end further defines at least one notch. The shock absorber is positioned within the opening of the threaded portion and includes a head portion, a shank portion, and a threaded portion. The shank portion is attached to the head portion and defines the shank diameter. The threaded portion is attached to the shank portion and includes a helical male thread wound around a central shaft. The helical male thread defines the thread diameter, and the central shaft defines the central shaft diameter. The shank diameter, thread diameter, and central shaft diameter are determined such that when the shock absorber is attached to the fitting, the notch, the shank portion, and the threaded portion define at least one fluid passage.

[0006]

[0006] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure includes a pressure sensor comprising a transducer, a fitting, and a shock absorber. The fitting has a first end defining an opening and a threaded portion therein. The fitting is coupled to the transducer. The threaded portion includes an inner surface and a helical female thread positioned on the inner surface. The shock absorber is positioned within the opening of the threaded portion and includes a head portion, a shank portion, and a threaded portion. The head portion defines at least one notch. The shank portion is attached to the head portion and defines the shank diameter. The threaded portion is attached to the shank portion and includes a helical male thread wound around a central shaft. The helical male thread defines the thread diameter, and the central shaft defines the central shaft diameter. The shank diameter, thread diameter, and central shaft diameter are determined such that when the shock absorber is attached to the fitting, the notch, the shank portion, and the threaded portion define at least one fluid passage.

[0007]

[0007] A further aspect of the present disclosure includes a method for purging air from a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor includes a transducer and a fitting coupled to the transducer. The method includes providing a pressure sensor comprising the transducer and the fitting. The fitting has a first end defining an opening and a threaded portion therein. The threaded portion includes an inner surface and a helical female thread disposed on the inner surface. The method further includes filling the threaded portion of the fitting with fluid. The method further includes inserting a buffer into the threaded portion. The buffer includes a head portion, a shank portion, and a threaded portion. The shank portion is attached to the head portion. The head portion defines a notch. The shank portion defines a shank diameter. The threaded portion is attached to the shank portion and includes a helical male thread wound around a central shaft. The helical male thread defines a thread diameter, and the central shaft defines a central shaft diameter. The shank diameter, thread diameter, and central shaft diameter are determined such that when the shock absorber is inserted into the fitting, the notch, shank portion, and thread portion define at least one fluid passage.

[0008]

[0008] A further aspect of the present disclosure includes a method for reducing pressure spikes in a transducer. This method includes coupling a pressure sensor to a fluid system. The pressure sensor includes a transducer, a fitting coupled to the transducer, and a buffer disposed within the fitting. The fitting has a first end defining an opening and a threaded portion therein. The threaded portion includes an inner surface and a helical female thread disposed on the inner surface. The buffer includes a head portion, a shank portion, and a threaded portion. The shank portion is attached to the head portion, and the head portion defines a notch. The shank portion defines a shank diameter. The threaded portion is attached to the shank portion and includes a helical male thread wound around a central shaft. The helical male thread defines a thread diameter, and the central shaft defines a central shaft diameter. The shank diameter, thread diameter, and central shaft diameter are determined such that when the buffer is inserted into the fitting, the notch, shank portion, and thread portion define at least one fluid passage. This method further includes directing the fluid flow into at least one fluid passage. This method further includes measuring the pressure of the fluid flow with a pressure sensor. The at least one fluid passage reduces pressure spikes in the fluid flow.

[0009]

[0009] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure includes a method for mounting a pressure sensor to a fluid system. The pressure sensor includes a transducer and a fitting coupled to the transducer. The method includes providing a pressure sensor comprising a transducer and a fitting. The fitting has a first end defining an opening and a threaded portion therein. The threaded portion includes an inner surface and a helical female thread disposed on the inner surface. The method further includes filling the threaded portion of the fitting with fluid. The method further includes inserting a buffer into the threaded portion. The buffer includes a head portion, a shank portion, and a threaded portion. The shank portion is attached to the head portion, and the head portion defines a notch. The shank portion defines a shank diameter. The threaded portion is attached to the shank portion. The threaded portion includes a helical male thread wound around a central shaft. The helical male thread defines a thread diameter, and the central shaft defines a central shaft diameter. The shank diameter, thread diameter, and central shaft diameter are determined such that when the buffer is inserted into the fitting, the notch, shank portion, and thread portion define at least one fluid passage. This method further includes coupling a pressure sensor to the fluid system.

[0010]

[0010] Various improvements to the features mentioned in relation to the above embodiments exist. Further features may be incorporated into the above embodiments. These improvements and additional features may exist individually or in any combination. For example, the various features discussed below in relation to any of the illustrated embodiments may be incorporated individually or in any combination into any of the above embodiments. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a side view of an example vehicle. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a pressure sensor used in the vehicle shown. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of a pressure sensor used in a vehicle. [Figure 4] Figure 2 is a side view of the buffer used in the pressure sensor shown. [Figure 5] Figure 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of the pressure sensor shown. [Figure 6] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the end of a fitting used in the pressure sensor shown. [Figure 7] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the end of the joint shown. [Figure 8] Figure 2 shows a plot of pressure measured by the pressure sensor. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a method for purging air from a converter. [Figure 10] This is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a method for reducing pressure spikes within a transducer. [Figure 11] This is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method for attaching a transducer to a fluid system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012]

[0022] Certain features of various embodiments are shown in some drawings and not in others, for convenience only. Any feature in any drawing may be referenced and / or claimed in combination with any feature in any other drawing.

[0013]

[0023] Unless otherwise specified, the drawings provided herein are intended to illustrate features of embodiments of the disclosure. These features are considered applicable to a wide variety of systems, including one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings are not intended to include all prior art features that are known to those skilled in the art as necessary for carrying out embodiments disclosed herein.

[0014]

[0024] Embodiments of systems and methods described herein include a pressure sensor including a buffer configured to reduce transient pressure spikes detected by the pressure sensor. Specifically, the pressure sensor further includes a transducer and a fitting coupled to the transducer. The fitting defines a threaded conduit configured to guide fluid into the transducer. The buffer includes a head and a threaded portion. When the buffer is attached to the fitting, the threaded portion and the threaded conduit define at least one fluid passage. The fluid passage is considerably smaller than the threaded conduit and has a considerably larger pressure drop than the threaded conduit. Thus, the fluid passage significantly reduces transient pressure spikes in the transducer, allowing the transducer to accurately measure the steady-state pressure of the fluid system. Thus, the buffer protects the transducer by reducing transient pressure spikes measured by the transducer. Furthermore, either the head of the buffer or the fitting defines one or more notches configured to guide fluid into the fluid passage.

[0015]

[0025] Figure 1 is a side view of the vehicle 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the vehicle 100 is an aircraft comprising a fuselage 102 and a wing structure 104 extending from the fuselage 102. The fuselage 102 and / or the wing structure 104 define an internal volume 106, and at least one fluid system 108 is located within the internal volume 106. Specifically, the fluid system 108 includes a plurality of pipes 110 configured to guide at least one fluid through the internal volume 106 to various parts of the vehicle 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid system 108 is a hydraulic fluid system configured to control the landing gear of the vehicle 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the hydraulic fluid is hydraulic oil. However, the fluid system 108 may be configured to guide any type of fluid and may be configured to control any part of the vehicle 100.

[0016]

[0026] Figure 2 is a schematic side view of the pressure sensor 200 for use with the fluid system 108. Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the pressure sensor 200. The pressure sensor 200 is configured to be coupled to the fluid system 108 and to detect the pressure of the fluid in the fluid system 108. The pressure sensor 200 includes a transducer 202, a fitting 204, and a buffer 206. The transducer 202 is a pressure transducer configured to detect the pressure of the fluid in the fluid system 108. Specifically, the transducer 202 is configured to detect the fluid pressure and convert the detected pressure into an electrical signal. The electrical signal is sent to an electronic system (not shown), typically a control system, for monitoring and controlling the fluid system 108. The transducer 202 detects the fluid pressure by the physical deformation of a diaphragm 208 within the transducer 202, and an electronic component 210 within the transducer 202 detects the deformation and sends an electrical signal to the electronic system (not shown) based on the deformation. The transducer 202 has a first end 212 and a second end 214. An electrical coupling 216 configured to transmit electrical signals to an electronic system is coupled to the second end 214 of the transducer 202.

[0017]

[0027] The fitting 204 is configured to connect the transducer 202 to the fluid system 108 and includes a first end 218 and a second end 220. The second end 220 of the fitting 204 is connected to the first end 212 of the transducer 202. In an exemplary embodiment, the fitting 204 includes a body 222 and a coupling 224. The coupling 224 is located at the second end 220 of the fitting 204 and is configured to connect the body 222 to the transducer 202. Specifically, the coupling 224 includes threads (not shown) configured to attach and hold the transducer 202 to the fitting 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling 224 is a hexagonal nut. However, the coupling 224 may be any fastener that connects the body 222 to the transducer 202. In an exemplary embodiment, the body 222 is a quick-connect fitting configured to quickly connect the transducer 202 to the fluid system 108. Specifically, the main body 222 is a cylindrical fitting including an outer surface 226 shaped so that a corresponding fitting (not shown) of the fluid system 108 can quickly connect fitting 204 to the fluid system 108. However, the main body 222 may be any type of fitting that enables the pressure sensor 200 to operate as described herein, including but not limited to threaded fittings. The first end 218 defines an outer groove 221, and a seal 223 surrounds fitting 204 and is located within the outer groove 221. The main body 222 defines a conduit 228 configured to guide fluid to the transducer 202. Specifically, the first end 218 of the main body 222 defines a first opening 230, and the second end 220 of the main body 222 defines a second opening (not shown). The conduit 228 extends from the first opening 230 to the second opening.

[0018]

[0028] The buffer 206 is disposed within the conduit 228 and is configured to reduce transient pressure spikes within the pressure sensor 200. Specifically, the buffer 206 is configured to attenuate the pressure exerted by the fluid within the fluid system 108 on the transducer 202 such that the maximum transient pressure spike within the fluid system 108 is not transmitted to the transducer 202. Specifically, as described below, the buffer 206 and the body portion 222 define at least one fluid flow path or attenuation conduits 232 and 233 (shown in FIG. 4) within the conduit 228. Since the fluid flow paths 232 and 233 are considerably smaller than the conduit 228, the transient pressure of the fluid within the fluid system 108 is reduced or attenuated before reaching the transducer 202. However, the fluid flow paths 232 and 233 are configured such that the steady-state pressure of the fluid within the fluid system 108 is accurately determined by the transducer 202. Thus, the buffer 206 reduces the transient pressure of the fluid within the fluid system 108 while accurately determining the steady-state pressure of the fluid within the fluid system 108.

[0019]

[0029] During operation, the transducer 202 is coupled to the fitting 204 and the buffer 206 is disposed within the conduit 228 of the fitting 204. The fitting 204 is coupled to the fluid system 108 such that fluid is directed to the fluid flow paths 232 and 233. While the buffer 206 reduces the transient pressure exerted by the fluid within the fluid system 108 and protects the transducer 202, the transducer 202 determines the pressure of the fluid within the fluid system 108.

[0020]

[0030] FIG. 4 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a buffer 206 for use in the pressure sensor 200 shown in FIG. 2. The buffer 206 includes a head portion 302, a shank portion 304, and a threaded portion 306. The head portion 302 includes a first end 308 and a second end 310, and defines a drive recess (not shown) at the first end 308 configured such that a tool (not shown), typically a screwdriver, can rotate the buffer 206. The shank portion 304 includes a first end 312 and a second end 314, and the first end 312 of the shank portion 304 is coupled to the second end 310 of the head portion 302. The shank portion 304 is a cylindrical shaft configured to couple the head portion 302 to the threaded portion 306. The shank portion 304 defines a shank diameter 316. The threaded portion 306 includes a first end 318 and a second end 320, and the first end 318 of the threaded portion 306 is coupled to the second end 314 of the shank portion 304. The threaded portion 306 further includes a central shaft 322 and a helical thread 324. The central shaft 322 defines a central shaft diameter 326 and has an outer surface 328. The helical thread 324 is a raised helical ridge wound around the outer surface 328 of the central shaft 322. The helical thread 324 defines a thread crest 330, a helical thread angle 332, a helical thread pitch 334, and a helical thread valley 335. The thread crest 330 defines a thread diameter 336, and the threaded portion 306 defines a thread length 338. The shank diameter 316 defines the helical thread valley 335 between adjacent portions of the helical thread 324. The shank diameter 316 and the thread diameter 336 are determined such that when the buffer 206 is attached to the pressure sensor 200, the shank portion 304 and the threaded portion 306 define fluid flow paths 232 and 233.

[0021]

[0031] As shown in Figure 2, in an exemplary embodiment, the buffer 206 is positioned within the conduit 228 such that the second end 310 of the head portion 302 is coplanar with the first end 218 of the joint 204. Thus, one or more notches 414 (shown in Figure 5), 502 (shown in Figure 6) are defined on at least one of the second end 310 of the head portion 302 or the first end 218 of the joint 204, respectively, to guide the fluid into the fluid passages 232 and 233. Specifically, as shown in Figure 5, the notch 414 is defined on the second end 310 of the head portion 302 and is configured to guide the fluid into the fluid passages 232 and 233. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the notch 502 is defined at the first end 218 of the joint 204 and is configured to guide the fluid into the fluid passages 232 and 233, and to the pressure sensor 200.

[0022]

[0032] Figure 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of the pressure sensor 200 shown in Figure 2. The conduit 228 includes an inner surface 402 and a helical thread 404 located on the inner surface 402. The helical thread 404 defines the inner thread diameter 406 and the outer thread diameter 408. The helical thread 404 defines the helical thread pitch 405, the helical thread angle 407, and the helical thread length 409. The conduit 228 also defines a threadless portion 410 which defines a threadless diameter 412. The helical thread 404 is configured to receive the threaded portion 306 of the buffer 206, and the threadless portion 410 is configured to receive the shank portion 304 of the buffer 206. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one notch 414 is defined at the second end 310 of the head portion 302, as described above. In alternative embodiments, multiple notches 414 may be defined at the second end 310 of the head portion 302, or only notches 502 may be used. In the illustrated embodiment, the notches 414 are rectangular notches extending radially inward toward the shank portion 304. The notches 414, shank portion 304, unthreaded portion 410, helical female threads 404, helical male thread valleys 335, and helical male threads 324 are configured to define fluid passages 232 and 233.

[0023]

[0033] Specifically, the notch 414, shank portion 304, unthreaded portion 410, helical female thread 404, helical male thread valley 335, and helical male thread 324 are configured to define a first fluid passage 232 and a second fluid passage 233. The first fluid passage 232 is defined by the notch 414, shank portion 304, unthreaded portion 410, helical female thread 404, and helical male thread valley 335 so that the first fluid passage 232 is located within the helical male thread valley 335. The second fluid passage 233 is defined by the notch 414, shank portion 304, unthreaded portion 410, and helical male thread 324 so that the second fluid passage 233 is located at the crest portion 330. In the illustrated embodiment, the notch 414, shank portion 304, unthreaded portion 410, helical female thread 404, helical male thread valley 335, and helical male thread 324 define the first fluid passage 232 and the second fluid passage 233, respectively, so that the first fluid passage 232 and the second fluid passage 233 have a double helix configuration around the central shaft 322. The two fluid passages provide a redundant path in case one of the first fluid passage 232 or the second fluid passage 233 becomes blocked.

[0024]

[0034] More specifically, the notch 414 and the first end 218 of the fitting 204 define the inlets 416 of the fluid passages 232 and 233. The shank portion 304 and the unthreaded portion 410 define the second portions 417 of the fluid passages 232 and 233. Specifically, the unthreaded diameter 412 is greater than the shank diameter 316, and the volume between the shank portion 304 and the unthreaded portion 410 defines the second portions 417 of the fluid passages 232 and 233. The helical female thread 404 and the helical male thread 324 define the threaded portions 418 of the fluid passages 232 and 233. Specifically, the inner thread diameter 406 is greater than the central shaft diameter 326, and the outer thread diameter 408 is greater than the thread diameter 336. The helical male thread angle 332 roughly coincides with the helical female thread angle 407, and the helical male thread pitch 334 roughly coincides with the helical female thread pitch 405. Therefore, the volume between the inner thread diameter 406 and the central shaft diameter 326, and the volume between the outer thread diameter 408 and the thread diameter 336 define the threaded portions 418 of the fluid passages 232 and 233. As shown in Figure 5, the fluid passages 232 and 233 have a volume considerably smaller than that of the conduit 228.

[0025]

[0035] During operation, the fluid is guided from the fluid system 108 to the inlets 416 of the fluid channels 232 and 233, and the inlets 416 of the fluid channels 232 and 233 guide the fluid to the second portions 417 of the fluid channels 232 and 233. The second portions 417 of the fluid channels 232 and 233 then guide the fluid to the threaded portions 418 of the fluid channels 232 and 233, and the threaded portions 418 guide the fluid to the transducer 202. As shown in Figure 5, the fluid channels 232 and 233 have a considerably smaller volume than the conduit 228 and provide greater resistance to the flow through the fluid channels 232 and 233 than to the flow through the conduit 228, which lacks the buffer 206. As the resistance to the fluid flow increases, the pressure drop through the fluid channels 232 and 233 also increases. The increased pressure drop through fluid channels 232 and 233 reduces transient pressure spikes within fluid channels 232 and 233 by lowering the fluid pressure as the fluid flows through them. However, fluid channels 232 and 233 allow for static fluid within them, and therefore the steady-state pressure of the fluid is transmitted to the transducer 202 through fluid channels 232 and 233. Thus, fluid channels 232 and 233 reduce transient pressure spikes while transmitting the steady-state pressure to the transducer 202.

[0026]

[0036] In an exemplary embodiment, the helical thread length 409 and the thread length 338 are approximately equal. When the buffer 206 is fully mounted to the fitting 204, the threaded portion 306 is also fully mounted to the helical thread 404. However, the buffer 206 may be partially mounted to the fitting 204 so that the threaded portion 306 is partially mounted to the helical thread 404, thereby shortening the fluid passages 232 and 233. Shortening the fluid passages 232 and 233 reduces the resistance to the fluid flow through the fluid passages 232 and 233, and thus reduces the pressure drop through the fluid passages 232 and 233. Therefore, by adjusting the position of the buffer 206 within the fitting 204, the pressure drop in the fluid passages 232 and 233 is adjusted, and the range of transient pressure spikes transmitted in the fluid passages 232 and 233 is increased. Therefore, the range of transient pressure measured by the transducer 202 can be adjusted by adjusting the position of the buffer 206 within the joint 204, thereby protecting the transducer 202.

[0027]

[0037] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the first end 218 of the fitting 204 used in the pressure sensor 200 shown in Figure 2. Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the first end 218 of the fitting 204 shown in Figure 6. One or more notches 502 are defined in the first end 218 of the fitting 204, rather than, in addition to, the notch 414 defined in the second end 310 of the head portion 302. In exemplary embodiments, multiple notches 502 are defined in the first end 218 of the fitting 204. In illustrated embodiments, the notches 502 are radially extending channels defined in the first end 218 of the fitting 204, configured to guide fluid into fluid passages 232 and 233. However, the notches 502 may have any configuration in the first end 218 of the fitting 204 that allows the pressure sensor 200 to operate as described herein. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the notch 502 defines a V-shape and has a notch angle 504 and a notch depth 506. The notch 502 and the second end 310 of the head portion 302 define an additional or alternative inlet 508 for the fluid passages 232 and 233. During operation, the fluid is guided to the inlets 508 of the fluid passages 232 and 233, which in turn guide the fluid to the second portion 417 and the threaded portion 418 of the fluid passages 232 and 233, as described above.

[0028]

[0038] Figure 8 is a plot 700 of pressure measured by the pressure sensor 200 shown in Figure 2 during exemplary operation of the fluid system 108. The plot 700 includes an x-axis 702 showing units of time and a y-axis 704 showing units of pressure. A first curve 706 plots the pressure measured by the pressure sensor without the buffer 206, and a second curve 708 plots the pressure measured by the pressure sensor 200 with the buffer 206. The first curve 706 includes a first transient pressure region 710 and a first steady-state pressure region 712, and the second curve 708 includes a second transient pressure region 714 and a second steady-state pressure region 716. The first transient pressure region 710 has a considerably higher peak pressure, i.e., transient pressure spike, 718, than the second transient pressure region 714, while the first steady-state pressure region 712 has a pressure approximately equal to that of the second steady-state pressure region 716. Therefore, while accurately measuring the steady-state pressure, the buffer 206 reduces the transient pressure spike 718 measured by the transducer 202. By reducing the peak transient pressure to a value lower than a predetermined pressure value that does not damage the transducer 202, the transducer 202 is protected and its lifespan is extended.

[0029]

[0039] The pressure sensor 200 is attached to the fluid system 108 by first providing the pressure sensor 200, which includes a transducer 202, a fitting 204, and a buffer 206. The second end 220 of the fitting 204 is coupled to the first end 212 of the transducer 202. The conduit 228 is filled with a fluid, such as the same fluid used in the fluid system 108, to purge air from the conduit 228 and protect the transducer 202. The buffer 206 is positioned within the conduit 228 by rotating the buffer 206 such that a helical male thread 324 engages with a helical female thread 404 to form fluid passages 232 and 233. The fluid used to purge air from the conduit 228 occupies the fluid passages 232 and 233. The position of the buffer 206 within the conduit 228 is adjusted to regulate the pressure drop in the fluid passages 232 and 233. The coupling 204 is attached to a corresponding coupling (not shown) of the fluid system 108 and connects the transducer 202 and the pressure sensor 200 to fluid communication with the fluid system 108.

[0030]

[0040] Figure 9 is a flow diagram of an example of method 800 for purging air from a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor includes a transducer and a fitting coupled to the transducer. Method 800 includes providing a pressure sensor including the transducer and the fitting. The fitting has a first end defining an opening and a threaded portion therein. The threaded portion includes an inner surface and a helical female thread positioned on the inner surface. Method 800 further includes filling the threaded portion of the fitting with fluid 802. Method 800 further includes inserting a buffer into the threaded portion 804. The buffer includes a head portion, a shank portion, and a threaded portion. The shank portion is attached to the head portion. The head portion defines a notch. The shank portion defines a shank diameter. The threaded portion is attached to the shank portion and includes a helical male thread wound around a central shaft. The helical male thread defines the thread diameter, and the central shaft defines the central shaft diameter. The shank diameter, thread diameter, and central shaft diameter are determined so that when the shock absorber is inserted into the fitting, the notch, shank, and thread define the fluid flow path.

[0031]

[0041] Figure 10 is a flow diagram of an example of a method 900 for reducing pressure spikes in a transducer. Method 900 includes coupling a pressure sensor to a fluid system 902. The pressure sensor includes a transducer, a fitting coupled to the transducer, and a buffer positioned within the fitting. The fitting has a first end defining an opening and a threaded portion therein. The threaded portion includes an inner surface and a helical female thread positioned on the inner surface. The buffer includes a head portion, a shank portion, and a threaded portion. The shank portion is attached to the head portion, and the head portion defines a notch. The shank portion defines a shank diameter. The threaded portion is attached to the shank portion and includes a helical male thread wound around a central shaft. The helical male thread defines a thread diameter, and the central shaft defines a central shaft diameter. The shank diameter, thread diameter, and central shaft diameter are determined such that the notch, shank portion, and thread portion define a fluid flow path when the buffer is inserted into the fitting. Method 900 further includes directing the fluid flow into the fluid flow path 904. Method 900 further includes measuring the pressure of the fluid flow with a pressure sensor 906. The fluid flow path reduces pressure spikes in the fluid flow.

[0032]

[0042] Figure 11 is a flow diagram of an example of a method 1000 for mounting a pressure sensor to a fluid system. The pressure sensor includes a transducer and a fitting coupled to the transducer. Method 1000 includes providing a pressure sensor including a transducer and a fitting. The fitting has a first end defining an opening and a threaded portion therein. The threaded portion includes an inner surface and a helical female thread positioned on the inner surface. Method 1000 further includes filling the threaded portion of the fitting with fluid, more specifically with the same fluid used in the fluid system 1002. Method 1000 further includes inserting a buffer into the threaded portion 1004. The buffer includes a head portion, a shank portion, and a threaded portion. The shank portion is attached to the head portion, which defines a notch. The shank portion defines a shank diameter. The threaded portion is attached to the shank portion. The threaded portion includes a helical male thread wound around a central shaft. The helical male thread defines the thread diameter, and the central shaft defines the central shaft diameter. The shank diameter, thread diameter, and central shaft diameter are determined such that the notch, shank portion, and thread portion define the fluid flow path when the buffer is inserted into the fitting. Method 1000 further includes coupling a pressure sensor to a fluid system 1006.

[0033]

[0043] The above examples of systems and methods described herein include a pressure sensor that includes a buffer configured to reduce transient pressure spikes detected by the pressure sensor. Specifically, the pressure sensor further includes a transducer and a fitting coupled to the transducer. The fitting defines a threaded conduit configured to guide fluid into the transducer. The buffer includes a head and a threaded portion. When the buffer is attached to the fitting, the threaded portion and the threaded conduit define a fluid passage. The fluid passage has a pressure drop that is considerably smaller than the threaded conduit and considerably larger than the threaded conduit. Thus, the fluid passage significantly reduces transient pressure spikes in the transducer, allowing the transducer to accurately measure the steady-state pressure of the fluid system. Thus, the buffer protects the transducer by reducing transient pressure spikes measured by the transducer. Furthermore, either the head of the buffer or the fitting defines one or more notches configured to guide fluid into the fluid passage.

[0034]

[0044] Furthermore, this disclosure includes examples provided in the following clauses.

[0035] Article 1 A shock absorber comprising: a head portion; a shank portion attached to the head portion, the shank portion defining the shank diameter; and a threaded portion attached to the shank portion, the threaded portion including a helical male thread wound around a central shaft, the helical male thread defining the thread diameter, the central shaft defining the central shaft diameter, and the shank diameter and thread diameter being such that when the shock absorber is attached to a pressure sensor, the shank portion and the threaded portion define at least one fluid passage.

[0036] Article 2 A buffer according to Clause 1, wherein the head portion defines a notch configured to direct the fluid flow into at least one fluid channel.

[0037] Article 3 A pressure sensor comprising a transducer; a fitting having a first end defining an opening and a threaded portion in the middle, the fitting being coupled to the transducer, the threaded portion including an inner surface and a helical female thread disposed on the inner surface, the first end further defining at least one notch; and a buffer disposed within the opening of the threaded portion, the buffer comprising a head portion; a shank portion attached to the head portion, the shank portion defining a shank diameter; and a threaded portion attached to the shank portion, the threaded portion including a helical male thread wound around a central shaft, the helical male thread defining a thread diameter, the central shaft defining a central shaft diameter, and the shank diameter, thread diameter, and central shaft diameter being such diameters that when the buffer is mounted to the fitting, the notch, the shank portion, and the threaded portion define at least one fluid passage.

[0038] Article 4 The pressure sensor of clause 3, wherein the first end defines one notch.

[0039] Article 5 The pressure sensor of clause 3, wherein the first end defines multiple notches.

[0040] Article 6 The pressure sensor in Clause 5 has multiple notches, which are multiple V-shaped notches.

[0041] Article 7 Multiple notches are multiple radially extending channels, as defined in clause 5 or 6 of the pressure sensor.

[0042] Article 8 A pressure sensor according to clause 3 or 4, wherein at least one notch is an inlet to at least one fluid passage.

[0043] Article 9 A pressure sensor according to any of the clauses 3 to 8, wherein the threaded portion defines an inner thread diameter and an outer thread diameter, and the outer thread diameter is greater than the thread diameter, such that the volume between the outer thread diameter and the thread diameter partially defines at least one fluid passage.

[0044] Clause 10 A pressure sensor according to any of the clauses 3 to 9, wherein the threaded portion defines a non-threaded portion and a non-threaded diameter, and the non-threaded diameter is greater than the shank diameter, such that the volume between the non-threaded diameter and the shank diameter partially defines at least one fluid passage.

[0045] Article 11 A pressure sensor comprising a converter; a fitting having a first end defining an opening and a threaded portion in the middle, wherein the threaded portion includes an inner surface and a helical female thread disposed on the inner surface; and a buffer disposed within the opening of the fitting, wherein the buffer comprises a head portion defining at least one notch; a shank portion attached to the head portion, the shank portion defining a shank diameter; and a threaded portion attached to the shank portion, wherein the threaded portion includes a helical male thread wound around a central shaft, the helical male thread defining a thread diameter, the central shaft defining a central shaft diameter, and the shank diameter, thread diameter, and central shaft diameter being such that when the buffer is attached to the fitting, the notch, the shank portion, and the threaded portion define at least one fluid passage.

[0046] Article 12 The pressure sensor according to clause 11, wherein the head portion defines multiple notches.

[0047] Article 13 A pressure sensor according to clause 11, wherein the head portion defines one notch.

[0048] Article 14 The pressure sensor in Clause 13 has a rectangular notch.

[0049] Article 15 A pressure sensor according to clause 13 or 14, wherein the notch extends radially inward toward the shank portion.

[0050] Article 16 A pressure sensor according to any of the clauses 11 to 15, wherein at least one notch is an inlet to at least one fluid passage.

[0051] Article 17 A pressure sensor according to any of the clauses 11 to 16, wherein the threaded portion defines an inner thread diameter and an outer thread diameter, and the outer thread diameter is greater than the thread diameter, such that the volume between the outer thread diameter and the thread diameter partially defines at least one fluid passage.

[0052] Article 18 A pressure sensor according to any of the clauses 11 to 17, wherein the threaded portion defines an unthreaded portion and an unthreaded diameter, and the unthreaded diameter is greater than the shank diameter such that the volume between the unthreaded diameter and the shank diameter partially defines at least one fluid passage.

[0053] Article 19 A method for purging air from a pressure sensor including a transducer and a fitting coupled to the transducer, comprising filling the threaded portion of the fitting with a fluid and inserting a buffer into the threaded portion, wherein the buffer includes a head portion, a shank portion, and a threaded portion, the head portion defining at least one notch, and the notch, shank portion, and threaded portion defining at least one fluid passage when the buffer is inserted into the fitting.

[0054] Article 20 A method for reducing pressure spikes in a transducer, comprising coupling a pressure sensor to a fluid system, the pressure sensor comprising a transducer, a fitting coupled to the transducer, and a buffer disposed within the fitting, the fitting having a threaded portion therein, and the buffer comprising a head portion, a shank portion, and a threaded portion, the head portion defining at least one notch, and the shank portion and threaded portion defining at least one fluid passage when the buffer is inserted into the fitting; directing the fluid flow into at least one fluid passage; and measuring the pressure of the fluid flow with the pressure sensor, wherein at least one fluid passage reduces pressure spikes in the fluid flow.

[0055] Article 21 The method of clause 20 wherein the head unit defines multiple notches.

[0056] Article 22 The method of clause 20, wherein the head portion defines one notch.

[0057] Article 23 The method of Clause 22, wherein the notch is a rectangular notch.

[0058] Article 24 The method of clause 22, wherein the notch extends radially inward toward the shank portion.

[0059] Article 25 In any way according to clauses 20 to 24, at least one notch is an inlet to at least one fluid passage.

[0060] Article 26 The method according to any of the clauses 20 to 25, wherein the threaded portion defines an inner thread diameter and an outer thread diameter, and the volume between the outer thread diameter and the thread diameter partially defines at least one fluid passage, wherein the outer thread diameter is greater than the thread diameter.

[0061] Article 27 Any method of clauses 20 to 26, wherein the threaded portion defines an unthreaded portion and an unthreaded diameter, and the unthreaded diameter is greater than the shank diameter, such that the volume between the unthreaded diameter and the shank diameter partially defines at least one fluid passage.

[0062] Article 28 A method for attaching a pressure sensor, including a transducer and a fitting coupled to the transducer, to a fluid system, comprising: filling the threaded portion of the fitting with fluid; inserting a buffer into the threaded portion, the buffer comprising a head portion, a shank portion, and a threaded portion, the head portion defining at least one notch, and the notch, shank portion, and threaded portion defining at least one fluid passage when the buffer is inserted into the fitting; and coupling the pressure sensor to the fluid system.

[0063]

[0045] The systems and methods described herein are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, and rather, the components of the systems and / or steps of the methods can be used separately and independently of other components and / or steps described herein.

[0064]

[0046] Certain features of various examples of this disclosure are shown in some drawings and not in others, but this is for convenience only. In accordance with the principles of this disclosure, any feature of one drawing may be referenced and / or claimed in combination with any feature of any other drawing.

[0065]

[0047] When used herein, an element or step described in the singular and beginning with the word “a” or “an” should be understood not to exclude multiple elements or steps unless it is expressly stated that they are excluded. Furthermore, any reference to “one example” or “example” in this disclosure is not intended to be construed as excluding the existence of additional examples that similarly incorporate the described features.

[0066]

[0048] This written description uses examples to disclose various examples, including best modes, so that a person skilled in the art can implement these examples, including making and using any device or system, and performing any incorporated method. The scope of the patent is defined by the claims and may include other examples that a person skilled in the art can conceive of. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that are not different from the language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the language of the claims.

Claims

1. Head portion (302), a shank portion (304) attached to the head portion (302), the shank portion (304) defining a shank diameter (316); and a threaded portion (306) attached to the shank portion (304), the threaded portion (306) including an external helical thread (324) wound around a central shaft (322), the external helical thread (324) defining a thread diameter (336), and the central shaft (322) defining a central shaft diameter (326); wherein the shank diameter (316) and the thread diameter (336) are determined such that the shank portion (304) and the thread portion (306) define at least one fluid flow path (232, 233) when the shock absorber (206) is installed in a pressure sensor (200).

2. 2. The shock absorber (206) of claim 1, wherein the head portion (302) defines a notch (414) configured to direct fluid flow into the at least one fluid flow path (232, 233).

3. A converter (202), a fitting (204) having a first end (218) defining an opening (230) and a threaded portion (306) therein, said fitting (204) coupled to said transducer (202), said threaded portion (306) including an inner surface (402) and an internal helical thread (404) disposed on said inner surface (402), said first end (218) further defining at least one notch (414); and a bumper (206) disposed within the opening (230) of the threaded portion (306); A pressure sensor (200) comprising: Head portion (302), a shank portion (304) attached to the head portion (302), the shank portion (304) defining a shank diameter (316); and a threaded portion (306) attached to the shank portion (304), the threaded portion (306) including an external helical thread (324) wound around a central shaft (322), the external helical thread (324) defining a thread diameter (336), and the central shaft (322) defining a central shaft diameter (326); wherein the shank diameter (316), the thread diameter (336), and the central shaft diameter (326) are determined such that the notch (414), the shank portion (304), and the threaded portion (306) define at least one fluid flow path (232, 233) when the buffer (206) is installed in the fitting (204).

4. 4. The pressure sensor (200) of claim 3, wherein the first end (218) defines a notch (502).

5. 4. The pressure sensor (200) of claim 3, wherein the first end (218) defines a plurality of notches (502).

6. 6. The pressure sensor (200) of claim 5, wherein the plurality of notches (414) are a plurality of V-shaped notches (502).

7. 7. The pressure sensor (200) of claim 5 or 6, wherein the plurality of notches (414) are a plurality of radially extending channels (502).

8. 8. The pressure sensor (200) of any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein the at least one notch (414) is an inlet to the at least one fluid flow path (232, 233).

9. 9. The pressure sensor (200) of claim 3, wherein the threaded portion (306) defines an inner thread diameter (336) and an outer thread diameter (408), and the outer thread diameter (408) is larger than the outer thread diameter (336) such that a volume (232, 233) between the outer thread diameter (408) and the outer thread diameter (336) partially defines the at least one fluid flow path (232, 233).

10. 10. The pressure sensor (200) of claim 3, wherein the threaded portion (306) defines an unthreaded portion (410) and an unthreaded diameter (412), and the unthreaded diameter (412) is larger than the shank diameter (316) such that a volume (417) between the unthreaded diameter (412) and the shank diameter (316) partially defines the at least one fluid flow path (232, 233).

11. A converter (202), a fitting (204) having a first end (218) defining an opening (230) and a threaded portion (306) therein, said threaded portion (306) including an inner surface (402) and an internal helical thread (404) disposed on said inner surface (402); a shock absorber (206) disposed within the opening (230) of the coupling (204); A pressure sensor (200) comprising: a head portion (302) defining at least one notch (414); a shank portion (304) attached to the head portion (302), the shank portion (304) defining a shank diameter (316); and a threaded portion (306) attached to the shank portion (304), the threaded portion (306) including an external helical thread (324) wound around a central shaft (322), the external helical thread (324) defining a thread diameter (336), and the central shaft (322) defining a central shaft diameter (326); wherein the shank diameter (316), the thread diameter (336), and the central shaft diameter (326) are determined such that the notch (414), the shank portion (304), and the threaded portion (306) define at least one fluid flow path (232, 233) when the buffer (206) is installed in the fitting (204).

12. 12. The pressure sensor (200) of claim 11, wherein the head portion (302) defines a plurality of notches (414).

13. 12. The pressure sensor (200) of claim 11, wherein the head portion (302) defines a notch (414).

14. 14. The pressure sensor (200) of claim 13, wherein the notch (414) is a rectangular notch (414).

15. 15. The pressure sensor (200) of claim 13 or 14, wherein the notch (414) extends radially inward toward the shank portion (304).

16. 16. The pressure sensor (200) of any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the at least one notch (414) is an inlet to the at least one fluid flow path (232, 233).

17. 17. The pressure sensor (200) of any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein the threaded portion (306) defines a thread inner diameter (336) and a thread outer diameter (408), the thread outer diameter (408) being larger than the thread diameter (336) such that a volume portion (232, 233) between the thread outer diameter (408) and the thread diameter (336) partially defines the at least one fluid flow path (232, 233).

18. 18. The pressure sensor (200) of any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein the threaded portion (306) defines an unthreaded portion (410) and an unthreaded diameter (412), the unthreaded diameter (412) being larger than the shank diameter (316) such that a volume (417) between the unthreaded diameter (412) and the shank diameter (316) partially defines the at least one fluid flow path (232, 233).

19. 1. A method (800) for purging air from a pressure sensor (200) including a transducer (202) and a fitting (204) coupled to the transducer (202), the method (800) comprising: filling (802) the threads (306) of the fitting (204) with a fluid; inserting (804) a bumper (206) including a head portion (302), a shank portion (304), and a threaded portion (306), the head portion (302) defining at least one notch (414), into the threaded portion (306); wherein when the buffer (206) is inserted into the fitting (204), the notch (414), the shank portion (304), and the threaded portion (306) define at least one fluid flow path (232, 233).

20. A method (900) for reducing pressure spikes in a transducer (202), the method (900) comprising: coupling (902) the pressure sensor (200) to a fluid system, the pressure sensor (200) including a transducer (202), a fitting (204) coupled to the transducer (202), and a snubber (206) disposed within the fitting (204), the fitting (204) having a threaded portion (306) therein, the snubber (206) including a head portion (302), a shank portion (304), and the threaded portion (306), the head portion (302) defining at least one notch (414), the shank portion (304) and the threaded portion (306) defining at least one fluid flow path (232, 233) when the snubber (206) is inserted into the fitting (204); directing (904) a fluid flow into the at least one fluid flow path (232, 233); measuring (906) the pressure of the flow of the fluid with the pressure sensor (200); wherein the at least one fluid flow path reduces pressure spikes in the flow of the fluid.

21. 21. The method (900) of claim 20, wherein the head portion (302) defines a plurality of notches (414).

22. 21. The method (900) of claim 20, wherein the head portion (302) defines a notch (414).

23. 23. The method (900) of claim 22, wherein the notch (414) is a rectangular notch (414).

24. 23. The method (900) of claim 22, wherein the notch (414) extends radially inward toward the shank portion (304).

25. 25. The method (900) of any one of claims 20 to 24, wherein the at least one notch (414) is an inlet to the at least one fluid flow path (232, 233).

26. 26. The method (900) of any one of claims 20 to 25, wherein the threaded portion (306) defines an inner thread diameter (336) and an outer thread diameter (408), the outer thread diameter (408) being larger than the outer thread diameter (336) such that a volume between the outer thread diameter (408) and the outer thread diameter (336) partially defines the at least one fluid flow path (232, 233).

27. 27. The method (900) of any one of claims 20 to 26, wherein the threaded portion (306) defines an unthreaded portion (410) and an unthreaded diameter (412), the unthreaded diameter (412) being larger than the shank diameter (316) such that a volume between the unthreaded diameter (412) and the shank diameter (316) partially defines the at least one fluid flow path (232, 233).

28. A method (1000) of installing a pressure sensor (200) in a fluid system, the pressure sensor (200) including a transducer (202) and a fitting (204) coupled to the transducer (202), comprising: filling (1002) the threads (306) of the fitting (204) with a fluid; inserting (1006) a bumper (206) into the threaded portion (306), the bumper including a head portion (302), a shank portion (304), and a threaded portion (306), the head portion defining at least one notch, the notch (414), the shank portion (304), and the threaded portion (306) defining at least one fluid flow path (232, 233) when the bumper (206) is inserted into the fitting (204); coupling (1008) the pressure sensor (200) to a fluid system; A method (1000) comprising:

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