DE102007057653A1 - Metallic flat gasket e.g. inlet manifold gasket, for measuring e.g. pressure at combustion gas of internal combustion engine, has membrane forming boundary surface, over which state variable of medium is transferred to sensor element - Google Patents

Abstract

The gasket (1) has a sensor arrangement (60) integrated into the gasket and comprising a carrier element e.g. strip, on which a sensor element e.g. pressure sensor, is arranged for generating a measuring signal. A sensitive region (S) of the arrangement is defined in an area of the arrangement, in which the sensor element is arranged. A membrane in the sensitive region forms a boundary surface for a medium compartment (A), where a state variable e.g. pressure, of a medium e.g. combustion gas, is transferred to the sensor element over the boundary surface.

Description

The The invention relates to a metallic flat gasket with at least two Layers and a sensor arrangement integrated into the flat gasket, a use of such a flat gasket and a sensor element for use in such a flat gasket.

Out DE 691 06 081 T2 a device for detecting combustion pressure in a combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine is known, wherein the device has a built-in a cylinder head gasket pressure sensor which rests against a pressure sensing surface, and a pressure inlet via which the combustion pressure can be fed to the pressure sensor. In this context, although it is generally addressed that a trace should run from the sensor to the seal outer edge, but the trace crosses the Abdichtsicke. As a result, a pressure acts on the conductor track, which inevitably greatly reduces the life expectancy of the conductor during operation. In addition, nowhere is an avoidance of mutual interference between the signal transmission and the sealing specified.

Out DE 199 13 092 A1 a cylinder head gasket with a sensor module is known, wherein a thermoelement designed as a sensor element of the sensor module is formed like a lance and can be inserted during assembly of the sensor module in a slot in the flat gasket. Another metallic flat gasket with a sensor element firmly integrated therein is made DE 103 57 974 B4 known.

In both writings can be the processes in the combustion chamber be measured only indirectly, since the entire sensor device on the combustion chamber facing away from the side of the combustion chamber sealing Beading is arranged.

As The prior art shows, in recent times metallic Flat gaskets are developed, which are over in the flat gasket integrated sensors capture the measurement data for the gasket, such as pressure and temperature, enable. Such measurements are for example in near combustion chambers of internal combustion engines, in exhaust systems or for the charge air, in particular in charged engines, desired.

The previously known metallic flat gaskets with integrated sensor However, they are problematic because of the integration a sensor, the thickness or mounting thickness of the flat gasket increased to an undesirable extent. This can cause problems especially with cylinder head gaskets, because the cylinder head gasket influences its installation thickness on engine parameters such. B. has the compression.

Usually exceeds the thickness dimension alone of a spacer plate (sensor layer) of the flat gasket, in which a slot or hole is inserted, 3 mm. While the pressure sensor itself still somewhat space-saving or can be introduced in a way that saves height, "eats" the lead-out of the sensor signal enormously at installation thickness, since traces both (electrically) isolated (compared to the steel of the gasket layers and towards liquid and gaseous Media) and pressure-free in the gasket, such. Legs Cylinder head gasket, must be integrated.

One Another disadvantage of the previously known metallic flat gaskets with integrated sensor is that the sensor either not interchangeable or, in particular, due to its position, not suitable for pressure measurements.

Of the Invention is based on the object, a metallic gasket with a sensor arrangement integrated in the flat gasket, wherein the flat gasket has a reduced installation thickness.

This is with a metallic gasket according to claim 1 reached. Advantageous developments of the invention are in the dependent claims defined.

Of the The invention is further based on the object, a sensor arrangement for use in a metallic gasket, which can be integrated into the gasket so that a sensor element the sensor assembly is interchangeable.

This is with a sensor arrangement according to claim 23 reached. An advantageous development of the sensor arrangement is defined in claim 24.

According to the invention, a metallic flat gasket has at least two layers and a sensor arrangement integrated into the flat gasket. The sensor arrangement has a carrier element on which a sensor element for generating a measurement signal and at least one conductor track for transmitting the measurement signal are arranged, and a membrane, wherein in a region of the sensor arrangement in which the sensor element is arranged, a sensitive region of the sensor arrangement is defined is. In a first position, a recess is provided, in which the carrier element is arranged. A second layer has at least one recess surrounded by a bead, so that a channel is formed, via which a media compartment for a medium to be secured against escape by means of the flat gasket is connected to the sensitive area of the sensor arrangement, whereby the medium can be brought to the sensitive area. In the sensitive region, the membrane forms an interface with the media compartment, via which a state variable of the medium can be forwarded to the sensor element.

The Medienkompartiment according to the invention, for example a passage area surrounding a combustion chamber a cylinder head gasket, an exhaust duct enclosing Passage opening area or an intake manifold to be in a cylinder head. Of course it is also conceivable that the media compartment does not enclose a passage opening, if the medium z. B. does not pass through the gasket is and the flat gasket z. B. only to realize a measuring point or used in conjunction with an end closure.

The Medium, for example, fuel gases in an internal combustion engine, its exhaust gases, supplied air or z. As well as liquids, such as As cooling water of an internal combustion engine, be. Other Of course, media are conceivable.

Prefers the second layer is an active layer.

Active layers may be in the context of the invention layers of spring steel, in particular stainless steel. Active layers can for the sealing function in addition to one or more beads also one or more stopper elements, ie deformation limiter for this bead (s), have. Embossed stoppers are preferred, as they are for. B. in the WO 01/96768 . EP 1 298 364 . EP 1 693 605 . US 7,204,491 . DE 10 2005 025 942 or in the applications EP 07/008321 and EP 07/020453 the applicant are disclosed.

According to one Embodiment of the invention, a third layer is provided, so that the first layer between the second layer and the third layer is arranged.

According to one Further development of the invention, the third layer is an active layer.

According to a development of the invention, the first layer is a distance.

Distance layers are in the context of the invention layers of material with high tensile strength, in particular ausfederndem steel, these layers preferably have a greater material thickness than active layers. In principle, active layers can also contain deformation limiting elements, such as. B. in the DE 10 2006 034 784 the applicant is shown.

According to one Further development of the invention is the membrane on the support element on a front side facing the channel to the media compartment formed, wherein the sensor element facing away from the channel Rear side of the support element is applied.

In Continuing education is the first location within the canal in the spared sensitive area.

In Training of which are the support element and the first Location adjacent to the recessed area of the first layer with each other Media-tight and mechanically resistant connected.

According to one Another embodiment of the invention is the membrane of one of the layers formed. In this case, a third layer is provided which is arranged between the first layer and the second layer is. This third layer forms the membrane.

Prefers the support element is movably received in the recess, so that the carrier element is removed from the flat gasket and can be pushed back into this. advantageously, the support element is designed so that it has resilient properties and when inserted can adjust the surface.

According to one Further development of the invention, the third layer is a distance layer.

According to one Further development of the invention is the third layer on a channel towards the media compartment facing front in the sensitive area impressed, so that on the front of a recess portion is formed and on a side facing away from the channel back an elevation section is formed in the sensitive area.

In Training of which is the support element on one of Rear side of the third layer facing front in the sensitive Imprinted area, so that on the front of a complementary recess portion to the elevation portion of the third layer is formed, in which the raised portion detachable is engaged.

In this context, it should be noted that the fact that on the support member of the recess portion is provided, which engages upon insertion of the support member with the elevation portion of the third layer, on the one hand a secure fixation of the support member in the gasket and on the other hand, a tactile tactile detent point for the carrier element is provided, whereby a fitter of the support member assembly is facilitated.

Prefers is the support element in the form of a lance, in particular formed in the form of a strip.

In Further development is the sensor element at one longitudinal end arranged the support element, wherein the other longitudinal end the support member at a flat seal outer edge protruding from the flat gasket. The at least one conductor extends extending from the sensor element along the support member until the other longitudinal end of the support element, preferably at the other longitudinal end of the carrier element an electrical connector is provided, which is electrically connected to the at least a conductor is connected.

In Training of which is the electrical connector as a plug or designed as a socket.

According to a development of the invention is the electrical connector cast as an injection molded part to the support element.

According to A development of the invention is the sensor element as a pressure sensor, Temperature sensor or as a charge concentration sensor, such. B. as ion concentration sensor.

The Flat gasket according to the invention is, for example as a cylinder head gasket, as an exhaust gasket or as an intake manifold gasket educated. This can generally between seals with and seals without coolant guide or coolant openings be differentiated. Seals, in addition to gases, even coolants have to seal, in particular cylinder head gaskets, but also, for example, water-cooled exhaust manifold gaskets, as they are often used in marine engines. According to the preferred embodiment for these applications According to the invention, the metallic flat gasket has a third layer on.

The first layer is preferably formed as a spacer and between the second and third layer arranged. The third layer has a Recess on, from the outer edge of the gasket to the sensitive Range is sufficient, the recess is surrounded by a bead. The Beading is preferably designed so that they continue along the outer edge of the seal runs and thus ensures a seal of the coolant. In the area the recess becomes the carrier, i. H. Measuring element and conductor track added. The beading of seal outside edge around the sensitive area around again in the direction of the seal outer edge runs, does not cross the track. On the other Side of the distance layer runs in the second position Beading, from the media compartment around the sensitive area around and again led in the direction of the media compartment. Through their ductility causes this distance, that the Line pressure of the bead only over the range between component to be sealed and first layer, d. H. Distance, works. The bead of the second layer must indeed cross the track, in principle, but their line pressure only works up to the distance position, is from this shielded, and thus does not affect the trace one. Neither trace nor measuring element thus experience any pressure from the sealing lines, which ensures their durability.

Either in this embodiment as well as in the no additional Coolant beads, the membrane part of a gasket layer be or be designed as a separate component. There is accordingly both variants (with and without coolant seal) in Subvariants with or without interchangeable sensor arrangement.

The o. g. Sensors can be piezoresistive, resistive or piezoelectric Have elements or circuits, etc. The sensors can For example, applied in thick or thin film technology become. Any suitable for the intended measurement Sensor type is conceivable.

in the Within the scope of the invention, it is provided that an inventive Flat gasket according to one of the aforementioned Embodiments for temperature measurements, pressure measurements or charge concentration measurements on media is used.

According to the invention, a sensor arrangement for use in a metallic flat gasket with at least two layers comprises: a lance-shaped carrier element having a first longitudinal end, a sensor element for generating a measuring signal, wherein the sensor element is attached to the carrier element at the first longitudinal end, at least one conductor track and an electrical connector at a second longitudinal end of the carrier element, wherein the connector and the sensor element for transmitting the measurement signal via the conductor track are electrically connected, wherein the carrier element has a dimension such that the carrier element is releasably inserted into a recess in at least one layer of the flat gasket , and wherein the first longitudinal end of the support member is adapted for contacting co-operation with a in an inserted state of the support member to this adjacent layer of the gasket, so that the sensor element via this layer a state Gr Size of a medium to be protected against leakage by means of the flat gasket to be fed to measure this state variable.

In Training of which is the state quantity Pressure, a temperature or a charge concentration, in particular an ion concentration.

According to one preferred embodiment of the invention, the carrier element a membrane on and on its back are z. For example Pressure measurements Piezoresistive measuring elements in thin-film technology evaporated. As soon as pressure is applied to the membrane, the membrane becomes elastically bent, wherein by a change in length and cross-section the piezoresistive measuring elements z. B. pressure values determined can be.

According to one Embodiment of the invention, the sensor is media-tight or gas-tight and mechanically resistant with a distance of the flat gasket welded, allowing special bead guides, that gas pressure to the membrane and over this on the sensor element and yet a dense system is guaranteed.

These Embodiment of the invention realizes a metallic flat gasket with greatly reduced installation thickness, but with the support element not interchangeable.

According to one this alternative embodiment of the invention is the support element interchangeable. The sensor function is split, d. H. on the one hand in the function "membrane" and on the other in the function "electronics with sensor element ". The function" membrane "is here Distance assigned, whereby the membrane, although not interchangeable is due to the resilience and robustness of the distance but is not destructible, so on the interchangeability the membrane can be dispensed with.

The Function "Electronics with sensor element" is a separate one Associated carrier element, which by simply pulling out or can be exchanged. Preferably also this function of a sensitive surface membrane demarcated, in the installed state at the back the membrane rests in the distance position. The carrier element is by screws on tabs on the flat seal outer edge attached.

by virtue of the formation of the membrane in the distance position can be welded on the membrane can be dispensed with, without regard to the Abdichtpotential To suffer disadvantages. This allows the for welding with the non-exchangeable variant needed additional Installation height can be omitted. According to this Embodiment of the invention, the support member thus be very thin.

These Embodiment of the invention advantageously combines a reduced Insertion thickness of the flat gasket with an interchangeability of the support element. In other words, the sensor element is not in direct contact with z. B. hot fuel gases, creating no seal welding is required. The flat gasket can be significantly thinner be carried out (according to one embodiment z. 1.7 mm). The carrier element is at a longitudinal end molded with a plug and can be purchased as a vendor part and in a inventively adapted flat gasket to get integrated.

The Invention will now be described by means of embodiments and below With reference to the accompanying figures.

1 shows a perspective sectional view of a portion of the metallic flat gasket according to a first embodiment of the invention.

2 includes the 2A and 2 B which lateral sectional views of the gasket of 1 demonstrate.

3 shows an exploded perspective view of the gasket of 1 ,

4 schematically shows the two-part embodiment of support member and membrane according to the embodiment of 1 ,

5 shows a perspective sectional view of a portion of the metallic flat gasket according to a second embodiment of the invention.

6 shows a side sectional view of the gasket of 5 ,

7 schematically shows the one-piece design of support member and membrane according to the embodiment of 5 ,

8th shows a perspective sectional view of a portion of the metallic flat gasket according to a third embodiment of the invention.

Now, to describe a first embodiment of the metallic flat gasket according to the invention (hereinafter simply "flat gasket") on the 1 to 4 Referenced. According to this embodiment is a flat gasket 1 as a cylinder head gasket for a wasserge cooled internal combustion engine set up.

The flat gasket 1 has five layers 10 . 20 . 30 . 40 . 50 and one in the flat gasket 1 integrated sensor arrangement 60 on.

In the 1 to 3 the upper two layers are active layers 10 and 50 , the third layer from above is a distance 30 and are the lower two layers of active layers 40 and 20 the flat gasket 1 ,

The sensor arrangement 60 has a lance-shaped or strip-shaped carrier element 63 on which a sensor element 64 in the form of a pressure sensor for generating a measurement signal and at least one conductor track (not shown) for transmitting the measurement signal, and an elastic membrane 61 on, according to this embodiment of the invention of the distance position 30 is formed.

In 4 is to explain the two-part design of the sensor assembly 60 the combination of one in an integral section of the distance 30 trained membrane 61 and a carrier element 63 with sensor element 64 shown schematically.

In one area of the sensor arrangement 60 in which the sensor element 64 is arranged, is a sensitive area S of the sensor array 60 defined (see 1 ).

In the highest active position 10 , which according to this embodiment, a cover layer or a cover plate of the gasket 1 is, is a bead 11 (Combustion chamber bead) extending from a passage opening area (media compartment) A for a means of the gasket 1 against escape to be secured fuel gas from towards the sensitive area S of the sensor array 60 and extends around the sensitive area S and then toward the passage opening area A again.

Furthermore, in the uppermost active position 10 in one of the bead 11 enclosed area a recess 12 (please refer 3 ) which extends from the passage opening area A to the sensitive area S.

In between the distance 30 and the topmost asset 10 arranged active position 50 is one to the recess 12 in the highest active position 10 corresponding recess 52 intended. Through the two recesses 12 . 52 in the two upper active positions 10 and 50 is in the flat gasket 1 formed a channel through which the fuel gas in the operating case to the sensitive area S can be moved.

The topmost asset 10 adjacent active position 50 has a bead 51 (Combustion chamber bead), which in its course to the bead 11 in the highest active position 10 corresponds and interacts with this, the stamping directions of the two beads 11 . 51 opposite or to each other. Within the longitudinal extent of the seal, the two upper active layers 10 . 50 the same bead guide on. It is only hinted that the beads 11 and 51 in their further course spaced continue to and along the combustion chamber edge.

Adjacent to the passage opening area A has the uppermost active position 10 adjacent active position 50 an embossed deformation limiter 53 for the beads 11 and 51 on, which is designed as a wave-shaped profiling (wave stopper).

In the distance position 30 is the membrane 61 formed as embossing and arranged such that the membrane 61 within the recesses 12 . 52 in the two upper active positions 10 . 50 located.

In the 1 to 3 is in the lowest active position 20 , which according to this embodiment, a bottom layer or a bottom plate of the gasket 1 is a bead 21 (Coolant bead - see 3 ) formed by a flat seal outer edge R (see FIG 1 ) out around the sensor assembly 60 around and then back toward the flat seal outer edge R out. In other words, the bead is 21 in the lowest active position 20 designed so that it is the support element 63 and the membrane 61 curves around. It's just hinted that the beading 21 continues along the seal outer edge. It may, for example, be continued along the entire outer edge of the seal or, in the case of other media compartments, further sensor arrangements, be guided around it in a comparable manner. Furthermore, in the lowest active position 20 adjacent to the passage opening area A another bead 23 (Combustion chamber bead) is provided, which completely encloses the passage opening area A or runs concentrically thereto.

In addition, is in the lowest active position 20 a recess 22 designed to match the shape of the support element 63 corresponds. In other words, the recess 22 in the lowest active position 20 designed so that it is the support element 63 curves around.

In between the distance 30 and the lowest asset 20 foreseen active position 40 is one to the shape of the support element 63 and the recess 22 in the lowest active position 20 correspondingly extending recess 42 intended.

Furthermore, in the lowest active position 20 adjacent active position 40 adjacent to the passage opening area A a bead 43 (Combustion chamber bead) is provided, which encloses the passage opening area A or concentric therewith and with the bead 23 in the lowest active position 20 interacts. The stamping directions of the two beads 23 . 43 run in opposite directions. Within the longitudinal extent of the seal, the two beads 23 . 43 the same bead guide on. On the other hand, the beads are 11 . 51 to the beads 21 . 41 complemented around the sensitive area S around. While on the one side of the distance 30 the beads 11 and 51 from the edge of the media compartment along the recess 12 . 52 and the sensitive area S around and back to the edge of the media compartment are on the other side of the distance 30 the beads 21 and 41 from the outer edge of the seal along the recess 22 . 42 around the sensitive area S and back again towards the seal outer edge. The beads 21 and 41 are around the trace and the sensor element 64 guided around. The beads 11 and 51 Although they cross the course of the track, but are on the other side of the distance 30 arranged so that their line pressure does not act on the track. In addition, the beads provide 23 and 43 for sealing the media compartment.

The sealing of the media compartment thus results from the interplay of the beads 11 . 51 , the distance position 30 and the beading 23 . 43 ,

The sealing of the coolant openings, not shown (and comparable openings) by means of the interaction of the bead 21 , the distance position 30 and possibly existing beads (not shown), the respective openings individually or more of them together in at least one of the gasket layers 10 . 50 surround.

In addition, in the lowest active position 20 adjacent active position 40 adjacent to the passage opening area A and concentric therewith a deformation limiter 41 provided in the form of a shaft stopper.

As in particular in the 1 and 2 to see is the carrier element 63 the sensor arrangement 60 movable in the recesses 22 and 42 the two lower active positions 20 and 40 received, so that the support element 63 with the sensor element 64 from the flat gasket 1 pulled out and can be pushed back into this. In other words, a z. B. defective sensor element 64 by simply pulling out the support element 63 and inserting another carrier element 63 with an intact sensor element 64 be replaced.

The sensor element 64 is at one longitudinal end 63a the carrier element 63 and to the membrane element 61 arranged correspondingly, so that the membrane 61 and the sensor element 64 the sensitive area S of the sensor arrangement 60 define.

The distance position 30 is in the area of the membrane 61 impressed on a front side facing the passage to the passage opening area A, so that on the front side of a recess portion 61a is formed and on a side facing away from the channel rear an increasing portion 61b is formed.

By this configuration, the membrane 61 with her elevation section 61b backlash against the sensor element 64 biased, so that caused by the pressure of the fuel gas in a cylinder head, elastic deformation of the membrane 61 on the carrier element 63 and on the sensor element designed as a pressure sensor 64 can be transmitted. The sensor element 64 , which has vapor-deposited piezoresistive measuring elements according to this embodiment, can thus generate a corresponding to the deformation and thus to the pressure measurement signal.

As in particular in the 1 and 2 to see is the other longitudinal end 63b the carrier element 63 at the flat gasket outer edge R from the gasket 1 in front.

On the carrier element 63 are not shown, electrical conductors provided in the form of conductor tracks, wherein the conductor tracks electrically connected to the sensor element 64 are connected and from this along the support element 63 to the other longitudinal end 63b the carrier element 63 extend. For this purpose is on the support element 63 the at least one conductor track, z. B. vapor-deposited in thin-film technology.

At that from the flat gasket 1 projecting longitudinal end 63b the carrier element 63 is an electrical connector 65 molded in the form of a plug designed as an injection molded part, wherein the connector 65 electrically connected to the conductor tracks. About the connector 65 can the sensor element 64 be connected in operation to a control device, not shown, which the sensor element 64 electrically trigger and electrical measuring signals of the sensor element 64 can convert into pressure readings.

In other words, the sensor arrangement 60 the flat gasket 1 the lance-shaped or strip-shaped carrier element 63 with two longitudinal ends 63a . 63b , the sensor element 64 for generating a measurement signal, wherein the sensor element 64 at the one longitudinal end 63a on the carrier element 63 is mounted, tracks and an electrical connector 65 on, at the other longitudinal end 63b the carrier element 63 is appropriate.

The connector 65 and the sensor element 64 are electrically connected to each other for transmitting the measurement signal via the conductor tracks.

The carrier element 63 has such a dimension that it is releasable in the recesses 22 . 42 in the active positions 20 . 40 the flat gasket 1 is insertable.

The first longitudinal end 63a the carrier element 63 is arranged for contacting interaction with the inserted state of the support element 63 to this adjacent distance 30 the flat gasket 1 so that the sensor element 64 over the distance position 30 the pressure of the fuel gas in a combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine for measuring can be fed.

According to an alternative embodiment to the first embodiment (not shown), the carrier element is 63 on one of the backs of the distance 30 facing front in the sensitive area S impressed, so that on the front side to the elevation section 61b the membrane 61 complementary recess portion is formed, in which the elevation portion 61b releasably engaged.

There according to this alternative to the support element 63 a recess portion is provided which upon insertion of the carrier element 63 with the elevation section 61b the distance position 30 engages on the one hand, a secure fixation of the support element 63 in the flat gasket 1 and on the other hand a tactile tactile detent point for the support element 63 provided, whereby a fitter of the support element 63 the assembly is facilitated. Preferably, the carrier element is designed so that it has resilient properties.

Now, referring to the 5 to 7 a flat gasket 1' described according to a second embodiment of the invention.

The flat gasket 1' According to the second embodiment, apart from some differences which will be described below, the same as the flat gasket 1 formed according to the first embodiment, wherein the reference numerals of the corresponding elements of the flat gasket 1' an apostrophe (') is added. For elements of the flat gasket 1' which in the 5 to 7 for clarity, no reference number is assigned to the corresponding reference numeral without apostrophe (') in the 1 to 4 to fall back and mentally add an apostrophe.

It should also be noted that the gasket 1' in the 5 and 6 in comparison to the flat gasket 1 of the 1 to 3 shown in reverse, so that the two upper active layers 10 ' and 50 ' (Further below as upper active positions 10 ' . 50 ' designated) of the gasket 1' in the 5 and 6 can be seen as lower layers and the two lower active layers 20 ' and 40 ' (Further below as lower assets 20 ' . 40 ' designated) of the gasket 1' in the 5 and 6 can be seen as upper layers.

As in 5 shown is at the gasket 1' according to the second embodiment additionally on one of the two lower active layers 20 ' and 40 ' facing side of the distance 30 ' one to the shape of the support element 63 ' and the recesses 22 ' and 42 ' in the two lower active positions 20 ' . 40 ' correspondingly extending recess 32 ' intended. The recess 32 ' in the distance position 30 runs in contrast to the recesses 22 ' . 42 ' in the two lower active positions 20 ' . 40 ' not through the entire thickness of the distance 30 ' therethrough.

More specifically, according to this embodiment, the distance position 30 ' a thickness of about 1 to 1.5 mm, preferably 1.2 mm, wherein the recess in the distance position 30 ' has a depth of 0.5 to 1 mm, preferably about 0.7 mm. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the carrier element 63 ' a thickness of about 1 mm and have the two lower active layers 20 ' . 40 ' each have a thickness of, for example, 0.2 to 0.25 mm.

Thus, the carrier element 63 ' in the installed state in the recesses 22 ' . 42 ' . 32 ' by about 0.5 to 1 mm, preferably 0.7 mm sunk in the gasket 1' added.

As in 7 shown is the carrier element 63 ' the sensor arrangement 60 ' according to the second embodiment as a unit with the membrane 61 ' formed as a metallic (or according to an alternative as a ceramic) lance-shaped or strip-shaped element.

The membrane 61 ' is on the support element 63 ' on a channel to the passage opening area A and the distance position 30 ' facing front of it as a circular recess portion 61a ' formed, wherein the sensor element 64 ' on a rear side facing away from the channel of the support element 63 ' is applied.

As in 5 is shown, according to the second embodiment, the distance position 30 ' in the sensitive area S in the form of a passage opening 33 ' recessed so that over the recesses 12 ' and 52 ' the two upper active layers 10 ' and 50 ' and the through hole 33 ' a channel for the fuel gas from the combustion chamber to the membrane 61 ' is provided.

In order to enlarge the channel in cross-section is still, according to an alternative design not shown in the distance position 30 ' on the channel facing the passage opening area A front side additionally from the passage opening area A outgoing and up to the passage opening 33 ' in the distance position 30 ' reaching groove provided.

To the carrier element 63 ' to fix in position and a gas-tight and up to about 300 bar, but at least up to about 260 bar mechanically resistant connection between the support element 63 ' and the distance 30 ' is adjacent to the through hole 33 ' in the distance position 30 ' provided a circular laser welding SW, which by a 0.2 to 0.8 mm, preferably 0.5 mm thick web 34 ' in the distance position 30 ' through in the 0.5 to 1.2 mm, preferably 1 mm thick support element 63 ' is formed in it.

Compared to the interaction of elements of the seal as in the embodiment of 1 to 4 has been explained causes in the embodiment of 5 to 7 the welded joint of the membrane with a sealing layer the transition between the complementary beads, which previously - in addition to other tasks - has adopted the distance.

According to this embodiment, the conductor tracks, which are the sensor element 64 ' electrically connect to the connector (not shown), preferably on the lower active layers 20 ' . 40 ' facing back of the distance 30 ' evaporated.

The conclusion is with the five-layer gasket 1' Thus, compared to a conventional metallic flat gasket with slot (in which a spacer plate of 3 mm thickness is necessary), the installation thickness of about 4.2 mm (in the case of a five-layer gasket) to a mounting thickness of about 2.4 mm (also for a five-layer flat gasket), wherein the spacer plate or the spacer layer 30 ' only has a thickness or thickness of, for example, 1.2 mm. In other words, it is possible to integrate a 1 mm high support element 63 ' in a 1.2 mm high distance position 30 ' , wherein the sensor arrangement 60 ' or its carrier element 63 ' , Sensor element 64 ' and membrane 61 ' firm and not interchangeable in the flat gasket 1' are integrated.

Now, referring to 8th a flat gasket 1'' described according to a third embodiment of the invention.

The flat gasket 1'' According to the third embodiment, apart from some differences which will be described below, the same as the flat gasket 1' formed according to the second embodiment, wherein the reference numerals of the corresponding elements of the flat gasket 1'' two apostrophes are added. For elements of the flat gasket 1'' those in 8th for clarity, no reference number is assigned to the corresponding reference numeral without apostrophes ('') in the 1 to 4 and mentally add two apostrophes.

It should also be noted that the gasket 1'' in 8th in comparison to the flat gasket 1 of the 1 to 3 shown in reverse, so that the two upper active layers 10 '' and 50 '' (Further below as upper active positions 10 '' . 50 '' designated) of the gasket 1'' in 8th can be seen as lower layers.

According to the third embodiment, the flat gasket is 1'' set up as an exhaust gas seal without coolant guide. Consequently, in the flat gasket 1'' according to the third embodiment no lower active layers provided (in contrast to the flat gasket 1' according to the second embodiment, which the two lower active layers 20 ' and 40 ' has), since no sealing of Kühlmittelkompartimenten is needed.

At the flat gasket 1'' according to the third embodiment, the distance position 30 '' adjacent to the passage opening area A ", a crank 31 '' which encloses or extends concentrically through the passage opening area A ". Due to the lower pressures in the exhaust gas area already sufficient a bend as a sealing element, an active layer with a bead is thus omitted in the illustrated embodiment.

1, 1 ', 1' '

gasket

10 10 ', 10' '

upper active position

11 11 ', 11' '

Beading

12 12 ', 12' '

recess

20 20 '

lower active position

21 20 '

Beading

22 22 '

recess

23 23 '

Beading

30 30 ', 30' '

spacer layer

31 ''

cranking

32 ', 32 ''

recess

33 ', 33 ''

Through opening

34 ' 34 ''

web

40 40 '

lower active position

41 41 '

deformation

42 42 '

recess

43 43 '

Beading

50, 50 ', 50' '

upper active position

51 51 ', 51' '

Beading

52 52 ', 52' '

recess

53 53 ', 53' '

deformation

60 60 ', 60' '

sensor arrangement

61, 61 ', 61' '

membrane

61a, 61a ', 61a' '

recess portion

61b

increasing portion

63 63 ', 63' '

support element

63a, 63a ', 63a' '

longitudinal end

63b, 63b ', 63b' '

longitudinal end

64 64 ', 64' '

sensor element

65

electrical Interconnects

S

sensitive Area

A

Medienkompartiment or passage opening area

R

Flat seal outer edge

SW

laser welding

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list The documents listed by the applicant have been automated generated and is solely for better information recorded by the reader. The list is not part of the German Patent or utility model application. The DPMA takes over no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• - DE 69106081 T2 [0002]
• - DE 19913092 A1 [0003]
• - DE 10357974 B4 [0003]
• WO 01/96768 [0017]
• - EP 1298364 [0017]
• - EP 1693605 [0017]
• - US 7204491 [0017]
• - DE 102005025942 [0017]
• - EP 07/008321 [0017]
• - EP 07/020453 [0017]
• - DE 102006034784 [0021]

Claims (24)

Metallic flat gasket ( 1 ; 1'; 1'' ) with at least two layers and one in the flat gasket ( 1 ; 1'; 1'' ) integrated sensor arrangement ( 60 ; 60 '; 60 '' ), wherein the sensor arrangement ( 60 ; 60 '; 60 '' ) a carrier element ( 63 ; 63 '; 63 '' ), on which a sensor element ( 64 ; 64 '; 64 '' ) are arranged for generating a measuring signal and at least one conductor track for transmitting the measuring signal, and a membrane ( 61 ; 61 '; 61 '' ), and wherein in a region of the sensor arrangement ( 60 ; 60 '; 60 '' ), in which the sensor element ( 64 ; 64 '; 64 '' ), a sensitive region (S) of the sensor arrangement ( 60 ; 60 '; 60 '' ), wherein in a first position ( 20 . 40 ; 30 '; 30 '' ) a recess ( 22 . 42 ; 32 '; 32 '' ) is provided, in which the carrier element ( 63 ; 63 '; 63 '' ), and a second layer formed as an active layer ( 10 . 50 ; 10 ' . 50 '; 10 '' . 50 '' ) at least one bead ( 11 . 51 ; 11 ' . 51 '; 11 '' . 51 '' ) and one of the bead ( 11 . 51 ; 11 ' . 51 '; 11 '' . 51 '' ) surrounded recess ( 12 . 52 ; 12 ' . 52 '; 12 '' . 52 '' ), so that a channel is formed, via which a media compartment (A) for a means of the flat gasket ( 1 ; 1'; 1'' ) against escape to secure medium with the sensitive area (S) of the sensor arrangement ( 60 ; 60 '; 60 '' ), whereby the medium can be brought to the sensitive area (S), and wherein the membrane ( 61 ; 61 '; 61 '' ) in the sensitive area (S) forms an interface to the media compartment (A), via which a state variable of the medium to the sensor element ( 64 ; 64 '; 64 '' ) is forwarded. Metallic flat gasket ( 1' ) according to claim 1, wherein a third layer ( 20 ' . 40 ' ), so that the first layer ( 30 ' ) between the second layer ( 10 ' . 50 ' ) and the third layer ( 20 ' . 40 ' ) is arranged. Metallic flat gasket ( 1' ) according to claim 2, wherein the third layer ( 20 ' . 40 ' ) is an active position. Metallic flat gasket ( 1' ) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first layer ( 30 ' ) is a distance. Metallic flat gasket ( 1' ) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the membrane ( 61 ' ) on the carrier element ( 63 ' ) on a channel facing the media compartment (A) facing the front thereof is formed, and wherein the sensor element ( 64 ' ) on a side facing away from the channel rear side of the support element ( 63 ' ) is applied. Metallic flat gasket ( 1' ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first layer ( 30 ' ) is recessed within the channel in the sensitive region (S). Metallic flat gasket ( 1' ) according to claim 6, wherein the carrier element ( 63 ' ) and the first layer ( 30 ' ) adjacent to the recessed area ( 33 ' ) of the first layer ( 30 ' ) are connected to each other media-tight and mechanically resistant. Metallic flat gasket ( 1 ) according to claim 1, wherein the membrane ( 61 ) is formed by one of the layers. Metallic flat gasket ( 1 ) according to claim 8, wherein a third layer ( 30 ) provided between the first layer ( 20 . 40 ) and the second layer ( 10 . 50 ) is arranged. Metallic flat gasket ( 1 ) according to claim 9, wherein the membrane ( 61 ) from the third position ( 30 ) is formed. Metallic flat gasket ( 1 ) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the third layer ( 30 ) is a distance. Metallic flat gasket ( 1 ) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the third layer ( 30 ) is embossed in a sensitive area (S) on a front side facing the channel to the media compartment (A), so that a recessed section (S) is provided on its front side ( 61a ) is formed and on a rear side facing away from the channel in the sensitive area (S) has a raised portion ( 61b ) is formed. Metallic flat gasket ( 1 ) according to one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the carrier element ( 63 ) on one of the backs of the third layer ( 63 ) facing front side in the sensitive area (S) is embossed, so that on the front side to the elevation portion ( 61b ) of the third layer ( 30 ) complementary recessed portion is formed, in which the increasing portion ( 61b ) is releasably engaged. Metallic flat gasket ( 1 ) according to one of claims 8 to 13, wherein the carrier element ( 63 ) movable in the recess ( 22 . 42 ) is received, so that the carrier element ( 63 ) from the flat gasket ( 1 ) can be removed and pushed back into this. Metallic flat gasket ( 1 ; 1'; 1'' ) according to one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the carrier element ( 63 ; 63 '; 63 '' ) is in the form of a lance, in particular in the form of a strip. Metallic flat gasket ( 1 ; 1'; 1'' ) according to claim 15, wherein the sensor element ( 64 ; 64 '; 64 '' ) at one longitudinal end ( 63a ; 63a '; 63 '' ) of the carrier element ( 63 ; 63 '; 63 '' ), and wherein the other longitudinal end ( 63b ; 63b '; 63b '' ) of the carrier element ( 63 ; 63 '; 63 '' ) on a flat gasket exterior edge (R) of the gasket ( 1 ; 1'; 1'' ) protrudes. Metallic flat gasket ( 1 ; 1'; 1'' ) according to claim 16, wherein the at least one conductor track of the sensor element ( 64 ; 64 '; 64 '' ) from along the support element ( 63 ; 63 '; 63 '' ) to the other longitudinal end ( 63b ; 63b '; 63b '' ) of the carrier element ( 63 ; 63 '; 63 '' ) and at the other longitudinal end ( 63b ; 63b '; 63b '' ) of the carrier element ( 63 ; 63 '; 63 '' ) an electrical connector ( 65 ) is provided, which is electrically connected to the at least one conductor track. Metallic flat gasket ( 1 ; 1'; 1'' ) according to claim 17, wherein the electrical connector ( 65 ) is designed as a plug or as a socket. Metallic flat gasket ( 1 ; 1'; 1'' ) according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the electrical connector ( 65 ) as an injection molded part to the carrier element ( 63 ; 63 '; 63 '' ) is poured. Metallic flat gasket ( 1 ; 1'; 1'' ) according to one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the sensor element ( 64 ; 64 '; 64 '' ) is designed as a pressure sensor, temperature sensor or as a charge concentration sensor. Metallic flat gasket ( 1 ; 1'; 1'' ) according to one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the flat gasket ( 1 ; 1'; 1'' ) is designed as a cylinder head gasket, as an exhaust gasket or as an intake manifold gasket. Use of a metallic flat gasket ( 1 ; 1'; 1'' ) according to any one of claims 1 to 21 for temperature measurements, pressure measurements or charge concentration measurements on the medium. Sensor arrangement ( 60 ) for use in a metallic flat gasket ( 1 ) with at least two layers, in particular for use in a metallic flat gasket according to one of claims 1 and 8 to 14, comprising: a lance-shaped carrier element ( 63 ) with a first longitudinal end ( 63a ), a sensor element ( 64 ) for generating a measurement signal, wherein the sensor element ( 64 ) at the first longitudinal end ( 63a ) on the carrier element ( 63 ), at least one track and an electrical connector ( 65 ) at a second longitudinal end ( 63b ) of the carrier element ( 63 ), wherein the connector ( 65 ) and the sensor element ( 64 ) are electrically connected for transmitting the measuring signal via the conductor track, wherein the carrier element ( 63 ) has a dimension such that the carrier element ( 63 ) detachable in a recess ( 22 . 42 ) in at least one layer ( 20 . 40 ) of the gasket ( 1 ) is insertable, and wherein the first longitudinal end ( 63a ) of the carrier element ( 63 ) is arranged for contacting cooperation with a in an inserted state of the support element ( 63 ) to this adjacent location ( 30 ) of the gasket ( 1 ), so that the sensor element ( 64 ) about this situation ( 30 ) a state variable by means of the flat gasket ( 1 ) against leakage to securing medium for measuring this is fed. Sensor arrangement according to claim 23, wherein the state variable is a pressure, a temperature or a charge concentration, in particular an ion concentration, is.