WO2009080632A1

WO2009080632A1 - Arrangement and method for adjusting and/or monitoring an output signal of a sensor element within a functional range of a sensor

Info

Publication number: WO2009080632A1
Application number: PCT/EP2008/067666
Authority: WO
Inventors: Robert Buck
Original assignee: Robert Buck
Priority date: 2007-12-20
Filing date: 2008-12-16
Publication date: 2009-07-02
Also published as: DE102008062538A1

Abstract

The invention relates to an arrangement and a method for adjusting and/or monitoring an output signal of a sensor element within a functional range of a sensor comprising at least one sensor element that supplies an electrical output signal which can be varied by means of mechanical and/or electrical actions. The sensor further comprises at least one inductive or magnetic device as well as a member, the relative distance of which from a sensor element changes according to the flow. The sensor element supplies an analog electrical output signal which depends by a predefined degree on the movement of the member and thus the flow rate or the flow of a fluid medium. According to the invention, an evaluation unit is provided which tests whether the electrical output signal of the sensor element lies within a predefined functional range. Said evaluation unit is connected to a display module and outputs a value when an output signal of the sensor element lies within the functional range. According to the disclosed method, the output signal for a preferred position of the member is adjusted by means of mechanical and/or electrical actions in such a way that the output signal lies within a predetermined functional range. It is determined and displayed or represented when the output signal has reached the functional range.

Description

Arrangement and method for setting and / or controlling a sensor element output signal within a functional range of a

sensor

description

The invention relates to an arrangement for setting and / or checking the functional range of a sensor according to the preamble of patent claim 1, a method for adjusting and / or control of Sensorelement- output signal within a functional area according to the preamble of claim 29 and a method for operating a system, which flowing media and a flow meter, according to claim 41.

It is known to adjust the switching distance of sensors that z. B. Proximity switch to arrange a suitable calibration object at a predetermined distance from the sensor or proximity switch.

Typically, the distance to the sensor is then changed until a switching signal of defined size is applied. In a next step, the distance is then successively increased again until the switching signal drops. The position thus obtained is determined as the operating point of the sensor and z. B. fixed in a product data sheet.

However, the above-described adjustment of the operating point has the disadvantage that, although the switching threshold recognizable as an electrical signal, but the then fixed operating point is adjustable with an undefined Schwanku ngsbreite. In addition, the set operating point, z. B. by vibrations in or at the site of the sensor or temperature change, without the possibility of a review with possibly recalibration.

A setting and function monitoring of flow sensors is particularly important if the flow sensors have a projecting into the flowing medium lifting body, wherein the lifting body movably guided on a housing and in dependence on the Flow of the medium to be monitored against the restoring force of a arranged between the housing and the lifting body return element is movable. In this case, the sensor element can be designed, for example, as a contactless proximity switch and generate a signal dependent on the position of the lifting body.

Such a flow sensor is disclosed in WO 2005/124291 A1. In such an analog sensor with inductive or even magnetic sensor elements, the exact mode of operation depends on whether and to what extent the movement or lifting range of the lifting body is optimally utilized. Here, it is desirable to be able to carry out a calibration and adjustment of a flow sensor located in a fluid circuit, optionally also on site, with simple means. With such a calibration setting, the user must at least be signaled whether the sensor is working correctly in the respective application case in the event of a change in flow and whether there are still reserve reserves.

From the above, it is therefore an object of the invention to provide an arrangement for calibration and / or control of a sensor element output signal within a functional range of sensors with at least one sensor element which provides an electrical output signal, the output signal itself by mechanical and / or electrical Actions is variable.

It is another object of the invention to provide a method for adjusting and / or controlling a sensor element output signal within a functional range of sensors, in particular a flow sensor, wherein the sensor has at least one inductive or magnetic device and a body whose relative distance is flow-dependent changes to a sensor element. The sensor element provides an electrical, in particular analog output signal which is dependent on the movement of the body and thus the flow or the flow of a fluid medium in a predetermined amount. Here it is necessary to specify a solution with the help of which not only once and on site with the installed sensor its setting and operation can be optimized is, but which also allows a continuous or quasi-continuous Funktionsüberprüfu ng.

Ultimately, the cost of the arrangement for setting and / or control of the sensor element output signal, which are expediently used for carrying out the method, to be kept low in order to achieve a corresponding customer acceptance.

The object of the invention is achieved with an arrangement for adjusting and / or control of the sensor element output signal within a functional range of sensors according to the feature combination according to claim 1, with a method for SET ment but also control of the sensor element output signal from sensors that at least an inductive or magnetic device and a body, whose relative distance changes flow-dependent to a sensor element, according to the preamble of claim 29, with an arrangement for carrying out the method as defined by the teaching of claim 38, and a method for Operation according to claim 41.

The arrangement for setting and / or control of Sensorelement- output signal is based on at least one sensor having at least one sensor element which provides an electrical, in particular analog output signal and wherein the output signal by mechanical and / or electrical actions, eg. B. by changing a mechanical bias of a H ubkörpers is variable.

According to the arrangement-side basic idea of the invention, an evaluation unit is provided, to which the electrical output signal generated by the at least one sensor element is supplied.

The evaluation unit checks whether the electrical sensor element output signal lies in a predetermined value range or functional range. The rating unit is also associated with a display module. The display module is able to display the result prepared by the evaluation unit, for example by means of an optoelectronic assembly, which in the simplest case is an or comprises a plurality of light emitting diodes (LED). In the functional area can be one or more, predetermined operating points of the sensor.

The evaluation unit is located in a first circuit and the display module in a second circuit, both circuits are powered by a parent power supply, but the first circuit for the evaluation unit is supplied with a stabilized voltage. The circuit for the display module remains unstabilized, so that higher driver currents for the example mentioned light emitting diodes can be provided without much circuit complexity.

Furthermore, a transmission module is provided between the evaluation unit and the display module. With the help of the transmission module of the display to be displayed relevant waveform detail is defined and there is a power-side control of the display module.

The transmission module has a controlled by the electrical output of the evaluation unit, lying in the second circuit control. This control is in a variant of the inventive arrangement, a transistor.

The sensor may be formed in a preferred embodiment and application of the arrangement according to the invention as a flow sensor and inductive or magnetic devices having a body whose relative distance changes flow-dependent to the sensor element, wherein the sensor element output voltage in a predetermined amount of the movement of the body and Thus, the flow or the flow of a fluid medium is dependent.

Again preferably, the body is designed as a lifting body.

The evaluation unit determines in this embodiment, whether the obtained based on a flow change output signal is within a predetermined voltage window. The evaluation unit determines whether and to what extent the particular analog output signal is substantially linearly subject to changes in the movement of the body, in particular lifting body.

The display module can comprise not only an optoelectronic assembly in the form of one or more LEDs, but also or in addition an acoustic assembly to clearly signalize the presence of a sensor element output signal within the functional range or a deviation from this.

When the desired functional range is reached, the optoelectronic and / or acoustic module can generate either a maximum or a minimum signal.

The evaluation unit comprises a series connection of a coupling-in module and a coupling-out module.

The electrical sensor element output signal is applied to the coupling module.

The injection module has a transistor of a first conductivity type and the coupling-out module has at least one transistor of a second conductivity type.

The electrical sensor element output signal is supplied to the base of the transistor of the coupling-in module, the operating voltage, in stabilized form, being applied across the series circuit comprising the coupling-in module and the coupling-out module.

At the transistor of the coupling module, an emitter resistor is connected, wherein in the collector path, a series circuit of a diode path and a resistor is located, which leads to the positive operating potential.

At the collector of the transistor of the coupling-in module, the base of the transistor of the coupling-out module is connected. In a ausgestaltenden variant, the transistor of the coupling-out module can be realized as a current mirror circuit.

The voltage divider ratio of the emitter resistance of the transistor of the injection module and the resistor located at the collector of the transistor of the injection module determines at which input voltage at the base of the transistor of the injection module a maximum current through the extraction module is available.

The collector of the transistor of the decoupling module communicates with the base of a transistor of the transmission module, wherein the base of the transistor of the transmission module via a first resistor and the emitter of the transistor of the transmission module via a second resistor at the negative operating voltage potential.

The ratio of the aforementioned resistors more or less determines the section that can be displayed by the display module, wherein the resistance of the second resistor at the emitter of the transistor of the transmission module defines the maximum current that flows through the optoelectronic assembly or the means of the display device.

Accordingly, in one embodiment of the invention at least one, preferably a series connection of a plurality of LEDs is connected to the collector of the transistor of the transmission module.

The transistors of the injection module and the transmission module can be elements or components of a double transistor arrangement of the same conductivity type.

In terms of the method, the invention proposes a methodology for adjusting but also for controlling the sensor element output signal from sensors having at least one inductive or magnetic device and a body whose relative distance changes flow-dependent to a sensor element, the sensor element providing an analog electrical output signal in a given measure of the movement of the body and thus the flow or the flow of a fluid medium is dependent.

To carry out the adjustment and control operation, an action is carried out after installation of the sensor in the relevant fluid circuit of the medium to be monitored. B. triggered an opening or closing of the fluid circuit or a consumer located in this.

During the action, the changing analogue output signal is examined by means of an evaluation unit as to whether the obtained, based on a flow change analogue output signal in a predetermined window area, for which the evaluation unit determines whether and to what extent the analog output signal substantially z. B. is subject to linear or along a predetermined curve of the movement of the body changes. Finally, an indication of the achieved window and the corresponding linear range is made. In a simple variant, this display can take place with the aid of a brightness control for an optoelectronic assembly comprising light-emitting diodes.

The moving or displaceable body is preferably designed as a lifting body, wherein the lifting movement is dependent on the flow or a flow change of the fluid medium.

The aforementioned display, which comprises an optoelectronic assembly, can be the reaching of the window or the position of the sensor signal within the functional area via a color, a color change, a color transition and / or a brightness change, for. B. the achievement of maximum brightness signal.

If the desired functional range of the respective flow sensor is not reached, the adjustment path of the particular lifting body, the distance of the lifting body from the sensor element and / or the mechanical preload of the lifting body are adjusted or adjusted. The selection of the functional area depends on the application and is in principle freely selectable. So the functional area z. B. to be complied flow Minimum value when cooling a welding robot or to a zero value, eg. B. be set in a hot water supply system.

According to the invention, the display by means of optoelectronic device or the like is constantly or cyclically in function during operation of the or the sensors to monitor the working state or functional area and to make a correction if necessary can.

The usually in a fluid circuit, for. B. a hot water cycle of a domestic water supply resulting actions such as opening or closing a consumer are automatically used for the verification to be carried out by means of the evaluation unit, d. H. It is the basis for an ongoing monitoring of the setting of the sensor element output signal created in the usual operation of a corresponding system with a flow sensor.

The display can also be configured as a remote display in order to be able to perform an operating state control outside the measuring or calibration arrangement or the arrangement of the sensors.

The arrangement for carrying out the method for setting and / or checking the sensor element output signal from sensors, in particular flow sensors, has a threshold value-dependent circuit operating at the output of the sensor element or elements, which provides a maximum current for controlling the display when the moving or stroke-related switching edge of the output voltage of the at least one sensor element reaches a minimum value.

The minimum value of the switching edge is preferably at half the operating voltage of the circuit.

There is also the possibility of guiding the output voltage of the sensor element or elements to a group of differential amplifiers which are each connected to a driver circuit for an optoelectronic display, in particular for light-emitting diodes, wherein the differential amplifiers each reach a defined voltage value activate an associated driver circuit from the movement or stroke-dependent voltage range, so that associated flow values are colored, multi-colored or with color transitions in the sense of a traffic light function.

The invention will be explained below with reference to an embodiment and with the aid of figures.

Hereby show:

Fig. 1 is a block diagram of the arrangement according to the invention;

Fig. 2 shows a basic circuit for realizing the solution described in the arrangement according to the invention;

Fig. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the function of FIG

2 shows the relationship between the sensor element output signal U _E supplied by the sensor element and the operating voltage U _B and the course of the brightness of a group of light-emitting diodes as a component of the display module;

Fig. 4 is a principle possibility for determining various

Voltage ranges as window range selection;

5 shows a cross section of a flow sensor according to the invention;

Fig. 6 shows a typical sensor waveform with a predetermined

Functional area;

Fig. 7 shows a selection of the functional area in the area of the largest

Sensor signal I rise;

8 shows a flow sensor with non-return valve;

9 shows a typical waveform of a sensor according to FIG. 8th; Fig. 10 a basic circuit of a sensor with balancing device;

Fig. Fig. 11 shows an embodiment of a spring-loaded, non-return type, oblique-seated valve and a sensor which is fixed by clamping;

Fig. 12a and 12b are cross-sectional views of the sensor and the Einschraubteils, the sensor by Kreiskeilverbindungstechnik is adjustable and fixable;

Fig. 13 is a perspective section of the screw-in with sensor and

Fig. 14 is a Schrägsitzventils with valve housing and housing branch, wherein two sensors are provided.

In the block diagram of the arrangement according to the invention, there is a coupling-in module 110, which is connected in series with a coupling-out module 120 and together forms a rating unit 150 or BE. The operating voltage UB _{1 of} a stabilized supply voltage source is applied to the reference potential UE ₀ via the series connection. In the simplest case, the reference potential U _{E0 can} also be a ground potential.

The coupling-in module 110 is connected to a sensor output voltage U _E of a sensor (not shown) and to the reference potential UE ₀ and influences a first current I ₁ which flows between the coupling-in module 110 and the coupling-out module 120.

The decoupling module 120 is electrically connected to a transmission module 130. Between both modules, a second current I _{2 flows} .

The evaluation unit is designed 150 is such that the second current _I2 is generated in dependence on the sensor output voltage U _E, wherein the second current I ₂ at a sensor signal output voltage U _E, which is within a predetermined voltage window - is - a so-called functional area U _BI , assumes maximum values and otherwise drops in value. The transmission module 130 is connected to a display module 140.

The transmission module 130 drives in response to the second current I _2, a third current I ₃ , the necessary energy for the display of the display module 140, z. B. light emitting diodes supplies.

The inventive arrangement according to FIG. 1 has the advantage that the evaluation unit 150 is preferably connectable to a stabilized voltage supply U _BI , wherein the display module 140, which has an increased power requirement due to the power requirement of the display, supplies an unstabilized voltage supply U _B2 can be.

The circuit of FIG. 2 is based on the in FIG. 1 described three essential functional assemblies. These functional modules comprise a rating unit, which consists of a series connection of a coupling-in module 110 and a coupling-out module 120.

The coupling-in module 110 is supplied with the voltage U _E , which corresponds to the output voltage of the sensor element.

The operating voltage U B is applied across the series connection, in this case a stabilized DC voltage having a value of 5 V. The coupling-in module 110 is designed as a voltage-current converter with the aid of an NPN transistor TEM. The voltage at the input U E z. B. in the range of 0 to 5 volts.

The decoupling module 120 is designed as a voltage-current converter with at least one PNP transistor T _A M.

The current Ii is a function of the input voltage U _E according to the relationship UE - 0.7 V by REM, where REM is the emitter resistance of the transistor TEM. The amount of 0.7 V corresponds to the base-emitter voltage of the N PN transistor T _E M - The current I ₂ at the output of the decoupling module is a function of U ₂ , d. H. the voltage falling across the resistor R _A M, according to the relationship R _A M • Ii / RA, where RA represents the emitter resistance of the transistor T _A M. The resistor D in series diode D acts as a compensation diode. Via this diode, the voltage Ü BE decreases, which corresponds to the base-emitter junction of the PN P transistor TAM.

The control range U _E has a lower limit U _E - U _B E NPN = U _E - 0.7 V and an upper limit U _E - U _B E PN P = U _B - 0.7 V. In the range of U _E = UB / 2 to UE = UB, the transistor T _E M is constantly conducting, i. H. the collector-emitter voltage of TEM is constantly close to 0.

The current Ii increases from UE - 0.7 V at current 0 to UE = U _ß / 2 and then reaches its maximum value.

In the range U E to U B - 0.7 V, the current decreases from the maximum value 7 to the current value 0.

In the circuit shown, a maximum brightness of the LEDs of the display module at UE = U _ß / 2 is achieved. When UE> U _ß / 2 and the same values of the resistances REM and RAM, the brightness decreases continuously, in this regard, Lich on the graphical representation of the brightness curve of FIG. 2 is referenced.

The current I ₂ as shown in FIG. 1 or 2 reaches a transmission module 3, which in turn leads to a display module 4 on the output side. The display module 4 comprises the light-emitting diodes already mentioned, which are arranged in a series circuit and lead to an unstabilized operating voltage terminal U _B 2.

Specifically, the collector of the transistor T _A M of the decoupling module 2 is connected to the base of a transistor T _{UM of} the transmission module 3, wherein the base of the transistor T _UM via a first resistor Rx and the emitter of the transistor T _UM via a second resistor Ry on negative operating voltage potential are connected. The ratio of the resistances Rx to Ry determines the detail that can be displayed by the display module 4. In accordance with the input value at the base of the transistor T _UM , a current I ₃ is driven through the display unit, wherein this current z. B. values can reach up to 10 mA in order to effect an effective operation, ie sufficient brightness of the light-emitting diodes of the display module 140.

By decoupling the stabilized circuit U B, to which the series connection of the modules 110 and 120 is connected and which is realized by the transmission module 130, an unstabilized operation of the light emitting diodes of the display module can take place from a less expensive unstabilized power supply unit.

Fig. 4 shows an embodiment in which series connection of first to third Zener diodes Zi, Z _2, and Z _{3 is} provided to set first to third voltage ranges I, II, and III.

The sensor S is here at the stabilized voltage, which is determined by the series connection of the Zener diodes Zi to Z ₃ . The operating voltage supply terminals U _B i, U _{Eo of} the evaluation unit 150, BE are optionally connected to the cathode or anode of one of the diodes, in the example shown with the diode Z ₂ . The sensor element output signal UE leads to a corresponding input of the evaluation unit, at the output of which the transmission module 130 is located, which activates the display module 140 with, for example, existing light-emitting diodes. For example, as shown in FIG. 2 be provided to stabilize an operating voltage for the sensor S to 18V. The Zenerd ioden Zi to Z _{3 in} this case each have a Zener voltage of 6 V, so that the sum of the desired Zener voltage of 18 V results.

In the illustrated basic circuit arrangement, the evaluation unit 150, BE will only reach a display area when the voltage UE exceeds the zener voltage at the diode Z ₃ of 6 V. The display area is left when the voltage UE is the sum of the zener voltage of the diodes Z ₂ and Z ₃ , that is 12 V in the example shown exceeds. By varying the zener voltage different voltage ranges can be represented, in which a functional range adjustment of the sensor is possible.

Fig. 5 shows a flow sensor 1 according to the invention in longitudinal section. The housing 2 is preferably made of a non or little magnetizable material, for example brass, aluminum, steel or corresponding alloys. The housing 2 has an inlet channel 24 and an outlet channel 25, preferably based on the arrangement of the housing or the flow sensor 1 in a fluid circuit.

The housing 2 furthermore has an opening for a screw-in part 3, which receives a movement or lifting body 6 mounted therein with its guide pin in a guide bore 12. The Fü hru ngsbohung 12 extends into a cap 11 of the screw 3, wherein cap 11 and screw 3 are preferably integrally formed.

At the inlet channel 24 facing the end in or on the moving or lifting body 6 is a Permanentmag net 19 is provided. The protruding into the inlet channel 24 portion of the moving or lifting body 6 has a conical or conical shape. Furthermore, the lifting body 6 has a peripheral sealing collar 9, which comes into contact with a valve seat 10 in the closed state. A spring element 8, which is supported on the lifting body 6 and the screw 3, acts on the lifting body 6 with a restoring force.

Essentially opposite the position of the permanent magnet 19 in the movement or lifting body 6, a through-bore 21 is made in the housing 2 in the housing 2 in order to receive a screw-in sensor element 26 with a corresponding measuring cell 27.

In a non-existent fluid flow, the lifting body is in its rest position and lies with its peripheral sealing collar 9 on the valve seat 10 and occupies a minimum distance to the sensor 26 a. The lifting body 6 is in the presence of a fluid flow against the abutting deflected the spring force. The deflection path of the lifter 6 is proportional to the flow rate Q of the fluid.

Fig. 6 shows a typical course of a sensor element output signal U E as a function of a stroke distance ds. At the smallest possible distance, the sensor signal is maximum and decreases with increasing distance. Ie. in a flow sensor according to Figure 5, the sensor signal is maximum when the lifting body 6 of the flow sensor 1 is in the rest position.

The rest position of the lifting body can be advantageously used as a preferred position for calibration of the sensor. To calibrate an operating point, it is usually provided to change the distance of the sensor until, for example, a predetermined switching point is triggered.

According to the invention, however, it is provided not to specify a switching point, but a functional range, within which the definition of a switching or operating point is particularly advantageous.

To adjust z. B. mechanically changed the distance of the sensor ds until the sensor output signal UE is within the predetermined Fu tion range U _B i. It should be noted that it is also conceivable to change the sensor output signal U _E by electrical adjustments.

Now that the sensor output signal U E has been set within the predetermined functional range U BI by mechanical and / or electrical actions, it may be provided, for example in a further step, to define an operating point.

A preferred application example is the monitoring of a rest position of a lifting body 6 of a flow sensor 1 according to FIG. 5, wherein the sensor output signal UE corresponding to the in FIG. 6 signal behaves. For a sensor type with a maximum output voltage of, for example, 10 V, a functional region U _B i with the limits 9 and 10 V could preferably be provided. If the sensor is located at a distance ds that provides a sensor signal UE within the defined functional range voltage limits-in this case 9 to 10 V-this is signaled by the evaluation unit 150 in conjunction with the display module 140. For a preferred output signal U _E , which is preferably in the middle of the functional region U _B i - here 9.5 V - it can be provided that the evaluation unit 150 or the display module 140 outputs a maximum value.

To adjust the sensor, it is often easiest to set the sensor distance so that the sensor signal lies in the middle of the functional area. Although this is not absolutely necessary, but increases the reliability of the flow sensor, since the distance to the predetermined range limits is maximum.

Depending on the application, it may also be provided to specify the preferred sensor output signal U _E within the functional area, but not necessarily in the center. In such a case, the maximum of the display signal would be within the functional area, but outside the center.

The size of the preferred functional area is preferably designed so that sensor signal changes remain due to changes in the rest position of the lifting body, for example due to contamination or other effects, within the specified range of action.

The definition of such a functional area also has the advantage that the signaling of the functional area is not only helpful in the calibration of the sensor, but also makes it possible to monitor the functionality of the flow sensor in use.

If there is no flow at the sensor, for example, by shutting off the line or by a specific operating situation, then the lifting body is in the fault-free state in its rest position and the intended LED lights. If, by contrast, the lifting element is blocked, for example, or soiled that the rest position is no longer reached is a LED lights up in flow-free case no longer and thus indicates a fault in the flow sensor.

The provision of a functional area also has the advantage that the adjustment of an operating point can be considerably facilitated. Instead of positioning the sensor in the usual way to a switching point, it is sufficient for the procedure according to the invention to bring the sensor into a predetermined functional range. Advantageously, in addition to the brightness change of the light emitting diode, the area center can be found.

So that the sensor switches only in the presence of a flow and not already in the rest position of H ubkörpers, it is necessary in the usual procedure, after the distance was initially achieved by changing the switching distance to increase the distance of the sensor again. However, the switching signal is only in the switching distance itself, so that the distance of the sensor for the rest position - in which the sensor should not switch - must be set without control aids.

According to the invention, it is provided that after a fixation of the sensor with a sensor signal U E in the predetermined functional area U BI an operating point can be automatically determined.

For example, if the sensor has been fixed at a signal value of 9.5 V, it would be conceivable to set the operating point AP or the switching threshold at 9.2 V. This would have the advantage that a switching signal is not already at the smallest changes in position of the lifting body, for example, by vibrations o.a. - be triggered, but only when a current actually begins.

However, the specification of a functional area is not necessarily associated with the assignment of an operating point or definition of a switching threshold. In an embodiment variant according to FIG. 7, the flow sensor can be designed, for example, such that it reacts only to changes in flow. For this purpose, the functional area is preferably determined such that the functional area U _B i selects a sensor signal area with the greatest possible signal slope. When calibrating the Rest position of the flow sensor in this area, even small changes in the position of the Hubköpers large signal changes are provoked that can be reliably differentially evaluated.

Furthermore, it is also conceivable to detect both flow changes and the flow rate Q with such a system. Another preferred flow sensor 1 is shown in FIG. 8. The reference numerals according to FIG. 5 were adopted for equivalent elements. The mechanical structure corresponds to a conventional angle seat valve with non-return valve. Inlet and outlet ducts 24, 25 are connected via an obliquely arranged valve seat. The check valve 6 closes the valve seat in the flowless state and prevents backflow in the direction of the inlet channel 24.

Opposite the check valve 6 is a screw-in part 3 with a sensor element 26 with a corresponding measuring cell 27. The sensor 26 is preferably designed as a magnetic sensor or inductive sensor. For detecting the flap position, the non-return flap 6 has a magnet 19 on the outlet channel side.

When incipient or increasing flow, the flap 6 is deflected from the rest position. The deflection is substantially proportional to the flow Q.

Fig. 9 shows, by way of example, an expected course of the sensor voltage Us as a function of the flap opening (dmax-ds). Without flow, the check valve 6 is in its rest position, the sensor distance ds is maximum (ds = dmax) and the sensor signal U E accordingly minimal. As the flow increases, the distance ds to the sensor decreases and the sensor signal U E increases.

To set and / or control the rest position of the flow sensor, a functional range U _ß i is spanned in the range of small sensor voltages. As already stated, the signaling of a sensor voltage U _E , which within the preferred functional range U _B i is located, the sensor distance can be set quickly and reliably. In the further operation, the signaling also allows a Fu nktionskontrolle.

Preferably, the functional range U _ß i is not already spanned by zero volts, but for example only from 0, 1 volt. This has the advantage that the function signal not only fails in a mechanically blocked check valve, but also in a drop in the sensor voltage to zero volts - for example, by cable break etc.

In addition to the in Fig. 5 and 8, an inductive sensor element 26 can be used instead of the magnetic sensor element, in this case the magnet 19 can be dispensed with, wherein the housing 2 of the flow sensor 1 should then preferably be made of plastic. The measuring cell 27 of the inductive sensor element 26 is preferably configured with a coil on a rod or mushroom core. As in the case of the magnetic sensor, the sensor signal can also be conducted to the outside both analogously and / or as a switching signal.

In a further embodiment, it is provided to equip the sensor element 26, a corresponding control device or the arrangement according to the invention with a balancing device. For calibrating the sensor with respect to the rest position or zero point position and a maximum deflection of the lifting body, a first and second adjusting element is provided, preferably one is influenced by an offset and the other by a gain of the sensor element. As adjusting elements, in particular digital potentiometers or even microprocessors come into question.

As already stated, a voltage range is spanned over the inventive functional area in which an operating point can preferably be determined. If the sensor is preset according to the functional area, an adjustment process can be initiated via the adjustment device, for example via external signals and / or internal algorithms.

In a preferred embodiment, it is checked in a first step whether the sensor signal within the predetermined functional area lies. In a further control step, it is checked whether the sensor is in a rest position. On the one hand, this can already be confirmed by external signaling or, on the other hand, it can be checked by means of an internal query. In an internal query, it is intended to observe the sensor signal over a certain period of time. If the sensor signal remains constant within a predetermined time window, it can be assumed that the lifting body is in a rest position. After a detected rest position, a zero-point output signal is set to a predetermined value, for example, 0.5 volts, via the first setting element. Possible ranges of values for the sensor output are typically between 0.5 and 10 V. However, other ranges are also conceivable; in particular, it is also conceivable to specify a current range.

If, however, the sensor signal of the detected rest position is outside the predetermined functional range, the zero point is not set and, for example, a malfunction is signaled to the outside.

After the presence of a zero point calibration, it is provided to set a maximum lift, which then corresponds to a maximum flow rate of the flow sensor. For this purpose, the flow sensor can be acted upon, for example, with a certain flow rate or the lifting body of the flow sensor is mechanically brought into a position which corresponds to a deflection of the lifting body in the presence of the determined Du rchflussmenge.

If the lifting body assumes its flow position to be calibrated, the calibration process can be started, preferably via an external signal. By means of the second setting element, preferably by changing the gain of the sensor, a desired maximum output signal, for example 10 V, is set.

Fig. 10 shows, by way of example, a sensor 26 with an adjustment device 265 according to the invention. The sensor 26 is designed as a 3-conductor with two supply lines (+), (-) and an output signal line 271. The adjustment device 265 is connected to the supply voltage (+) and supplies the measuring cell 27 with an operating voltage. Furthermore, the balancing device 265 is connected to the first and second adjusting elements 261, 262, which in turn act on the measuring cell 27. An output 271 of the measuring cell 27 is led to the outside. The balancing device 265 is preferably configured such that functions can be triggered in response to signals which are conducted, for example, via the supply line. In particular, the adjustment elements 261, 262 are operated via the adjustment device and thus influence the electrical properties of the sensor.

In a further embodiment, the balancing device 265 may also comprise the adjusting elements themselves, in particular it is also conceivable that the balancing device 265 acts directly on the measuring cell. In addition, it can also be provided that a signal adjustment element is provided, which converts the sensor signal into a preferred Meßsig signal. Furthermore, it can be provided that the balancing device 265 is addressed via a further signal line or a different signal path.

The Fig. 11 shows a further embodiment of a Schrägsitzventils here but with a spring-loaded check valve, wherein the sensor 17 is not screwed into the through hole of a valve cover, but is fixed within a screw-23 by jamming.

The screw 23 is mounted opposite the valve flap 53 in the valve housing 22 instead of a conventional valve cover.

The screw-in 23 has a recess in the manner of a blind hole for receiving the sensor 17, wherein the recess in the upper, valve-remote area as Kreiskeilausnehmung 83 and in the lower, near-flap area is designed as a cylindrical recess 84.

The sensor 17 has at the connection cable end a handle part 80, for example, designed as a surface knurling. The following sections are designed as circular wedge 81 and cylinder 79. By Twisting, the sensor 17 jammed within a clamping zone 86 frictionally in the blind hole of the screw-23.

In the illustration according to FIG. 11, the sensor 17 is designed as a magnetic sensor 61. Alternatively, other sensors can be used, for example, inductive sensors.

The Fig. 12a and 12b each show a sectional view of the sensor 17 and the screw-in part 23 in the region of the clamping zone 86 (see FIG. 11), wherein the sensor can be adjusted and fixed by circular wedge connection technology.

On the lateral surface of the sensor 17 are in the example shown, three circumferentially spaced circular wedges 81. These circular wedges 81 extend over a first portion of the longitudinal axis of the sensor, wherein in a second portion of the sensor is cylindrical. It is also conceivable to extend the circular wedges 81 over the entire lateral surface of the sensor 17.

At Einschraubteil 23 or on an object 82 to which the sensor 17 is to be attached, at least one cylindrical opening or bore is present, wherein the corresponding cylindrical opening or bore corresponding Kreiskeilausnehmungen 83 (see FIGS. 12a and 12b).

In the example shown, three circular wedges 81 with corresponding three circular wedge recesses 83 are provided on the object 82. The circular spline slope may be in the range of substantially 1: 30 to 1: 200 here.

With the introduction of the sensor 17 and the circular wedges provided therein in an object 82 which has a complementary opening with Kreiskeilausnehmungen, and then twisting creates a radial bias, whereby large axial and tangential forces can be transmitted in any direction. The proposed circular wedge connection is again easily detachable via an oppositely directed rotational movement. The Fig. 12a shows a sectional view in the unclamped state. In this state, z. B. by means of the handling part 80 of the sensor 17 is slightly shifted in the longitudinal axis direction and z. B. the desired adjustment to find the window area or a work point done. If the desired window area is present and z. B. is signaled with an optoelectronic display, in turn, by means of the handling part 80, the rotation without changing the selected or reached position in the longitudinal axis direction. An adjustment or the execution of a setting process is much faster and easier than it would be at a z. B. screw thread is the case, where it is z. B. when tightening a lock nut to obtain the selected position can come to a misalignment.

The circular wedge shape, as shown in FIGS. 12a and b recognizable, for example, by a logarithmic spiral writable. However, there are also other clamping acting wedge shapes in question. Due to the corresponding wedges in the joint surface results in a homogeneous surface pressure, so that not only an optimal transmission power in tightening direction, but also sets an optimal self-locking in the release direction.

However, it is also possible a quasi-kinematic reversal to the effect that the sensor element is located in a body having an annular sleeve. In this case, the object to which the sensor is to be attached will have a cylindrical extension which has the circular wedges over its circumferential surface as explained.

In this embodiment, the sleeve-shaped sensor would be displaceable over the cylindrical rod and fixable by rotation.

Fig. 13 shows a perspective section of the screw-in part 23 with sensor 17 according to FIG. 11.

The circular wedge recesses 83 extend essentially in the upper part of the recess for the sensor 17 in the screw-in part, which in the Slanted seat housing portion 63 is introduced. The lower part is, as already explained, cylindrical. However, it is also conceivable to form the circular wedge recess extending over the entire recess in the longitudinal direction.

In particular, it is also possible to provide a sleeve which has circular wedge recesses on its inner circumferential surface. If, instead of the above-explained recess of the screw-in part 23, a simple blind hole is now provided for receiving the prefabricated sleeve, a receptacle for a sensor 17 with circular wedge connection technology can be provided in a simple manner by pressing the sleeve into such a blind hole.

If the circular wedge recess extends over the entire longitudinal extent within the screw-in part 23, a cylindrical section 79 of the sensor 17 can be dispensed with.

If a cylindrical section 79 is provided on the sensor 17, the diameter of this section can be selected at most in accordance with the clear or free diameter of the circular wedge recess.

In the example shown in FIG. 13, the diameter of the cylindrical portion 79 is chosen to be significantly smaller than the possible free diameter. In principle, however, it is also possible to adapt the cylindrical recess 84 corresponding to this section to the diameter of the cylindrical section 79.

Furthermore, the sensor 17 has an optoelectronic display 85. In the case shown, this display or a window of this display in the area of knurling 80 is attached. However, other displays may be provided. In particular, it is conceivable to arrange the displays offset by 180 ° or 90 ° in order to have the display always in view even when the sensor is rotated. In a further embodiment, also or exclusively a display on the sensor termination in the cable region 87 may be provided, so that the display is visible from above. Furthermore, it can be provided, the cable area 87 to complete or cover transparent, so that an opto-electronic display remains visible through this transparent closure. As optoelectronic displays are particularly light emitting diodes into consideration.

Fig. 14 again shows an oblique seat valve with valve housing 22 and a housing branch. In Gehäuseabzweig a screw 23 is fixed, as already shown in FIG. 11 explained.

In the screw 23, the sensor 17 is received, in a recess that made a circular wedge connection with the sensor 17 light. In contrast to the illustration of FIG. 11, the insert part 23 has a guide section 88, which is oriented in the direction of the valve seat.

The guide portion 88 receives a longitudinally displaceable valve body 89, at its end oriented toward the valve seat, a permanent magnet 90 is located. The preferably cylindrically designed valve body 89 is biased by means of a coil spring 91 in the direction of the valve seat. A change in position of the valve body 89 leads to a movement of the permanent magnet 90, which can be detected both by the sensor 17 and by another sensor 64. The valve body 89 is in the example shown in FIG. 14 executed as a spring-loaded check valve assembly.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

110 coupling module

120 decoupling module

130 transmission module

140 display module

BE valuation unit

D diode

LED light emitting diode

I l electricity

I ₂ electricity REM emitter resistor

Rx resistance

R _γ resistance

S sensor

TA M transistor on the output module

TEM transistor on the coupling module

TU M transistor on the transmission module

U E input voltage

U B operating voltage

Z I Zener diode

Z ₂ Zener diode

Z ₃ Zener diode

I voltage range

II voltage range

III voltage range

1 flow sensor

2 housings

3 screw-in part

6 lifting bodies

8 spring element

9 sealing collar

10 valve seat

11 cap

12 pilot hole

17; 26; 64 sensor or sensor element

19 permanent magnet

22 valve housing

23 screw-in part

24; 55 inlet channel

25; 56 exhaust duct

27 measuring cell

53 valve flap

261 first adjustment

262 second adjustment

265 balancing device

271 output, output signal line magnetic sensor

Angle seat housing section

cylinder

Handle part

circular spline

object

Circular wedge recess cylindrical recess

display

clamping zone

cable range

guide section

valve body

permanent magnet

coil spring

Claims

claims

1. Arrangement (100) for setting and / or controlling a sensor element output signal (U BI) within a functional range of a sensor (1) with at least one sensor element (26) which provides an electrical output signal (U _E ), wherein the output signal (U _E ) is variable by mechanical and / or electrical actions, characterized in that a rating unit (150, BE) is provided, which examines whether the electrical sensor element output signal (UE) in a predetermined range of functions (U BI), wherein the Evaluation unit (150, BE) is in communication with a display module (140) and the evaluation unit (150, BE) outputs a value in the presence of a sensor element Ausgangssig (UE) within the functional area.

2. Arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the evaluation unit (150, BE) is designed such that the evaluation unit (150, BE) in the presence of a preferred output signal (U E) within the functional area (U BI) outputs a maximum value.

3. Arrangement according to claim 2, characterized in that the preferred output signal (U _E ) in the middle of the functional area (U _B i) is located.

4. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the evaluation unit (BE) is located in a first circuit.

5. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the display module (140) is located in a second circuit.

6. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a transmission module (130) is provided between the evaluation unit (BE) and the display module (140).

7. Arrangement according to claim 4, characterized in that the first circuit is in communication with a stabilized power supply.

8. Arrangement according to claim 5, characterized in that the second circuit is in communication with an unstabilized power supply.

9. Arrangement according to claim 6 to 8, characterized in that the transmission module (130) determines the display module (140) to be displayed area.

10. Arrangement according to claim 9, characterized in that the transmission module (130) controlled by the electrical output of the evaluation unit (BE), located in the second circuit control (T _UM ).

11. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor (1; S) is designed as a flow sensor and inductive or magnetic devices having a body, whose relative distance is dependent on the flow sensor to the sensor element, wherein the sensor element output voltage (U _E ) to a predetermined degree of the movement of the body and thus the flow or the flow of a fluid medium is dependent.

12. Arrangement according to claim 11, characterized in that the body is designed as a lifting body.

13. Arrangement according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the evaluation unit (B _E ) determines whether the obtained, based on a flow change output signal in a predetermined operating range l.

14. Arrangement according to claim 13, characterized in that the evaluation unit (BE) determines whether and to what extent the particular analog output signal is substantially linearly displaced from the movement of the body.

15. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the display module has an optoelectronic and / or acoustic assembly.

16. The arrangement according to claim 15, characterized in that the optoelectronic and / or acoustic Baug group generates a maximum or minimum signal upon reaching the desired functional area or operating point in this area.

17. Arrangement according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that the optoelectronic assembly has at least one light-emitting diode (LED) or a series connection of a plurality of light-emitting diodes.

18. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the evaluation unit (B _E ) comprises a series connection of a coupling-in module (110) and a coupling-out module (120).

19. Arrangement according to claim 18, characterized in that the electrical sensor element output signal (U E) is present at the coupling-in module (110).

20. Arrangement according to claim 18 and 19, characterized in that the coupling-in module (110) comprises a transistor (T _EM ) of a first conductivity type and the coupling-out module (120) comprises a transistor (T _A M) of a second conductivity type.

21. Arrangement according to claim 20, characterized in that the electrical sensor element output signal (U _E ) of the base of the transistor (T _E M) of the coupling-in module (110) is supplied.

22. Arrangement according to claim 20, characterized in that above the series circuit, the operating voltage (U _B ) is applied.

23. Arrangement according to claim 20 to 22, characterized in that the transistor (TEM) of the coupling module (110), an emitter resistor (R _E M) is connected, wherein in the collector path, a series circuit of a diode (D) and a resistor (RAM ) is located, which leads to the operating voltage potential (U _B ), and at the collector of the transistor (T _E M), the base of the transistor (T _A M) of the decoupling module (120) is connected.

24. Arrangement according to claim 23, characterized in that the voltage divider ratio of the resistors (REM) and (RAM) determines at which input voltage (U E) a maximum current through the outcoupling module (120) is available.

25. Arrangement according to claim 6 and 18 to 24, characterized in that the collector of the transistor (T _AM ) is connected to the base of a transistor (T _UM ) of the transmission module (130), the base of the transistor (T _UM ) being connected through a first resistor (Rx) and the emitter of the transistor Transistors (T _UM ) via a second resistor (Ry) are connected to the negative operating voltage potential.

26. Arrangement according to claim 25, characterized in that the ratio of the resistors (Rx) to (Ry) determines the current driven by the display module current.

27. Arrangement according to claim 25 and 26, characterized in that at the collector of the transistor (T _UM ) at least one light emitting diode (LED) is connected.

28. Arrangement according to claim 20 and 25 to 27, characterized in that the transistors (T _EM ) and (T _UM ) are elements of a double transistor of the same conductivity type.

29. A method for adjusting and / or controlling a functional range (U _ß i) of sensors (1) with at least one inductive or magnetic device and a body (6) whose relative distance changes flow-dependent to a sensor element (26), wherein the Sensor element (26) provides an analog electrical output signal (UE), which in a predetermined amount of the movement of the body (6) and thus the flow or the flow of a fluid medium is dependent, characterized in that by mechanical and / or electrical actions the output signal (U _E ) for a preferred position of the body (6) is set to be within a predetermined functional range (U _β i), wherein the achievement of the functional range is determined and displayed or displayed.

30. The method according to claim 29, characterized in that the body (6) is designed as a lifting body, wherein the lifting movement is dependent on the flow or flow change of the fluid medium.

31. The method according to claim 29 or 30, characterized in that the display via an opto-electronic and / or acoustic assembly takes place.

32. The method according to claim 31, characterized in that the display via the optoelectronic assembly and its color, color change, color transition and / or brightness adjustment or Hell igkeitsänderung takes place.

33. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 32, characterized in that when not reaching the desired functional range of the respective sensor, the adjustment of the particular lifting body, the distance of the lifting body to the sensor element and / or the mechanical bias of the lifting body is adjusted or adjusted.

34. The method of claim 31 or 32, characterized in that the achievement of a preferred output signal within the functional area by a maximum brightness of the optoelectronic assembly can be signaled.

35. The method according to any one of claims 31 to 34, characterized in that during operation of the sensor or the display by means of the optoelectronic device is constantly or cyclically in function befindlich to monitor the working condition and to be able to correct if necessary.

36. The method according to claim 29, characterized in that the display is designed as a remote display in order to be able to carry out an operating state control outside the arrangement of the sensor or sensors.

37. The method according to claim 29, characterized by its use in operating a system which has flowing media and at least one flow meter.

38. Arrangement for carrying out the method for adjusting and / or control of the sensor element output signal, in particular of flow sensors according to one of claims 29 to 37, characterized in that at the output of the sensor elements or a threshold-dependent operating circuit is provided which a maximum current to control the display then provides when the movement or hubbedingte switching edge of the output voltage of the sensor element reaches a minimum value.

39. Arrangement according to claim 38, characterized in that the minimum voltage value of the switching edge is at half the operating voltage of the circuit.

40. Arrangement according to claim 38, characterized in that the output voltage of the or the sensor elements is guided on a group of differential amplifiers, which are each connected to a driver circuit for an optoelectronic display, in particular for light emitting diodes, wherein the differential amplifiers each upon reaching a defined voltage value from the movement or stroke-dependent voltage range activate the associated driver circuit, so that associated flow values are colored, multi-colored or color transitions in the sense of a traffic light function can be displayed.

41. A method for operating a system which has flowing media and at least one flow meter and an arrangement according to at least one of claims 1 to 28.

42. Flow sensor with an arrangement according to at least one of claims 1 to 28.