Modular coriolis flowmeter

Abstract

The invention relates to a modular coriolis flowmeter (1) for determining a process variable of a flowable medium, comprising: - a measuring tube module (4), comprising: at least one measuring tube (3i) for conducting the medium; a primary exciter component (36), in particular a passive primary exciter component (36); a primary sensor component (38i), in particular a passive, primary sensor component (38i); a connection body (35), wherein the connection body (35) is connected, in particular integrally connected, to the at least one measuring tube (3i), - a carrier module (16), comprising: a receptacle (23) into which the measuring tube module (4) can be introduced; a secondary exciter component (13), in particular an active secondary exciter component (13); a secondary sensor component (14i), in particular an active, secondary sensor component (14i); a fastening device (2) for removably fastening the measuring tube module (4) in the carrier module (16), in particular in the receptacle (23), wherein a connection between the measuring tube module (4) and the carrier module (16) is effected via the connection body (35), characterised in that the fastening device (2) is configured to produce, when the measuring tube module (4) is fastened in the carrier module (16), at least one plastic deformation (100) in a connection body fastening portion (X) of the connection body (35).

Description

[0001] Modular Coriolis flowmeter

[0002] The invention relates to a modular Coriolis flowmeter for determining a process variable of a flowable medium.

[0003] Field devices for process measurement technology with a vibration-type sensor, and in particular Coriolis flowmeters, have been known for many years. The basic design of such a measuring device is described, for example, in EP 1 807 681 A1, whereby the design of a generic field device is fully incorporated by reference in this document within the scope of the present invention.

[0004] Typically, Coriolis flowmeters have at least one or more oscillating measuring tubes, which can be set into vibration by a vibration exciter. These vibrations are transmitted along the length of the tube and are varied by the type of fluid contained in the measuring tube and its flow velocity. A vibration sensor, or in particular two spaced-apart vibration sensors, can record the varied vibrations at another location in the measuring tube in the form of one or more measurement signals. An evaluation unit can then determine the mass flow, viscosity, and / or density of the medium from the measurement signal(s).

[0005] The measuring tubes of conventional Coriolis flowmeters are usually connected to the housing via a distributor piece. The three components mentioned are welded together. However, Coriolis flowmeters with replaceable disposable measuring tube assemblies are also known. For example, WO 2011 / 099989 A1 teaches a method for producing a monolithic measuring tube assembly of a Coriolis flowmeter with curved measuring tubes. The measuring tube body of the respective measuring tubes is first formed from a solid polymer, and the channel for guiding the flowable medium is then machined into the measuring tube. WO 2011 / 099989 A1, like US Pat. No. 10,209,113 B2, teaches a connecting body designed to accommodate and support a replaceable measuring tube module comprising thin-walled plastic tubes.The measuring tube module is attached to a support device equipped with the necessary exciters and sensors using a connecting device.

[0006] The mechanical properties of the measuring tube modules can vary greatly due to manufacturing, but the specific parameters such as calibration factor and zero point of the modular measuring tube module must be reproducible in every application.

[0007] The invention is based on the object of providing a modular Coriolis flowmeter with a reproducible zero point.

[0008] The object is achieved by the modular Coriolis flowmeter according to claim 1 and the method for commissioning according to claim 15.

[0009] The modular Coriolis flowmeter according to the invention for determining a process variable of a flowable medium comprises:

[0010] - a measuring tube module comprising:

[0011] - at least one measuring tube for conveying the medium;

[0012] - a primary pathogen component, particularly a passive one;

[0013] - a primary sensor component, in particular a passive one;

[0014] - a connecting body, wherein the connecting body is connected to the at least one measuring tube, in particular by a material bond,

[0015] - a carrier module comprising:

[0016] - a receptacle into which the measuring tube module can be inserted,

[0017] - a secondary pathogen component, particularly an active one,

[0018] - a secondary sensor component, in particular an active one,

[0019] - a fastening device for detachably fastening the measuring tube module in the carrier module, in particular in the receptacle, wherein a connection between the measuring tube module and the carrier module is made via the connecting body, characterized in that the fastening device is designed to produce at least one plastic deformation of the connecting body in a connecting body fastening section when the measuring tube module is fastened in the carrier module.

[0020] One advantage of the modular Coriolis flowmeter is the interchangeability of the measuring tube module and the reusability of the carrier module, which typically houses the measurement and evaluation electronics for operating the Coriolis flowmeter and evaluating the measurement signals, as well as a display for outputting the measurement results. This makes the modular Coriolis flowmeter ideal for single-use applications in bio- and / or pharmaceutical processing plants.

[0021] The individual modules of the modular Coriolis flowmeter can be connected to each other via positive and / or non-positive connections, which can be easily and, above all, tool-free removed by the operator of the modular Coriolis flowmeter. For this purpose, a fastening device is provided on the support module, which is designed to releasably secure the measuring tube module in the holder.

[0022] The connecting body is the interface between the measuring tube(s) and the support module or holder. The measuring tube module is secured via the fastening device, which – when fixed – applies a force to the measuring tube module, in particular the connecting body, in the direction of the holder. Suitable fastening devices include, for example, the fastening devices taught in PCT / EP2021 / 083119 or DE 102020131563.5. Reference is made to both of these patents in their entirety.

[0023] The goal of plastic deformation is to ensure a stable and reproducible zero point. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0024] One embodiment provides that the plastic deformation is formed as a depression in the connecting body and has a penetration depth of between 0.01 and 0.4 millimeters.

[0025] One embodiment provides that the at least one plastic deformation is set such that a deviation of a natural frequency of the at least one measuring tube after the plastic deformation is less than 0.1%, in particular less than 0.01%, from the natural frequency of the at least one measuring tube before the plastic deformation.

[0026] The elastic limit for steel is typically around 200 MPa. Once this mechanical stress is exceeded, the steel body deforms irreversibly, resulting in plastic deformation.

[0027] One embodiment provides that the plastic deformation comprises a curvature, wherein the connecting body has a surface with two points that are maximally spaced from each other in the longitudinal direction of the measuring tube module, wherein an offset of the two points in the longitudinal direction of the measuring tube module assumes a value between 0.1 and 0.5 millimeters.

[0028] One embodiment provides that the plastic deformation comprises a curvature having a radius of curvature lying between 1225 mm and 6125 mm.

[0029] One embodiment provides that the at least one plastic deformation is designed as an embossing to prove use of the measuring tube module.

[0030] One embodiment provides that fastening with the fastening device results in at least a first plastic deformation and a second plastic deformation, wherein the first plastic deformation is arranged on an upper side of the connecting body, wherein the second plastic deformation is arranged on an underside of the

[0031] connecting body is arranged.

[0032] The bottom side is directed toward the primary sensor and excitation components. The ends of at least one measuring tube protrude from the top side and are connected to a process line or process connection.

[0033] One embodiment provides that a form of the first plastic deformation differs from a form of the second plastic deformation.

[0034] One embodiment provides that the measuring tube module, in the arranged state, rests with the connecting body on a support surface of the receptacle, wherein the second plastic deformation at least partially assumes the shape of at least one section of the support surface.

[0035] One embodiment provides that the connecting body further has a further plastic deformation which originates from a calibration process.

[0036] One embodiment provides that the further plastic deformation serves as an imprint to prove calibration.

[0037] This has the advantage that the installer can check whether the measuring tube module has already been calibrated.

[0038] One embodiment provides that the connecting body has a connecting body contact section which, when the at least one measuring tube is excited with a mechanical vibration in the connecting body contact section, has a deflection of less than 1%, in particular less than 0.1%, and preferably less than 0.01%, relative to a maximum deflection of the at least one measuring tube, wherein the connecting body fastening section lies in the connecting body contact section.

[0039] One embodiment provides that the mechanical vibration has an oscillation frequency of less than 1000 Hz and greater than 80 Hz, in particular less than 750 Hz and greater than 150 Hz, and preferably less than 500 Hz and greater than 200 Hz. One embodiment provides that the modular Coriolis flowmeter according to one of the preceding claims further comprises:

[0040] - a connecting body for detachably connecting the measuring tube module to a process line; wherein the connecting body and the connecting body are formed at least in two parts, wherein the connecting body and the connecting body are designed such that mechanical contact between the connecting body and the connecting body occurs, in particular exclusively, outside the connecting body fastening section.

[0041] The connector body is responsible for connecting at least one measuring tube to the process line. Therefore, if more than one measuring tube is used, the connector body can be a distributor. Alternatively, the connector body can function as a connection adapter.

[0042] The connecting body does not necessarily have to be solid. Especially for molded parts, it is advantageous if the molded part is hollow, at least in sections, and has a substantially constant wall thickness. The cross-sectional area of ​​the connecting body is therefore defined by the area enclosed by an outer border of the connecting body. This corresponds to the projection area, which results from the orthogonal projection of all cross-sectional planes that pass through the connecting body.

[0043] One embodiment provides that the connecting body is deformed exclusively elastically or not at all when fastened with the fastening device.

[0044] One embodiment provides that the connecting body has at least a first contact surface which is in contact with the connecting body contact section.

[0045] One embodiment provides that the fastening device comprises a fastening component, in particular an eccentric which is cylindrical in sections, wherein the fastening component, in particular the eccentric, has at least one elevation which is designed such that when the measuring tube module is fastened in the carrier module, the plastic deformation takes place through the at least one elevation.

[0046] One embodiment provides that the fastening component, in particular the eccentric, has at least two elevations which are designed such that when the measuring tube module is fastened in the carrier module, the plastic deformation takes place through the at least two elevations.

[0047] The method according to the invention for commissioning a modular Coriolis flowmeter, which comprises a measuring tube module with at least one measuring tube for guiding the medium, a primary excitation component, in particular a passive primary sensor component, and a connecting body, which is connected to the at least one measuring tube, in particular by a material fit, and a carrier module with a receptacle into which the measuring tube module can be inserted, a secondary excitation component, in particular an active secondary sensor component, and a fastening device for releasably fastening the measuring tube module in the carrier module, in particular in the receptacle, wherein a connection between the measuring tube module and the carrier module is made via the connecting body, in particular a modular Coriolis flowmeter according to the invention, comprises the method steps:

[0048] - Inserting the measuring tube module into the holder of the carrier module;

[0049] - Fastening the measuring tube module by means of the fastening device in such a way that the measuring tube module is arranged stationary in the holder and in such a way that the connecting body undergoes plastic deformation.

[0050] One embodiment provides that the connecting body is free from plastic deformation before the measuring tube module is inserted into the receptacle.

[0051] One embodiment provides that the connecting body undergoes a plastic deformation prior to the insertion of the measuring tube module into the receptacle, which deformation originates from a previous calibration process. The invention is explained in more detail with reference to the following figures. They show:

[0052] Fig. 1a-c : three perspective views of a modular Coriolis flowmeter;

[0053] Fig. 2a-c: three perspective views of a modular Coriolis flowmeter with a mounting device;

[0054] Fig. 3 : a perspective view of a connecting body;

[0055] Fig. 4: a CFD-simulated, plastically deformed measuring tube module in a holder of a carrier module;

[0056] Fig. 5a-c: three views of a connecting body with plastic deformations; and

[0057] Fig. 6 : a side view of a fastening component of an alternative embodiment of the fastening device.

[0058] Fig. 1a-c each show a perspective view of a modular Coriolis flowmeter 1 for determining a process variable of a flowable medium. The views illustrate a three-stage assembly and fastening process. The process variables are typically the mass flow, density, and / or viscosity of the medium. The modular Coriolis flowmeter 1 comprises a measuring tube module 4 and a support module 16. The measuring tube module 4 is designed as a replaceable disposable part, while the support module 16 is configured and used as a reusable part. For this purpose, the measuring tube module 4 can be mechanically detachably connected to the support module 16. The measuring tube module 4 comprises at least one measuring tube 3i for guiding the medium, which measuring tube has an inlet area and an outlet area. The at least one measuring tube 3i can be made of a metal, a plastic, and / or glass.In the illustrated embodiment, the measuring tube module 4 comprises precisely two curved metallic measuring tubes 3.1, 3.2, each with a straight inlet section and a straight outlet section. The curved section is located between the inlet section and the outlet section in the direction of flow. Alternatively, the measuring tube module 4 can also comprise only precisely one curved measuring tube. The inlet sections of the two measuring tubes 3.1, 3.2 are connected to one another via at least one coupler - in the illustrated case, there are precisely three planar couplers. The same applies to the outlet sections of the two measuring tubes 3.1, 3.2.

[0059] A passive primary excitation component 36 and at least one primary sensor component 38i are each attached to the measuring tubes. The primary excitation component 36 can, for example, be a permanent magnet which is attached to a lateral surface of the at least one measuring tube 3i. The at least one primary sensor component 38i can also be a permanent magnet. The measuring tubes 3.1, 3.2 shown each have exactly two primary sensor components 38.1, 38.2 per measuring tube, which are each arranged in a straight section of the measuring tube 3.1, 3.2, while the primary excitation component 36 is each arranged in a curved section of the corresponding measuring tube 3.1, 3.2.

[0060] The measuring tube module 4 further comprises a connecting body 35 for connecting the two measuring tubes 3.1, 3.2 to a connecting body (not shown) and the carrier module 16. The connecting body is designed to connect the measuring tube module 4, in particular the inlet region 9 and the outlet region 12 of the respective measuring tube, to a process line (not shown), in particular detachably. The connecting body 35 is materially connected to the at least one measuring tube 3 and is to be understood as a separate component from the connecting body. Therefore, the connecting body 35 and the connecting body are formed at least in two parts. Alternatively, the connecting body can be connected to the at least one measuring tube 3 in a force-fitting and / or form-fitting manner. In the embodiment shown, the plate-shaped connecting body 35 is metallic, planar and connected to the two measuring tubes.The connecting body 35 has four connecting body openings 15, 16, through which the linear inlet and outlet sections of the two measuring tubes extend. The integral connections at the corresponding connecting body openings 15, 16 between the connecting body and the measuring tubes are realized by a welded joint. Alternative connection options are also known. The connection can also be realized via an adhesive connection, a melted connection, a screw connection, or an (ultrasonic) rivet connection.

[0061] The carrier module 16 comprises a receptacle 23 for releasably securing the measuring tube module 4 in the carrier module 16. The receptacle 23 is defined by at least four walls 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the receiving volume of the receptacle 23 is defined by precisely four walls. The receptacle 23 can have a groove into which the connecting body 35 can be inserted, at least in sections (not illustrated). Alternatively, the carrier module 16 can have a support surface 26 on which the connecting body rests when the measuring tube module 4 is installed. According to a variant not illustrated, the receptacle 23 can be defined by precisely five walls. This allows the measuring tube module 4 to be inserted into the receptacle 23 and secured there via a fastening device 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting direction of the measuring tube module 4 is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the measuring tube module 4 and also to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle 23.Alternatively, the receptacle 23 and the carrier module 16 can be designed such that the mounting direction of the measuring tube module 4 is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the measuring tube module 4 and also to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle 23. The carrier module 16 has a carrier module body 22, which is preferably made of a corrosion-resistant metal or a plastic. Arranged in the carrier module 16 are at least one active secondary excitation component 13 complementary to the primary excitation component 36 and at least one active secondary sensor component 14i complementary to the primary sensor component 38i. If two primary sensor components are provided per measuring tube 38.1, 38.2, two secondary sensor components 14.1, 14.2 are also provided per measuring tube 3.1, 3.2. The secondary sensor component 14.1, 14.2 is arranged on the carrier module 16 such that, when the measuring tube module 4 is arranged in the receptacle 23, the primary sensor component 38i interacts, in particular magnetically, with the secondary sensor component 14. The secondary excitation component 13 is arranged on the carrier module 16 such that, when the measuring tube module 4 is arranged in the receptacle 23, the primary excitation component 36 interacts, in particular magnetically, with the secondary excitation component 13. A coil is each suitable as the secondary sensor component 14 and the secondary excitation component 13. The secondary sensor component 14 and the secondary excitation component 13 are electrically connected to the control unit SE and are controlled by it or provide it with measured values ​​or measurement signals.The active secondary excitation component 13 is configured to generate a time-varying magnetic field, which interacts with the essentially time-constant magnetic field of the passive primary excitation component 36 in such a way that a force is transmitted via the primary excitation component 36 to the at least one measuring tube 3i, causing it to oscillate mechanically. The mechanical oscillation has an oscillation frequency of less than 1000 Hz and greater than 80 Hz, in particular less than 750 Hz and greater than 150 Hz, and preferably less than 500 Hz and greater than 200 Hz. The control unit SE is suitable and configured to process and evaluate determined measured values. For this purpose, the control unit SE has at least one processor and electronic components.

[0062] The two lower views further show, by way of example, a fastening device 2 (see also DE 10 2020 114 519 A1 ), which is suitable and configured to produce at least one plastic deformation (see Fig. 4-6) of the connecting body 35 in a connecting body fastening section X when fastening the measuring tube module 4 in the carrier module 16.

[0063] In the installed state, the measuring tube module 4 is inserted into the receptacle 23 and the connecting body 35 rests on the mounting surface 26. The measuring tube module 4 is now ready to be fixed to the carrier device 16 by means of the fastening device 2. For this purpose, the fastening device 2 has a first fixing element 40 and a second fixing element 41, each of which is designed to be pivotable and has a fixing surface 42, 43. The fixing surfaces 42, 43 are each located at a first end of the fixing element 40, 41. The fixing elements 40, 41 each have an elongated fixing element body. In the end section comprising the first end, the fixing elements 40, 41 are attached to the carrier unit body 22 so as to be pivotable about a rotation axis.The fixing elements 40, 41 are designed to press the fixing body arrangement 44 against the mounting surface 26 and to generate a plastic deformation of the connecting body 35 there, thus suppressing movements of the fixing body arrangement. The first fixing element 40 is connected to a pivotable connecting device 46, which comprises a connecting body 47. The connection between the fixing element 40 and the pivotable connecting device 46 is located at the second end of the first fixing element 40. The connecting body 47 is at least partially cubic and cylindrical in its end section. A locking device 48 is arranged there on the connecting body 47. In the embodiment shown, the end section of the connecting body 47 has an external thread, and the locking device 48 is designed as a screw.Depending on the application and the requirements for measurement performance, the locking device 48 can also be designed as a torque screw, a clamping lever, a tensioning bracket, a tensioner, a quick release, a tensioning lever, a clamping claw, a hood closure, and / or an eccentric lever. Alternatively (not shown), the locking device 48 can be designed as a buckle, in particular a cuff buckle, which is arranged on a first fixing element 40 of the two fixing elements 40, 41. Accordingly, a pivoting part is arranged on the second fixing element 41. The pivoting part is designed as a cuff pivoting part, which has at least one hook, in particular a cuff hook.

[0064] In the fixed state, the fixing surfaces 42, 43 of the fixing elements 40, 41 contact the bearing surfaces 44, 45 of the connecting body 35 in order to transmit a force to the connecting body 35, which leads to a plastic deformation (see Fig. 4-6) in or of the connecting body 35. The connecting body 47 of the connecting device 46 interacts with the second fixing element 41, i.e. the connecting device 46, in particular the connecting body 47, connects the first fixing element 40 to the second fixing element 41. The second fixing element 41 has a guide 51 at its second end for the end section of the connecting body 47. In the closed state, the connecting body 47 extends along the guide 51 of the second fixing element 41. The locking device 48 touches the clamping surface 49 of the second fixing element 41. When the locking device 48 - in the form of a screw - is tightened, the two fixing elements are brought closer together evenly.The closing device 48 presses against the clamping surface 49. Because the two fixing elements 40, 41 are designed to be pivotable about a rotation axis, the tightening and corresponding approach of the fixing elements 40, 41 causes a force on the connecting body 35 parallel to the longitudinal direction of the measuring tube arrangement 4 in the direction of the mounting surface 26. This force ensures a uniform fastening of the measuring tube arrangement 4 to the carrier unit body 22.

[0065] 2a-c each show a perspective view of the fixing of a measuring tube module 4 (the connecting body and the ends of the at least one measuring tube are not shown) in a receptacle of a carrier module 16 by means of an inventive embodiment of the fastening device 2. The measuring tube module 4 is arranged in the receptacle 23 of the carrier module 16. The fastening device 2 has a shaft 103 which is at least partially eccentric and which is designed to clamp the measuring tube module 4 via the connecting body 35 in the receptacle and to mechanically releasably connect it to the carrier module 16 in such a way that a plastic deformation of or in the connecting body 35 is generated. In the case shown, the shaft 103 of the fastening device 2 is designed as a camshaft mounted on the carrier module 16, with a cam 101.In order to adapt the fastening of the measuring tube module 4 in the receptacle 23 to the application, more than the one cam 101 shown can be provided. The shaft 103 is movably mounted in a longitudinal direction of the shaft 103 so that it does not block the receptacle when the measuring tube module 4 is inserted (see first view). A first projection 102 on the shaft 103 prevents the shaft from falling out, thereby enabling user-friendly assembly of the measuring tube module 4. The first projection 102 is not intended to clamp the measuring tube module 4 in the receptacle 23. The fastening device 2 also comprises a first pivot bearing 104 and a second pivot bearing 105 for guiding the shaft 103 to desired degrees of freedom. The shaft 103 is mechanically detachable and can be connected to the first pivot bearing 104 and the second pivot bearing 105 for rotation about its own longitudinal axis. The cam 101 has at least one fixing surface 42.When the measuring tube module 4 is installed in the receptacle of the carrier module 16, the at least one fixing surface 42 or exactly one fixing surface 42 of the cam 101 rests on the connecting body fixing section (see Fig. 1) of the fixing body arrangement 35, which results in a force-fitting and / or form-fitting connection of the measuring tube module 4 to the carrier module and a plastic deformation in or of the connecting body 35 being achieved, at least in the connecting body fixing section X. The fixing is achieved by rotating the shaft 103 about its own longitudinal axis. The connecting body 35 is designed such that a yield point of the connecting body 35, in particular at least in the connecting body fixing section X, is between 0.1 and 0.5 millimeters when stretched.

[0066] The shaft 103 is also designed such that its movement in a longitudinal direction is possible, at least in sections, exclusively in a discrete number of orientations of the shaft 103. In a first section, the shaft 103 can be guided through in exactly one orientation in sections, and in a second section, the shaft 103 can be guided through in exactly two orientations in sections. In the embodiment shown, this is achieved in that the shaft 103, in addition to the cam 101, has the first projection 102 and a second projection 106. Like the first projection, the second projection 106 is also not designed to form the positive and / or non-positive connection. The first projection 102 and the second projection 106 each extend radially from the shaft 103.The first projection 102 and the second projection 106 are arranged offset relative to the cam 101 and to one another in the longitudinal direction of the shaft 103. The first projection 102 and the second projection 106 are arranged and spaced apart on the shaft 103 in such a way that, at least after the cam 101 has been guided out by the second pivot bearing 105, movement of the shaft 103 in the direction of the longitudinal axis is blocked and is preferably only possible in exactly one orientation of the shaft 103. This is achieved according to the embodiment by means of a slot. Alternatively, the shaft and the first projection 102 can be formed in two parts, i.e. the first projection 102 can be arranged as a separate component in a receptacle of the shaft 103.While the first projection 102 serves to prevent the shaft 103 from falling out of the first pivot bearing 104 during assembly, the second projection 106 essentially serves to limit the movement of the shaft 103 in its longitudinal direction and thus bring the cam 101 into the intended target position (see second view). The second projection 106 can thus also be annular or at least not complementary to the opening in the bearing through which the shaft 103 is to be guided. The illustrated shaft 103 has a lever at one end to facilitate the operation of the fastening device 2.

[0067] Based on the orientation of the shaft 103 in the second view, rotating it, in this case by 180°, leads to a positive and / or non-positive connection with the connecting body 35 of the measuring tube module 4 (see third view). By fastening the measuring tube module 4 in the receptacle 23, a plastic deformation in the form of a depression 101 and / or a bend or curvature 102 is generated in the connecting body fastening section X. Alternatively, an electronic device can be provided which causes the movement of the shaft 103 in its longitudinal direction and the rotation of the shaft 103 about the longitudinal axis, for example by means of a linear and / or rotary motor. Fig. 3 shows, by way of example, a connecting body 32 for detachably connecting the measuring tube module 4 to a process line (not shown). The connecting body 32 has two connections 33, 34, to which, for example, a hose system is attached.The connecting body has a distribution channel that, starting from the connection, distributes the medium into the two measuring tubes accordingly. The connecting body 32 and the connecting body 35 are formed in at least two parts and are connected to one another via a positive, non-positive, and / or material connection. The mechanical contact between the connecting body 32 and the connecting body 35 occurs, in particular exclusively, outside the connecting body fastening section X. If the measuring tube module 4 is arranged in the carrier module and fastened by means of the fastening device (not shown), the connecting body 32 is deformed exclusively elastically - if at all - so that it returns to its original shape when the fastening is released.

[0068] Fig. 4 shows a side view of a simulation (based on finite elements - ANSYS 2022) of the measuring tube module (4, without connecting body, see Fig. 3), which rests on a support surface 26 of the carrier module 16. The values ​​specified in the history are measured in millimeters. The simulation shows plastic deformation in the form of bending or curvature of the connecting body 35. The greatest deformation relative to an original planar connecting body 35 of a maximum of 0.67 millimeters is experienced by the connecting body 35 itself in the center. This is due to the fact that at this point the fastening device (not shown) exerts a force on the connecting body 35 in the direction of the holder. From there, the deformation decreases continuously in the direction of the at least one measuring tube 3i up to the edge of the connecting body 35. Because the connecting body 35 is connected to the measuring tubes 3.1, 3.2 is materially connected, these are also in a deformed state. Starting from the connecting surface between the connecting body 35 and the measuring tube 3i, the deformation of the measuring tube 3i increases in the direction of the coupler 6. However, the at least one plastic deformation 100 is set such that a deviation of a natural frequency of the at least one measuring tube 3i after the plastic deformation is less than 0.01% from the natural frequency of the at least one measuring tube 3i before the plastic deformation. The plastic deformation 100 comprises a curvature 102 which has a radius of curvature lying between 1225 mm and 6125 mm. Alternatively or additionally, the connecting body 35 can have a surface on an upper side Z1 with two points P, Q which are maximally spaced from one another in the longitudinal direction (see arrow) of the measuring tube module 4. An offset between both points P, Q in the longitudinal direction of the measuring module 4, iea height offset in the longitudinal direction of the measuring tube module 4, can take a value between 0.1 and 0.5 millimeters.

[0069] Fig. 5a-c show two views of the top side Z1 of the connecting body 35 (Fig. 5a and 5b) and a view of the bottom side Z2 of the connecting body 35 (Fig. 5c). The circular openings 200 in the connecting body represent the positions of the measuring tube ends. According to the invention, the fastening device (not shown) is designed to create at least one plastic deformation 100 in a connecting body fastening section X when the measuring tube module is fastened in the carrier module, the connecting body 35. This plastic deformation can be designed as a depression 101 in the connecting body 35 with a penetration depth of between 0.01 and 0.4 millimeters or as a bend. Advantageously, the at least one plastic deformation 100 can be designed as an optically visible embossing to verify the use of the measuring tube module. Thus, it is clearly visible to the installer whether the measuring tube module has already been used or not.

[0070] The second and third views show deformations 100 resulting from fastening with the fastening device. At least a first plastic deformation 100a and a second plastic deformation 100b resulted from fastening the measuring tube module in the carrier module at the customer's site. The first plastic deformation 100a occurred on the upper side Z1 of the connecting body 35 and the second plastic deformation 100b on the underside Z2 of the connecting body 35. As can be seen in the design, the shape of the first plastic deformation 100a differs from the shape of the second plastic deformation 100b. The second plastic shape 100b is not generated directly by the fastening device, but indirectly by the transmitted force acting on the rigid and more massive support surface of the carrier module. In the arranged state, the measuring tube module rests with the connecting body 35 on the support surface of the holder.If the connecting body 35 deforms almost over its entire surface, the area of ​​the connecting body 35 that rests on the support surface undergoes essentially no deformation (see Fig. 4), as it presses against the rigid (metallic) carrier module body. This results in the second plastic deformation 100b assuming, at least in sections, the negative shape of at least one section of the support surface 26.

[0071] In the upper and middle views, the connecting body 35 further exhibits a further plastic deformation 100c in the connecting body fastening section X, which originates, for example, from a factory calibration process. The shape or size and / or position of the further plastic deformation 100c is selected such that it differs from the shape or size and / or position of the first plastic deformation 100a. The further plastic deformation 100c can serve as a visual imprint to verify calibration. Thus, the installer can determine whether calibration was previously performed or not.

[0072] Fig. 6 shows a side view of a fastening component of an alternative embodiment of the fastening device. The fastening component is a partially eccentric shaft 103 which has at least one elevation 101 which is designed such that when the measuring tube module is fastened in the carrier module, the plastic deformation occurs due to the at least one elevation 101. The fastening component shown, i.e. the shaft 103, has at least two elevations 101a, 101b which are designed such that when the measuring tube module is fastened in the carrier module, the plastic deformation occurs due to the at least two elevations 101a, 101b. The two elevations 101a, 101b are arranged on a common side of the shaft 103 and offset from one another in the longitudinal direction of the shaft 103.The two elevations 101a, 101b each have a contact surface which, in the case of a mounted and fastened measuring tube module, is in contact with the connecting body.

[0073] At one end of the shaft 103, a stop 603 is provided, which is designed to limit the movement of the shaft 103 in its own longitudinal direction. Furthermore, the stop 603 prevents the shaft from sliding out of the guide of the support module.

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1. Modular Coriolis flowmeter (1) for determining a process variable of a flowable medium, comprising: - a measuring tube module (4) comprising: - at least one measuring tube (3i) for guiding the medium; - a primary pathogen component, in particular a passive one (36); - a primary sensor component (38i), in particular a passive one; - a connecting body (35), wherein the connecting body (35) is connected to the at least one measuring tube (3i), in particular by a material fit, - a carrier module (16) comprising: - a receptacle (23) into which the measuring tube module (4) can be inserted, - a secondary pathogen component, particularly an active one (13), - a secondary sensor component (14i), in particular an active one, - a fastening device (2) for detachably fastening the measuring tube module (4) in the carrier module (16), in particular in the receptacle (23), wherein a connection between the measuring tube module (4) and the carrier module (16) is made via the connecting body (35), characterized in that the fastening device (2) is designed to produce at least one plastic deformation (100) in a connecting body fastening section (X) of the connecting body (35) when fastening the measuring tube module (4) in the carrier module (16).

2. Modular Coriolis flowmeter (1) according to claim 1, wherein the plastic deformation (100) comprises a depression (101) in the connecting body (35) having a penetration depth between 0.01 and 1 millimeter, in particular between 0.01 and 0.4 millimeters.

3. Modular Coriolis flowmeter (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one plastic deformation (100) is adjusted such that a deviation of a natural frequency of the at least one measuring tube (3i) after the plastic deformation is less than 0.1% of the natural frequency of the at least one measuring tube (3i) before the plastic deformation.

4. Modular Coriolis flowmeter (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the plastic deformation (100) comprises a curvature (102), wherein the connecting body (35) has a surface with two points (P, Q) which are maximally spaced from one another in the longitudinal direction of the measuring tube module (4), wherein an offset of the two points (P, Q) in the longitudinal direction of the measuring tube module (4) assumes a value between 0.1 and 0.5 millimeters.

5. Modular Coriolis flowmeter (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the plastic deformation (100) comprises a curvature (102) having a radius of curvature lying between 1225 mm and 6125 mm.

6. Modular Coriolis flowmeter (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one plastic deformation (100) is designed as an embossing to prove use of the measuring tube module (4).

7. Modular Coriolis flowmeter (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein fastening with the fastening device (2) results in at least one first plastic deformation (100a) and one second plastic deformation (100b), wherein the first plastic deformation (100a) is arranged on an upper side (Z1) of the connecting body (35), wherein the second plastic deformation (100b) is arranged on an underside (Z2) of the connecting body (35).

8. Modular Coriolis flowmeter (1) according to claim 7, wherein a shape of the first plastic deformation (100a) differs from a shape of the second plastic deformation (100b).

9. Modular Coriolis flowmeter (1) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the measuring tube module (4) in the arranged state rests with the connecting body (35) on a support surface (26) of the receptacle (23), wherein the second plastic deformation (100b) at least partially assumes a basic shape of at least a portion of the support surface (26) in the form of a depression.

10. Modular Coriolis flowmeter (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting body (35) further comprises a further plastic deformation (100c) which originates from a calibration process, wherein the further plastic deformation (100c) serves as an embossing for proving a calibration.

11. Modular Coriolis flowmeter (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: - a connecting body (32) for detachably connecting the measuring tube module (4) to a process line; wherein the connecting body (35) and the connecting body (32) are formed at least in two parts, wherein the connecting body (32) and the connecting body (35) are designed such that mechanical contact between the connecting body (32) and the connecting body (35) occurs, in particular exclusively, outside the connecting body fastening section (X).

12. Modular Coriolis flowmeter (1) according to claim 11, wherein the connecting body (32) is exclusively elastically deformed during fastening with the fastening device (2).

13. Modular Coriolis flowmeter (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fastening device (2) comprises a fastening component, in particular a partially eccentrically formed shaft (103), wherein the fastening component, in particular the shaft (103), has at least one elevation (101) which is designed such that when the measuring tube module (4) is fastened in the carrier module (16), the plastic deformation takes place through the at least one elevation (101).

14. Modular Coriolis flowmeter (1) according to claim 13, wherein the fastening component, in particular the shaft (103), has at least two elevations (101a, 101b) which are designed such that Fastening the measuring tube module (4) in the carrier module (16) the plastic deformation takes place through the at least two elevations (101a, 101b).

15. A method for commissioning a modular Coriolis flowmeter (1) comprising a measuring tube module (4) with at least one measuring tube (3i) for guiding the medium, a primary excitation component (36), in particular a passive one, a primary sensor component (38i), in particular a passive one, and a connecting body (35) which is connected to the at least one measuring tube (3i), in particular by a material fit, and a carrier module (16) with a receptacle (23) into which the measuring tube module (4) can be inserted, a secondary excitation component (13), in particular an active one, a secondary sensor component (14i), in particular an active one, and a fastening device (2) for releasably fastening the measuring tube module (4) in the carrier module (16), in particular in the receptacle (23), wherein a connection between the measuring tube module (4) and the carrier module (16) is made via the connecting body (35),in particular a modular Coriolis flowmeter (1) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising the method steps: - Inserting the measuring tube module (4) into the receptacle (23) of the carrier module (16); - Fastening the measuring tube module (4) by means of the fastening device (2) in such a way that the measuring tube module (4) is arranged in a fixed position in the receptacle and in such a way that the connecting body (35) undergoes a plastic deformation (100).

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the connecting body (35) is free from plastic deformation (100) before the measuring tube module (4) is inserted into the receptacle.

17. The method according to claim 15, wherein the connecting body (35) has a plastic deformation (100c) prior to the introduction of the measuring tube module (4) into the receptacle, which deformation originates from a previous calibration process.

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