Measurement tube module, modular system, and measuring device or test arrangement formed therewith

Abstract

The invention relates to a measurement tube module (M1) comprising: a tube (11) having a lumen (11*) that is enclosed by a wall and extends from a first (tube) end to a second (tube) end; first and second measurement electrodes (21, 22) positioned on and / or in the wall of the tube for tapping electrical potentials established within a measuring medium located in the lumen of the tube; at least one electrical coil (31) mechanically connected to the tube for generating and / or detecting a magnetic field (H); and coil electrodes (311, 312) that are positioned on and / or in the wall of the tube and are electrically connected to the coil. The measurement tube module may also be a component of a module system or be used to form a modular (through-flow) measuring device used to measure at least one measurement variable of an (electrically conductive) liquid measuring medium flowing in a process line, and / or a test arrangement for a base module (M2) of the modular system (M1, M2).

Description

[0001] Measuring tube module, module system and measuring device or test arrangement formed therewith

[0002] The invention relates to a measuring tube module for forming a modular (flow) measuring device for measuring at least one measured quantity of an (electrically conductive) liquid fluid flowing in a (connected) process line, and / or for forming a test arrangement for a basic module (M2) of a module system (M1, M2) for forming a modular (flow) measuring device. Furthermore, the invention relates to a module system comprising such a measuring tube module, or to (modular) measuring devices or test arrangements or fluid line systems formed therewith.

[0003] EP-A 4 328 549 discloses a modular system for forming a modular magnetic (flow) measuring device or test setup, as well as modular magnetic (flow) measuring devices or test setups formed by means of such a modular system. The modular system comprises a measuring tube module and a base module with a (measuring tube module) receiving unit compatible with the measuring tube module and with (system) electronics arranged within the base module.

[0004] The measuring tube module has a tube that can be fluidically integrated into the course of a process line serving to guide an electrically conductive liquid measuring substance, with a lumen enclosed by a wall and extending from a first (tube) end to a second (tube) end for guiding the aforementioned measuring substance, as well as first and second measuring electrodes positioned on and / or in the wall of the tube for tapping off electrical potentials established within the measuring substance located in the lumen of the tube.

[0005] The measuring tube module is furthermore specially designed to be inserted into the base module without tools and to be releasably connected to the base module (without tools and without damage) to form a (modular) magnetic-inductive flow meter, such that the (measuring tube module) mounting unit and the measuring tube module are electrically and mechanically coupled to each other to form a (magnetic-inductive) flow meter, by inserting the measuring tube module into the (measuring tube module) mounting unit of the base module and thus mechanically connecting it, and by simultaneously connecting the measuring tube module electrically to the (system) electronics via the first and second measuring electrodes. For the electrical connection of the first and second measuring electrodes, respectively...The measuring tube module formed with the (system) electronics has a first and second connecting electrodes electrically connected to the (system) electronics, each of which, when the measuring tube module is inserted (correctly in a structurally specified measuring position) into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit of the base module, makes contact over a surface with one of its first and second measuring electrodes, forming an electrically conductive connection.

[0006] A time-varying magnetic field required for the realization of the (magnetic-inductive) measuring principle is generated during the operation of the flow meter by means of at least one electrical (excitation) coil of the base module connected to the (system) electronics, by feeding a time-varying, for example pulsed, electrical current-bearing electrical energy from the (system) electronics into the (excitation) coil and converting it into magnetic energy by the (excitation) coil.Furthermore, the (system) electronics are also designed to detect electrical potentials derived from the measured material by means of the first and second measuring electrodes and to convert them into at least one (voltage) measurement signal, which represents a potential difference correlated with the at least one measured quantity and dependent on both the aforementioned (time-varying) magnetic field, which also partially penetrates the tube of the measuring tube module, and the at least one measured quantity.

[0007] In addition to the aforementioned (base and measuring tube) modules, the module system also includes a test module compatible with the base module, which serves to check the (system) electronics and has control electronics arranged inside the test module, a magnetic field sensor formed by means of a Hall sensor and electrically connected to the control electronics for detecting a magnetic field generated by means of the (excitation) coil of the base module, and first and second test electrodes positioned outside the test module and electrically connected to the control electronics.The test module is designed to be inserted into the base module without tools, replacing the measuring tube module, and to be releasably connected to the base module (without tools and without damage), such that the (measuring tube module) mounting unit and the test module module are electrically and mechanically coupled to each other, forming the aforementioned test arrangement, by inserting the test module (in the same way as the measuring tube module) into the (measuring tube module) mounting unit of the base module and thus mechanically connecting it, and by simultaneously connecting the test module electrically to the (system) electronics via the first and second test electrodes, wherein each of the first and second connection electrodes of the base module, when the test module is inserted into the (measuring tube module) mounting unit (correctly in a structurally defined test position), makes contact over a surface with one of its first and second test electrodes, forming an electrically conductive connection.One disadvantage of the aforementioned test module, or rather the test setup formed with it, is that testing of the (system) electronics can only be carried out if no measuring tube module is installed in the base module. Consequently, testing of the (system) electronics can only be performed during specifically scheduled test appointments, and possibly only by a user qualified for the specific test module. Furthermore, the planning and execution of such testing is very complex – especially if the base module is installed or must be kept under (germ-free) cleanroom conditions, for example, if the base module or the measuring device formed with it is used in a pharmaceutical and / or biotechnological process.Furthermore, the additional setup effort (inherent in principle) associated with checking the (system) electronics inevitably results in an (undesirable) increase in the downtime of the respective system or the process implemented with it.

[0008] A further disadvantage of the aforementioned test arrangement is that, on the one hand, a special test module suitable only for the respective type (of identical basic modules) must be provided for its implementation, and / or on the other hand, the test must be carried out by a suitably qualified user.

[0009] Starting from the aforementioned prior art, one object of the invention is to improve modular systems or measuring devices formed therewith in such a way that the verification of the (system) electronics or the basic module formed therewith can be improved, in particular simplified and / or carried out during the (normal) measurement operation of the measuring device formed therewith.

[0010] To solve this problem, the invention comprises a measuring tube module for forming a modular (flow) measuring device, in particular designed as a magnetic-inductive flow meter, for measuring at least one measured quantity, for example, a volumetric flow rate, of an (electrically conductive) liquid flowing in a (connected) process line, and / or for forming a test arrangement for a basic module of a module system for forming a modular (flow) measuring device. The measuring tube module according to the invention comprises: a tube with a lumen extending from a first (tube) end to a second (tube) end, enclosed by a wall, in particular made of a plastic;

[0011] • first and second measuring electrodes, especially galvanic or capacitive, positioned on and / or in the wall of the tube for tapping off electrical potentials established within a measuring substance located in the lumen of the tube;

[0012] • at least one (first) electrical coil for generating and / or detecting a magnetic field, mechanically connected to the tube, in particular firmly and / or not non-destructively detachable, in particular positioned on and / or in the wall of the tube and / or not arranged within the lumen of the tube and / or not projecting into the lumen of the tube;

[0013] • as well as first and second coil electrodes positioned on and / or in the wall of the tube and electrically connected to the coil, in particular with the interposition of another electrical coil (of the measuring tube module).

[0014] Furthermore, the invention also consists of a module system containing a measuring tube module according to the invention, for example for forming a modular (flow) measuring device and / or a test arrangement, which module system comprises, in addition to the measuring tube module, at least one basic module with a (measuring tube module) receiving unit and with (system) electronics, for example mechanically connected to the (measuring tube module) receiving unit and / or arranged within the (measuring tube module) receiving unit.

[0015] Furthermore, the invention also consists of a modular (flow) measuring device formed by means of a modular system according to the invention, for example a magnetic-inductive flow measuring device, for measuring at least one measured quantity, in particular.of a volume flow of an (electrically conductive) liquid substance flowing in a (connected) process line, in which (flow) measuring device the base module and the measuring tube module (forming the measuring device) are coupled to each other (electrically and mechanically) by inserting the measuring tube module into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit, for example, by sliding it in, and thus being mechanically fixed (in a predetermined measuring position), yet releasable (non-destructively and / or without tools), and by connecting the measuring tube module (releasably) to the (system) electronics at least by means of the first and second measuring electrodes, for example, (only) if the measuring tube module is inserted into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit in a predetermined measuring position.

[0016] Furthermore, the invention also consists of a test arrangement formed by means of a modular system according to the invention, for example for testing a base module serving to form a (flow) measuring device, in which test arrangement the base module and the measuring tube module are coupled to each other (electrically and mechanically) (forming the test arrangement) by inserting the measuring tube module into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit, for example by sliding it in, and thus being mechanically fixed (in a predetermined test position), yet releasable (non-destructively and / or without tools), and by connecting the measuring tube module electrically (releasably) to the (system) electronics at least by means of the first and second coil electrodes, but in particular not with the first and second measuring electrodes, for example (only) if the measuring tube module is inserted into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit in a predetermined test position.

[0017] Furthermore, the invention comprises a fluid line system formed by means of a measuring tube module according to the invention, which (in addition to the measuring tube module) includes a process line for guiding an (electrically conductive) liquid measuring substance, for example formed by means of one or more (flexible) hoses, in which fluid line system the measuring tube module is integrated into the course of the process line, in particular by forming at least one flow path involving the lumen of the tube of the measuring tube module. According to a first embodiment of the measuring tube module of the invention, it is further provided that the tube is arranged to be (fluidically) integrated into the course of a process line for guiding an (electrically conductive) liquid measuring substance.

[0018] According to a second embodiment of the measuring tube module of the invention, the measuring tube module is further arranged to be inserted (tool-free) into a base module for a modular (flow) measuring device, which has a (measuring tube module) receiving unit and (system) electronics, for example by being inserted, and to be connected (mechanically and electrically) to the base module, for example by being releasable without tools and / or without destruction, for example in such a way that the (measuring tube module) receiving unit and the measuring tube module are coupled to each other (electrically and mechanically) to form a test arrangement for the base module, or that the (measuring tube module) receiving unit and the measuring tube module are coupled to each other (electrically and mechanically) to form a (flow) measuring device.

[0019] According to a third embodiment of the measuring tube module of the invention, it is further provided that the wall of the tube consists at least partially, for example predominantly or completely, of a plastic, for example a polycarbonate (PC).

[0020] According to a fourth embodiment of the measuring tube module of the invention, it is further provided that the at least one electrical coil is formed by means of a (flexible) circuit board having spiral conductor tracks and / or being embedded at least partially, for example completely, in the wall of the tube.

[0021] According to a fifth embodiment of the measuring tube module of the invention, it is further provided that each of the, for example, equally sized, first and second coil electrodes has a (contact) area of ​​more than 0.2 mm². 2exhibits, for example, such that the (contact) surfaces of the first and second coil electrodes are of the same size and / or similar to each other, for example, congruent.

[0022] According to a sixth embodiment of the measuring tube module of the invention, it is further provided that each of the first and second coil electrodes is formed at least partially by means of a metal pin and / or a metal plate.

[0023] According to a seventh embodiment of the measuring tube module of the invention, it is further provided that each of the first and second measuring electrodes is formed at least partially by means of a metal pin. According to an eighth embodiment of the measuring tube module of the invention, it is further provided that each of the first and second measuring electrodes has a (contact) area of ​​more than 0.2 mm². 2exhibits, for example, such that the (contact) surfaces of the first and second measuring electrodes are of the same size and / or similar to each other, for example, congruent.

[0024] According to a ninth embodiment of the measuring tube module of the invention, it is further provided that the first and second measuring electrodes are identical in construction.

[0025] According to a tenth embodiment of the measuring tube module of the invention, it is further provided that the first and second measuring electrodes are designed as galvanic electrodes (extending partially into the lumen of the tube or serving to contact a measuring material guided in the lumen of the tube).

[0026] According to an eleventh embodiment of the measuring tube module of the invention, it is further provided that the tube is arranged to be permeated by a liquid, for example electrically conductive, measuring substance (supplied and removed via a connected process line) and during this time by a magnetic field.

[0027] According to a twelfth embodiment of the measuring tube module of the invention, it is further provided that the at least one coil of the measuring tube module is arranged to convert a (time-varying) magnetic field passing through the same coil into electrical energy (having a time-varying electric current or a time-varying electric voltage), for example in such a way that at least temporarily a time-varying electric (coil) voltage is induced in the coil or can be measured between the first and second coil electrodes.

[0028] According to a first embodiment of the modular system of the invention, it is further provided that the (system) electronics have at least one signal amplifier.

[0029] According to a second embodiment of the modular system of the invention, it is further provided that the (system) electronics comprise at least one A / D converter.

[0030] According to a third embodiment of the modular system of the invention, the (system) electronics further comprise at least one microprocessor. According to a fourth embodiment of the modular system of the invention, the base module is further configured to receive the measuring tube module and to be mechanically fixed yet releasable, for example, by locking the measuring tube module (non-movably) to and / or within the base module.

[0031] According to a fifth embodiment of the modular system of the invention, it is further provided that the measuring tube module and the base module are electrically and mechanically coupled to each other, for example by forming a (flow) measuring device or by forming a test arrangement for the base module, for example by being non-movably connected to each other, for example in such a way that the measuring tube module is inserted (without tools) into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit (of the base module) and is thus mechanically connected (without tools and / or in a way that can be reattached without damage) and that the measuring tube module is simultaneously electrically connected to the (system) electronics (by means of the first and second measuring electrodes and / or by means of the first and second coil electrodes).

[0032] According to a sixth embodiment of the module system of the invention, it is further provided that the at least one coil of the measuring tube module is configured to convert (having a time-varying electric current) supplied electrical energy into magnetic energy, for example in such a way that a magnetic field is generated that partially penetrates the tube (time-varying and / or at least sectionally homogeneous within the lumen of the tube).

[0033] According to a seventh embodiment of the module system of the invention, it is further provided that the at least one coil of the measuring tube module is configured to convert a (time-varying) magnetic field passing through the same coil into electrical energy (having a time-varying electric current or a time-varying electric voltage) in such a way that at least temporarily a time-varying electric (coil) voltage is induced in the coil or can be measured between the first and second coil electrodes.

[0034] According to an eighth embodiment of the modular system of the invention, the (measuring tube module) receiving unit has first and second connection electrodes electrically connected to the (system) electronics. Further developing this embodiment of the invention, it is also provided that the (measuring tube module) receiving unit has third and fourth connection electrodes electrically connected to the (system) electronics. According to a ninth embodiment of the modular system of the invention, the base module has at least one electrical (excitation) coil that is electrically connected to the (system) electronics, for example, arranged within the (measuring tube module) receiving unit.Further developing this embodiment of the invention, it is also provided that the at least one (excitation) coil (of the receiving unit) is configured to convert (time-varying electric current) supplied electrical energy into magnetic energy, for example, by generating a time-varying magnetic field. Furthermore, the (system) electronics can also be configured to supply electrical energy, at least temporarily, for example, with a pulsed electrical (coil) voltage having a (predefined) clock rate and a (predefined) pulse-pause ratio, into the at least one (excitation) coil (of the receiving unit).

[0035] According to a first embodiment of the measuring device of the invention, it is further provided that the measuring tube module (in measuring position) is locked on and / or in the base module (not movable).

[0036] According to a second embodiment of the measuring device of the invention, it is further provided that the (system) electronics are arranged to detect electrical potentials derived from the measured material by means of the first and second measuring electrodes and to convert them into at least one (first), in particular digital, (voltage) measuring signal, which represents a potential difference correlated with the at least one measured quantity, in particular dependent on both a magnetic field partially penetrating the measuring tube module and the at least one measured quantity.

[0037] According to a third embodiment of the measuring device of the invention, the (system) electronics are further configured to detect (high-impedance) electrical potentials derived from the measured material by means of the first and second measuring electrodes and to convert them into at least one (first), in particular a potential difference representing both a magnetic field (generated internally by the measuring device) and the at least one measured quantity, and / or a digital (voltage) measurement signal. Further developing this embodiment of the invention, the (system) electronics are further configured to evaluate the (voltage) measurement signal, namely to determine (digital) measured values ​​for the at least one measured quantity using the (voltage) measurement signal.According to a fourth embodiment of the measuring device of the invention, it is further provided that the (measuring tube module) receiving unit has first and second connecting electrodes electrically connected to the (system) electronics, and that both the first connecting electrode and the first measuring electrode as well as the second connecting electrode and the second measuring electrode each make (overall) contact with each other (forming an electrically conductive connection). Further developing this embodiment of the invention, it is further provided that the (measuring tube module) receiving unit also has third and fourth connecting electrodes electrically connected to the (system) electronics, and that both the third connecting electrode and the first coil electrode as well as the fourth connecting electrode and the second coil electrode each make (overall) contact with each other (forming an electrically conductive connection).Furthermore, the (system) electronics may also be configured to feed electrical energy, at least temporarily, in particular with a clocked electrical (coil) voltage having a (predetermined) clock rate and a (predetermined) pulse-pause ratio, into at least one coil of the measuring tube module.

[0038] According to a fifth embodiment of the measuring device of the invention, it is further provided that the base module has at least one electrically connected (excitation) coil, for example arranged within the (measuring tube module) receiving unit, and that the at least one (excitation) coil (of the receiving unit) is configured to convert (time-varying) supplied electrical energy into magnetic energy, such that a magnetic field is generated that also partially penetrates the measuring tube module (time-varying and / or at least partially homogeneous within the lumen of the tube), and / or such that the (excitation) coil of the base module and the coil of the measuring tube module are (only) inductively coupled to each other. Further developing this embodiment of the invention, it is also provided that the (system) electronics are configured to at least temporarily convert electrical energy into magnetic energy.for example, with a clocked electrical (coil) voltage having a (predefined) clock rate and a (predefined) pulse-pause ratio, into which at least one (excitation) coil (of the recording unit) is fed, and / or that the (system) electronics are configured to detect an electrical (coil) voltage induced in at least one coil of the measuring tube module, for example by means of a magnetic field generated by the (excitation) coil of the recording unit, for example by means of a measuring circuit (of the system electronics) or by means of a test circuit (of the system electronics), and to convert it into at least one (voltage) measurement signal, for example digital, which represents a time-varying electrical (coil) voltage induced in the coil, in particular measurable between the first and second coil electrodes,For example, to perform a (self-)diagnosis of the base module using the same voltage measurement signal and / or to (re-)calibrate the base module. According to a sixth embodiment of the measuring device of the invention, it is further provided that the base module has at least one electrically connected (system) electronics, for example, arranged within the (measuring tube module) receiving unit, which is configured to convert (time-varying) supplied electrical energy into magnetic energy, such that a magnetic field is generated that also partially penetrates the measuring tube module (time-varying and / or at least sectionally homogeneous within the lumen of the tube), and / or such that the (excitation) coil of the base module and the coil of the measuring tube module are (only) inductively coupled to each other, and that the (system) electronics are configured to...For example, by means of a magnetic field generated by the (excitation) coil of the recording unit, an electrical (coil) voltage induced in at least one coil of the measuring tube module is to be detected, for example by means of a measuring circuit (of the system electronics) or by means of a test circuit (of the system electronics), and converted into at least one (voltage) measurement signal, for example digital, which represents a time-varying electrical (coil) voltage induced in the coil, in particular measurable between the first and second coil electrodes. Further developing this embodiment of the invention, it is also provided that the (system) electronics are configured to evaluate the aforementioned (voltage) measurement signal or to perform a (self-)diagnosis of the base module and / or to (re-)calibrate the base module using the aforementioned voltage measurement signal.For example, to determine one or more (actual) measured values ​​for the (coil) voltage and / or for one or more (operating) parameters correlated with the (coil) voltage, in particular an electrical impedance and / or an inductance of the (excitation) coil (of the recording unit), based on the (voltage) measurement signal, and to compare these values ​​with at least one reference measured value specified for this purpose, in particular determined by means of an intact base module and / or representing an intact base module and / or stored in a (non-volatile) data memory of the (system) electronics; this can also be done, for example, in such a way that the (system) electronics generate a (fault) message signaling this deviation from the at least one reference measured value if one or more (actual) measured values ​​deviate from a specified level.

[0039] According to a first embodiment of the test arrangement of the invention, it is further provided that the measuring tube module (in test position) is locked (non-movably) on and / or in the base module. According to a second embodiment of the test arrangement of the invention, it is further provided that the (measuring tube module) receiving unit has first and second connecting electrodes electrically connected to the (system) electronics, and that both the first connecting electrode and the first coil electrode as well as the second connecting electrode and the second coil electrode each make (surface) contact with each other (forming a respective electrically conductive connection). Further developing this embodiment of the invention, it is further provided that

[0040] - that the base module has at least one electrically connected (system) electronics, for example arranged within the (measuring tube module) receiving unit, and that the at least one (excitation) coil (of the receiving unit) is configured to convert (time-varying electric current) supplied electrical energy into magnetic energy, such that a magnetic field is generated that also partially penetrates the measuring tube module (time-varying and / or at least sectionally homogeneous within the lumen of the tube), and / or such that the (excitation) coil of the base module and the coil of the measuring tube module are (only) inductively coupled to each other, and / or such that,that (by forming an inductive coupling of the excitation coil of the recording unit with that of the coil of the measuring tube module) a magnetic field is generated which also partially penetrates the coil of the measuring tube module (time-varying and / or at least sectionally homogeneous within the lumen of the tube).

[0041] Furthermore, the (system) electronics can also be configured to feed electrical energy, at least temporarily, into at least one (excitation) coil (of the recording unit), for example with a clocked electrical (coil) voltage having a (predefined) clock rate and a (predefined) pulse-pause ratio, for example also in such a way that at least temporarily a time-varying electrical (coil) voltage (dependent on the coil voltage applied to the excitation coil of the recording unit and an inductive coupling of said excitation coil with the coil of the measuring tube module) is induced in the coil of the measuring tube module or is measurable between the first and second coil electrodes, and / or the (system) electronics can be configuredto detect an electrical (coil) voltage induced in at least one coil of the measuring tube module and to convert it into at least one (digital) (voltage) measurement signal representing that same (coil) voltage. According to a third embodiment of the test arrangement of the invention, it is further provided that the base module has at least one electrical (excitation) coil electrically connected to the (system) electronics, for example, arranged within the (measuring tube module) receiving unit, and that the (measuring tube module) receiving unit has first and second connecting electrodes electrically connected to the (system) electronics, wherein both the first connecting electrode and the first coil electrode as well as the second connecting electrode and the second coil electrode each make (surface) contact with each other (forming a respective electrically conductive connection), and wherein the at least one (excitation) coil (of the receiving unit) is configuredto convert (a time-varying electric current) supplied electrical energy into magnetic energy, such that a magnetic field is generated that also partially penetrates the measuring tube module (time-varying and / or at least partially homogeneous within the lumen of the tube), and / or such that the (excitation) coil of the base module and the coil of the measuring tube module are (only) inductively coupled to each other, and / or such that (by forming an inductive coupling of the excitation coil of the recording unit with that of the coil of the measuring tube module) a magnetic field is generated that also partially penetrates the coil of the measuring tube module (time-varying and / or at least partially homogeneous within the lumen of the tube).

[0042] Further developing this embodiment of the invention, it is also provided that the (system) electronics are configured to feed electrical energy, at least temporarily, for example with a clocked electrical (coil) voltage having a (predetermined) clock rate and a (predetermined) pulse-pause ratio, into at least one (excitation) coil (of the recording unit), such that at least temporarily a time-varying electrical (coil) voltage (dependent on the coil voltage applied to the excitation coil of the recording unit and on an inductive coupling of said excitation coil with the coil of the measuring tube module) is induced in the coil of the measuring tube module.The voltage between the first and second coil electrodes is measurable, and the (system) electronics are configured to detect an electrical (coil) voltage induced in at least one coil of the measuring tube module and to convert it into at least one (digital) (voltage) measurement signal representing that same (coil) voltage. Furthermore, the (system) electronics are also configured to evaluate the (voltage) measurement signal, namely to perform a (self-)diagnosis of the base module using the voltage measurement signal and / or to (re-)calibrate the base module, for example, to determine one or more (actual) measured values ​​for the (coil) voltage and / or a correlated (operating) parameter based on the (voltage) measurement signal and to compare them with at least one predefined reference measured value.Furthermore, the (system) electronics can advantageously be configured to determine one or more (actual) measured values ​​for the (coil) voltage and / or a correlated (operating) parameter, in particular an electrical impedance and / or an inductance of the (excitation) coil (of the recording unit), based on the (voltage) measurement signal, and to compare these values ​​with at least one reference measured value specified for this purpose, for example, determined by means of an intact base module and / or representing an intact base module and / or stored in a (non-volatile) data memory of the (system) electronics, for example, in order to generate a (fault) message signaling a deviation of one or more (actual) measured values ​​from the at least one reference measured value that exceeds a specified limit.

[0043] According to a fourth embodiment of the test arrangement of the invention, it is further provided that the (measuring tube module) receiving unit and the measuring tube module are arranged to be separated from each other non-destructively, in particular without tools, and (forming a modular measuring device) coupled together again, in particular (non-destructively) releasably, such that the measuring tube module is inserted into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit, in particular by being pushed in, and is thus mechanically firmly connected (in a predetermined measuring position that differs from the test position), yet releasably connected again, in particular non-destructively and / or without tools.such that the measuring tube module in measuring position has an installation position (within the base module) which, compared to an installation position of the measuring tube module in test position, is rotated about a longitudinal axis of the measuring tube module (located within the lumen of the tube) and / or offset along the same longitudinal axis, and that the measuring tube module is electrically connected (removably) to the (system) electronics at least by means of the first and second measuring electrodes, in particular (only) if the measuring tube module is inserted into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit in a predetermined measuring position that differs from the test position.

[0044] According to a first embodiment of the fluid piping system of the invention, it is further provided that the process line has first and second line segments, and that the pipe is connected (fluidically) to the first line segment with its first (pipe) end and to the second line segment with its second (pipe) end.

[0045] According to a second embodiment of the fluid piping system of the invention, it is further provided that the measuring tube module is part of a (flow) measuring device.

[0046] According to a third embodiment of the fluid piping system of the invention, the measuring tube module is further provided for as part of a test arrangement. According to a first further development of the invention, the measuring tube module further comprises: at least one second electrical coil positioned on and / or in the wall of the tube, in particular identical in construction to the first coil and / or electrically connected to it. The second electrical coil can, for example, be electrically connected in series with the first electrical coil. Alternatively or additionally, the first electrical coil can be electrically connected directly to the first coil electrode and / or the second electrical coil can be electrically connected directly to the second coil electrode.

[0047] According to a second further development of the invention, the module system further comprises: a display element (HMI) connected to the (system) electronics via signal technology, in particular a display and operating element, for displaying measurement and / or operating data determined by means of the (system) electronics and / or for displaying one or more (fault) messages determined by means of the (system) electronics.

[0048] The invention and advantageous embodiments thereof are explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments illustrated in the figures of the drawing. Identical, equivalent, or similarly functioning parts are designated with the same reference numerals in all figures; where clarity requires it or it otherwise appears appropriate, previously mentioned reference numerals are omitted in subsequent figures. Further advantageous embodiments or developments, in particular combinations of aspects of the invention initially described only individually, will also become apparent from the figures of the drawing and / or from the claims themselves.

[0049] Specifically, we show:

[0050] Fig. 1 a, 1 b shows an embodiment of a measuring tube module in different views;

[0051] Fig. 2a, 2b shows in different views another embodiment of a measuring tube module;

[0052] Fig. 3 shows an embodiment of a module system comprising a measuring tube module according to Fig. 1a, 1b;

[0053] Fig. 4 shows an embodiment of a (flow) measuring device formed by means of a modular system according to Fig. 3;

[0054] Fig. 5 shows an embodiment of a (flow) measuring device formed by means of a measuring tube module according to Fig. 2a, 2b; Fig. 6 shows a further embodiment of a (flow) measuring device formed by means of a module system according to Fig. 3;

[0055] Fig. 7 shows an embodiment of a test arrangement formed by means of a modular system according to Fig. 3; and

[0056] Fig. 8 shows another embodiment of a measuring tube module.

[0057] Figures 1a and 1b and 2a and 2b respectively show schematic examples of embodiments of a measuring tube module M1 according to the invention, for example as a component of a modular system and / or as part of a modular (flow) measuring device and / or as part of a (modular) test arrangement and / or as a component of a fluid piping system.

[0058] The measuring tube module M1 comprises a tube with a lumen extending from a first (tube) end to a second (tube) end, enclosed by a wall, for example made of an (electrically non-conductive) plastic, and with first and second (identical) measuring electrodes 21, 22, for example galvanic or capacitive, positioned on and / or in the wall of the tube for tapping off electrical potentials established within an (electrically conductive) measuring material located in the lumen of the tube. Furthermore, as also shown in Figs. 1a, 1b, 2a or 2b, or readily apparent from their combination, the measuring tube module 10 comprises at least one mechanically connected to the tube 11, in particular...A fixed and / or non-destructively detachable (first) electrical coil 31 for generating and / or detecting a magnetic field H, as well as first and second coil electrodes 311, 312, positioned on and / or in the wall of the tube 11 and electrically connected to at least one coil 31, for example also via an intermediate further electrical coil (of the measuring tube module). The coil electrodes can, for example, each be formed at least partially by means of a metal pin or plate (connected to a respective end of a coil winding).

[0059] According to a further embodiment of the invention, each of the first and second measuring electrodes is designed as a galvanic electrode (extending partially into the lumen of the tube or serving to contact a measuring substance guided in the lumen of the tube). For this purpose, each of the measuring electrodes can, for example, be formed at least partially by means of a metal pin, in particular one that contacts the lumen of the tube or projects partially into it, or each can be designed as a (galvanic) pin electrode, in particular one that contacts the lumen of the tube or projects partially into it. The at least one coil 31 can, for example, be positioned (directly) on and / or at least partially in the wall of the tube.Alternatively or additionally, the at least one electrical coil 31 can also be formed by means of a (flexible) circuit board having spiral conductor tracks and / or being embedded at least partially, for example, completely, in the wall of the tube. The wall of the tube, in turn, can consist at least partially, for example, predominantly or completely, of a plastic, such as polycarbonate (PC).

[0060] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the coil 31 of the measuring tube module is specifically configured to convert a (time-varying) magnetic field (H) passing through it into electrical energy, in particular a time-varying electric current or a time-varying electric voltage, for example, such that a time-varying electric (coil) voltage is induced in the coil at least temporarily or is measurable between the first and second coil electrodes 311, 312. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one coil of the measuring tube module can also be configured to convert (time-varying electric current) supplied electrical energy into magnetic energy, for example, such that a magnetic field H is generated that partially penetrates the tube (time-varying and / or at least sectionally homogeneous within the lumen of the tube).

[0061] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the tube 11 of the measuring tube module M1 is configured to be integrated into a fluid flow system within a process line (fluidically) designed to convey an (electrically conductive) liquid measuring substance. This process line may be formed, for example, by means of one or more (flexible) hoses. The process line may have first and second line segments, and the tube may be connected at its first end to the first line segment and at its second end to the second line segment (fluidically), or at least one flow path involving the lumen of the tube of the measuring tube module may be formed. The aforementioned fluid flow system can, for example, be part of a pharmaceutical and / or biotechnological process; this is particularly possible if the measuring tube module M1 is installed or maintained under (germ-free) cleanroom conditions.

[0062] According to a further development of the invention, the measuring tube module M1 is a component of a modular system (M1, M2) that is particularly useful for forming a modular (flow) measuring device and / or a (modular) test arrangement. The system comprises (in addition to the measuring tube module M1) at least one (measuring tube module) receiving unit 41 and a base module M2, which has (system) electronics 41 that are mechanically connected to the (measuring tube module) receiving unit 42 and / or arranged within the (measuring tube module) receiving unit 42. This is achieved in particular by the measuring tube module M1 being installed (without tools) into the base module M2, for example, by being inserted, and connected to the base module M2.The components can be connected (mechanically and electrically) without tools and / or without damage, for example, such that the (measuring tube module) receiving unit and the measuring tube module are coupled together (electrically and mechanically) to form a test arrangement for the base module, or that the (measuring tube module) receiving unit and the measuring tube module are coupled together (electrically and mechanically) to form a (flow) measuring device. A corresponding modular (flow) measuring device formed by means of the measuring tube module or module system according to the invention is shown by way of example in Figures 4, 5, and 6, respectively, while a further example of a test arrangement is shown schematically in Figure 7.The measuring device can be designed in particular as a volume flow meter suitable for measuring the volume flow of an (electrically conductive) liquid substance flowing in the aforementioned process line (connected to the pipe of the measuring tube module) and / or as a magnetic-inductive flow meter.

[0063] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the base module M2 is specifically designed to receive the measuring tube module and to be mechanically connected to it in a fixed yet releasable manner, for example, such that the measuring tube module is (non-movably) locked to and / or in the base module. The measuring tube module and the base module can also be electrically and mechanically coupled to each other, in particular non-movably connected to each other, for example, forming the aforementioned (flow) measuring device or the aforementioned test arrangement.be; this is particularly also in such a way that the measuring tube module is inserted (without tools) into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit of the base module and is thus mechanically connected (releasable without tools and / or non-destructively), and that the measuring tube module is simultaneously electrically connected to the (system) electronics (by means of the first and second measuring electrodes and / or by means of the first and second coil electrodes). Furthermore, the tube 11 of the measuring tube module can be integrated (fluidically) into the course of a process line (fluidically) serving to guide an (electrically conductive) liquid measuring substance, in particular formed by means of one or more (flexible) hoses, for example, even before insertion into the base module (forming a fluid line system).

[0064] For electrically connecting the measuring electrodes 21, 22 and / or for selectively electrically connecting the measuring electrodes 21, 22 or the at least one coil of the measuring tube module or the coil electrodes 311, 312 to the (system) electronics of the base module, the (measuring tube module) receiving unit, according to a further embodiment of the invention, has first and second connecting electrodes 411, 412 electrically connected to the (system) electronics. Furthermore, as schematically shown in Figs. 5 and 6, the (measuring tube module) receiving unit can also have a further connecting electrode (413, 414) electrically connected to the (system) electronics, for example, to simultaneously be able to electrically connect measuring electrodes 21, 22 and the at least one coil 31 or its coil electrodes 311, 312 to the (system) electronics of the base module.

[0065] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the aforementioned (flow) measuring device is formed by means of a modular system according to the invention, in particular in that the base module and the measuring tube module, as also schematically shown in Fig. 4 or readily apparent from a combination of Figs. 3 and 4, are coupled to each other (electrically and mechanically) (forming the measuring device) by inserting the measuring tube module M1 into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit of the base module M2, for example by sliding it in, and thus mechanically fixed (in a predetermined measuring position), although, in particular,non-destructive and / or tool-free, releasable connection, for example, namely (in a measuring position) being locked (non-movably) on and / or in the base module, and by the measuring tube module M1 being (releasably) electrically connected to the (system) electronics at least by means of its first and second measuring electrodes; this in particular in such a way that the (flow) measuring device is (only) formed if the measuring tube module M1 is inserted into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit in a predetermined measuring position in which both the measuring electrode 21 and the connecting electrode 411 as well as the measuring electrode 22 and the connecting electrode 412 each (forming a respective electrically conductive connection) make (surface contact) contact with each other, or that the (flow) measuring device is not formed if the measuring tube module M1 is not inserted into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit in the predetermined measuring position.

[0066] Not least to ensure the formation of sufficiently electrically conductive contacts between connecting electrodes 411, 412 and the measuring electrodes 21, 22, a further embodiment of the invention provides that each of the first and second connecting electrodes, which are of, for example, the same size, has a (contact) area of ​​more than 0.2 mm². 2 and / or each of the first and second measuring electrodes has a (contact) area of ​​more than 0.2 mm² 2exhibits; for example, such that the (contact) surfaces of the first and second connecting electrodes are similar to each other, in particular congruent, and / or that the (contact) surfaces of the measuring electrodes are similar to each other, in particular congruent, and / or that the (contact) surfaces of the measuring and connecting electrodes are similar to each other, in particular congruent. According to a further embodiment of the invention, the (system) electronics are further configured to detect (high-impedance) electrical potentials derived from the measured material by means of the first and second measuring electrodes (during operation of the measuring device), for example by means of a measuring circuit DSV specifically provided for this purpose, and to convert them into at least one (first), in particular,to convert a digital (voltage) measurement signal that represents a potential difference Acp, which is correlated with at least one measured quantity (of the measured substance), for example, by both a (measuring device internally generated) magnetic field H partially penetrating the measuring tube module (time-varying and / or at least sectionally homogeneous within the lumen of the tube) and the potential difference Acp, which depends on the at least one measured quantity. Furthermore, the (system) electronics can also be configured to evaluate the (voltage) measurement signal, namely to determine (digital) measured values ​​for the at least one measured quantity using the (voltage) measurement signal.

[0067] To generate the aforementioned magnetic field H, the base module, in one variant of the module system or the measuring device formed therewith, as shown by way of example in Figures 4, 5 and 6, has at least one electrical (excitation) coil 31 electrically connected to the (system) electronics, for example, arranged (at least partially) within the (measuring tube module) receiving unit. The (excitation) coil is specifically configured to convert the supplied electrical energy (having a time-varying electric current) into magnetic energy; this is done in such a way that the aforementioned (time-varying) magnetic field H is generated.Furthermore, the (system) electronics are also designed to (for the purpose of generating the magnetic field H) at least temporarily feed electrical energy, for example by means of a specially provided driver circuit Exc and / or with a clocked electrical (coil) voltage having a (predetermined) clock rate and a (predetermined) pulse-pause ratio, into at least one (excitation) coil (of the recording unit).

[0068] As schematically illustrated in Fig. 6, the at least one (excitation) coil (of the recording unit) can further be configured to generate the aforementioned magnetic field H (during operation of the measuring instrument) in such a way that the (excitation) coil of the base module and the coil of the measuring tube module are (only) inductively coupled to each other; for example, also such that the magnetic field H partially permeates the coil of the measuring tube module or that a (time-varying) voltage is induced in the coil of the measuring tube module (by means of the magnetic field H) or is measurable between the first and second coil electrodes. This voltage can advantageously be received and evaluated by means of the (system) electronics, for example by means of the aforementioned measuring circuit DSV or a test circuit Chk provided specifically for this purpose, and / or to perform a check of the base module or a (self-)diagnosis of the measuring instrument based on the voltage.According to a further embodiment of the invention, the (system) electronics are accordingly also configured to detect the aforementioned electrical (coil) voltage induced in at least one coil of the measuring tube module (by means of the magnetic field generated by the coil of the receiving unit) and to convert it into at least one (digital) second (voltage) measurement signal that represents the same electrical (coil) voltage. Advantageously, the (system) electronics can also be configured to evaluate the same (voltage) measurement signal, for example by means of the aforementioned test circuit Chk, in particular.namely, to perform a (self-)diagnosis of the base module using the voltage measurement signal and / or to (re-)calibrate the base module; this can also be done, for example, by the (system) electronics determining one or more (actual) measured values ​​for the (coil) voltage and / or a correlated (operating) parameter based on the (voltage) measurement signal and comparing them with at least one predefined reference measured value. The reference measured value can, for example, represent an intact base module and / or a (coil) voltage determined using an (intact) base module, for example at the manufacturer's plant, and can be stored accordingly in a (non-volatile) data memory of the (system) electronics. An operating parameter correlated with the (coil) voltage or a corresponding reference measurement value can, for example, also be an electrical impedance or an inductance of the excitation coil or...This corresponds to the (nominally) achievable inductive coupling of the excitation coil with the coil of the recording unit. In the event of a deviation of one or more (actual) measured values ​​from at least one reference measured value exceeding a predetermined limit (determined by the aforementioned comparison), a (fault) message signaling this deviation can optionally be generated by the (system) electronics. Not least to simplify the evaluation of the aforementioned coil voltage by the (system) electronics, the (system) electronics can advantageously be configured to adjust the electrical energy fed into the (excitation) coil or the electrical (coil) voltage applied to the (excitation) coil such that a (nominal) maximum value of the coil voltage deviates from a (nominal) maximum value of the aforementioned potential difference Acp by no more than 10% of that same maximum value of the potential difference Acp.

[0069] To enable the aforementioned coil voltage (present between the first and second coil electrodes) to be tapped even during operation of the measuring instrument, the (measuring tube module) receiving unit, as schematically shown in Fig. 5, can further have a third connecting electrode 413 and a fourth connecting electrode 414, both electrically connected to the (system) electronics. Advantageously, the third and fourth connecting electrodes 413, 414, as well as the coil electrodes, can be arranged such that, as schematically shown in Fig. 5, (with the multi-electrode module in the measuring position) both the connecting electrode 413 and the coil electrode 311, as well as the connecting electrode 414 and the coil electrode 312, each make (surface) electrical contact with each other (forming a respective electrically conductive connection).Not least to ensure the formation of sufficiently electrically conductive contacts between the connecting electrodes 413, 414 and the coil electrodes 311, 312, a further embodiment of the invention provides that each of the third and fourth connecting electrodes, which are of the same size, for example, has a (contact) area of ​​more than 0.2 mm. 2 and / or each of the first and second coil electrodes has a (contact) area of ​​more than 0.2 mm 2 exhibits; for example, in such a way that (contact) surfaces of the third and fourth connecting electrodes are similar to each other, in particular congruent, and / or that (contact) surfaces of coil electrodes are similar to each other, in particular congruent, and / or that (contact) surfaces of the coil and connecting electrodes are similar to each other, in particular congruent.

[0070] Alternatively or in addition to the aforementioned formation of a measuring device, possibly also a measuring device with an integrated diagnostic function, the modular system according to the invention, as already mentioned or schematically illustrated in Fig. 7, can also be used to form a (modular) test arrangement, in particular a test arrangement for testing the base module, such that the test arrangement is also formed (only) by means of the base module and the measuring tube module. As shown in Fig. 7 or in conjunction with the Figs.As can be seen in Figures 3 and 4, the base module and the measuring tube module are also coupled to each other (electrically and mechanically) in the test setup by inserting the measuring tube module M1 into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit 42, for example by sliding it in, and thus being mechanically firmly connected (in a predetermined test position that deviates from the previously described measuring position), yet still being releasable (non-destructively and / or without tools), and by connecting the measuring tube module M1 (releasably) to the (system) electronics at least by means of the coil electrodes 311, 312, but not, for example, with the measuring electrodes 21, 22; this is done in such a way that (in test position) both the connecting electrode 411 and the coil electrode 311 as well as the connecting electrode 412 and the coil electrode 412 each make (surface) contact with each other (forming an electrically conductive connection).According to a further embodiment of the invention, the test arrangement is (only) formed if the measuring tube module M1 is inserted into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit in a predetermined test position (different from the aforementioned measuring position), in which both the coil electrode 311 and the connecting electrode 411 as well as the coil electrode 312 and the connecting electrode 412 each make (surface) contact with each other (forming an electrically conductive connection). Alternatively, the test arrangement is not formed if the measuring tube module M1 is inserted into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit in the aforementioned measuring position or not in the predetermined test position. Advantageously, the measuring tube module can also be (non-movably) locked to and / or in the base module for the purpose of forming the test arrangement (in the test position).Alternatively or additionally, the test setup can also be formed by means of a measuring tube module already integrated into the course of the aforementioned (process) line or by means of the fluid line system thus formed.

[0071] The coil voltage required for the diagnosis or test, or the derived (second) voltage measurement signal, can be generated by the (system) electronics and the coils (of the base module and the measuring tube module) connected to it via the connecting electrodes and inductively coupled to each other (via a magnetic field) as described above. The signal can then be evaluated by the (system) electronics as described above. Advantageously, the test setup can be easily converted into a measuring device, for example, after a successful test or one that yields a positive result indicating an intact base module, by simply moving the measuring tube module, which may already be integrated into the aforementioned (process) line, from the test position to the measurement position.Accordingly, according to a further embodiment of the invention, the (measuring tube module) receiving unit and the measuring tube module are arranged to be separated from each other non-destructively, in particular without tools, and (forming a measuring device) coupled together again, in particular (non-destructively) releasably, such that the measuring tube module M1 is inserted into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit 42 and is thus mechanically fixed in the aforementioned measuring position, yet releasably (non-destructively and / or without tools). The measuring position can, for example, be characterized or produced by the fact that the measuring tube module in the measuring position has an installation position (within the base module) which, compared to an installation position of the measuring tube module in the test position, as is readily apparent from a comparison of Figures 4 and 7, is rotated about a longitudinal axis of the measuring tube module (located within the lumen of the tube) and / or along the same The longitudinal axis is offset.

[0072] In the aforementioned case, where the base module has four connecting electrodes (411, 412, 413, 414) (each electrically connected to the system electronics), a further variant of the module system or the measuring device formed therewith provides that the measuring tube module and the base module are designed such that, in the measuring device thus formed or when the measuring tube module is inserted into the base module in the aforementioned measuring position, both the connecting electrode 413 and the coil electrode 311 as well as the connecting electrode 414 and the coil electrode 312 each make (surface) contact with each other (forming an electrically conductive connection). Furthermore, in this variant of the module system or the measuring device formed therewith, the (system) electronics of the base module are configured to generate the aforementioned magnetic field H at least temporarily by means of electrical energy, in particular...with a pulsed electrical (coil) voltage having a (predefined) clock rate and a (predefined) pulse-pause ratio, into which at least one coil of the measuring tube module is fed; this in particular in such a way that, during measurement operation or when the measured substance is flowing through the tube, the aforementioned potential difference Acp is directed to the (system) electronics by means of the measuring electrodes 21, 22 and the connecting electrodes 411, 412 and can thus be evaluated accordingly for the purpose of generating measured values ​​for the at least one measured quantity.

[0073] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the measuring tube module further comprises, as also schematically shown in Fig. 8, at least one second electrical coil 32 positioned on and / or in the wall of the tube, for example, also identical in construction to coil 31 and / or electrically connected to it. The two coils 31, 32 of the measuring tube module can, for example, be electrically connected to each other (by means of a connecting wire positioned on and / or in the wall of the tube), in particular, be connected in series. Alternatively or additionally, for example, coil 31 can be directly electrically connected to coil electrode 311 and / or coil 32 directly to coil electrode 312. By using two coils, among other things, the generation of the aforementioned magnetic field H or the generation of the aforementioned coil voltage or the derived (voltage) measurement signal can be improved.

[0074] The (system) electronics (or the measuring device or test setup formed by it) can also be advantageously integrated – not least for the purpose of transmitting (measurement and / or operating) data collected by means of the measuring device or the test setup, such as measured values ​​determined for one or more measured variables, and / or for remote control – (permanently) into a higher-level electronic data processing system (EDP), for example, formed by means of a programmable logic controller (PLC) and / or a process control system (PCS) and / or an edge (computing) device and / or a cloud (computing) system, in particular being electrically connected to the higher-level electronic data processing system.Before the actual measurement operation begins, the system must be integrated (in terms of signal and data technology), for example via a standardized (field)bus system (PROFIBUS, FOUNDATION FIELDBUS, HART, MODBUS, EtherNET Powerlink, EtherCAT, IO-Link, SPE, APL, etc.). Accordingly, the (system) electronics can also be configured to communicate with the higher-level electronic data processing system via a 2L data line and / or wirelessly, for example using WirelessHART, wirelessPROFIBUS, WLAN, LTE, etc., for example, to send (measurement system) data to the higher-level electronic data processing system and / or to receive (setting) values ​​for the (system) electronics, configuring (setting) parameters, or (controlling) commands.According to a further embodiment of the invention, the (system) electronics have at least one data input and / or a radio unit, and / or the (system) electronics are further configured to control or execute the (re-)commissioning of the measuring device and / or the operation of the test arrangement automatically and / or in dialogue with a user of the module system and / or in conjunction with the higher-level electronic data processing system. In addition, the (system) electronics can have at least one data output for outputting (measuring system) data, in particular digital and / or time-stamped data, for example, measurement and / or operating values ​​characterizing the (system) electronics and / or measurement and / or operating values ​​characterizing the base module, to the higher-level electronic data processing system. Alternatively or additionally, the (system) electronics or the measuring system formed therewith can also be controlled by a, if necessary,It may also be supplied with electrical energy via the aforementioned higher-level electronic data processing system and an external power supply.

[0075] To operate the measuring device or test setup on site, or to display (measurement and / or operating) data generated by it, in particular measured values ​​for at least one measured quantity, and / or (status) messages of the measuring device or test setup, the module system may also include a display or display and control element (HMI) connected to the (system) electronics via signal technology, in particular (electrically) via cable and / or radio, and / or arranged on and / or inside the base module, for example formed by means of a touch display and / or one or more LEDs, and / or an external (on-site) operating device connected (only temporarily) via signal technology to the (system) electronics, for example to its aforementioned data input and / or its aforementioned data output.

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1. Measuring tube module (M1) for forming a modular (flow) measuring device, in particular designed as a magnetic-inductive flow meter, for measuring at least one measured quantity, in particular a volume flow rate, of an (electrically conductive) liquid medium flowing in a (connected) process line, and / or for forming a test arrangement for a basic module (M2) of a module system (M1, M2) serving to form a modular (flow) measuring device, which comprises a measuring tube module: - a tube (11) with a lumen (11*) enclosed by a wall, in particular made of plastic, extending from a first (tube) end to a second (tube) end; - first and second measuring electrodes (21 , 22) positioned on and / or in the wall of the tube, in particular galvanic or capacitive, for tapping off electrical potentials established within a measuring substance located in the lumen of the tube; - at least one mechanically connected to the tube, in particular firmly and / or not non-destructively detachable, in particular namely positioned on and / or in the wall of the tube and / or not arranged within the lumen of the tube and / or not projecting into the lumen of the tube, (first) electrical coil (31) for generating and / or detecting a magnetic field (H); - as well as first and second coil electrodes (311 , 312) positioned on and / or in the wall of the tube and electrically connected to the coil, in particular by means of an intermediate further electrical coil (of the measuring tube module).

2. Measuring tube module (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the tube is arranged to be integrated (fluidically) into the course of a process line serving to guide an (electrically conductive) liquid measuring substance.

3. Measuring tube module (10) according to one of the preceding claims, configured to be inserted (tool-free) into a base module for a modular (flow) measuring device comprising a (measuring tube module) receiving unit and (system) electronics, in particular by being inserted, and to be connected (mechanically and electrically) to the base module, in particular in a tool-free and / or non-destructive releasable manner, in particular such that the (measuring tube module) receiving unit and the measuring tube module are coupled to each other (electrically and mechanically) to form a test arrangement for the base module, or that the (measuring tube module) receiving unit and the measuring tube module are coupled to each other (electrically and mechanically) to form a (flow) measuring device.

4. Measuring tube module (10) according to one of the preceding claims, - wherein the wall of the pipe consists at least partially, in particular predominantly or completely, of a plastic, in particular polycarbonate (PC); and / or - wherein the at least one electrical coil is formed by means of a (flexible) circuit board having spiral conductor tracks and / or being embedded at least partially, in particular completely, in the wall of the tube; and / or - wherein each of the first and second coil electrodes, especially those of equal size, has a (contact) area of ​​more than 0.2 mm² 2 exhibits, in particular such that the (contact) surfaces of the first and second coil electrodes are of the same size and / or similar to each other, in particular congruent; and / or - wherein each of the first and second coil electrodes (311, 312) is formed at least partially by means of a metal pin and / or a metal plate; and / or - wherein each of the first and second measuring electrodes is formed at least partially by means of a metal pin; and / or - wherein each of the first and second measuring electrodes has a (contact) area of ​​more than 0.2 mm 2exhibits, in particular such that the (contact) surfaces of the first and second measuring electrodes are of the same size and / or similar to each other, in particular congruent; and / or - where the first and second measuring electrodes are identical in construction; and / or - wherein the first and second measuring electrodes (21, 22) are designed as galvanic electrodes (extending partially into the lumen of the tube or serving to contact a measuring medium guided in the lumen of the tube); and / or - wherein the pipe is configured to be permeated by a liquid, in particular electrically conductive, measuring substance (supplied and discharged via an attached process line) and during this time by a magnetic field; and / or - wherein at least one coil of the measuring tube module is configured to convert a (time-varying) magnetic field passing through a similar coil into electrical energy (having a time-varying electric current or a time-varying electric voltage), in particular such that at least temporarily a time-varying electric (Coil) voltage is induced in the coil or can be measured between the first and second coil electrodes.

5. Measuring tube module according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: at least one second electrical coil (32) positioned on and / or in the wall of the tube, in particular identical in construction to the first coil (31) and / or electrically connected thereto.

6. Measuring tube module according to the previous claim, - wherein the first and second electrical coils are connected in series; and / or - wherein the first electrical coil is directly electrically connected to the first coil electrode; and / or - wherein the second electrical coil is directly electrically connected to the second coil electrode.

7. Modular system, in particular for forming a modular (flow) measuring device and / or a test setup, which modular system comprises: - a basic module (M2) - with a (measuring tube module) recording unit (42) - and with a device that is mechanically connected, in particular to the (measuring tube module) receiving unit and / or arranged within the (measuring tube module) receiving unit, (System) Electronics (41); - and a measuring tube module (M1) according to one of claims 1 to 6.

8. Modular system according to one of the preceding claims, - wherein the (system) electronics (41) comprise at least one signal amplifier; and / or - wherein the (system) electronics (41) includes at least one A / D converter; - wherein the (system) electronics (41) includes at least one microprocessor.

9. Modular system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the base module is configured to receive the measuring tube module and to be mechanically firmly, yet releasably, connected to it, in particular such that the measuring tube module is (non-movably) locked to and / or in the base module.

10. Modular system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the measuring tube module and the base module, in particular forming a (flow) measuring device or forming a test arrangement for the base module, are electrically and mechanically coupled to one another, in particular non-movably connected to one another, in particular such that the measuring tube module is inserted (without tools) into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit (of the base module) and is thus mechanically connected (without tools and / or non-destructively releasable) and that the measuring tube module is simultaneously electrically connected to the (system) electronics (by means of the first and second measuring electrodes and / or by means of the first and second coil electrodes).

11. Module system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one coil of the measuring tube module is configured to convert (having a time-varying electric current) supplied electrical energy into magnetic energy, in particular such that a magnetic field partially penetrating the tube (time-varying and / or at least sectionally homogeneous within the lumen of the tube) is generated.

12. Module system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one coil of the measuring tube module is configured to convert a (time-varying) magnetic field passing through a coil into electrical energy (having a time-varying electric current or a time-varying electric voltage) such that at least temporarily a time-varying electric (coil) voltage is induced in the coil or is measurable between the first and second coil electrodes.

13. Module system according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a display element (HMI) connected to the (system) electronics via a signal connection, in particular a display and operating element, for displaying measurement and / or operating data determined by means of the (system) electronics and / or for displaying one or more (fault) messages determined by means of the (system) electronics.

14. Module system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the (measuring tube module) receiving unit has first and second connecting electrodes electrically connected to the (system) electronics.

15. Module system according to claim 14 or a dependent claim, wherein the (measuring tube module) receiving unit has third and fourth connecting electrodes (413, 414) electrically connected to the (system) electronics.

16. Modular system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the base module has at least one electrically connected to the (system) electronics, in particular arranged within the (measuring tube module) receiving unit, electrical (excitation) coil.

17. Module system according to claim 16, wherein the at least one (excitation) coil (of the receiving unit) is configured to convert (having a time-varying electric current) supplied electrical energy into magnetic energy, in particular such that a time-varying magnetic field is generated.

18. Module system according to the previous claim, wherein the (system) electronics are configured to supply electrical energy, at least temporarily, in particular with a clocked electrical (coil) voltage having a (predetermined) clock rate and a (predetermined) pulse-pause ratio, into which at least one (excitation) coil (of the receiving unit) is fed.

19. Modular (flow) measuring device, in particular a magnetic-inductive flow measuring device, for measuring at least one measured quantity, in particular a volume flow rate, of an (electrically conductive) liquid substance flowing in a (connected to it) process line, which (flow) measuring device comprises: - a modular system according to any one of claims 7 to 18; - wherein the base module and measuring tube module (forming the measuring instrument) are coupled together (electrically and mechanically), - by inserting the measuring tube module (10) into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit, in particular by sliding it in, and thus mechanically firmly connected (in a predetermined measuring position), yet also detachably, in particular non-destructively and / or without tools, - and by electrically connecting the measuring tube module (10) to the (system) electronics (removably) at least by means of the first and second measuring electrodes (31 , 32), in particular (only) if the measuring tube module (10) is inserted into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit in a predetermined measuring position.

20. Measuring device according to one of the preceding claims, - wherein the measuring tube module (in measuring position) is locked to and / or in the base module (not movable); and / or - wherein the tube of the measuring tube module is set up to be integrated (forming a fluid piping system) into the course of a process line (fluidically) suitable for guiding an (electrically conductive) liquid measuring substance, in particular formed by means of one or more (flexible) hoses.

21. Measuring device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the (system) electronics are configured to detect electrical potentials (high impedance) derived from the measured material by means of the first and second measuring electrodes and to convert them into at least one (first), in particular digital, (voltage) measuring signal, which represents a potential difference (Acp) correlated with the at least one measured quantity, in particular by both a (measuring device internally generated) partially penetrating the measuring tube module (time-varying and / or at least sectionally homogeneous within the lumen of the tube) magnetic field (H) and the at least one measured quantity.

22. Measuring device according to the previous claim, wherein the (system) electronics are configured to evaluate the (voltage) measurement signal, namely to determine (digital) measured values ​​for the at least one measured quantity using the (voltage) measurement signal.

23. Measuring device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a module system according to claim 14 or a dependent claim thereunder, - wherein the first connecting electrode and the first measuring electrode (forming an electrically conductive connection) make (surface contact) with each other, - and wherein the second connecting electrode and the second measuring electrode (forming an electrically conductive connection) contact each other (over an area).

24. Measuring device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a module system according to claim 15 or a dependent claim thereunder, - wherein the third terminal electrode and the first coil electrode (forming an electrically conductive connection) make (surface contact) with each other, - and wherein the fourth terminal electrode and the second coil electrode (forming an electrically conductive connection) contact each other (over an area).

25. Measuring device according to claim 24, wherein the (system) electronics are configured to supply electrical energy, at least temporarily, in particular with a pulsed electrical (coil) voltage having a (predetermined) clock rate and a (predetermined) pulse-pause ratio, into at least one coil of the measuring tube module.

26. Measuring device according to claim 24, comprising a module system according to claim 18 or a dependent claim, wherein the (system) electronics are configured to supply electrical energy, in particular with a pulsed electrical (coil) voltage having a (predetermined) clock rate and a (predetermined) pulse-pause ratio, at least temporarily into the at least one (excitation) coil (of the recording unit), such that a (nominal) maximum value of an electrical (coil) voltage induced in the at least one coil of the measuring tube module deviates from a (nominal) maximum value of the potential difference (Acp) by no more than 10% of the same maximum value of the potential difference (Acp).

27. Measuring device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a module system according to claim 16 or a dependent claim, wherein the at least one (excitation) coil (of the receiving unit) is configured to convert (a time-varying electric current) supplied electrical energy into magnetic energy, such that a (time-varying and / or at least sectionally homogeneous within the lumen of the tube) magnetic field is generated that also partially penetrates the measuring tube module and / or such that the (excitation) coil of the base module and the coil of the measuring tube module are (only) inductively coupled to each other.

28. Measuring device according to claims 26 and 27, comprising a module system according to claim 12 or a dependent claim therein, wherein the (system) electronics are configured to detect an electrical (coil) voltage induced in at least one coil of the measuring tube module, in particular by means of a magnetic field generated by the (excitation) coil of the recording unit, in particular by means of a measuring circuit (of the system electronics) or by means of a test circuit (of the system electronics), and to convert it into at least one, in particular digital, second (voltage) measurement signal, which represents a time-varying electrical (coil) voltage induced in the coil, in particular measurable between the first and second coil electrodes.

29. Measuring device according to the preceding claim, - wherein the (system) electronics are configured to evaluate the second (voltage) measurement signal, in particular by means of a test circuit (of the system electronics), namely to perform a (self-)diagnosis of the base module using the second voltage measurement signal and / or to (re-)calibrate the base module, in particular to determine one or more (actual) measured values ​​for the (coil) voltage and / or a correlated (operating) parameter based on the second (voltage) measurement signal and to compare them with at least one specified reference measured value; and / or - where a (nominal) maximum value of the (coil) voltage deviates from a (nominal) maximum value of the potential difference (Acp) by no more than 10% of the same maximum value of the potential difference (Acp).

30. Measuring device according to the preceding claim, wherein the (system) electronics are configured to determine, on the basis of the second (voltage) measurement signal, one or more (actual) measured values ​​for the (coil) voltage and / or for one or more (operating) parameters correlated with the (coil) voltage, in particular an electrical impedance and / or an inductance of the (excitation) coil (of the recording unit), and to compare with at least one reference measured value specified for this purpose, in particular determined by means of an intact base module and / or representing an intact base module and / or stored in a (non-volatile) data memory of the (system) electronics, in particular such that the (system) electronics generate a (fault) message signaling this in the event of a deviation of one or more (actual) measured values ​​from the at least one reference measured value exceeding a specified limit.

31. Test arrangement, in particular for testing a basic module suitable for forming a (flow) measuring device according to one of claims 19 to 30, which test arrangement comprises: - a modular system according to any one of claims 7 to 18; - wherein the base module and measuring tube module (forming the test arrangement) are coupled together (electrically and mechanically), - by inserting the measuring tube module (10) into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit, in particular by sliding it in, and thus mechanically firmly connected (in a predetermined test position), yet also detachably, in particular non-destructively and / or without tools, - and by electrically connecting the measuring tube module (10) to the (system) electronics (removably) at least by means of the first and second coil electrodes, but in particular not with the first and second measuring electrodes, in particular (only) if the measuring tube module (10) is inserted into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit in a predetermined test position.

32. Test arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the measuring tube module (in test position) is locked on and / or in the base module (not movable).

33. Test arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a module system according to claim 14 or a dependent claim thereunder, - wherein the first connecting electrode and the first coil electrode (forming an electrically conductive connection) make (surface contact) with each other, - and wherein the second connecting electrode and the second coil electrode (forming an electrically conductive connection) contact each other (over an area).

34. Test arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a module system according to claim 16 or a dependent claim, wherein the at least one (excitation) coil (of the receiving unit) is configured to convert (having a time-varying electric current) supplied electrical energy into magnetic energy, such that (by forming an inductive coupling of the excitation coil of the receiving unit with that of the coil of the measuring tube module) a magnetic field is generated which also partially penetrates the coil of the measuring tube module (time-varying and / or at least sectionally homogeneous within the lumen of the tube).

35. Test arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a module system according to claim 16 or a dependent claim, wherein the at least one (excitation) coil (of the receiving unit) is configured to convert (having a time-varying electric current) supplied electrical energy into magnetic energy, such that a magnetic field is generated that also partially penetrates the measuring tube module (time-varying and / or at least sectionally homogeneous within the lumen of the tube) and / or such that the (excitation) coil of the base module and the coil of the measuring tube module are (only) inductively coupled to each other.

36. Test arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a module system according to claims 18 and 12, wherein the (system) electronics are configured to feed electrical energy, in particular with a clocked electrical (coil) voltage having a (predetermined) clock rate and a (predetermined) pulse-pause ratio, at least temporarily into at least one (excitation) coil (of the recording unit), such that at least temporarily a time-varying electrical (coil) voltage (dependent on the coil voltage applied to the excitation coil of the recording unit and on an inductive coupling of said excitation coil with the coil of the measuring tube module) is induced in the coil of the measuring tube module or can be measured between the first and second coil electrodes.

37. Test arrangement according to claim 36, wherein the (system) electronics are configured to detect the electrical (coil) voltage induced in the at least one coil of the measuring tube module and to convert it into at least one (coil) voltage-representing, in particular digital, (voltage) measurement signal.

38. Test arrangement according to the previous claim, wherein the (system) electronics are configured to evaluate the (voltage) measurement signal, namely to perform a (self-)diagnosis of the base module using the voltage measurement signal and / or to (re-)calibrate the base module, in particular to determine one or more (actual) measured values ​​for the (coil) voltage and / or a correlated (operating) parameter on the basis of the second (voltage) measurement signal and to compare them with at least one specified reference measured value.

39. Test arrangement according to the preceding claim, wherein the (system) electronics are configured to determine one or more (actual) measured values ​​for the (coil) voltage and / or a correlated (operating) parameter, in particular an electrical impedance and / or an inductance of the (excitation) coil (of the receiving unit), on the basis of the (voltage) measurement signal, and to compare with at least one reference measured value specified for this purpose, in particular determined by means of an intact base module and / or representing an intact base module and / or stored in a (non-volatile) data memory of the (system) electronics, in particular such that the (system) electronics generate a (fault) message signaling this in the event of a deviation of one or more (actual) measured values ​​from the at least one reference measured value exceeding a specified limit.

40. Test arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the (measuring tube module) receiving unit and measuring tube module are arranged to be separated from each other non-destructively, in particular without tools, and (forming a measuring device according to one of claims 19 to 30) coupled together again, in particular (non-destructively) reconnectable, in such a way that - that the measuring tube module (10) is inserted into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit, in particular, inserted, and thus (in a predetermined measuring position that differs from the test position) mechanically fixed, yet detachably again, in particular non-destructively and / or without tools, in particular such that the measuring tube module in measuring position has an installation position (within the base module) which, compared to an installation position of the measuring tube module in test position, is rotated about a longitudinal axis of the measuring tube module (located within the lumen of the tube) and / or offset along that same longitudinal axis, - and that the measuring tube module (10) is electrically connected (removably) to the (system) electronics at least by means of the first and second measuring electrodes (31 , 32), in particular (only) if the measuring tube module (10) is inserted into the (measuring tube module) receiving unit in a predetermined measuring position that differs from the test position.

41. Fluid piping system, comprising: - a process line suitable for guiding an (electrically conductive) liquid measuring substance, in particular formed by means of one or more (flexible) hoses - and a measuring tube module (10) according to one of claims 1 to 6, in particular designed as a component of a modular system according to one of claims 7 to 18 and / or designed as a component of a (flow) measuring device according to one of claims 19 to 30 or designed as a component of a test arrangement according to one of claims 31 to 40, integrated into the course of the process line, in particular by forming at least one flow path involving the lumen of the tube of the measuring tube module.

42. Fluid piping system according to the preceding claim, - wherein the process line has first and second line segments, - and wherein the pipe is connected (fluidically) to the first line segment with its first (pipe) end and to the second line segment with its second (pipe) end.

43. Fluid piping system according to claim 42, wherein the measuring tube module (10) is part of a (flow) measuring device according to one of claims 19 to 30.

44. Fluid piping system according to claim 42, wherein the measuring tube module (10) is part of a test arrangement according to one of claims 31 to 40.

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