U.S. patent application number 16/792123 was filed with the patent office on 2020-06-11 for reflector clamping member and use therof.
The applicant listed for this patent is Apator Miitors ApS. Invention is credited to James Edward Price.
Application Number | 20200182669 16/792123 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 56368745 |
Filed Date | 2020-06-11 |
![](/patent/app/20200182669/US20200182669A1-20200611-D00000.png)
![](/patent/app/20200182669/US20200182669A1-20200611-D00001.png)
![](/patent/app/20200182669/US20200182669A1-20200611-D00002.png)
![](/patent/app/20200182669/US20200182669A1-20200611-D00003.png)
![](/patent/app/20200182669/US20200182669A1-20200611-D00004.png)
![](/patent/app/20200182669/US20200182669A1-20200611-D00005.png)
United States Patent
Application |
20200182669 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Price; James Edward |
June 11, 2020 |
REFLECTOR CLAMPING MEMBER AND USE THEROF
Abstract
A reflector clamping member (RCM) for fixating an ultrasound
reflector (REF) to a flow conduit insert (FCI) of an ultrasonic
flow meter (UFM) is disclosed, the reflector clamping member (RCM)
comprising a fixation portion (FXN) for fixating the reflector
clamping member (RCM) to the flow conduit insert (FCI) and a
flexible portion (FLX) for contacting the ultrasound reflector
(REF), wherein the flexible portion (FLX) is adapted for supporting
at least one side of the ultrasound reflector (REF) so as to clamp
the ultrasound reflector (REF) between the flexible portion (FLX)
and the flow conduit insert (FCI) when the reflector clamping
member (RCM), the ultrasound reflector (REF), and the flow conduit
insert (FCI) are assembled. Also, a flow conduit insert assembly
(ASY) comprising such reflector clamping member (RCM), an
ultrasonic flow meter (UFM) comprising such reflector clamping
member (RCM), and a method of fixating an ultrasound reflector
(REF) to a flow conduit insert (FCI) are disclosed.
Inventors: |
Price; James Edward;
(Risskov, DK) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Apator Miitors ApS |
Aarhus V |
|
DK |
|
|
Family ID: |
56368745 |
Appl. No.: |
16/792123 |
Filed: |
February 14, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
16308858 |
Dec 11, 2018 |
10591329 |
|
|
PCT/DK2016/050182 |
Jun 14, 2016 |
|
|
|
16792123 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01F 1/662 20130101;
G01F 15/14 20130101; G01F 15/18 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G01F 1/66 20060101
G01F001/66; G01F 15/14 20060101 G01F015/14 |
Claims
1.-18. (canceled)
19. A flow conduit insert assembly for an ultrasonic flow meter,
the flow conduit insert assembly comprising a flow conduit insert
for inserting into a flow conduit of the ultrasonic flow meter, an
ultrasound reflector, and a reflector clamping member, wherein the
reflector clamping member is fixated to the flow conduit insert by
an ultrasonic weld, thereby clamping the ultrasound reflector
between the reflector clamping member and the flow conduit
insert.
20. The flow conduit insert assembly according to claim 1, wherein
the reflector clamping member comprises a fixation portion fixating
the reflector clamping member to the flow conduit insert.
21. The flow conduit insert assembly according to claim 2, wherein
the fixation portion has a pointed tip.
22. The flow conduit insert assembly according to claim 3, wherein
the ultrasound weld is formed by passing ultrasonic though the
pointed tip.
23. The flow conduit insert assembly according to claim 2, wherein
the flow conduit insert has a fixation receiver, and wherein the
fixation portion is fixated to the fixation receiver by the
ultrasonic weld.
24. The flow conduit insert assembly according to claim 1, wherein
the reflector clamping member comprises a flexible portion
contacting one side of the ultrasound reflector, thereby clamping
the ultrasound reflector between the flexible portion of the
reflector clamping member and the flow conduit insert.
25. The flow conduit insert assembly according to claim 6, wherein
the flexible portion comprises a structured surface.
26. The flow conduit insert assembly according to claim 7, wherein
the structured surface is made up from a single structure.
27. A ultrasonic flow meter comprising a flow conduit, a housing
fixated to the flow conduit, and a flow conduit insert assembly
inserted into the flow conduit, the flow conduit insert assembly
comprising a flow conduit insert, an ultrasound reflector, and a
reflector clamping member, wherein the reflector clamping member is
fixated to the flow conduit insert by an ultrasonic weld, thereby
clamping the ultrasound reflector between the reflector clamping
member and the flow conduit insert.
28. A method of manufacturing a flow conduit insert assembly, the
method comprising the steps of providing a reflector clamping
member, an ultrasonic reflector, and a flow conduit insert for
inserting into a flow conduit of an ultrasonic flow meter, fixating
the reflector clamping member to the flow conduit insert by
ultrasonic welding thereby clamping the ultrasound reflector
between the reflector clamping member and the flow conduit
insert.
29. The method according to claim 10, wherein the reflector
clamping member comprises a fixation portion for fixating the
reflector clamping member to the flow conduit insert.
30. The method according to claim 11, wherein the fixation portion
has a pointed tip.
31. The method according to claim 12, wherein the ultrasonic
welding passes the pointed tip.
32. The method according to claim 11, wherein the flow conduit
insert has a fixation receiver, and wherein the fixation portion is
brought into contact with the fixation receiver, after which the
ultrasonic welding is applied.
33. The method according to claim 10, wherein the reflector
clamping member comprises a flexible portion contacting one side of
the ultrasound reflector, thereby clamping the ultrasound reflector
between the flexible portion of the reflector clamping member and
the flow conduit insert.
34. The method according to claim 15, wherein the flexible portion
comprises a structured surface.
35. The method according to claim 16, wherein the structured
surface is made up from a single structure.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is continuation of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 16/308,858, filed Dec. 11, 2018, which is a U.S. National
Phase Application of International Application No.
PCT/DK2016/050182, filed Jun. 14, 2016, which are hereby
incorporated by reference in their entirety.
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to the field of ultrasonic
flow metering, particularly to a reflector clamping member for
fixating an ultrasound reflector to a flow conduit insert of an
ultrasonic flow meter according to claim 1 and use of such
ultrasonic flow member.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Different solutions for fixating ultrasound reflectors in
ultrasonic flow meters are known. When fixating the ultrasound
reflectors to an insert to be positioned in the flow conduit, i.e.
where the ultrasound passes through the fluid, such fixation may be
relatively complex. However, many of known ultrasonic flow meters
may suffer from drawbacks such as expensive production, inaccurate
fixation of ultrasound reflectors, or problems with fluctuating
flow measurements or decreasing accuracy of flow measurements.
[0004] An object of the present invention is to solve one or more
of the above drawbacks.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The present invention relates to a reflector clamping member
for fixating an ultrasound reflector to a flow conduit insert of an
ultrasonic flow meter,
[0006] the reflector clamping member comprising
[0007] a fixation portion for fixating the reflector clamping
member to the flow conduit insert and a flexible portion for
contacting the ultrasound reflector,
[0008] wherein the flexible portion is adapted for supporting at
least one side of the ultrasound reflector so as to clamp the
ultrasound reflector between the flexible portion and the flow
conduit insert when the reflector clamping member, the ultrasound
reflector, and the flow conduit insert are assembled.
[0009] One advantage of the present invention may be that a
relatively robust fixation of the ultrasound reflector to the flow
conduit insert may be realized with relatively low-cost parts.
Specifically, criteria for the dimensional tolerances may be less
strict, thus supporting the use of low-cost parts, or the
requirements for long-term deformation may be less strict, also
supporting the use of low-cost parts. By realizing a fixation of
the ultrasound reflector by means of clamping the ultrasound
reflector between the flexible part and the flow conduit insert,
the flexible portion can compensate for inaccuracies in the
dimensions of the reflector clamping member, the ultrasound
reflector and the flow conduit insert. The above advantage may be
realized while maintaining a relatively simple assembly setup,
since the clamping of the ultrasound reflector may be established
by means of the reflector clamping member and the flow conduit
insert alone and also by allowing the ultrasound reflector to have
a relatively simple design. Thus, by avoiding very complicated
assembly from multiple parts, production costs can be kept at a
lower level.
[0010] The reflector clamping member should be understood as any
device that can clamp an ultrasound reflector to a flow conduit
insert according to the present invention. Thus, the reflector
clamping device may be understood as for example a clamp or a
fixture. In some embodiments, the reflector clamping member may be
formed as a plug, a cap or a cover, whereas in other embodiments
the reflector clamping member may be devised to merely facilitate
fixation of the ultrasound reflector to the flow conduit insert by
clamping the ultrasound reflector between the flexible portion and
the flow conduit insert.
[0011] Thus, according to the invention it should be understood
that by clamping the ultrasound reflector between the flexible
portion and the flow conduit insert when the reflector clamping
member, the ultrasound reflector, and the flow conduit insert are
assembled, the ultrasound reflector is fixated to the flow conduit
insert.
[0012] In the present context it should be understood that the term
"assembled configuration" is intended to mean that the ultrasound
reflector, the reflector clamping member, and the flow conduit
insert is assembled to clamp and thus fixate the ultrasound
reflector between the flow conduit insert and the flexible portion
of the reflector clamping member. When in assembled configuration,
a flow conduit insert assembly is formed comprising the ultrasound
reflector, the reflector clamping member, and the flow conduit
insert.
[0013] The reflector clamping member of the invention is adapted to
clamp an ultrasound reflector to a flow conduit insert. The clamp
may be devised in various shapes and sized in order to fit
corresponding ultrasound reflectors, which ultrasound reflectors
may be available with various dimensions according to the
particular application. One example of an ultrasound reflector,
which is usable with the reflector clamping member of the
invention, is an ultrasound reflector for a utility meter, such as
a utility water meter. Such ultrasound reflectors may as an example
comprises a reflecting surface having a minimum width of between 1
and 20 millimeter, such as between 5 and 15 millimeter. Also, such
ultrasound reflectors may as an example have a thickness of between
0.2 and 3 millimeters, such as between 0.5 and 2 millimeters.
However, the reflector clamping member of some embodiments may also
be used with larger ultrasound reflectors, e.g. for use with the
utility grid; and may also in other embodiments be used with even
smaller ultrasound reflectors than exemplified above.
[0014] According to the invention, it must be ensured that the
flexible portion is adapted to allow contact with the ultrasound
reflector, and that the fixation portion is joined with the
flexible portion. It should be understood that the flexible portion
and the fixation may be joined in various ways. In some
embodiments, the reflector clamping member further comprises a
joining portion which joins the fixation portion with the flexible
portion. Moreover, in other embodiments the flexible portion may be
directly joined and connected to the fixation portion. Even
further, the flexible portion or parts thereof may be provided as
an adjacent part in abutment with the fixation portion and/or the
joining portion and may thus be removable therefrom. Even further,
it must also be ensured that the flexible portion is adapted for
supporting at least one side of the ultrasound reflector so as to
clamp the ultrasound reflector between the flexible portion and the
flow conduit insert when the reflector clamping member, the
ultrasound reflector, and the flow conduit insert are assembled,
i.e. assembled to form a flow conduit insert assembly.
[0015] The flow conduit insert may restrict the inner space of the
flow conduit through which the fluid to be measured can flow. By
selectively restricting the flow of fluid between the ultrasonic
transducers, the flow velocity of the fluid may be increased
locally without inducing too much pressure drop of the fluid across
the length of the flow conduit insert. Having an increased flow
velocity between the transducers may beneficially increase the
accuracy of the measurement of the flow velocity and hence increase
the accuracy of the fluid flow calculated on the basis of the
measured flow velocity. This increased accuracy may be especially
pronounced at lower flow rates, i.e. when the volume of fluid per
unit of time is relatively low. The increased accuracy could also
be used to exchange electronic components into more cost-conserving
versions, without losing accuracy, due to the implemented flow
conduit insert.
[0016] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention,
the reflector clamping member further comprises a joining portion
joining the flexible portion and the fixation portion.
[0017] In the present context it should be understood that when the
joining portion joins the fixation portion and the flexible
portion, the joining portion provides structural connection between
the fixation portion and the flexible portion. Thereby, when the
reflector clamping member is installed in the flow conduit insert,
i.e. when the fixation portion is installed with a corresponding
fixation part of the flow conduit insert, the joining portion
extends the fixation of the fixation portion to the flexible
portion, which in turn clamps and thus fixates the ultrasound
reflector to the flow conduit insert.
[0018] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention the
flexible portion comprises an elastic portion.
[0019] One advantage of the above embodiment may be that a
particularly effective claiming of the ultrasound reflector to the
flow conduit insert may be provided when using the reflector
clamping member of the above embodiment.
[0020] In the present context the term "elastic portion" may be
understood either as a portion comprising an elastic material, or
as a portion having a reduced dimensions giving rise to elasticity.
Here, an "elastic material" may in one embodiment be understood as
a material having a Young's modulus below 0.5 GPa, such as below
0.1 GPa.
[0021] Furthermore, it should be understood that the term "elastic"
is understood as being a subset of "flexible". Thus, while an
elastic portion would necessarily also be flexible, a flexible
portion may not necessarily be elastic. In more detail, the term
"flexible" is used to denote that the described part or portion has
flexibility and would thus be able to be deformed or bent in
response to an applied force. Also, the term "elastic" would
require the described part of portion to be able to deform,
however, an elastic part or portion would be able to return to its
original shape or position.
[0022] According to an embodiment of the invention, the flexible
portion is an elastic portion.
[0023] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention the
flexible portion comprises an elastic material.
[0024] The flexible portion may comprise an elastic material thus
facilitating the clamping of the ultrasound reflector to the flow
conduit insert. Any elasticity of the flexible portion may thus in
the above embodiment arise from the elastic material.
[0025] Alternatively, the flexible portion or parts thereof may be
formed so as to provide the flexible or parts thereof with
elasticity.
[0026] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention the
flexible portion comprises an elastic material different from the
material of the joining portion, if any, and/or from the material
of the fixation portion.
[0027] Generally, the term "if any" is included to show that the
respective embodiment or example may or may not include the part
referred to, i.e. the aforementioned part. Here the aforementioned
part is the joining portion. Thus it is exemplified that the
flexible portion comprises an elastic material different from the
material of the joining portion, or different from the fixation
portion, or different from the joining portion and the fixation
portion; where it is to be understood by the use of "if any", that
when the reflector clamping member of this embodiment does not
comprise a joining portion, the flexible portion comprises an
elastic material different from the material of the fixation
portion.
[0028] As an example, the elastic material may be a rubber or
rubber-like material, such as for example silicone rubber, whereas
the joining portion and/or the fixation portion may be made from
e.g. polyethylene, such as HDPE, polyethylene terephthalate, or a
metal, such as e.g. stainless steel.
[0029] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention the
flexible portion comprises an elastic portion formed as a
monolithic part with the joining portion, if any, and/or the
fixation portion.
[0030] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention the
flexible portion comprises an elastic portion formed as a
monolithic part with the joining portion, if any, and/or the
fixation portion, the elastic portion having dimensions providing
elasticity for fixate the ultrasound reflector by clamping.
[0031] Thus, in one embodiment the flexible portion may comprise or
be formed by the same material as the joining portion, if any,
and/or the fixation portion.
[0032] As used herein the term "monolithic" is intended to mean
something which is formed from the same material as one single
unipartite part, as opposed to being assembled from two or more
parts, i.e. as being formed or composed of material without joints
or seams. In some embodiments it may refer to pieces which are
molded as a single part.
[0033] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention the
reflector clamping member is adapted for, in assembled
configuration, exerting a force on the ultrasound reflector, said
force having a component in the direction of the flow conduit
insert.
[0034] One advantage of the above embodiment may be that by
exerting the force on the ultrasound reflector in the direction of
the flow conduit insert, or at least having a component in that
direction, the ultrasound reflector may be effectively clamped
between the flow conduit insert and the reflector clamping
member.
[0035] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention at
least the joining portion and the fixation portion is formed as a
monolithic part.
[0036] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention the
joining portion, if any, the fixation portion, and the flexible
portion is formed as a monolithic part.
[0037] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention the
joining portion, if any, the fixation portion, and the flexible
portion is formed from the same material.
[0038] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention the
flexible portion comprises or consists of a material selected from
the group consisting of plastics, such as polyethylene, hereunder
HDPE, or such as polyethylene terephthalate, metals, or composite
materials, such as a glass reinforced polymer, such as polybutylene
sulfide (PBS).
[0039] In some embodiments the flexible portion is formed as a
monolithic part with the joining portion, if any, and the fixation
portion, and wherein the flexible portion, the joining portion, if
any, and the fixation portion comprises or consist of a material
selected from the group consisting of plastics, such as
polyethylene, hereunder HDPE, or such as polyethylene
terephthalate, metals, or composite materials, such as a glass
reinforced polymer, such as polybutylene sulfide (PBS).
[0040] In a further embodiment the flexible portion is made of a
different material than the joining portion, if any, and/or the
fixation portion, where the flexible portion comprising or
consisting of a material selected from the group consisting of
plastics, such as polyethylene, hereunder HDPE, or such as
polyethylene terephthalate, metals, or composite materials, such as
a glass reinforced polymer, such as polybutylene sulfide (PBS).
[0041] According to an embodiment of the invention the joining
portion, if any, and/or the fixation portion comprises or consists
of a material selected from the group consisting of plastics, such
as polyethylene, hereunder HDPE, or such as polyethylene
terephthalate, metals, or composite materials, such as a glass
reinforced polymer, such as polybutylene sulfide (PBS).
[0042] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention the
flexible portion comprises or consists of a composite material,
such as a glass reinforced polymer, such as polybutylene sulfide
(PBS).
[0043] According to an embodiment of the invention the joining
portion, if any, and/or the fixation portion comprises or consists
of a composite material, such as a glass reinforced polymer, such
as polybutylene sulfide (PBS).
[0044] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention the
flexible portion comprises a layer of an elastic material, such
rubber or a rubber-like material, such as silicone rubber.
[0045] Thus, as can be seen various options exists for producing
the reflector clamping member and the parts thereof. Moreover, in
any specific situation, several considerations may be taken into
account, depending on the specific circumstances, when choosing the
material for the reflector clamping member, hereunder product
costs, flexibility and elasticity, heat resistance, toxicity,
friction etc. For example, when using the reflector clamping member
in an ultrasonic flow meter used as a water meter or similar, the
material should be chosen to ensure non-contamination of the
drinking water. Furthermore, to keep the production costs down, it
may be beneficial to consider cost-effective materials, while at
the same time considering that sufficient quality, including
long-term endurance. Finally, the material, especially that of the
flexible part, should advantageously be chosen so as to ensure
sufficient friction with the ultrasound reflector so as to prevent
the ultrasound reflector from moving too much.
[0046] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention the
flexible portion comprises one or more elastic pins.
[0047] One advantage of the above embodiment may be that the
reflector clamping member may provide a quite effective clamping of
ultrasound reflectors while at the same time the production of the
reflector clamping member may be carried out in a relatively simple
and cost-effective manner.
[0048] The elastic pins may be arranged to exerting a force, in
assembled configuration, on the ultrasound reflector, said force
having a component in the direction of the flow conduit insert. For
example, the elastic pins may be formed from a material with a
relatively low bulk elasticity, where the elasticity is provided by
reduced dimensions of the pins, i.e. by having pins which are
relatively thin and which therefore can move e.g. sideways with
sufficient elasticity.
[0049] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention
said flexible portion comprises one or more shear springs.
[0050] For example, the one or more elastic pins may form the one
or more shear springs.
[0051] In the present context the term "shear spring" is intended
to mean a spring adapted for being elastically deformed in a
direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the spring.
It should of course be understood that when deforming the shear
spring from its unloaded position, the direction of further
deformation may change, but still comprises a primary component in
the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the
spring in its unloaded position.
[0052] A shear spring may for example be a flat cantilever
spring.
[0053] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention
each of the one or more elastic pins is adapted to be in
[0054] a first, un-deformed configuration when the reflector
clamping member is free of contact with the ultrasound reflector,
and to be in
[0055] a second deformed configuration when the reflector clamping
member is installed to fixate the ultrasound reflector to the flow
conduit insert.
[0056] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention the
one or more elastic pins, when in the first, un-deformed
configuration, have a longitudinal direction having an angle
relative to a reflecting surface of the ultrasound reflector in
assembled configuration, said angle being less than 20 degrees,
such as less than 10 degrees, such as less than 5 degrees.
[0057] Thus, in an embodiment the longitudinal direction has a
primary component being substantially parallel to the reflecting
surface of the ultrasound reflector.
[0058] In an example embodiment said longitudinal direction is
substantially parallel to said reflecting surface of the ultrasound
reflector.
[0059] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention the
flexible portion comprises a structured surface.
[0060] According to an example embodiment of the invention the
structured surface comprises forming elevated surface structures
such as flexible peaks or ridges, e.g. non-rigid spikes, undetached
chips or grind marks, on a surface.
[0061] In the present context it should be understood that the
elevated surface structures may be organized partly of fully into a
certain pattern, or may be partially or fully randomized in size,
dimensions, distances, etc.
[0062] Methods usable for making a structured surface may include
molding or subsequent machining, or even a combination thereof.
[0063] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention,
the structured surface comprises at least one structure having a
diameter of between 50 and 500 micrometer, such as between 75 and
300 micrometer, such as between 100 and 200 micrometer.
[0064] Thus, in some embodiments, the structured surface may
comprise several or a plurality of surface structures, e.g. as a
combination of one or more structures having the specified size and
further structures with diameter below 50 micrometer, or as one or
more structures having a diameter between 50 and 500 micrometers as
specified. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the structured surface
has a single surface structure.
[0065] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention
reflector clamping member is adapted to clamp the ultrasound
reflector being substantially flat.
[0066] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention
reflector clamping member is adapted to clamp the ultrasound
reflector being focusing.
[0067] Focusing reflectors may in an embodiment comprise a concave
reflecting surface.
[0068] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention the
reflector clamping member is adapted to at least partly close an
opening in the flow conduit insert when in assembled
configuration.
[0069] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention the
reflector clamping member is adapted to form, together with the
flow conduit insert, a body having a substantially cylindrical
outer surface.
[0070] The invention further relates to a flow conduit insert
assembly comprising
[0071] a flow conduit insert for inserting into a flow conduit of
an ultrasonic flow meter,
[0072] at least one ultrasound reflector, and
[0073] at least one reflector clamping member according to the
invention or any of its embodiments for fixating the ultrasound
reflector to the flow conduit insert.
[0074] In the present context, the flow conduit of an ultrasonic
flow meter is to be understood as a part of the pipe, tube or other
channel through which the fluid to be measured flows, particularly
the part where the flow measurements takes place. In some
embodiments, the flow conduit may be a separate section of e.g. the
pipe, and may thus be provided with the finished ultrasonic flow
meter. Then, such flow conduit may typically comprise a connection
arrangement at each end for connecting to the rest of the piping
system, e.g. a connection arrangement comprising an inner or outer
thread.
[0075] In an embodiment, the flow conduit insert may be inserted
axially into the flow conduit.
[0076] I.e. in such embodiments, the flow conduit insert, and thus
also the flow conduit insert assembly, may be inserted along the
longitudinal axis of the flow conduit. Thus, the longitudinal axis
of the flow conduit insert assembly and the longitudinal axis of
the flow conduit may, during and/or after assembly substantially
overlap.
[0077] The invention further relates to an ultrasonic flow meter
comprising
[0078] a flow conduit,
[0079] a housing fixable to the flow conduit,
[0080] a flow conduit insert inserted into the flow conduit,
[0081] an ultrasound reflector, and
[0082] a reflector clamping member according to the invention or
any of its embodiments arranged to clamp the ultrasound reflector
between the flexible portion and the flow conduit insert thereby
fixating the ultrasound reflector to the flow conduit insert.
[0083] The invention further relates to a method of fixating an
ultrasound reflector to a flow conduit insert, the method
comprising the steps of
[0084] providing a reflector clamping member comprising a flexible
portion,
[0085] contacting said flexible portion to one side of said
ultrasound reflector,
[0086] fixating said reflector clamping member to said flow conduit
insert thereby clamping the ultrasound reflector between said
flexible portion and said flow conduit insert.
[0087] According to an embodiment of the invention, the reflector
clamping member used in the above mentioned method is formed
according to the invention or any of its embodiments.
[0088] The invention further relates to a use of a reflector
clamping member comprising a flexible portion for fixating an
ultrasound reflector to a flow conduit insert of an ultrasonic flow
meter.
[0089] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention the
used the reflector clamping member is the reflector clamping member
according to the invention or any of its embodiments and/or where
the use is in an ultrasonic flow meter according to the invention
or any of its embodiments.
THE FIGURES
[0090] The invention will now be described with reference to the
figures where
[0091] FIG. 1A illustrates a reflector clamping member according to
an embodiment of the invention,
[0092] FIG. 1B illustrates a flow conduit insert assembly
comprising a reflector clamping member according to an embodiment
of the invention,
[0093] FIG. 2A-D illustrate reflector clamping members with various
flexible portions according to embodiments of the invention,
[0094] FIG. 3A-F illustrate various fixation portions and
corresponding fixation receivers according to embodiments of the
invention,
[0095] FIG. 4A-C illustrate reflector clamping members with various
joining portions according to embodiments of the invention, and
[0096] FIG. 5 illustrates an ultrasonic flow meter comprising a
flow conduit insert assembly according to an embodiment of the
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0097] Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, a reflector clamping member
RCM according to an embodiment of the invention is illustrated. In
more detail, FIG. 1A shows a perspective view of a reflector
clamping member RCM with a corresponding ultrasound reflector REF,
with a distance between the two. Furthermore, FIG. 1B shows an
exploded perspective view of a flow conduit insert assembly ASY
comprising the reflector claiming members RCM shown in FIG. 1A.
[0098] The reflector clamping member RCM shown on FIG. 1A is
adapted to fixate an ultrasound reflector REF to a flow conduit
insert FCI of an ultrasonic flow meter UFM. The flow conduit insert
FCI is shown on FIG. 1B. When the reflector clamping member(s) RCM,
the ultrasound reflector(s) REF and the flow conduit insert FCI are
assembled, they form a flow conduit insert assembly ASY, which may
thus be inserted into a flow conduit FC of an ultrasonic flow meter
UFM. An example thereof is illustrated on FIG. 5 and the
corresponding description.
[0099] The reflector clamping member RCM comprises a fixation
portion FXN for fixating the reflector clamping member RCM to the
flow conduit insert FCI and a flexible portion FLX for contacting
the ultrasound reflector REF.
[0100] The illustrated reflector clamping member RCM further
comprise a joining portion JOI for joining the fixation portion FXN
and the flexible portion FLX; however, in other embodiments the
reflector clamping member RCM does not comprise a separate joining
portion JOI, e.g. if the flexible portion FLX and the fixation
portion FXN are directly joined to each other.
[0101] The flexible portion FLX is adapted for supporting at least
one side of the ultrasound reflector REF so as to clamp the
ultrasound reflector REF between the flexible portion FLX and the
flow conduit insert FCI when the reflector clamping member RCM, the
ultrasound reflector REF, and the flow conduit insert FCI are
assembled. In other words, when the reflector clamping member RCM
is fixated to the flow conduit insert FCI, the ultrasound reflector
REF may be clamped between the reflector clamping member RCM and
the flow conduit insert FCI, and more specifically between the
flexible portion FLX and the flow conduit insert FCI.
[0102] The flexible portion FLX may be devised in various ways,
some of which are exemplified on FIGS. 2A-2D, as long as it can
contact the ultrasound reflector REF and support at least one side
of the ultrasound reflector REF so as to clamp the ultrasound
reflector REF between the flexible portion FLX and the flow conduit
insert FCI, as described above.
[0103] Furthermore, the fixation portion FXN may be devised in
various ways, some of which are exemplified in FIGS. 3A-3F, as long
as it can fixate the reflector clamping member RCM to the flow
conduit insert FCI.
[0104] The joining portion JOT may also be devised in a number of
different ways, some of which are exemplified on FIGS. 4A-C, as
long as it joins the fixation portion FXN and the flexible portion
FLX. Alternatively, as stated above, the reflector clamping member
RCM may be without a separate joining portion JOI.
[0105] Referring to FIG. 2A, a reflector clamping member RCM
according to an embodiment of the invention is illustrated. FIG. 2A
shows a cross-sectional side view of the reflector clamping member,
which is shown in FIGS. 1A-1B.
[0106] The reflector clamping member RCM comprises a flexible
portion FLX, which in the embodiment illustrated on FIG. 2A is
formed by two elastic pins. In some other embodiments, fewer or
more elastic pins may be sufficient, dependent on e.g. the exact
type of elastic pin(s) and on the position and orientation thereof.
For example, if the support of the ultrasound reflector REF must be
extraordinarily strong, e.g. due to the intended environment of the
ultrasonic flow meter UFM, an increased number of elastic pins may
be used, or the elastic pins and/or the tangential contact section
between the elastic pins and the ultrasound reflector REF may be
made broader.
[0107] In FIG. 2A, an example of elastic pins is shown in an
un-deformed configuration. The elastic pins shown in FIG. 2A
function as cantilever springs, which can deform in a direction
away from the flow conduit insert FCI when the reflector clamping
member RCM, the ultrasound reflector REF, and the flow conduit
insert FCI is assembled to form a flow conduit insert assembly ASY.
For example, the elastic pins may be oriented such that they have a
longitudinal direction with an angle relative to a reflecting plane
of an ultrasound reflector REF, where that angle is less than 40
degrees, such as less than 20 degrees; here in FIG. 2A illustrated
as about 10 degrees. Moreover, the elastic pins may be dimensioned
such that when in assembled configuration (i.e. where the
ultrasound reflector REF, the reflector clamping member RCM, and
the flow conduit insert FCI are assembled to form a flow conduit
insert assembly ASY) the longitudinal direction of the elastic pins
may be substantially parallel to the reflecting plane of the
ultrasound reflector REF, thus maximizing the elasticity of the
elastic pins in assembled configuration. Alternatively, is should
be ensured that the angle between the longitudinal direction of the
elastic pins and the reflecting plane of an ultrasound reflector
REF is, in assembled configuration, not too large, such as e.g.
below 40 degrees, or below 20 degrees. In FIG. 2A, the reflecting
plane of an ultrasound reflector REF would be substantially
horizontal. The ultrasound reflector plane is herein considered as
the plane spanned by the ultrasound reflector REF when the
ultrasound reflector REF has been brought into contact with the
flexible portion FLX.
[0108] Referring to FIG. 2B, a reflector clamping member RCM
according to an embodiment of the invention is illustrated.
[0109] The reflector clamping member RCM comprises a flexible
portion FLX, which in the embodiment illustrated on FIG. 2B is
formed by a layer comprising a flexible or elastic material. For
example, the layer may be a silicone rubber layer.
[0110] It should be noticed that in some embodiments the flexible
portion FLX may not necessarily be fixated to the joining portion
JOI, but must still be supported by the joining portion JOI at
least when in an assembled configuration with an ultrasound
reflector REF and a flow conduit insert FCI. Particularly, when
using a flexible or elastic layer, such as a layer of silicone
rubber, this layer may in some embodiments not be fixated to the
joining portion JOI. This may also be the case if the flexible
portion is or comprises a flexible ring, such as an O-ring of
rubber or rubber-like material.
[0111] As illustrated in FIG. 2B, the layer is slightly curved.
Thus, if the surface of the ultrasound reflector REF for contacting
the flexible portion FLX is similarly curved, a full part or at
least a large part of the ultrasound reflector may be contacted by
the layer; however, if the ultrasound reflector REF has a curvature
differing from that of the illustrated surface or if the ultrasound
reflector is substantially flat, then the point of contact between
the ultrasound reflector REF and the flexible portion may be only
be along e.g. the rim of the layer, i.e. as a circle of
contact.
[0112] Referring to FIG. 2C, a reflector clamping member RCM
according to an embodiment of the invention is illustrated.
[0113] This embodiment is somewhat similar to that shown in FIG.
2B; however, instead of using a layer of flexible or elastic
material, the flexible portion FLX is formed as a ring of a
flexible or elastic material, for example a rubber O-ring.
[0114] Referring to FIG. 2D, a reflector clamping member RCM
according to an embodiment of the invention is illustrated.
[0115] In this embodiment, the flexible portion FLX comprises a
structured surface. In the illustrated embodiment, the structured
surface is made up from a single structure, whereas structured
surfaces of other embodiments may comprise more than one surface
structures, e.g. to improve balance of the ultrasound reflector
REF. The structure of the structured surface may for example be
made via processes of molding or machining, or a combination of
molding and subsequent machining. Typical sizes of surface
structures may be between 50 and 500 micrometer, such as e.g. round
100-200 micrometers. The structured surface may also be made with
other means, provided that sufficient flexibility or elasticity is
induced by incorporating the structured surface into the flexible
portion.
[0116] In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible portion FLX
comprises a single, centered surface structure, which may be made
of a relatively hard material. The flexible portion FLX further
comprises a portion which both connects the surface structure with
the fixation portion FXN and which also provides sufficient
flexibility for the surface structure to move relative to the
fixation portion FXN assembled with the ultrasound reflector REF
and the flow conduit insert FCI. Thereby, in that particular
embodiment, the flexible portion FLX comprises one part for
contacting the ultrasound reflector REF and another part for
providing flexibility. Since the flexible portion FLX and the
fixation portion FXN is directly joined in this embodiment, there
is no joining portion JOI. Thus, even if the part providing
flexibility may be somewhat similar to the joining part of FIG. 2C,
the embodiment illustrated on FIG. 2D is free of any separate
joining portions JOI.
[0117] In other embodiments where the flexible portion FLX
comprises a structured surface, the structured surface may comprise
one or more surface structures providing flexibility or
elasticity.
[0118] The above described reflector clamping member RCM and
flexible portion FLX thereof according to any of FIGS. 2A-2D are
applicable in the embodiment illustrated on FIGS. 1A-B.
[0119] Now referring to FIGS. 3A-3F, fixation portions FXN
according to various embodiments of the invention are illustrated.
Each of the illustrated fixation portions FXN are applicable with
the reflector clamping member RCM described in relation to FIGS.
1A-1B. It should be noted that no ultrasound reflectors REF are
shown in FIGS. 3A-3F, nor are any corresponding flexible portions
FLX shown. Nevertheless, these elements would be present and some
possibilities are illustrated in that respect on FIGS. 1A-1B and
2A-2D.
[0120] In FIGS. 3A-3B, a fixation portion FXN of a reflector
clamping member RCM and a corresponding fixation receiver FR of a
flow conduit insert FCI are shown in a disassembled configuration.
The same are shown in FIG. 3B, only in an assembled configuration.
The fixation portion FXN of shown comprises an arm with a
protrusion PRO, whereas the fixation receiver FR is formed as a
depression DEP formed so as to receive and engage the protrusion
PRO, as shown in FIG. 3B. Alternatively, the fixation receiver FR
may be formed as a protrusion for engaging the protrusion of the
fixation portion FXN, or as a combination of a protrusion and a
depression. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the fixation portion
FXN may instead comprise a depression, and the fixation receiver FR
may comprise a protrusion.
[0121] The fixation portion FXN and corresponding fixation receiver
FR of FIGS. 3A-3B may be used with any of the flexible portions
illustrated on FIGS. 2A-2D.
[0122] Moving to FIG. 3C, a further example of a fixation portion
FXN and corresponding fixation receiver FR is illustrated according
to an embodiment. Here the fixation portion FXN comprises two
depressions DEP, whereas the fixation receiver FR comprises two
corresponding protrusions PRO.
[0123] The position of the protrusions and depressions may in some
embodiments be reversed with respect to the fixation portion FXN
and the fixation receiver FR.
[0124] The number of protrusions and corresponding depressions may
be some embodiments vary, and may be thus be e.g. three, four or
five. In some embodiments the number of protrusions may not be the
same as the number of depressions; as an example one protrusion may
be combined with two, three, or more depressions.
[0125] The illustrated fixation portion FXN and corresponding
fixation receiver FR may thus allow two different assembled
configurations; a first assembled configuration where the lower
protrusion PRO of the fixation receiver FR engages the upper
depression DEP of the fixation portion FXN; and a second assembled
configuration where the upper depression DEP and upper protrusion
PRO engages each other and where also the lower depression DEP and
lower protrusion PRO engages each other. Even if this allows two
different possible assembled configurations, a beneficial
implementation of the flexible portion FLX may still impart
flexibility and thus improve the clamping over time of the
ultrasound reflector REF.
[0126] The fixation portion FXN and corresponding fixation receiver
FR of FIG. 3C may be used with any of the flexible portions
illustrated on FIGS. 2A-2D.
[0127] Further, on FIG. 3D a further combination of a fixation
portion FXN and a fixation receiver FR is illustrated according to
an embodiment of the invention.
[0128] Here, the fixation portion FXN and the fixation receiver FR
are fixated to each other by an adhesive ADH, illustrated in FIG.
3D as a drop of adhesive ADH applied on the end of the fixation
portion FXN. The adhesive ADH may be applied on other parts of the
fixation portion FXN, or it may be applied on the fixation receiver
FR or on both.
[0129] The dimensions of the fixation portion FXN and/or of the
fixation receiver FR may thus determine the exact relative position
of the assembly formed by assembling the fixation portion FXN and
the fixation receiver FR.
[0130] In some embodiments, the fixation portion FXN, here
illustrated as an arm, may e.g. be inserted into the bottom of the
fixation receiver FR, here illustrated as a hole. In some other
embodiments, the fixation portion FXN may be fixated along a
continuous range of positions relative to the fixation receiver FR;
however, even in such embodiments, the flexible portion FLX may
still ensure an effective fixation of the ultrasound reflector REF
over time.
[0131] The fixation portion FXN and corresponding fixation receiver
FR of FIG. 3D may be used with any of the flexible portions
illustrated on FIGS. 2A-2D.
[0132] Moreover, on FIG. 3E a further combination of a fixation
portion FXN and a fixation receiver FR is illustrated according to
an embodiment of the invention.
[0133] This embodiment illustrates that the direction of the
protrusion(s) and depression(s) may be varied, as this FIG. 3E
shows a protrusion PRO facing away from the center of the reflector
clamping member RCM, whereas FIGS. 3A-3B shows a protrusion PRO
facing towards the center of the reflector clamping member RCM, at
least in the sense that it is towards a center axis of the
reflector clamping member RCM. Also, FIG. 3E illustrates that a
protrusion PRO, here shown on the fixation portion FXN may engage a
combination of a protrusion PRO and a depression DEP, here shown on
the fixation receiver FR.
[0134] The fixation portion FXN and corresponding fixation receiver
FR of FIG. 3E may be used with any of the flexible portions
illustrated on FIGS. 2A-2D.
[0135] Finally, on FIG. 3F a further combination of a fixation
portion FXN and a fixation receiver FR is illustrated according to
an embodiment of the invention.
[0136] This embodiment illustrates that ultrasonic welding may also
be used for connecting the reflector clamping member RCM to the
flow conduit insert FCI and thus fixating it thereto. Ultrasonic
welding may be employed by ensuring that the ultrasonic signal used
for ultrasonic welding passes through a narrowed or restricted
zone, in FIG. 3F shown as a pointed tip of the fixation portion
FXN. Thus, the pointed tip would be moved upwards, as shown in FIG.
3F, and brought into contact with the fixation receiver FR, after
which the ultrasonic welding would be applied. The process of
ultrasonic welding may also cause inaccuracies in the relative
distance between the reflector clamping member RCM and the flow
conduit insert FCI, e.g. due to manufacturing tolerances of the
parts but also due to the process of ultrasonic welding itself,
e.g. due to local melting. Such inaccuracies or variations in that
relative distance may cause the fixation of the ultrasound
reflector to be less effective. Moreover, the mentioned relative
distance may over time change, due to various aging effects.
[0137] The fixation portion FXN and corresponding fixation receiver
FR of FIG. 3F may be used with any of the flexible portions
illustrated on FIGS. 2A-2D.
[0138] Now, referring to FIGS. 4A-4C, various joining portions JOT
are illustrated according to different embodiments. The illustrated
reflector clamping members RCM are shown in a top-down view. Each
of the illustrated joining portions JOT is applicable with the
reflector clamping member RCM described in relation to FIGS.
1A-1B.
[0139] A possible position of two flexible portions FLX is
illustrated on each of FIGS. 4A-4C; however, the number as well as
the position of the flexible portion(s) FLX may be varied according
to the specific circumstances.
[0140] On FIG. 4A, the joining portion JOT extends between the two
fixation portions FXN but also forms a form of cover, which may
fully or partly cover the ultrasound reflector REF. This cover may
have different shapes, which may deviate from that illustrated in
FIG. 4A. Thus, the cover formed by the joining portion JOT may in
some embodiments close a corresponding opening in the flow conduit
insert FCI when assembled therewith.
[0141] On FIG. 4B another version of the joining portion JOT is
illustrated. Here the joining portion JOT connects the flexible
portions FLX as well as the fixation portions FXN without forming a
cover.
[0142] The illustrated configuration of the joining portion JOT
somewhat limits the possible positions of the flexible portion(s)
FLX, but this configuration may still in some situations be
advantageous, e.g. due to design simplicity or minimization of used
material.
[0143] FIG. 4C illustrates yet another version of the joining
portion JOT. The illustrated joining portion JOT comprises, further
to the joining portion JOT of FIG. 4B, two semi-circular bridges,
which allows for more freedom with respect to the position of the
flexible portions FLX, as also illustrated on FIG. 4C.
[0144] Each of the above illustrated reflector clamping members RCM
has two fixation portions FXN. However, depending on the specific
situation and corresponding requirements and also desired
simplicity, it may in some situations be sufficient with only a
single fixation portion FXN, whereas it may in other situations be
desirable with more than two fixations portions FXN, such as e.g.
three, four, or more.
[0145] Here it should be understood that each of the illustrated
joining portions JOT may be combined with each of the illustrated
flexible portions of FIG. 2A-2C and with each of the fixation
portions FXN illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3F.
[0146] Now, referring to FIG. 5, an ultrasonic flow meter UFM and a
flow conduit insert assembly ASY is illustrated according to an
embodiment of the invention.
[0147] The ultrasonic flow meter UFM comprises a flow conduit FC, a
flow conduit insert assembly ASY, a housing HOU, two ultrasonic
transducers UT, and a control unit CU.
[0148] The ultrasonic flow meter UFM may for example be a
transit-time ultrasonic flow meter.
[0149] In some embodiments the flow conduit insert assembly ASY is
a self-supporting assembly, whereas it may need support from the
flow conduit FC and/or the housing HOU in other embodiments.
[0150] The ultrasonic flow meter UFM may in some embodiments
comprise further components, such as a display or a transmission
unit for communicating with external devices or systems. Also, in
some embodiments the control unit CU may be a fully integrated
unit, and may optionally comprise one or more further components
integrated therewith, whereas the control unit CU may in other
embodiments be a distributed system in the ultrasonic flow meter
UFM, i.e. the control unit CU may comprise several subunits which
are electrically connected, but not necessarily as one single
component.
[0151] The control unit CU is electrically connected with the
ultrasonic transducers UT and may thus control the emission of
ultrasonic signals therefrom and may also receive electronic
signals representing any ultrasonic signals detected by the
ultrasound transducer UT.
[0152] The housing HOU may be assembled with the flow conduit FC,
for example by means of locking pin(s) or other suitable locking
arrangements. The housing supports the ultrasonic transducers UT
and the control unit CU.
[0153] The flow conduit insert assembly comprises a flow conduit
insert FCI, at least one ultrasound reflector REF, and at least one
reflector clamping member RCM, which may be formed as illustrated
on FIGS. 1A-1B. FIG. 5 illustrates the use of three ultrasound
reflectors REF, and three corresponding reflector clamping members
RCM.
[0154] The flow conduit FC as a first and a second, opposite,
opening connected to each other to form an inner space to allow
passage of the fluid for which flow is measured. The inner space
follows longitudinal axis LONG of the flow conduit FC, indicated by
the dashed line.
[0155] The flow conduit insert assembly ASY is inserted axially
into the flow conduit FC. In some embodiments, the longitudinal
position of the flow conduit insert assembly ASY relative to the
flow conduit FC may be locked by the housing HOU, when connecting
the housing HOU with the flow conduit FC, e.g. by protrusions in
the housing HOU engaging corresponding depressions and/or openings
in the flow conduit FC and possibly also depressions and/or
openings in the flow conduit insert FCI.
[0156] The reflector clamping member(s) RCM and the flow conduit
insert FCI may be devised according to any of the aforementioned
figures. Specifically, the reflector clamping member(s) RCM each
comprise a flexible portion FLX, which may be formed according to
any of FIGS. 2A-2D, a fixation portion FXN, which may be formed
according to any of FIGS. 3A-3F, and a joining portion JOT, which
may be formed according to any of FIGS. 4A-4C.
LIST OF FIGURE REFERENCES
[0157] RCM. Reflector clamping member
[0158] REF Ultrasound reflector
[0159] FCI. Flow conduit insert
[0160] FXN. Fixation portion
[0161] FLX. Flexible portion
[0162] JOT. Joining portion
[0163] ASY. Flow conduit insert assembly
[0164] CON. Flow conduit
[0165] UFM. Ultrasonic flow meter
[0166] HOU. Housing
[0167] OPN. Opening
[0168] UT. Ultrasonic transducer
[0169] CU. Control unit
[0170] LONG. Longitudinal axis of the flow conduit
[0171] FR. Fixation receiver
[0172] ADH. Adhesive
* * * * *