DE102017001315A1 - Adaptable secondary meter for a composite meter for flow determination of a flowing medium - Google Patents

Abstract

Adaptable secondary meter (20) for a compound meter (1), for flow determination of a flowing medium, with a secondary meter inlet (22), a Nebenzählerauslass (23), as viewed in the direction of flow of the flowing medium, between the Nebenzählereinlass (22) and Nebenzählerauslass (23) a measuring device for connecting the auxiliary meter (20) to the composite meter (1) and a connection (31) for connecting the secondary meter (20) to the composite meter (1), wherein the measuring insert is an ultrasonic measuring insert (27 ), the ultrasonic measuring insert (27) in a straight line, that is, without deflection, flows through the medium, and the ultrasonic measuring insert (27) has a U-shaped ultrasonic measuring section (30).

Description

The present invention relates to a sub-meter for a compound meter according to the preamble of claim 1, a composite meter for flow determination of a flowing medium, a connection device for connecting a sub-counter to a composite counter and a method for operating a composite counter.

Technological background

The most common application of compound meters are water meters used to determine water consumption in a drinking water supply. Generic composite meters are mainly used for water consumption of large consumers, such. As industry, hotels, swimming and sports centers, shopping centers, schools or the like.

Advantageously, composite meters can in this case for measuring large and highly fluctuating flow rates, z. B. in buildings with fire extinguishing systems, or very small flow rates, eg. B. for leakage determination, are used by having a main counter (large water meter) for detecting large flow rates and a secondary counter for detecting smaller flow rates. In addition, composite counter have a switching device, z. Example, a switching valve, a switching insert or a Umschaltkappe, which serves to direct the water flowing through either through the sub-counter, through the main counter or through both. As a main meter and secondary meter are usually mechanical flow meter, such. B. Woltmann counter, impeller or rotary piston meter, used, which are preferably designed as independently installable calibratable measuring capsules. The main meter and the sub meter are usually arranged in a composite meter housing of the composite meter. Via an inlet and an outlet on the composite meter housing, the composite meter can be placed in a fluid line network, such. As a drinking water supply can be installed. The flow direction of the water in this case usually runs from the inlet to the outlet.

Conveniently, the switching device blocks the flow through the main meter at low flow rates. In this switching position of the switching device, the water is only passed through the secondary meter. For larger flow rates, the switching device opens and the water also flows through the main meter. As a result, main meters and sub-counters run in parallel. As a rule, the counter is displayed via a coupled counter or two independent counters. In the case of two independent counters, the main meter and the secondary meter are read to determine the amount of water that has flowed through, and the readings are added together.

The water consumption at low flow rates here is increasingly a significant share of the total consumption. Small flows are justified, for example, by leaks or creeks, the z. B. are caused by the incomplete closing of a faucet. There is therefore an increasing economic interest in the detection and calculation of corresponding flow rates. Therefore, increasingly water meters are needed, which can reliably determine even small flow rates, d. H. Overall, have a high measurement dynamics and have a high measurement reliability. The best dynamic range is currently achieved by traditional compound mechanical counters up to 1: 10,000. Furthermore, ultrasonic flowmeters are increasingly being used, especially in the area of smaller flow rates, since these have a high accuracy of measurement and measurement reliability.

Printed prior art

The DE 196 51 202 C2 describes a compound counter with a main counter and a sub-counter. The main meter, the secondary meter and a switching insert are arranged on a housing cover of the meter housing. The main counter is a Woltmann counter with turbine wheel and as counter meter is a impeller or rotary piston meter provided. Because the main meter, auxiliary meter and switch insert are arranged on the housing cover, the housing cover can be installed and removed as a completely calibratable measuring insert. Furthermore, the secondary meter is designed as a cartridge counter, so that it can also be used as a single verifiable counter unit from the outside into the housing cover. In addition, main and secondary meters can be connected to one another by a common shaft penetrating the housing cover. Especially at low flow rates, ie when the water flow is directed only towards secondary meter, it may cause deposits in the range of the secondary meter due to the low flushing effect, which lead to measurement inaccuracies and thus shorten the shelf life and maintenance intervals by z. B. deposits in the impeller affect the mechanical function of the impeller. In addition, mechanical impeller water meters or rotary piston water meters have a comparatively low measuring dynamics and measuring accuracy.

The DE 101 03 745 A1 describes an ultrasonic counter with a straight ultrasonic measuring section. The ultrasonic measuring insert is here transverse to the connection orientation in the ultrasonic counter arranged. This results in disadvantages in the flow control, the z. B. may result in a pressure loss, whereby the measurement accuracy is deteriorated. The ultrasonic transducers are arranged opposite each other due to the straight ultrasonic measuring path, so that the connections of the ultrasonic transducers are arranged on both sides of the ultrasonic counter.

Further, the DE 10 2005 001 897 A1 an ultrasonic measuring device with two ultrasonic transducers and an intermediate ultrasonic measuring section. The ultrasonic transducers are arranged above the ultrasonic measuring insert. The ultrasonic measuring section between the ultrasonic transducers is deflected by a reflective coating, so that the ultrasonic measuring section is configured U-shaped. The ultrasonic measuring insert has a complicated structure, wherein the flow direction of the medium is deflected several times within the ultrasonic measuring insert. This can lead to pressure losses and turbulence of the medium, which deteriorate the accuracy of measurement, especially at lower flow rates and thus also the measurement dynamics.

Object of the present invention

The object of the present invention is to provide a novel sub-counter, in which the measurement accuracy and measurement dynamics improved and the maintenance costs are reduced.

Solution of the task

The above object is achieved by the entire teaching of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are claimed in the subclaims.

According to the invention, the measuring insert is an ultrasonic measuring insert which preferably comprises at least one ultrasonic transducer as well as an ultrasonic measuring section for determining the flow of the flowing medium, ie. H. the flow rate of the secondary meter is determined by means of an ultrasonic measuring method. As a result, the advantages of the ultrasonic measurement method over mechanical measurement methods for the flow determination of smaller flow rates can be used, such. B. improved measurement dynamics and accuracy, long-term stability, insensitivity to deposits and suspended solids in the medium and a reduced maintenance. Furthermore, the ultrasonic measuring insert is rectilinear, d. H. without deflection, flows through the medium. This results in the advantage that turbulence in the medium and pressure losses in the ultrasonic measuring insert are prevented. As a result, the measurement accuracy and the measurement dynamics can be significantly improved. In addition, the ultrasonic measuring insert has a U-shaped ultrasonic measuring section. As a result, the ultrasonic transducers can be arranged on a common side of the sub-counter. Accordingly, the control electronics and the connection of the ultrasonic transducers can be arranged on one side of / in the secondary meter. This results in constructional advantages which make it possible to install the secondary meter as a modular unit (eg screwing in).

Preferably, the connection device of the secondary meter is configured as a secondary meter housing or as a connection adapter, which completely or partially accommodates an ultrasonic flow meter or an ultrasonic measuring insert, so that the secondary meter can be easily adapted or mounted on the compound meter, i. H. as an independent, preferably stand-alone calibratable, substantially not arranged within the composite meter housing unit.

Expediently, the ultrasound measuring insert can be oriented, at least essentially, parallel to the connection orientation of the connection device or of the secondary counter housing. The connection orientation here essentially describes the direction in which the secondary meter is inserted or screwed into the composite meter housing or the housing cover. In essence, this connection orientation corresponds to the inlet and / or outlet direction of the medium.

Furthermore, the secondary meter inlet and the Nebenzählerauslass can be arranged in the region of a common terminal of the sub-counter. Consequently, the inlet direction of the medium is oriented substantially counter to the outlet direction of the medium, wherein a direction reversal of the direction of flow of the medium takes place in the secondary meter. This results in the advantage that the ultrasonic measuring insert can be arranged in the connection device such that it is rectilinear, d. H. flows through without deflection of the medium, for example, from top to bottom. In addition, the secondary meter can be mounted in a particularly simple manner on the composite meter housing or on the housing cover of the composite meter via the common connection. The maintenance and repair effort is thereby reduced to a special degree.

Preferably, the ultrasonic measuring insert is surrounded by a connection housing. Furthermore, a holding device can be provided, with which the connection housing is fixed in the connection device. The connection housing is preferably a connection housing of a separate ultrasonic flowmeter. In Surprisingly, it has been found that conventional ultrasonic flowmeters can be adapted to existing composite meters by such a construction of the connection device. For this purpose, the connection device fulfills in a sense an adapter function in order to couple a conventional ultrasonic flowmeter to a composite counter, without having to make special connections or major conversion measures.

Conveniently, the connector housing includes a connector housing inlet and a connector housing outlet, wherein the connector housing inlet or the connector housing outlet is disposed in the region of the terminal.

Conveniently, the connection device or the auxiliary meter housing may have an inner wall which defines a receptacle and the receptacle is provided to receive the ultrasonic measuring insert. As a result, the secondary meter can be easily equipped with an ultrasonic measuring insert. The ultrasonic measuring insert consists for example of plastic and can preferably be prefabricated as an independent unit. The receptacle is located in the flow direction of the flowing medium, so that the ultrasonic measuring insert is flowed through in a straight line with medium. This construction greatly simplifies manufacture and installation by allowing conventional prefabricated ultrasonic measuring inserts to be easily inserted into the connector. Alternatively or additionally, the individual components of the ultrasonic measuring insert can also be used directly in the receptacle.

Furthermore, the connection device may have a concentric structure. Thereby, the direction reversal of the flow direction within the sub-counter can be effected by the flow of the medium is deflected at an opposite end of the terminal inner end side of the connection device.

This allows the sub-counter inlet and sub-counter outlet to be located at a common port.

Appropriately, a flow channel may be provided which connects the secondary meter inlet with the receptacle, the ultrasonic measuring insert and / or the connection housing. As a result, the connection device can be made very robust and the flow of the medium additionally guided. The flow channel can, for. B. are formed by the connection device and the connection housing or the receiving wall defining the receptacle.

Preferably, the connection device is designed such that the connection device can be connected to the composite counter, ie. H. that this in a simple manner to a conventional concentric connection of a composite counter, z. B. at the CR1 interface of the composite meter, can be connected. As a result, the secondary meter according to the invention can be easily retrofitted to existing composite meters. For retrofitting therefore no special adapters or special tools are needed. In addition, the retrofitting of conventional compound meters can be carried out particularly quickly and in a few steps. Preferably, a concentric connection, preferably a concentric screw connection is provided as a connection to the secondary meter, such. As a screw with a metric or Whitworth thread, such. A G3B port, G2½B port or the like. In a practical way, the secondary meter can be characterized z. B. are attached to the composite meter housing or the housing cover of the composite meter. The thread of the connection is in this case preferably cylindrical (G) or conical (R) configured.

Alternatively or additionally, the connection device may comprise means for flow guidance in order to facilitate the flow through the connection device with medium. For example, projections and / or recesses may be provided on the housing wall of the connection device, guide vanes or the like as means for guiding the flow. As a result, z. B. the Einströmverhalten when flowing into the connection housing or the connection housing inlet or in the recording can be additionally improved by turbulence or congestion of the medium can be prevented. The measuring accuracy as well as measuring sensitivity is thereby further improved. In addition, the rinsing effect is improved within the sub-counter, whereby z. B. stagnationbedingte deposits can be avoided.

Preferably, within the secondary counter, a flow straightener is provided, which has at least one passage, preferably a plurality of passages, through which the medium flows and a passage is bounded in each case by passage walls. The orientation of the passage walls determines the flow direction of the medium through the respective passage. For example, turbulence in the flowing medium can be compensated for by changing the flow direction from one passage to the next. This results in the advantage that the measuring accuracy is additionally increased, especially at low flow rates.

In addition, a, preferably curved, connection adapter for connecting the Sub-counter be provided. In particular, the connection adapter has two connection adapter connections, with which the connection adapter can be connected to the connection of the secondary counter and to the secondary counter connection of the composite counter, thereby connecting secondary meters and composite meters. This results in the advantage that the secondary meter can be oriented according to the installation situation of the composite meter on the composite meter. The installation and retrofitting process can thereby be further simplified.

Secondary or subordinate, the present invention claims a compound counter, in which a secondary meter according to the invention is provided as a secondary meter for detecting smaller flow rates, which determines the flow rate by means of an ultrasonic measurement method and in which the secondary meter inlet and the outlet are preferably arranged in the region of a common connection, so that the inlet direction of the medium is preferably oriented counter to the outlet direction of the medium. Furthermore, the ultrasound measuring insert of the sub-counter becomes rectilinear, i. H. without deflection, flows through the medium and has a U-shaped ultrasonic measuring section.

Conveniently, the main meter may be a Woltmanzähler, an impeller, a rotary piston meter or other known from the prior art flow meter.

Preferably, at least one concentric connection is provided on the composite meter housing and / or on the housing cover, via which the secondary meter can be attached to the composite meter. Preferably, this is a G port, such as. A G3B port located at the CR1 interface of the composite meter.

Appropriately, the flow determination of the secondary meter can be done in a separate measuring channel outside the composite meter housing, d. H. the ultrasonic measuring section is not within the composite meter housing but within a measuring channel of the secondary meter, z. B. in the field of recording within the connection device or the auxiliary meter housing. This results in the advantage that the secondary meter can be assembled and disassembled in a simple manner.

Furthermore, sealing elements may be provided in the region of the connection, which seal the secondary meter. This ensures on the one hand that the secondary meter is sealed to the outside and on the other hand that the secondary meter inlet and the Nebenzählerauslass are separated from each other and sealed from each other.

The present invention also claims a connection device, in particular a secondary counter housing, for a secondary meter according to the invention, wherein the connection device comprises the secondary counter inlet and the secondary counter outlet. Furthermore, a connection for connecting the sub-counter to the composite counter is provided, wherein the sub-counter inlet and the sub-counter outlet are arranged in the region of this connection. The connection device is intended to receive an ultrasonic measuring insert or a connection housing of a, preferably separate, ultrasonic flowmeter with an ultrasonic measuring insert, so that it can be used as an ultrasonic secondary counter for determining the flow of preferably smaller flow rates. The connection device is designed such that it is suitably connectable to the composite counter accordingly as a connection preferably a concentric connection, such. B. has a G3B port.

Furthermore, the present invention claims a method for operating a generic composite meter having an ultrasonic secondary meter, preferably a secondary meter according to the invention, for detecting smaller flow rates. The secondary meter is hereby prepared to determine the switching operation of the switching device or the switching process triggering flow. For example, it is possible to distinguish between the characteristic of the rise or fall of the flow during the switching operation between the normal flow characteristic and the switching event. Subsequently, z. B. the switching process triggering flow for the configuration of the main counter, the sub-counter and / or the switching device are used. This results in the advantage that the switching operations of the switching device can be registered and accumulated. In particular, thereby the time required for the switching operation can be determined, whereby the state of the switching device can be judged. Furthermore, the operating time of the main and secondary meters and the switching frequency of the switching device, which z. B. information about the required dimensioning of a spring equipped switch insert are determined. In addition, the measurement deviation / flow characteristics of main and secondary meters can be designed, which can then be adjusted to each other in order to adapt the composite meter to the current installation situation.

list of figures

• 1 eine vereinfachte Draufsicht einer Ausgestaltung eines erfindungsgemäßen Verbundzählers;
• 2 eine vereinfachte Schnittdarstellung entlang der Schnittlinie A-A des Verbundzählers aus 1;
• 3 eine vereinfachte Schnittdarstellung entlang der Schnittlinie B-B des Verbundzählers aus 1;
• 4 eine vereinfachte Schnittdarstellung entlang der Schnittlinie C-C des Verbundzählers aus 1;
• 5 eine stark vereinfachte perspektivische Teildarstellung eines erfindungsgemäßen Nebenzählers;
• 6a eine vereinfachte perspektivische Darstellung eines Strömungsrichters;
• 6b zwei vereinfachte Querschnittdarstellungen des Strömungsrichters aus 6a;
• 7 eine vereinfachte Schnittdarstellung entlang der Schnittlinie C-C einer zweiten Ausgestaltung des erfindungsgemäßen Verbundzählers;
• 8 eine vereinfachte Schnittdarstellung durch den Ultraschalldurchflussmesser des Nebenzählers aus 7;
• 9a eine vereinfachte Schnittdarstellung entlang der Schnittlinie C-C einer dritten Ausgestaltung des erfindungsgemäßen Verbundzählers, sowie
• 9b eine vereinfachte Schnittdarstellung entlang der Schnittlinie C-C einer vierten Ausgestaltung des erfindungsgemäßen Verbundzählers;
• 10a eine stark vereinfachte Schnittdarstellung durch den Nebenzähler und den Strömungskanal des Verbundzählers aus 9b;
• 10b eine stark vereinfachte Schnittdarstellung einer alternativen Ausgestaltung des Nebenzählers aus 10a durch den Nebenzähler und den Strömungskanal;
• 11 eine vereinfachte Schnittdarstellung entlang der Schnittlinie C-C einer fünften Ausgestaltung des erfindungsgemäßen Verbundzählers;
• 12 eine vereinfachte Schnittdarstellung entlang der Schnittlinie C-C einer sechsten Ausgestaltung des erfindungsgemäßen Verbundzählers;
• 13 eine vereinfachte Schnittdarstellung entlang der Schnittlinie C-C einer siebten Ausgestaltung des erfindungsgemäßen Verbundzählers;
• 14 eine vereinfachte Teilschnitt-Draufsicht einer achten Ausgestaltung eines erfindungsgemäßen Verbundzählers;
• 15 eine vereinfachte Schnittdarstellung entlang der Schnittlinie C-C einer neunten Ausgestaltung des erfindungsgemäßen Verbundzählers;
• 16 eine vereinfachte Schnittdarstellung entlang der Schnittlinie C-C einer zehnten Ausgestaltung des erfindungsgemäßen Verbundzählers, sowie
• 17 eine Darstellung der Messabweichung-/Durchfluss-Kennlinien eines mechanischen Hauptzählers und eines Ultraschall-Nebenzählers.

Advantageous embodiments of the present invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to drawing figures. Show it:

• 1 a simplified plan view of an embodiment of a composite counter according to the invention;
• 2 a simplified sectional view taken along the section line AA of the composite counter 1 ;
• 3 a simplified sectional view taken along the section line BB of the composite counter 1 ;
• 4 a simplified sectional view along the section line CC of the composite counter 1 ;
• 5 a highly simplified partial perspective view of a secondary meter according to the invention;
• 6a a simplified perspective view of a flow straightener;
• 6b two simplified cross-sectional views of the flow straightener 6a ;
• 7 a simplified sectional view along the section line CC of a second embodiment of the composite counter according to the invention;
• 8th a simplified sectional view through the ultrasonic flow meter of the sub-counter off 7 ;
• 9a a simplified sectional view along the section line CC a third embodiment of the composite counter according to the invention, as well as
• 9b a simplified sectional view along the section line CC of a fourth embodiment of the composite counter according to the invention;
• 10a a greatly simplified sectional view through the auxiliary meter and the flow channel of the composite meter from 9b ;
• 10b a greatly simplified sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the sub-counter from 10a through the secondary meter and the flow channel;
• 11 a simplified sectional view along the section line CC of a fifth embodiment of the composite counter according to the invention;
• 12 a simplified sectional view along the section line CC of a sixth embodiment of the composite counter according to the invention;
• 13 a simplified sectional view along the section line CC of a seventh embodiment of the composite counter according to the invention;
• 14 a simplified partial sectional plan view of an eighth embodiment of a composite counter according to the invention;
• 15 a simplified sectional view along the section line CC of a ninth embodiment of the composite counter according to the invention;
• 16 a simplified sectional view along the section line CC a tenth embodiment of the composite counter according to the invention, as well as
• 17 a representation of the measurement deviation / flow characteristics of a mechanical main meter and an ultrasonic sub-counter.

numeral 1 in 1 denotes a composite counter according to the invention. The composite counter 1 includes a composite meter housing 2 (Connection housing) with housing cover 3 , The housing cover 3 is about fasteners, such. B. screws 4 , on the composite meter housing 2 of the composite meter 1 attached. The composite meter housing 2 has an inlet 5 as well as an outlet 6 , The composite counter 1 can over the inlet 5 and the outlet 6 be installed in a, not shown, drinking water supply. The housing cover 3 has two openings, in each of which a flow meter can be installed. One of the flow meters, the main counter 7 , is used to detect larger flow rates and the other of the flow meters, the secondary meter 20 , for detecting smaller flow rates. The main counter 7 and the sub-counter 20 are configured as modular exchangeable units. The dismantling of the main counter 7 , the secondary counter 20 or the entire housing cover 3 This can be done without the composite counter 1 must be disconnected from the drinking water supply.

In 1 are marked three cutting profiles or cutting lines AA, BB and CC. 2 shows a simplified sectional view along the section line AA of the composite counter 1 out 1 , The direction of flow of the medium or water is usually from the inlet 5 to the outlet 6 , The medium flows through the measuring channel 8th , In the border area between composite meter housing 2 and housing cover 3 is a sealing element 9 , z. As an O-ring, arranged, which serves the composite counter 1 seal to the outside. Furthermore, the main counter has 7 a measuring insert 10 , which is within the measuring channel 8th is arranged. The measuring insert 10 consists of a Woltmann counter with a turbine wheel 11 , Through the flow through the turbine wheel 11 with water becomes the turbine wheel 11 driven, ie rotated. The rotational movement of the turbine wheel 11 is connected via a gearbox, a shaft or a magnetic coupling at the top of the main counter 7 arranged counter 12 transfer.

In the back of the composite meter 1 within the measuring channel 8th there is a switching device 13 , The switching device 13 serves to the flow through the measuring channel 8th shut off. The locking mechanism can, for. B. via a spring element 15 which is inside the switching device 13 is housed, and a closure cap 14 respectively. The switching device 13 is designed such that it switches depending on the flow, that is, in response to a predetermined value of a parameter, such. As pressure, flow or the like. For example, the spring element holds 15 the closure cap 14 at low flow rates or at low pressure in the closed position, so no flow along the measuring channel 8th he follows. As the flow rate increases, so does the pressure on the spring element 15 , If the pressure increases so far that the spring force of the spring element 15 is exceeded, the switching device opens 13 by putting the closure cap 14 towards the outlet 6 moves and the flow of the medium through the measuring channel 8th from the inlet 5 to the outlet 6 releases, so that the medium the measuring insert 10 flows through.

3 shows a sectional view of the composite counter 1 out 1 along the section line BB. The secondary counter 20 is as a modular unit with a configured as a Nebenzählergehäuse connection device 21 , The flow through the main meter 7 through the measuring channel 8th is over the closure hood 14 the switching device 13 shut off, so that the flow of the medium through the composite counter 1 in this switching position exclusively via the secondary counter 20 he follows.

In 4 is a sectional view of the composite counter 1 shown along the section line CC. The flow direction (with inlet and outlet direction) of the medium is in 4 marked with black arrows. The flow of the medium to the secondary meter 20 via an inlet channel 18 who is the sub-counter 20 with the measuring channel 8th combines. The secondary counter 20 has a concentric connection device 21 with a secondary meter inlet 22 and a slave counter outlet 23 , The secondary counter 20 can via a secondary meter connection 3a on the housing cover 3 the composite counter 1 are attached. At the secondary meter connection 3a it is preferably a concentric G3B port. For sealing the secondary meter 20 is in the area of the secondary meter connection 3a a seal, z. B. an O-ring 24 is provided. The connection device 21 has an inner wall 25, which has an interior or a receptacle 26 sets. Within the recording 26 is an ultrasonic measuring insert 27 arranged. At the ultrasonic measuring insert 27 There are two ultrasonic transducers 28a . 28b and two reflectors 29a, 29b. Between the ultrasonic transducers 28a . 28b there is a U-shaped ultrasonic measuring section 30 passing through the reflectors 29a . 29b is deflected and by the ultrasonic measuring insert 27 runs. The ultrasonic measuring section 30 is within the ultrasonic measuring insert 27 in the connection device 21 and thus substantially spatially separated from the measuring channel 8th of the composite meter housing 2 arranged.

The direction of flow through the secondary meter 20 takes place concentrically and proceeds from the inlet channel 18 through the secondary meter inlet 22 to the Nebenzählerauslass 23 , with secondary meter inlet 22 and secondary counter outlet 23 at the composite counter 1 directed end face of the secondary meter 20 are located. Alternatively, an additional, in 4 not shown, flow channel may be provided which the secondary meter inlet 22 with the recording 26 combines. The flow measurement of the secondary meter 20 takes place by means of the ultrasonic transducer 28a . 28b based on an ultrasonic measuring method, such. Example, the ultrasonic Doppler method, the ultrasonic transit time method or the like.

The flowing medium passes after passing through the secondary counter 20, a return valve 16 , which is intended to prevent backflow of the medium against the direction of flow, z. B. from the measuring channel 8th at very high flow rates. The reflux valve 16 For this purpose, for example, includes a spring mechanism with a spring 17 that serves the reflux valve 16 close. The flowing medium passes from the reflux valve 16 via an outlet channel 19 to the outlet 6 , Further, in the area of the transition from Nebenzählerauslass 23 to return valve 16 one, in 4 not shown, seal provided, the Nebenzählerauslass 23 or the reflux valve 16 to the secondary meter inlet 22 seals off.

5 shows a highly simplified perspective view of the sub-counter 20. The connection device 21 has a frontal connection 31 via which the connection device 21 at the composite counter 1 or at the secondary meter connection 3a can be attached. Furthermore, on the outside of the connection device 21 one to the connection 31 associated thread 32 arranged to the sub-counter 20 on the housing cover 3 tighten. The connection 31 is preferably formed as a concentric G3B connection. In addition, in the area of the connection 31 , in 5 not shown, seals are provided, the secondary meter 20 in the area of the connection device 21 and the inner wall 25 to the Secondary meter connection 3a of the composite meter 1 seal off. The secondary meter inlet 22 and the sub-counter outlet 23 are together in the field of connection 31 arranged so that the inlet direction of the medium is oriented substantially opposite to the outlet direction of the medium.

Appropriately, is a flow straightener 42 provided that the medium flows through it before the recording 26 or the ultrasonic measuring insert 27 flows through. The flow straightener 42 serves to compensate for air flow differences or turbulence, which may for example result from different housing properties. The flow straightener 42 is preferably made of plastic, for. B. of polyethersulfone (PES), and is about, not shown in the figures for clarity, fasteners in the secondary meter 20 fixed. The flow straightener 42 according to 6a crossings 42a on, the z. B. arranged in rows and are flowed through by the medium. The passages 42a own passage walls 42b , which are oriented differently, in particular from row to row. As in 6b Shown by the cross sections through two adjacent rows, the passage walls 42b for example, inclined in a row to one side and inclined in the adjacent row opposite. Flow differences can be achieved by such an arrangement as it flows through the passages 42a be balanced, so that a flow-independent, uniform flow profile is generated.

In 7 is a further embodiment of a composite counter according to the invention 1 shown. The secondary counter 20 in this case has a specially designed connection device 33 , which is intended to be an ultrasonic flowmeter 34 with own connection housing 35 and an electronic control system 40 take. The ultrasonic flowmeter 34 is in 8th shown in detail. It includes a connector housing inlet 38 and connection housing outlet 39 as well as the ultrasonic measuring insert 27 , The connection housing 35 may have a holding device, such as. B. holding elements 36 , a jig, a holding rail, screwing or the like to the terminal housing 35 preferably to corresponding devices in the connection device 33 to attach or fasten. Furthermore, the ultrasonic flow meter 34 embedded in the connector 33, e.g. B. poured, and thus an integral part of the connection device 33 be.

The connection device 33 is via the auxiliary meter connection 3a at the composite counter 1 and the connection 31 the connection device 33 attached. The direction of flow of the medium also takes place here from the inlet channel 18 through the secondary counter inlet 22 into the interior of the connection device 33 , The medium flows through the connection device 33 and arrives in the upper region of the connection device 33 through the connector housing inlet 38 for ultrasonic measuring insert 27 inside the connection box 35 , The ultrasonic measuring insert 27 has two ultrasonic transducers 28a . 28b and a U-shaped ultrasonic measuring section located therebetween 30 , The ultrasonic measuring section 24 becomes the reflectors 29a . 29b diverted. In an advantageous manner, the connection device 33 be used to a conventional ultrasonic flowmeter 34 so that this for the composite counter 1 can be used for flow determination. The connection housing outlet 39 of the connection housing 35 serves here as Nebenzählerauslass 23 and is located in the area of the connection 31 ,

In 9a is a design variant of the secondary meter 20 out 7 shown. The connection device 33a in this case comprises a flow channel 37 inside the connection device 33a that has the secondary meter inlet 22 with the connection housing inlet 38 of the ultrasonic flowmeter 34 combines. The flow channel 37 is in this case of connection device 33a , Connection housing 35 and a wall part 41 the connection device 33 established. The control electronics 40 is here within the connection device 33a arranged.

Furthermore, according to 9b also a connection device 33b be provided, which has a flow channel 37 and at the same time the ultrasonic flowmeter 34 at least partially accommodating the ultrasonic flowmeter 34 by means of a holder, such. B. a screw 45 , at the connection device 33b is fixed. The control electronics 40 of the ultrasonic flowmeter 34 is thereby outside the connection device 33b arranged. The flow channel 37 is preferably designed as a riser and z. B. faithfully to the terminal housing 35 of the ultrasonic flowmeter 34 to be ordered. For example, the flow channel 37 , According to FIG. 10a, semicircular and the connection housing 35 be designed fitting. In 10b is a particularly stable V-shaped configuration of the flow channel 37 shown. Through the V-shape of the flow channel 37 can be a better power transfer via the legs of the flow channel 37 on the connection housing 35 be guaranteed.

Conveniently, the connection device 21 Also be transformed so that an additional flow guidance of the medium takes place. For example, the flow of the medium before flowing through the ultrasonic measuring insert 27 additionally guided or deflected by the connection device 21 , as in 11 shown, a circumferential recess 43 or recess or molding in the upper region of the connection device 21 having. As a result, the flow deflection of the medium in the direction of recording 26 can be improved by preventing turbulence or congestion of the medium. Alternatively or additionally, projections, guide vanes or the like in the region of the connection device 21 be provided for flow guidance, which are not shown for clarity in the figures.

According to a particular embodiment of the present invention according to 12 can be a connector or a connection adapter 44 be provided to the sub-counter 20 at the composite counter 1 to join. The connection adapter 44 includes two connector adapter connectors, especially G3B connectors, around the connector adapter 44 at the connection 31 the sub-counter 20 and at the Nebenzähleranschluss 3a of the composite meter 1 to join. In addition, a union nut 45 be provided to increase the stability of the connection or the connection. Preferably, the connection adapter 44 , as in 12 shown curved to any orientation of the sub-counter 20 at the composite counter 1 to be able to choose. This allows the composite counter 1 adapted to the respective installation situation on site.

In 13 a further embodiment of the composite counter 1 according to the invention is shown. The secondary counter 20 in this case comprises a connection device 46 , by means of a conventional ultrasonic flowmeter 34 to the composite counter 1 can be connected. Here, the ultrasonic flowmeter 34 is arranged such that the medium first the ultrasonic flowmeter 34 or the measuring insert 27 flows through it before it is at the top of the connection device 46 is redirected and again in the direction of the composite meter 1 flows. The connection device 46 in this case has angled connection lines 47a, 47b, to which the ultrasonic flowmeter 34 in a simple way, for. B. by means of a union nut 48 and screws 49 , can be attached. Furthermore, sealing elements in the region of the transition between ultrasonic flow meter 34 and the connection lines 47a, 47b.

In 14 is an alternative embodiment of the composite meter 1 shown. The inlet channel 18 and the outlet channel 19 are in this case via connecting pieces 53a, 53b routed to the outside or extended, ie they are not located within the composite meter housing 2 , The fittings 53a . 53b essentially form a connection device, which is used to connect the sub-counter 20 at the composite counter 1 serves. The secondary counter 20 can in this case via connecting means, such. B. a union nut 48 or screws 49 and associated sealing elements (in 14 not shown) are mounted on the fittings 53a, 53b. Furthermore, the reflux valve 16 , as in 14 shown, directly in the connection piece 53b be provided.

numeral 50 in 15 denotes a connection device of the sub-counter 20 in which a conventional ultrasonic flowmeter 34 with an ultrasonic measuring insert 27 angular, in particular rectangular, for connection orientation of the connection device 50 oriented can be attached. For this purpose, preferably on both sides of the ultrasonic flowmeter 34 attached connection extensions 51 be provided, the z. B. by means of union nuts 48 at the connection device 50 be attached. Furthermore, the connection extensions 51 via fasteners on the ultrasonic flowmeter 34 or at the connection housing 35 be mounted or integral part of the connection housing 35 be. In addition, the connection extensions 51, in 15 not shown, have means for venting, through which the medium can be vented when flowing through.

16 shows an alternative embodiment of the composite meter 1 , The secondary counter 20 in this case comprises a connection device 52 , which is intended to use an ultrasonic measuring insert 27 take. The ultrasonic measuring insert 27 is angular, in particular rectangular, for connection orientation of the connection device 52 oriented. The advantage of this embodiment variant is that the medium is the connection device 52 Flows through U-shaped, ie that the ultrasonic measuring insert 27 is streamed from below. The connection device 52 This can be done with maximum utilization of the length of the ultrasonic measuring insert 27 be extremely compact dimensions, so that the secondary meter according to the invention 20 save space and can be mounted in a simple manner.

Further, the secondary counter 20 prepared for this, the switching operation of the switching device 13 or to determine the switching process triggering flow. Subsequently, the flow initiating the switching process becomes the configuration of the main counter 7 , the secondary counter 20 and / or the switching device 13 used, whereby the measuring ranges of main counter 7 and sub-counter 20 can be optimally matched to each other. The main counter 7 and the secondary counter 20 own according to 17 in each case one measurement deviation / flow characteristic curve or one main counter characteristic curve HZ and a sub count characteristic NZ , Of the Switching usually takes place in the switching range SB instead of and is determined by the start and end of the shift. Therefore, by tuning the characteristics within the switching range SB an additional improvement of the measurement accuracy can be achieved.

The diagram in 17 also shows the lower measuring range limit of the main counter umbg HZ and the lower measuring range limit of the secondary counter uMbg NZ , ie the smallest measurable flow rate, as well as the upper measuring range limit of the secondary counter OMBG NZ , ie the largest measurable flow rate of the secondary meter 20 , The upper measuring range limit of the main counter is in this embodiment in a very high flow area, so that in 17 not shown. In addition, there is usually an overlapping area of the two characteristic curves, in which the flow rate in each case from the main meter 7 and from the secondary counter 20 within a tolerable measurement deviation (ie a tolerance range of, for example, +/- 2%) can be determined. This overlapping area should be as low as possible in order to maximize the dynamic range of the compound meter 1 and should also be marginal to prevent flow areas that do not exist from the composite meter 1 be recorded. For example, such a configuration of the composite counter is 1 with a mechanical main meter and a mechanical auxiliary meter difficult to carry out, since a characteristic determination is very difficult to achieve. Therefore, generic all-mechanical composite meters are typically factory configured to have as large an overlap area as possible to ensure that there are no flow areas that are not detected. Accordingly, however, the measurement dynamics of such a composite counter decreases. This, however, that but the secondary counter 20 is designed as an ultrasonic counter, the characteristic of the secondary counter 20 and possibly the main counter 7 be determined in a simple manner, since the secondary counter characteristic NZ anyway by the control electronics 40 of the ultrasonic flowmeter 34 is detected. In addition, the switching point or the switching operation can be determined. For example, the fact that the switching process a characteristic shift, in particular the secondary counter characteristic NZ causes.

Consequently, based on the determined switching process, the characteristics of the main counter 7 and sub-counter 20 be adapted, for. B. by the shift of the main counter characteristic HZ to B. metrological variations during the switching process to prevent and adapt to the overlap area or to reduce. Furthermore, the characteristics HZ respectively. NZ z. B. by the dimensioning of the components used, the control of the ultrasonic transducer 28a . 28b or the like can be varied. The characteristics HZ or NZ can be moved in particular along the horizontal and / or vertical diagram axis to the characteristics HZ respectively. NZ to coordinate with each other. Alternatively or additionally, the slope of the respective characteristic curve HZ respectively. NZ to be changed. In addition, the switching process can be influenced by z. B. the spring element 15 is adjusted. This allows the flow rate at which the switching device 13 switches and / or the length and intensity of the switching process can be set. Exceeding the tolerance range, ie the minimum and maximum tolerable error can thus be prevented In addition, other parameters such. As temperature, pressure or the like, by the control electronics 40 of the ultrasonic flowmeter 34 be recorded. Furthermore, the characteristics HZ respectively. NZ Information about the state of the switching device 13 , the switching frequency (number of circuits), the flow range in which the switching range SB located, the temporal switching behavior and thus also changes over the operating time, the duration of the operation of the main meter 7 and / or sub-counter 20 as well as recording an error curve from main counter 7 and sub-counter 20 enable. The error curve allows later evaluations and associated further optimizations of the composite meter.

Also explicitly included in the disclosure content are individual feature combinations (sub-combinations) as well as possible combinations of individual features of different embodiments that are not shown in the drawing figures.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

compound meter

2

casing

3

housing cover

3a

Secondary meter connection

4

screw

5

inlet

6

outlet

7

main counter

8th

measuring channel

9

sealing element

10

Feeler

11

turbine

12

counter

13

switching device

14

closure cap

15

spring element

16

Backflow valve

17

feather

18

inlet channel

19

exhaust port

20

Batch counter

21

connecting device

22

Secondary meter inlet

23

Besides counting outlet

24

O-ring

25

wall

26

admission

27

Ultrasonic measuring insert

28a

ultrasound transducer

28b

ultrasound transducer

29a

reflector

29b

reflector

30

Ultrasonic measurement section

31

connection

32

thread

33

connecting device

33a

connecting device

33b

connecting device

34

Ultrasonic flowmeter

35

connection housing

36

retaining element

37

flow channel

38

Connection housing inlet

39

Anschlussgehäuseauslass

40

control electronics

41

wall part

42

flow director

42a

passage

42b

Durchgangswandung

43

deepening

44

connection adapter

45

Nut

46

connecting device

47

connecting cable

48

Nut

49

screw

50

connecting device

51

terminal extension

52

connecting device

53a

connector

53b

connector

HZ

Main counter characteristic (mechanical)

NZ

Secondary counter characteristic (ultrasound)

uMbg HZ

lower measuring range limit of the main counter (mechanical)

uMbg NZ

lower measuring range limit of the sub-counter (ultrasound)

oMbg NZ

upper measuring range limit of the sub-counter (ultrasound)

SB

switching range

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 19651202 C2 [0006]
• DE 10103745 A1 [0007]
• DE 102005001897 A1 [0008]

Claims (17)

Adaptable secondary meter (20) for a compound meter (1) for determining the flow of a flowing medium, having a secondary meter inlet (22), a secondary meter outlet (23), between a secondary meter inlet (22) and a secondary meter outlet (23), viewed in the flow direction of the flowing medium a measuring device, a connection device (21, 33, 33a, 33b, 46, 50, 52) for connecting the sub-counter (20) to the composite counter (1) and a port (31), for connecting the sub-counter (20) to the composite counter (1), characterized in that the measuring insert is an ultrasonic measuring insert (27), the ultrasonic measuring insert (27) flows through the medium in a straight line, ie without deflection, and the ultrasonic measuring insert (27) has a U-shaped ultrasonic measuring section (30 ) having. Sub-counter (20) after Claim 1 , characterized in that the ultrasonic measuring insert (27) is oriented parallel to the connection orientation of the connection device (21, 33, 33a, 33b, 46). Sub-counter (20) after Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the secondary counter inlet (22) and the Nebenzählerauslass (23) in the region of the terminal (31) are arranged. Secondary counter (20) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ultrasonic measuring insert (27) is surrounded by a connection housing (35), and the connection housing (35) via a holding device in or on the connection device (33, 33a, 33b, 46, 50) is fixed. Sub-counter (20) after Claim 4 characterized in that the terminal housing (35) has a terminal housing inlet (38) and a terminal housing outlet (39) and the terminal housing inlet (38) or the terminal housing outlet (39) is disposed in the region of the terminal (31). Sub-counter (20) after at least one of Claims 1 - 3 , characterized in that the connecting device (21) has a wall (25) which defines a receptacle (26) and the receptacle (26) is provided to receive the ultrasonic measuring insert (27). Sub-counter (20) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connection device (21, 33, 33a, 33b) has a concentric structure. Auxiliary meter (20) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connection device (21, 33, 33a, 33b) has a flow channel (37) arranged on the connection housing (35) or on the wall (25). Sub-counter (20) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a concentric connection, preferably a concentric screw connection, is provided as connection (31). Sub-counter (20) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connection device (21, 33, 33a, 33b, 46, 50, 52) has means for flow guidance. Secondary counter (20) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connection device (33) has a, preferably curved, connection adapter (44) for connection of the sub-counter (20), wherein the connection adapter (44) has two connection adapter connections, whereby the Connection adapter (44) to the connection device (33) and the composite counter (1) can be connected. A secondary meter (20) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that within the sub-counter (20) there is provided a flow straightener (42) having at least one passage (42a), preferably a plurality of passages (42a) which are from Medium are flowed through, wherein a passage (42 a) respectively by passage walls (42 b) is limited, and the orientation of the passage walls (42 b) determines the direction of flow of the medium through the respective passage (42 a). Composite counter (1) for flow determination of a flowing medium, with a composite counter housing (2), preferably with a housing cover (3), an inlet (5), an outlet (6), a measuring channel (8), a main counter (7), for Detecting larger flow rates within the measuring channel (8), preferably a switching device (13), which can open and close the passage through the measuring channel (8) depending on the flow, and a secondary counter (20), for detecting smaller flow rates, wherein the secondary counter (20) is dismountable as a unit, characterized in that as a secondary counter (20) for detecting smaller flow rates, a sub-counter (20) is provided according to at least one of the preceding claims. Composite counter (1) to Claim 13 , characterized in that at least one concentric auxiliary meter connection (3a) is provided on the composite meter housing (2) and / or housing cover (3) and the secondary meter (20) via the auxiliary meter connection (3a) on the composite meter housing (2) or on the housing cover (3). is attached. Connecting device (21, 33, 33a, 33b, 46, 50, 52), in particular sub-counter housing, for a secondary meter (20) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting device (21, 33, 33a, 33b, 46, 50, 52 ) comprises a sub-counter inlet (22) and a Nebenzählerauslass (23) of the sub-counter (20), and a terminal (31) for connecting the sub-counter (20) to the composite counter (1), wherein the sub-counter inlet (22) and the Nebenzählerauslass ( 23) are arranged in the region of the connection (31), characterized in that the connection device (21, 33, 33a, 33b, 46, 50, 52) is adapted to an ultrasonic measuring insert (27) or a connection housing (35) with a Include ultrasonic measuring insert (27), and the connection device (21, 33, 33a, 33b, 46, 50, 52) is designed such that it is connectable to the composite counter (1). Method for operating a composite meter (1), for determining the flow of a flowing medium, with a composite meter housing (2), an inlet (5), an outlet (6), a measuring channel (8), a main meter (7), for detecting larger flow rates within the measuring channel (8), preferably a switching device (13) which can open and close the passage through the measuring channel (8) and a secondary counter (20), for detecting smaller flow rates, the secondary counter (20) as a unit disassembled is, characterized in that as a secondary counter (20) an ultrasonic sub-counter, preferably a sub-counter (20) after at least one of Claims 1 - 12 is provided, and the secondary counter (20) determines the switching process triggering flow. Method according to Claim 16 , characterized in that due to the switching process triggering flow of the main counter (7), the sub-counter (20) and / or the switching device (13) is configured or become.

Images