Measuring device, measuring system for measuring fluid flow and method for measuring fluid flow

Abstract

The present invention relates to a measuring device (1) for measuring fluid flow (F) in a ventilation duct (300), the measuring device (1) comprises a first sound sensor arrangement (10) arranged to receive and transmit sound (S), a second sound sensor arrangement (20) arranged to receive and transmit sound (S), and a measuring device body (40), the first sound sensor arrangement (10) and the second sound sensor arrangement (20) are connected to the measuring device body (40), and the second sound sensor arrangement (20) is provided at a sensor distance (D1) from the first sound sensor arrangement (10). The present invention further relates to a measuring system for measuring fluid flow and a method for measuring fluid flow.

Description

[0001] A measuring device, a measuring system for measuring fluid flow and a method for measuring fluid flow TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The invention relates to a measuring device and more particularly to a measuring device according to the preamble of claim 1, a measuring system for measuring fluid flow and more particularly to a measuring system for measuring fluid flow according to the preamble of claim 9, and a method for measuring fluid flow in a ventilation duct and more particularly to and a method for measuring fluid flow in a ventilation duct according to the preamble of claim 13.

[0003] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] From the standpoint of the operation of a ventilation measuring system, it is essential that the flow in the ductwork matches that designed. By examining the velocities of flows in ventilation ducts, it can be ensured that the measuring system operates in the desired manner. Sometimes, a temperature of the flow should be known. Measuring the flow also enables e.g. various manual or automatic adjustment procedures to be performed in the measuring system. In prior art, flow has been measured by the aid of a means installable in, or installed in, a ventilation duct. These types of flow sensors cause pressure losses in the ventilation duct and also produce noise.

[0005] Also known in the art are sensors based on the use of sound, in which the flow velocity is determined by means of the phase difference of the sound signal received at the same moment in time by two sound receivers fitted into connection with the duct and a separate transmitter or vice versa.

[0006] Even when attempts are made to arrange the sound or ultrasound elements at specific predetermined position in the duct section, solutions are complicated to install especially in the existing ventilation ducts.

[0007] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] An object of the invention is to eliminate or at least alleviate the problems relating to the known prior art.

[0009] The object of the invention can be achieved by the features of independent claims. The preferred embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the dependent claims.

[0010] The measuring device according to the invention is based on the use of sound technology and on the measurement of the sonic propagation time difference in a ventilation duct.

[0011] In some embodiments, the measuring device is arranged to measure and / or determine a fluid flow velocity in the ventilation duct.

[0012] The measuring device comprises a first sound sensor arrangement arranged to receive and transmit sound, a second sound sensor arrangement arranged to receive and transmit sound, and a measuring device body, the firstsound sensor arrangement and the second sound sensor arrangement are connected to the measuring device body, and the second sound sensor arrangement is provided at a sensor distance from the first sound sensor arrangement.

[0013] In other words, the first sound sensor arrangement is arranged to transmit sound to the second sound sensor arrangement and the first sound sensor arrangement is arranged to receive sound from the second sound sensor arrangement, and the second sound sensor arrangement arranged to transmit sound to the first sound sensor arrangement, and the second sound sensor arrangement is arranged to receive sound from the first sound sensor arrangement. Furthermore, both the first sound sensor arrangement and the second sound sensor arrangement are connected to the measuring device body. This means that the first sound sensor arrangement and the second sound sensor arrangement having a fixed position in relation to each other.

[0014] The fixed position provides an accurate measurement data. The first sound sensor arrangement transmitting sound to the second sound sensor arrangement via an inner surface of the ventilation duct opposite the measuring device, and the second sound sensor arrangement transmitting sound to the first sound sensor arrangement via an inner surface of the wall of the ventilation duct opposite to the measuring device.

[0015] This means, that the measuring device according to the present invention provides an accurate measurement data. Typically, the ventilation ducts are installed in vicinity of a ceiling. Thus, there is limited access to the ventilation duct. The measuring device according to present invention requires only one accessible spot on the ventilation duct. This is especially beneficial when the ventilation duct is covered with an insulation layer.

[0016] The present invention further relates to a measuring system for measuring fluid flow in a ventilation duct, the ventilation duct is arranged to transfer fluid, the ventilation duct comprises a wall of the ventilation duct, the wall of the ventilation duct defining a ventilation duct channel, the measuring system comprises a measuring device arranged to measure fluid flow in the ventilation duct, the measuring device comprises a first sound sensor arrangement arranged to receive and transmit sound, a second sound sensor arrangement arranged to receive and transmit sound, and a measuring device body, the first sound sensor arrangement and the second sound sensor arrangement are connected to the measuring device body,

[0017] the ventilation duct comprises one or more sensor openings provided to the wall of the ventilation duct, and the measuring device body is fixed to the ventilation duct wall with a fixing arrangement, and the first sound sensor arrangement and the second sound sensor arrangement are in contact with ventilation duct channel through the one or more sensor openings.

[0018] The measuring system for measuring fluid flow in a ventilation duct according to present invention is simple to install as the measuring device is installed to the wall of the ventilation duct outside the ventilation duct and only the one or more sensor openings are required to the wall of the ventilation duct.In some embodiments, the measuring device is arranged to measure and / or determine a fluid flow velocity in the ventilation duct.

[0019] The present invention further relates to a method for measuring fluid flow in a ventilation duct with a measuring system, the ventilation duct having a first ventilation duct end and a second ventilation duct end, the ventilation duct comprises a wall of the ventilation duct defining a ventilation duct channel, the ventilation duct channel extending between the first ventilation duct end and the second ventilation duct end, the fluid is arranged to flow along the ventilation duct channel,

[0020] the method comprises:

[0021] -providing a measuring device for measuring fluid flow in a ventilation duct, the measuring device comprises a first sound sensor arrangement arranged to receive and transmit sound, a second sound sensor arrangement arranged to receive and transmit sound, and an measuring device body; the first sound sensor arrangement and the second sound sensor arrangement are connected to the measuring device body, and the second sound sensor arrangement is provided at a sensor distance from the first sound sensor arrangement,

[0022] - providing the wall of the ventilation duct with the one or more sensor openings, - positioning the measuring device body outside the ventilation duct on the wall of the ventilation duct, and positioning the first sound sensor arrangement and the second sound sensor arrangement in contact with the ventilation duct channel via the one or more sensor openings, and

[0023] - fixing the measuring device body to the wall of the ventilation duct with a fixing arrangement.

[0024] In some embodiments, the measuring system comprises the measuring device. In some embodiments, the method comprises measuring fluid flow in a ventilation duct with the measuring device.

[0025] In some embodiments, the method comprises measuring fluid flow in a ventilation duct with the measuring device fixed to the wall of the ventilation duct.

[0026] In other words, the method comprises measuring a fluid flow velocity in a ventilation duct with the measuring device fixed to the wall of the ventilation duct.

[0027] The present invention provides an easy and safe method to provide the measuring system.

[0028] The present invention offers advantages over the known prior art. The present invention enables easy installation of the measuring device on a ventilation duct already installed in a building. Furthermore, the measuring system provides an accurate measurement data. Furthermore, the measuring device according to the present invention enables cleaning of the ventilation duct without any obstacles when the measuring device is installed on the ventilation duct. Furthermore, the measuring system does not interfere operation of the ventilation.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] Next the invention will be described in greater detail with reference to exemplary embodiments in accordance with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0030] Figure 1 shows schematically a bottom view of one embodiment of the measuring device according to the present invention,

[0031] Figure 2 shows schematically a 3D view of the measuring device shown in figure 1, Figure 3 shows schematically a top view of the measuring device shown in figure 1, Figure 4 shows schematically a top view of the measuring device shown in figure 1, Figure 5 shows schematically one embodiment of a first and a second sound sensor arrangement,

[0032] Figure 6 shows schematically another embodiment of a first and a second sound sensor arrangement,

[0033] Figure 7 shows schematically a cross section of one embodiment of the measuring device according to the present invention,

[0034] Figure 8 shows schematically a cross section view of one embodiment of a measuring system for measuring fluid flow according to the present invention, Figure 9 shows schematically a side view of the measuring system shown in figure 8,

[0035] Figure 10 shows schematically one embodiment of a fixing gasket,

[0036] Figure 11 shows schematically a side view of one embodiment of a measuring system for measuring fluid flow according to the present invention,

[0037] Figure 12 shows schematically a side view of one embodiment of a measuring system for measuring fluid flow according to the present invention,

[0038] Figure 13 shows schematically one embodiment of a measuring system for measuring fluid flow according to the present invention, and

[0039] Figure 14 shows schematically one embodiment of a measuring system for measuring fluid flow according to the present invention.

[0040] Figure 15 shows schematically steps of method according to present invention according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0041] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVEI TION

[0042] The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided for thoroughness and completeness, and for fully convey the scope of the invention to a skilled person. Although individual features may be included in different embodiments, these may possibly be combined in other ways, and the inclusion in different embodiments does not imply that a combination of features is not feasible. In addition, singular references do not exclude a plurality. In the context of the present invention, the terms "a", "an" does not preclude a plurality.

[0043] As used herein, the term "comprising" includes the broader meanings of "including", "containing", and "comprehending", as well as the narrower expressions "consisting of" and "consisting only of'.The present invention relates to a measuring device 1 for measuring fluid flow F in a ventilation duct 300 shown in figures 1 - 4.

[0044] The measuring device 1 comprises a first sound sensor arrangement 10 arranged to receive and transmit sound S, a second sound sensor arrangement 20 arranged to receive and transmit sound S, and a measuring device body 40. The first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 are connected to the measuring device body 40, and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 is provided at a sensor distance DI from the first sound sensor arrangement 10.

[0045] In some embodiments, the measuring device 1 comprises a circuit board 90. The circuit board 90 is shown in figure 7.

[0046] In some embodiments, the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 are fixed to the circuit board 90.

[0047] In some embodiments, the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 are connected to the circuit board 90.

[0048] In some embodiments, the circuit board 90 is fixed to the measuring device body 40.

[0049] In some embodiments, the circuit board 90 is connected to the measuring device body 40.

[0050] The circuit board 90 provides a straightforward way to connect the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 to the measuring device body 40.

[0051] In some embodiments, the measuring device body 40 is arranged to surround the circuit board 90.

[0052] In other words, the circuit board 90 is covered with the measuring device body 40. In some embodiments, the measuring device 1 comprises a temperature sensor 30. The temperature sensor 30 provides useful temperature information of the fluid flow. This information may be used for instance to further control the fluid flow or adjust temperature of the fluid flow.

[0053] In some embodiments, the measuring device 1 comprises a temperature sensor 30, the temperature sensor 30 is provided between the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20.

[0054] In some embodiments, the measuring device 1 comprises a temperature sensor 30, the temperature sensor 30 is provided in the vicinity of the first sound sensor arrangement 10 or in the vicinity of the second sound sensor arrangement 20 (not shown in the figures).

[0055] In some embodiments, the measuring device 1 comprises a first sound sensor arrangement 10 arranged to receive and transmit sound S, a second sound sensor arrangement 20 arranged to receive and transmit sound S, a circuit board 90 and a measuring device body 40, the measuring device body 40 having a bottom surface 455 arranged to be positioned facing towards the ventilation duct 300,

[0056] the first sound sensor arrangement 10 comprises a first sound transceiver 103 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 comprises a second sound transceiver 203, the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensorarrangement 20 are connected to the measuring device body 40, the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 are arranged to protrude from the bottom surface 455 in a direction away from the circuit board 90, and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 is provided at a sensor distance DI from the first sound sensor arrangement 10.

[0057] The first sound sensor arrangement comprises a first sound transceiver and the second sound sensor arrangement comprises a second sound transceiver simplify the structure of the measuring device, which enables installing the device on a circular surface, and only one device is required. The first and second sound sensor arrangement protruding from the bottom surface of the device body provide accurate measurements.

[0058] In some embodiments, the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300 defining a ventilation duct channel 301 arranged to transfer fluid, the measuring device body 40 is arranged to be positioned outside the ventilation duct 300 and arranged to be fixed to a wall 31 of a ventilation duct 300, and the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 are arranged to be positioned in contact with the ventilation duct channel 301.

[0059] In other words, the ventilation duct channel 301 is a space surrounded by the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300.

[0060] The measuring device body 40 having a bottom surface 455 arranged to be positioned facing towards the ventilation duct 300. The bottom surface 455 is shown in figure 7.

[0061] In some embodiments, the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 are arranged to protrude from the bottom surface 455 in a direction away from the circuit board 90.

[0062] In some embodiments, the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 are arranged to protrude from the bottom surface 455 towards the ventilation duct 300.

[0063] It should be noted that the first sound sensor arrangement 10 may comprise a portion of the measuring device body 40 protruding from the bottom surface 455, and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 may comprise a portion of the measuring device body 40 protruding from the bottom surface 455. In some embodiments, the measuring device body 40 having a first end 43 and a second end 44, and a first length LI between the first end 43 and second end 44, the measuring device body 40 having a first side 45 and a second side 46, and a first width W1 between the first side 45 and the second side 46, the first length LI is in the range from 2 to 8 times the first width Wl.

[0064] That enables fixing the measuring device body 40 air tightly on a circular ventilation duct 300.

[0065] In some embodiments, the measuring device body 40 comprises one or more fixing openings 41,42.

[0066] In some embodiments, the measuring device body 40 comprises one or more fixing openings 41,42, and one or more fixing openings 41,42 comprises a first fixing opening 41 and a second fixing opening 42.In some embodiments, the first width W1 is in the range of from 15 mm to 50 mm. In some embodiments, the first length LI is in the range of from 95 mm to 160 mm. In some embodiments, a fixing opening distance D2 between the first fixing opening 41 and the second fixing opening 42 is in the range from 60 mm to 150 mm, or in the range from 60 mm to 90 mm.

[0067] In some embodiments, a sensor distance D2 between the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 is in the range from 30 mm to 50 mm, or in the range from 30 mm to 120 mm.

[0068] It should be noted, that the sensor distance D2 means a distance from the centre of the first sound sensor arrangement 10 to the centre of the second sound sensor arrangement 20.

[0069] In some embodiments, the measuring device 1 comprises a communication unit 60 arranged to transfer data from the measuring device 1.

[0070] In some embodiments, the communication unit 60 is provided to the circuit board 90.

[0071] In some embodiments, the communication unit 60 comprises a wireless communication module configured to communicate with a data processing unit 70. In some embodiments, the communication unit 60 comprises a communication module connected with a cable to a data processing unit 70.

[0072] In some embodiments, the measuring device 1 comprises data processing unit 70. In some embodiments, the first sound sensor arrangement 10 is arranged to receive and transmit sound at frequencies in the range of 1 kHz - 4 MHz, and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 is arranged to receive and transmit at frequencies in the range of 1 kHz - 4 MHz.

[0073] In some embodiments, the first sound sensor arrangement 10 is arranged to receive and transmit ultrasound, and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 is arranged to receive and transmit ultrasound.

[0074] In some embodiments, the ultrasound is sound at frequencies 20 kHz or greater. In some embodiments, the ultrasound is sound at frequencies in the range of 20 kHz - 4 MHz.

[0075] Figure 5 shows schematically one embodiment of a first and a second sound sensor arrangement.

[0076] In some embodiment, the first sound sensor arrangement 10 comprises a first sound transmitter 101 and a first sound receiver 102.

[0077] In some embodiment, the first sound sensor arrangement 10 comprises a first sound transmitter 101 and a first sound receiver 102 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 comprises a second sound transmitter 201 and a second sound receiver 202.

[0078] In some embodiment, the first sound transmitter 101 is a loudspeaker and the first sound receiver 102 is a microphone.

[0079] In some embodiment, the second sound transmitter 201 is a loudspeaker and the second sound receiver 202 is a microphone.Loudspeaker and microphone provide a cost efficient solution.

[0080] It should be noted that the first sound transmitter 101 and the first sound receiver 102 may be positioned in various order and position in the vicinity of each other, and the second sound transmitter 201 and the second sound receiver 202 may be positioned in various order and position in the vicinity of each other.

[0081] It should be noted that that the embodiments shown in figures 1-4 and 7 may comprises embodiments of the first and a second sound sensor arrangement shown in figure 5

[0082] Figure 6 shows schematically another embodiment of a first and a second sound sensor arrangement,

[0083] In some embodiment, the first sound sensor arrangement 10 comprises a first sound transceiver 103 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 comprises a second sound transceiver 203.

[0084] In some embodiment, the first sound sensor arrangement 10 comprises a first sound transceiver 203.

[0085] In some embodiment, the second sound sensor arrangement 10 comprises a second sound transceiver 203.

[0086] A sound transceiver is an electronic device which is a combination of a sound transmitter and a receiver.

[0087] In other words, a sound transceiver is an electronic component which is a combination of a sound transmitter and receiver.

[0088] In some embodiment, the first sound sensor arrangement 10 comprises a first sound transceiver 103, the first sound transceiver 103 is a combination of a sound transmitter and a receiver, and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 comprises a second sound transceiver 203, the second sound transceiver 203 is a combination of a sound transmitter and a receiver.

[0089] That simplifies production and structure of the measuring device 1.

[0090] It should be noted that that the embodiments shown in figures 1-4 and 7 may comprises embodiments of the first and a second sound sensor arrangement shown in figure 6.

[0091] Figure 7 shows schematically a cross section of one embodiment of the measuring device according to the present invention.

[0092] The measuring device 1 comprises a data processing unit 70, the data processing unit 70 is configured to process measurement data from the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20.

[0093] In some embodiments, the data processing unit 70 is configured to any one or any combination of the following devices: heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. It should be noted that that the embodiments shown in figures 1-4 may comprises embodiments of the first and a second sound sensor arrangement shown in figureFigure 8 and 9 shows schematically one embodiment of a measuring system for measuring fluid flow.

[0094] The present invention further relates to a measuring system 100 for measuring fluid flow F in a ventilation duct 300, the ventilation duct 300 is arranged to transfer fluid, the ventilation duct 300 comprises a wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300, the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300 defining a ventilation duct channel 301, the measuring system 100 comprises a measuring device 1 arranged to measure fluid flow F in the ventilation duct 300, the measuring device 1 comprises a first sound sensor arrangement 10 arranged to receive and transmit sound S, a second sound sensor arrangement 20 arranged to receive and transmit sound S, and a measuring device body 40, the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 are connected to the measuring device body 40, the ventilation duct 300 comprises one or more sensor openings 302', 302", 302"' provided to the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300, and the measuring device body 40 is fixed to the ventilation duct wall 31 with a fixing arrangement 400, and the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 are in contact with ventilation duct channel 301 through the one or more sensor openings 302', 302".

[0095] In other words, the ventilation duct channel 301 is a space surrounded by the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300.

[0096] In the context of this application ventilation means an intentional introduction of outdoor air into an indoor space. It should be noted that the outdoor air is a fluid as fluids are the substances that flow easily because of increased intermolecular spaces and do not have fixed shape. Ventilation is mainly used to control indoor air quality; it can also be used to control indoor temperature, humidity, and air motion to benefit thermal comfort, satisfaction with other aspects of the indoor environment, or other objectives.

[0097] In some embodiments, the ventilation duct 300 having a rectangular cross section or a circular cross section.

[0098] In some embodiments, the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 are arranged to protrude 1 mm - 10 mm into the ventilation duct channel 301.

[0099] In some embodiments, the fixing arrangement 400 comprises a fixing gasket 401, the fixing gasket 401 is arranged to surround the one or more sensor openings 302', 302", 302'", the fixing gasket 401 having a first fixing surface 403 positioned on the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300 and a second fixing surface 402 positioned on the measuring device body 40, the first fixing surface 403 and the second fixing surface 402 are provided with a binder, and the fixing gasket 401 is arranged to fix the measuring device body 40 on the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300.

[0100] In some embodiments, the fixing gasket 401 having a gasket thickness in a direction between the second fixing surface 402 and the first fixing surface 403, and the gasket thickness is in the range form 0,5 mm to 3 mm.

[0101] In some embodiments, the measuring device body 40 comprises one or more fixing openings 41,42, and the fixing arrangement 400 comprises one or more fixing parts410 arranged to extend via the one or more fixing openings 41, and the one or more fixing parts 410 are fixed to the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300.

[0102] The one or more fixing parts 410 are shown in figure 12.

[0103] In some embodiments, the fixing arrangement 400 comprises a fixing gasket 401, the fixing gasket 401 is arranged to surround the one or more sensor openings 302', 302", the fixing gasket 401 having a first fixing surface 403 positioned on the wall 31 of the ventilation duct and a second fixing surface 402 positioned on the measuring device body 40, the first fixing surface 403 and the second fixing surface 402 are provided with a binder, and the fixing gasket 401 is arranged to fix the measuring device body 40 on the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300, and the measuring device body 40 comprises one or more fixing openings 41, and the fixing arrangement 400 comprises one or more fixing parts 410 arranged to extend via the one or more fixing openings, and the one or more fixing parts 410 are fixed to the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300.

[0104] In some embodiments, the one or more fixing parts 410 are rivets or screws.

[0105] In some embodiments, the one or more fixing parts 410 are self-drilling screws.

[0106] In some embodiments, the measuring system 100 comprises a measuring device 1 arranged to measure fluid flow F in the ventilation duct 300, the measuring device 1 comprises a first sound sensor arrangement 10 arranged to receive and transmit sound S, a second sound sensor arrangement 20 arranged to receive and transmit sound S, and a measuring device body 40, the measuring device body 40 having a bottom surface 455 arranged to be positioned facing towards the ventilation duct 300, the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 are connected to the measuring device body 40, the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 are arranged to protrude from the bottom surface 455 towards the ventilation duct 300, the first sound sensor arrangement 10 comprises a first sound transceiver 103 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 comprises a second sound transceiver 203, the ventilation duct 300 comprises one or more sensor openings 302', 302", 302'" provided to the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300, and the measuring device body 40 is fixed to the ventilation duct wall 31 with a fixing arrangement 400, the fixing arrangement 400 comprises a fixing gasket 401, and the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 are in contact with ventilation duct channel 30 through the one or more sensor openings 302', 302", 302'" and the fixing gasket 401 comprises one or more gasket openings 450, the one or more gasket openings 450 having a compatible form to the one or more sensor openings 302', 302", 302'".

[0107] The first sound sensor arrangement comprises a first sound transceiver and the second sound sensor arrangement comprises a second sound transceiver simplify the structure of the measuring device, which enables installing the device on a circular surface, and only one device is required. The first and second sound sensor arrangement protruding from the bottom surface of the device body provide accurate measurements. The fixing gasket provides required airtightness between duct and the device, and the attached fixing gasket as a jig ofthe one or more sensor openings eases providing the opening for the sensors in required positions.

[0108] In other words, the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 extending into the ventilation duct channel 30 through the one or more sensor openings 302', 302", 302"', and through the one or more gasket openings 450.

[0109] Figure 10 shows schematically one embodiment of a fixing gasket.

[0110] In some embodiments, the fixing gasket 401 comprises one or more gasket openings 450, the one or more gasket openings 450 having a compatible form to the one or more sensor openings 302', 302", 302'".

[0111] In some embodiments, and the first sound sensor arrangement 10 is in contact with ventilation duct channel 301 through a sensor opening 302' and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 is in contact with ventilation duct channel 301 through a sensor opening 302", the fixing gasket 401 comprises two gasket openings 450, the two gasket openings 450 having a compatible form to the sensor openings 302', 302".

[0112] In some embodiments, and the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 are in contact with ventilation duct channel 301 through two separate sensor openings 302', 302", the fixing gasket 401 comprises two gasket openings 450, the two gasket openings 450 having a compatible form to the two separate sensor openings 302', 302".

[0113] In the context of this application, compatible form to the one or more sensor openings means an opening having substantially the same size and the same shape. In some embodiments, and the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 are in contact with ventilation duct channel 301 through two sensor openings 302', 302", the fixing gasket 401 comprises two gasket openings 450, the two gasket openings 450 having a compatible form to the two sensor openings 302', 302".

[0114] In some embodiments, and the first sound sensor arrangement 10, the second sound sensor arrangement 20 and the temperature sensor 30 are in contact with ventilation duct channel 301 through three sensor openings 302', 302", 302'", the fixing gasket 401 comprises three gasket openings 450, the three gasket openings 450 having a compatible form to the three sensor openings 302', 302", 302'".

[0115] In some embodiments, and the first sound sensor arrangement 10, the second sound sensor arrangement 20 and the temperature sensor 30 are in contact with ventilation duct channel 301 through two sensor openings 302', 302", the fixing gasket 401 comprises two gasket openings 450, the two gasket openings 450 having a compatible form to the one or more sensor openings 302', 302".

[0116] In some embodiments,, the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the temperature sensor 30 are in contact with ventilation duct channel 301 through the same sensor opening 302'.Figure 11 shows schematically a side view of one embodiment of a measuring system for measuring fluid flow according to the present invention.

[0117] The ventilation duct 300 having a first ventilation duct end 361 and a second ventilation duct end 362, the ventilation duct 300 comprises a wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300 defining a ventilation duct channel 301, the ventilation duct channel 301 extending between the first ventilation duct end 361 and the second ventilation duct end 362, the fluid is arranged to flow along the ventilation duct channel 301.

[0118] The fluid having a fluid flow F in a ventilation duct 300 in a fluid flow direction FD. The measuring device body 40 having a first end 43 and a second end 44, and a longitudinal direction L in a direction between the first end 43 and second end 44. The longitudinal direction L is arranged to extend in the fluid flow direction FD.

[0119] Figure 12 shows schematically a side view of one embodiment of a measuring system for measuring fluid flow according to the present invention.

[0120] The one or more sensor openings 302', 302", 302"' are shown in the figure 12. It should be noted that all embodiments of the measuring system may comprise the one or more sensor openings 302', 302", 302'".

[0121] Figure 13 shows schematically one embodiment of a measuring system for measuring fluid flow according to the present invention.

[0122] In some embodiments, the measuring system comprises a separate data processing unit 70, the data processing unit 70 is configured to receive and process measurement data from the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20.

[0123] In some embodiments, the measuring system comprises two or more the measuring devices 1.

[0124] The measuring system comprises a data processing unit 70, the data processing unit 70 is configured to process measurement data from the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20.

[0125] Each of the two or more the measuring devices 1 are connected to the data processing unit 70.

[0126] In some embodiments, the data processing unit 70 is configured to control any one or any combination of the following: indoor temperature, humidity, and air motion.

[0127] Figure 14 shows schematically one embodiment of a measuring system for measuring fluid flow according to the present invention.

[0128] In this embodiment the measuring system comprises two or more the measuring devices 1.

[0129] The measuring system comprises a data processing unit 70, the data processing unit 70 is configured to process measurement data from the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20.

[0130] One of the two or more the measuring devices 1 is connected to the data processing unit 70 and rest of measuring devices 1 are connected to the data processing unit 70 via other measuring devices 1.In some embodiments, the data processing unit 70 is configured to control any one or any combination of the following: indoor temperature, humidity, and air motion.

[0131] Any above disclosed embodiment of the measuring system for measuring fluid flow may comprise any above disclosed embodiment of the measuring device 1.

[0132] The present invention further relates to a method for measuring fluid flow F in a ventilation duct 300 with a measuring system 100. Figure 15 shows schematically steps of method according to present invention according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0133] The ventilation duct 300 having a first ventilation duct end 361 and a second ventilation duct end 362, the ventilation duct 300 comprises a wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300 defining a ventilation duct channel 301, the ventilation duct channel 301 extending between the first ventilation duct end 361 and the second ventilation duct end 362, the fluid is arranged to flow along the ventilation duct channel 301. The method comprises:

[0134] - providing a measuring device 1 for measuring fluid flow F in a ventilation duct, the measuring device 1 comprises a first sound sensor arrangement 10 arranged to receive and transmit sound S, a second sound sensor arrangement 20 arranged to receive and transmit sound S, and an measuring device body 40; the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 are connected to the measuring device body 40, and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 is provided at a sensor distance DI from the first sound sensor arrangement 10,

[0135] - providing the wall 31 of the ventilation duct with the one or more sensor openings 302', 302", 303"',

[0136] - positioning the measuring device body 40 outside the ventilation duct 300 on the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300, and positioning the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 in contact with the ventilation duct channel 301 via the one or more sensor openings 302', 302", and - fixing the measuring device body 40 to the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300 with a fixing arrangement 400.

[0137] In some embodiments, a first sound sensor arrangement 10 transmitting sound S to the second sound sensor arrangement 20 via an inner surface 312 of the ventilation duct 300 opposite the measuring device 1, and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 transmitting sound S to the first sound sensor arrangement 10 via an inner surface 312 of the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300 opposite to the measuring device 1.

[0138] In some embodiments, the measuring system 100 comprises a fixing gasket 401 having one or more gasket openings 450, the one or more gasket openings 450 having a compatible form to the one or more sensor openings 302', 302" to be provided to the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300, the fixing gasket 401 having firstfixing surface 403 provided with a binder, the method comprises attaching the first fixing surface 403 on an outer surface 311 of the ventilation duct 300, and

[0139] - the method comprises using the attached fixing gasket 401 as a jig of the one or more sensor openings 302', 302" in the step of providing the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300 with the one or more sensor openings 302', 302".

[0140] In some embodiments, the method comprises using the attached fixing gasket 401 as a jig of the one or more sensor openings 302', 302" in the step of providing the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300 with the one or more sensor openings 302', 302", and providing the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300 with the one or more sensor openings 302', 302" is carried out with a drill.

[0141] In some embodiments, the method comprises:

[0142] - providing a measuring device 1 for measuring fluid flow F in a ventilation duct, the measuring device 1 comprises a first sound sensor arrangement 10 arranged to receive and transmit sound S, a second sound sensor arrangement 20 arranged to receive and transmit sound S, and an measuring device body 40; the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20)are connected to the measuring device body 40, and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 is provided at a sensor distance DI from the first sound sensor arrangement 10,

[0143] - the first sound sensor arrangement 10 comprises a first sound transceiver 103 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 comprises a second sound transceiver 203,

[0144] - providing the wall 31 of the ventilation duct with the one or more sensor openings 302', 302", 303'",

[0145] - positioning the measuring device body 40 outside the ventilation duct 300 on the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300, and positioning the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 in contact with the ventilation duct channel 301 via the one or more sensor openings 302', 302", 303'" and

[0146] - fixing the measuring device body 40 to the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300 with a fixing arrangement 400,

[0147] - the measuring system 100 comprises a fixing gasket 401 having one or more gasket openings 450, the one or more gasket openings 450 having a compatible form to the one or more sensor openings 302', 302", 302'" to be provided to the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300, the fixing gasket 401 having first fixing surface 403 provided with a binder, the method comprises attaching the first fixing surface 403 on an outer surface 311 of the ventilation duct 300, and

[0148] - and the method comprise using the attached fixing gasket 401 as a jig of the one or more sensor openings 302', 302", 303'" in the step of providing the wall 31 of the ventilation duct 300 with the one or more sensor openings 302', 302", 303'".

[0149] The first sound sensor arrangement comprises a first sound transceiver and the second sound sensor arrangement comprises a second sound transceiver simplify the structure of the measuring device, which enables installingthe device on a circular surface, and only one device is required. The first and second sound sensor arrangement protruding from the bottom surface of the device body provide accurate measurements. The fixing gasket provides required airtightness between duct and the device, and the attached fixing gasket as a jig of the one or more sensor openings eases providing the opening for the sensors in required positions.

[0150] In some embodiments, the method comprises controlling any one or any combination of the following: indoor temperature, humidity, and air motion with the measuring system 100.

[0151] In some embodiments, the method comprises controlling any one or any combination of the following: indoor temperature, humidity, and air motion with the measuring system 100 by using measured data of the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20.

[0152] In some embodiments, the method comprises controlling any one or any combination of the following: in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) device by using measured data of the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20.

[0153] In some embodiments, the method comprises controlling any one or any combination of the following: in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) device by using measured data of the first sound sensor arrangement 10 and the second sound sensor arrangement 20, and the temperature sensor 30.

[0154] It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the various embodiments of the invention are not limited solely to the above examples, and may therefore vary within the scope of the following claims. If necessary, the symbols presented in the description together with other characteristics may also be used separately from each other.

Claims

Claims1. A measuring device (1) for measuring fluid flow (F) in a ventilation duct (300), characterized in that:- the measuring device (1) comprises a first sound sensor arrangement (10) arranged to receive and transmit sound (S), a second sound sensor arrangement (20) arranged to receive and transmit sound (S), and a measuring device body (40), - the first sound sensor arrangement (10) and the second sound sensor arrangement (20) are connected to the measuring device body (40), and- the second sound sensor arrangement (20) is provided at a sensor distance (DI) from the first sound sensor arrangement (10).

2. A measuring device (1) according to claim 1, wherein:- the first sound sensor arrangement (10) comprises a first sound transmitter (101) and a first sound receiver (102) and the second sound sensor arrangement (20) comprises a second sound transmitter (201) and a second sound receiver (202); or - the first sound sensor arrangement (10) comprises a first sound transceiver (103) and the second sound sensor arrangement (20) comprises a second sound transceiver (203).

3. A measuring device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein:- the measuring device (1) comprises a temperature sensor (30); or- the measuring device (1) comprises a temperature sensor (30), the temperature sensor (30) is provided between the first sound sensor arrangement (10) and the second sound sensor arrangement (20); or- the measuring device (1) comprises a temperature sensor (30), the temperature sensor (30) is provided in the vicinity of the first sound sensor arrangement (10) or in the vicinity of the second sound sensor arrangement (20).

4. A measuring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - the wall (31) of the ventilation duct (300) defining a ventilation duct channel (301) arranged to transfer fluid, the measuring device body (40) is arranged to be positioned outside the ventilation duct (300) and arranged to be fixed to a wall (31) of a ventilation duct (300), and the first sound sensor arrangement (10) and the second sound sensor arrangement (20) are arranged to be positioned in contact with the ventilation duct channel (301).

5. A measuring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - the measuring device body (40) having a first end (43) and a second end (44), and a first length (LI) between the first end (43) and second end (44), the measuring device body (40) having a first side (45) and a second side (46), and a first width (Wl) between the first side (45) and the second side (46), the first length (LI) is in the range from 2 to 8 times the first width (Wl).

6. A measuring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the measuring device (1) comprises a communication unit (60) arranged to transfer data from the measuring device (1).

7. A measuring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the measuring device (1) comprises a data processing unit (70), the data processing unit (70) is configured to process measurement data from the first sound sensor arrangement (10) and the second sound sensor arrangement (20).

8. A measuring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - the first sound sensor arrangement 10 is arranged to receive and transmit sound at frequencies in the range of 1 kHz - 4 MHz, and the second sound sensor arrangement 20 is arranged to receive and transmit at frequencies in the range of 1 kHz - 4 MHz; or- the first sound sensor arrangement (10) is arranged to receive and transmit ultrasound, and the second sound sensor arrangement (20) is arranged to receive and transmit ultrasound.

9. A measuring system (100) for measuring fluid flow (F) in a ventilation duct (300), the ventilation duct (300) is arranged to transfer fluid, the ventilation duct (300) comprises a wall (31) of the ventilation duct (300), the wall (31) of the ventilation duct (300) defining a ventilation duct channel (301), characterized in that:- the measuring system (100) comprises a measuring device (1) arranged to measure fluid flow (F) in the ventilation duct (300), the measuring device (1) comprises a first sound sensor arrangement (10) arranged to receive and transmit sound (S), a second sound sensor arrangement (20) arranged to receive and transmit sound (S), and a measuring device body (40),- the first sound sensor arrangement (10) and the second sound sensor arrangement (20) are connected to the measuring device body (40),- the ventilation duct (300) comprises one or more sensor openings (302', 302", 302'") provided to the wall (31) of the ventilation duct (300), and- the measuring device body (40) is fixed to the ventilation duct wall (31) with a fixing arrangement (400), and the first sound sensor arrangement (10) and the second sound sensor arrangement (20) are in contact with ventilation duct channel (301) through the one or more sensor openings (302', 302").

10. A measuring system (100) according to claim 9, wherein:- the fixing arrangement (400) comprises a fixing gasket (401), the fixing gasket (401) is arranged to surround the one or more sensor openings (302', 302", 302'"), the fixing gasket (401) having a first fixing surface (403) positioned on the wall (31) of the ventilation duct (300) and a second fixing surface (402) positioned on the measuring device body (40), the first fixing surface (403) and the second fixing surface (402) are provided with a binder, and the fixing gasket (401) is arranged to fix the measuring device body (40) on the wall (31) of the ventilation duct (300); or- the measuring device body (40) comprises one or more fixing openings (41,42), and the fixing arrangement (400) comprises one or more fixing parts (410) arranged to extend via the one or more fixing openings (41), and the one or more fixing parts (410) are fixed to the wall (31) of the ventilation duct (300); or- the fixing arrangement (400) comprises a fixing gasket (401), the fixing gasket (401) is arranged to surround the one or more sensor openings (302', 302", 302"'), the fixing gasket (401) having a first fixing surface (403) positioned on the wall (31) of the ventilation duct and a second fixing surface (402) positioned on the measuring device body (40), the first fixing surface (403) and the second fixing surface (402) are provided with a binder, and the fixing gasket (401) is arranged to fix the measuring device body (40) on the wall (31) of the ventilation duct (300), and the measuring device body (40) comprises one or more fixing openings (41), and the fixing arrangement (400) comprises one or more fixing parts (410) arranged to extend via the one or more fixing openings, and the one or more fixing parts (410) are fixed to the wall (31) of the ventilation duct (300).

11. A measuring system (100) according to claim 10, wherein:- the fixing gasket (401) comprises one or more gasket openings (450), the one or more gasket openings (450) having a compatible form to the one or more sensor openings (302', 302").

12. A measuring system (100) according to any one of claim 9 -11, wherein:- the measuring device (1) is the measuring device (1) according to any one of claim 1 -8.

13. A method for measuring fluid flow (F) in a ventilation duct (300) with a measuring system (100), the ventilation duct (300) having a first ventilation duct end (361) and a second ventilation duct end (362), the ventilation duct (300) comprises a wall (31) of the ventilation duct (300) defining a ventilation duct channel (301), the ventilation duct channel (301) extending between the first ventilation duct end (361) and the second ventilation duct end (362), the fluid is arranged to flow along the ventilation duct channel (301), characterized in that: the method comprises:- providing a measuring device (1) for measuring fluid flow (F) in a ventilation duct, the measuring device (1) comprises a first sound sensor arrangement (10) arranged to receive and transmit sound (S), a second sound sensor arrangement (20) arranged to receive and transmit sound (S), and an measuring device body (40); the first sound sensor arrangement (10) and the second sound sensor arrangement (20) are connected to the measuring device body (40), and the second sound sensor arrangement (20) is provided at a sensor distance (DI) from the first sound sensor arrangement (10),- providing the wall (31) of the ventilation duct with the one or more sensor openings (302', 302", 303'"),- positioning the measuring device body (40) outside the ventilation duct (300) on the wall (31) of the ventilation duct (300), and positioning the first sound sensorarrangement (10) and the second sound sensor arrangement (20) in contact with the ventilation duct channel (301) via the one or more sensor openings (302', 302"), and- fixing the measuring device body (40) to the wall (31) of the ventilation duct (300) with a fixing arrangement (400).

14. A method according to claim 13, wherein:- a first sound sensor arrangement (10) transmitting sound (S) to the second sound sensor arrangement (20) via an inner surface (312) of the ventilation duct (300) opposite the measuring device (1), and the second sound sensor arrangement (20) transmitting sound (S) to the first sound sensor arrangement (10) via an inner surface (312) of the wall (31) of the ventilation duct (300) opposite to the measuring device (1).

15. A method according to claim 13 or 14, wherein:- the measuring system (100) comprises a fixing gasket (401) having one or more gasket openings (450), the one or more gasket openings (450) having a compatible form to the one or more sensor openings (302', 302") to be provided to the wall (31) of the ventilation duct (300), the fixing gasket (401) having first fixing surface (403) provided with a binder, the method comprises attaching the first fixing surface (403) on an outer surface (311) of the ventilation duct (300), and- and the method comprise using the attached fixing gasket (401) as a jig of the one or more sensor openings (302', 302") in the step of providing the wall (31) of the ventilation duct (300) with the one or more sensor openings (302', 302").

16. A method according to any one of claim 13 -15, wherein the measuring system (100) is the measuring system (100) according to any one of the claim 9 -11.

17. A method according to any one of claim 13 -16, wherein the method comprises measuring fluid flow in a ventilation duct with the measuring device (1) fixed to the wall (31) of the ventilation duct (300).

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