EP1479910B1 - Sensor membrane - Google Patents

Sensor membrane Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1479910B1
EP1479910B1 EP04101686A EP04101686A EP1479910B1 EP 1479910 B1 EP1479910 B1 EP 1479910B1 EP 04101686 A EP04101686 A EP 04101686A EP 04101686 A EP04101686 A EP 04101686A EP 1479910 B1 EP1479910 B1 EP 1479910B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
diaphragm
membrane
layer
sensor
conductive
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Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP04101686A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1479910A2 (en
EP1479910A3 (en
Inventor
Rainer Weisbrodt
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Prominent Dosiertechnik GmbH
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Prominent Dosiertechnik GmbH
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Priority to PL04101686T priority Critical patent/PL1479910T3/en
Priority to SI200430443T priority patent/SI1479910T1/en
Publication of EP1479910A2 publication Critical patent/EP1479910A2/en
Publication of EP1479910A3 publication Critical patent/EP1479910A3/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1479910B1 publication Critical patent/EP1479910B1/en
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    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04B—POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS
    • F04B43/00—Machines, pumps, or pumping installations having flexible working members
    • F04B43/0009—Special features
    • F04B43/0054—Special features particularities of the flexible members
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04B—POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS
    • F04B43/00—Machines, pumps, or pumping installations having flexible working members
    • F04B43/0009—Special features
    • F04B43/0081—Special features systems, control, safety measures
    • F04B43/009—Special features systems, control, safety measures leakage control; pump systems with two flexible members; between the actuating element and the pumped fluid
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F05—INDEXING SCHEMES RELATING TO ENGINES OR PUMPS IN VARIOUS SUBCLASSES OF CLASSES F01-F04
    • F05C—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO MATERIALS, MATERIAL PROPERTIES OR MATERIAL CHARACTERISTICS FOR MACHINES, ENGINES OR PUMPS OTHER THAN NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES OR ENGINES
    • F05C2225/00—Synthetic polymers, e.g. plastics; Rubber
    • F05C2225/04—PTFE [PolyTetraFluorEthylene]

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a sensor membrane with a plurality of sandwiched membrane layers arranged, which makes it possible to determine a rupture of the delivery membrane during operation or at a standstill.
  • Diaphragm pumps have been known in the prior art in which a flexible diaphragm which seals a pump volume is rapidly reciprocated to produce a fluid, i. a liquid or gas to be sucked through an intake valve and exhausted in the next cycle through an exhaust valve.
  • a fluid i. a liquid or gas to be sucked through an intake valve and exhausted in the next cycle through an exhaust valve.
  • Such diaphragm pumps are often used for dosing chemicals in process engineering processes.
  • the membranes must be inert to harsh chemicals, e.g. Acids, be. Therefore, the delivery membrane is usually made of the PTFE available under the brand Teflon (polytetrafluoroethylene).
  • Teflon polytetrafluoroethylene
  • sensor membranes which generate an electrical warning signal when tearing the delivery membrane.
  • the publication EP 0 715 690 B1 shows a conveyor membrane, in which in the PTFE layer, a wire loop is poured, which covers the largest possible area of the membrane. If the membrane tears or breaks, the wire of the loop also breaks and the electrical contact is interrupted. The interruption of the contact is detected by a corresponding evaluation and triggered an alarm signal.
  • a disadvantage here proves that the wires due to which, that they must be designed very thin, can already tear off by the mechanical stress during walking of the membrane, although no cracks have occurred in the PTFE material of the delivery membrane.
  • the pamphlets US 4,569,634 and WO 95/27194 show conveyor membranes, in which the membrane has a conductive membrane layer below the actual conveyor membrane, or the delivery membrane is traversed by a conductive membrane layer.
  • the conductive membrane layer is connected to the one terminal of a resistance measuring device.
  • the second terminal of the resistance measuring device is connected to the body of the pump volume or with an electrode mounted therein. If cracks or breaks now occur in the delivery membrane, the liquid closes the contact between the body and the conductive membrane layer in the membrane, and a warning signal is issued.
  • a disadvantage of these sensor membranes proves that the body of the pumping volume must consist of a conductive material, or a conductive electrode must be mounted in the pump volume. This limits the scope of a pump with such a membrane to liquids that do not attack the metals, since the pumping volume can not be fully occupied with a chemically inert plastic.
  • a sensor membrane which has two conductive layers within the membrane, which are isolated by a further non-conductive layer against each other. There are all three layers of rubber, which is mixed for the conductive layers with carbon. If the delivery membrane arranged above the rubber layers now breaks, the liquid or gas to be pumped comes into contact with the first conductive layer. If this first conductive layer and also the underlying insulating rubber layer breaks, then the liquid shorts the two conductive layers and a warning signal is output.
  • a major disadvantage of this embodiment of a sensor membrane is that fractures in the delivery membrane are detected only when the lying below the conveyor membrane conductive and insulating membrane layers are broken out of rubber. A membrane rupture is therefore only displayed at a very advanced time of damage. Especially in the case of very aggressive liquids, liquid may have already entered the drive unit of the pump at this time.
  • the present invention has the object to provide a sensor membrane available that solves the aforementioned problems.
  • the sensor membrane according to the invention comprises a plurality of sandwiched membrane layers comprising a conveyor membrane, arranged underneath a first electrically conductive membrane layer, an underlying disposed electrically insulating membrane layer and a second disposed underneath electrically conductive membrane layer, wherein the first and second conductive membrane layers through the electrical insulating membrane layer are separated from each other and electrically insulated and the second electrically conductive membrane layer has portions which pass through openings in the electrically insulating membrane layer and through openings in the first electrically conductive membrane layer and the electrically insulating membrane layer has portions passing through openings in the first conductive Pass through membrane layer.
  • the inventive solution of the task is particularly advantageous because a break in the delivery membrane is detected as soon as liquid has passed through the delivery membrane and has penetrated to the level of the first conductive membrane layer. Up to this level, i. above the first conductive membrane layer, the material of the second membrane layer extending through the openings also extends. In the normal state, i. intact condition, however, the materials of the first and second conductive membrane layers are electrically isolated from each other by the material of the insulating membrane layer which also passes through the openings in the first conductive membrane layer. Only when the liquid penetrates and wetting takes place in the region of the passage openings with liquid, there is the formation of a measurable electrically conductive connection between the first conductive membrane layer and the second conductive membrane layer on the liquid. On the other hand, it is not necessary to break up the membrane layers lying below the delivery membrane in order to trigger the signal.
  • the delivery membrane is made of a flexible chemically inert plastic, preferably polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).
  • PTFE polytetrafluoroethylene
  • the electrically conductive and electrically insulating diaphragm layers are made of rubber, preferably a plastic-fiber-reinforced EPDM (ethylene-propylene terpolymer).
  • a plastic-fiber-reinforced EPDM ethylene-propylene terpolymer
  • Such a rubber has the advantage that it is highly flexible, pressure resistant and very durable. This applies precisely to the flexing movements occurring in the membranes in membrane pumps. When the rubber is mixed with an appropriate amount of carbon particles, it becomes conductive, with the positive properties of the rubber being fully or at least sufficiently preserved.
  • the passages of the second electrically conductive layer through the first electrically conductive membrane layer and the insulating membrane layer are arranged in the vicinity of the diaphragm regions in the gewalkten membrane regions. These are mainly in the area around the clamping area of the membrane and in the areas surrounding the membrane core. These are particularly stressed during the lifting movements of the membrane. Therefore, cracks and cracks in the delivery membrane first occur at these points, so that it is expected that this Make first liquid on the lying under the conveyor diaphragm membrane layers. If the passages are arranged in this area, an alarm signal is triggered immediately when the liquid passes through.
  • the membrane is substantially circular disk-shaped. Due to the symmetry then the loads occur through the walking movements evenly distributed over the circumference of the membrane. It is advantageous if the membrane layers have substantially the same diameter. This prevents, for example, liquid from passing into the region of the pump drive when tearing of the delivery membrane to the underlying membrane layers.
  • An embodiment of the invention is particularly preferred in which the passages through the first electrically conductive membrane layer have a circular, oval or square shape, with circular penetrations being particularly preferred for stability reasons.
  • at least some of the passages are kidney-shaped openings arranged around the center of the membrane.
  • many possible contact bridges which can detect a rupture of the delivery membrane can be arranged on the circumference of the membrane. Due to the circular disk shape of the membrane, it is advantageous if the passages are arranged symmetrically around the center of the membrane. In addition, it may be advantageous if a penetration in the center of the membrane is arranged. In this way, all areas of the delivery membrane that are particularly stressed by walking can be monitored for cracks and breaks.
  • the passages may be in the form of concentric circles around the center of the membrane. This makes it possible to monitor the tightness of the delivery membrane over the entire circumference in the region of maximum stress.
  • the delivery membrane has one or more sealing beads arranged concentrically around the center of the membrane. These are arranged in the region of the clamping region of the membrane, so that they form an effective seal between the delivery membrane and the pump volume limiting housing here. Since the delivery membrane does not need to be further sealed, it can be easily replaced without the need for additional sealant.
  • the membrane has a membrane core made of plastic or metal or combinations thereof, which is arranged below the second conductive membrane layer symmetrically to the center of the membrane. This forms the mechanical connection between the individual membrane layers and the mechanism driving the membrane.
  • a further insulating membrane layer is arranged below the second conductive membrane layer, i. between this and the membrane core. This establishes electrical insulation between the second conductive membrane layer and the membrane core. It can also be positively connected to the membrane core, so that it transmits the movement of the core directly to the membrane.
  • the individual layers of the membrane are inseparably connected to each other, for example by vulcanization or gluing.
  • the lifting movement is optimally transferred to all layers and especially to the delivery membrane.
  • an embodiment of the invention in which the two electrically conductive diaphragm layers are connected to the two terminals of a resistance, current or voltage measuring device.
  • a bridging of the insulation between the two electrically conductive membrane layers by the liquid to be pumped can be easily detected by means of a change in the resistance and possibly output an alarm signal.
  • the conductive membrane layers are preferably, as stated above, made of rubber, which are admixed with carbon particles for the conductivity.
  • the conductivity of these mixtures is not comparable to that of metallic conductors, but a few orders of magnitude lower.
  • the resistors to be measured at contact closure between the first and second conductive membrane layer are therefore usually in the megaohm range. It is expedient if the conductive membrane layers are contacted by means of metallic contact pins from the opposite side of the liquid to be pumped from.
  • the first conductive membrane layer contacting pin passes through the second electrically conductive membrane layer and the electrically insulating membrane layer, wherein it is in the region of the second electrically conductive membrane layer by material of the insulating membrane layer opposite the second electrically conductive membrane layer or another insulating material is isolated.
  • Such a design makes it possible to easily replace the membrane, since can apply a simple plug-in connection on the contact pins, which connects the membrane with the corresponding measuring electronics.
  • FIG. 1 clearly shows the schematic structure of a preferred embodiment of the sensor membrane according to the invention.
  • the delivery membrane 1 forms the uppermost layer of the sensor membrane. It consists in the embodiment shown of PTFE.
  • two sealing beads 8 can be seen, which protrude from the conveying membrane 1.
  • the two sealing beads 8 are located in the so-called clamping region 9 of the membrane. This area is clamped under pressure in the clamping bracket of the diaphragm pump provided for this purpose.
  • the sealing beads 8 seal the membrane against its holder, so that no liquid can escape from the working space.
  • Below the conveying membrane 1, the first conductive membrane layer 2 is arranged below the conveying membrane 1.
  • the first conductive membrane layer 2 forms a continuous body, which is manufactured as a part. This can be seen particularly clearly in the exploded view in FIG. Herein, the individual layers of the sensor membrane according to the invention are shown prior to assembly.
  • the first conductive membrane layer 2 has openings 6. Below the first conductive membrane layer 2, the insulating membrane layer 3, also made of rubber with plastic fibers, arranged. This has areas 12 which extend beyond the plane formed by the membrane layer 3 upwards and reach through the openings 6 of the first conductive membrane layer 2.
  • the second electrically conductive membrane layer 4 is arranged below the insulating membrane layer 3. This has areas 7, which protrude from the plane formed by the membrane layer 4 and through the openings 5 in the insulating membrane layer 3 in the openings 6 of the first conductive Engage membrane layer 2. They are surrounded by the likewise engaging in the openings 6 of the first conductive membrane layer 2 areas 12 of the insulating membrane layer 3 and thus electrically isolated from the first conductive membrane layer 2.
  • Figure 3 shows an alternative embodiment to the membrane of Figures 1 and 2 with a slightly different number and arrangement of the through openings. Otherwise, the structure is the same, which is why the same parts are designated by the same reference numerals.
  • the individual layers of the membrane are joined together by vulcanization or gluing, so that they form a unit mechanically.
  • a membrane core 10 is arranged made of metal or plastic. This consists essentially of a cylindrical rod having a receptacle 15 at the lower end, in which engages the connecting rod of the drive unit.
  • the membrane core 10 transmits the translational movement of the drive unit to the layers of the sensor membrane located above the membrane core 10.
  • the lowermost insulating membrane layer 11 is designed so that it engages positively in the head 16 of the membrane core 10.
  • the translational movement of the membrane core 10 in both the lifting and in the suction direction is transferred to the membrane layers (1, 2, 3, 4, 11) arranged above the core 10. This can also be seen particularly clearly in FIG.
  • the electrical contacting of the electrically conductive membrane layers 2, 4 takes place with the aid of metal pins 13 and 14, which pass through the lowermost insulating membrane layer 11 into the corresponding electrically conductive membrane layers. It is important to ensure that the pin 13, which contacts the first electrically conductive membrane layer 2 by means of the material of the insulating membrane layer 3 or with another material with respect to the second electrically conductive membrane layer 4 is isolated.
  • the pins 13 and 14 are connected to the two terminals of a resistance measuring device.
  • the electrical resistance between the two electrically conductive membranes 2, 4 is measured. If the delivery membrane 1 is intact, i. if it has no continuous cracks or breaks, the surface of the membrane layers located below the delivery membrane 1 will not be wetted by the liquid and the resistance between the first and second electrically conductive layers (2, 4) is extremely large. In case of damage, i.
  • the liquid to be conveyed passes through the conveying membrane 1 and wets the surface of the membrane layers underlying the conveying membrane 1, so that the electrical resistance between the first 2 and second 2 electrically conductive membrane layer becomes smaller , eg in the range of 50 M ā‡ and less.
  • Such a decrease in the electrical resistance can be detected by the resistance measuring device and triggers when falling below a previously set threshold, an alarm.
  • the sensor membrane can be replaced immediately after the occurrence of the leak alarm or after a predetermined time interval.
  • the replacement of the membrane is due to the design of their mechanical and electrical connections conceivable simple and executable semi-skilled workers.
  • the edge regions of the membrane are clamped in a holder provided for this purpose and are automatically sealed due to the provided sealing beads 8 after clamping.
  • the electrical connection to the pins 13 and 14 by means of a standardized connector element.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Reciprocating Pumps (AREA)
  • Investigating Or Analyzing Materials By The Use Of Electric Means (AREA)
  • Measuring Fluid Pressure (AREA)
  • Investigating Or Analyzing Materials By The Use Of Fluid Adsorption Or Reactions (AREA)
  • Diaphragms And Bellows (AREA)
  • Laminated Bodies (AREA)
  • Separation Using Semi-Permeable Membranes (AREA)

Abstract

A sensor membrane comprises two electrically conductive layers (2, 4) which are located below a pump membrane (1) and are separated from one another by an electrically nonconductive layer (3). The integrity of the pump membrane is ascertained by measurement of the resistance between the two electrically conductive layers. An independent claim is also included for a membrane pump for liquids with the proposed sensor membrane.

Description

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft eine Sensormembran mit mehreren sandwichartig Ć¼bereinander angeordneten Membranlagen, die es erlaubt, einen Bruch der Fƶrdermembran wƤhrend des Betriebes oder im Stillstand festzustellen.The present invention relates to a sensor membrane with a plurality of sandwiched membrane layers arranged, which makes it possible to determine a rupture of the delivery membrane during operation or at a standstill.

Aus dem Stand der Technik sind Membranpumpen bekannt, bei denen eine flexible Membran, die ein Pumpenvolumen abschlieƟt, schnell hin und her bewegt wird, um ein Fluid, d.h. eine FlĆ¼ssigkeit oder ein Gas, durch ein EinlaƟventil anzusaugen und im nƤchsten Arbeitszyklus durch ein AuslaƟventil auszustoƟen. Solche Membranpumpen werden hƤufig zum Dosieren von Chemikalien in verfahrenstechnischen Prozessen verwendet. Die Membranen mĆ¼ssen inert gegenĆ¼ber aggressiven Chemikalien, z.B. SƤuren, sein. Daher wird die Fƶrdermembran zumeist aus dem unter der Marke Teflon erhƤltlichen Kunststoff PTFE (Polytetrafluorethylen) hergestellt. PTFE hat die Eigenschaft, daƟ es in hohem MaƟe flexibel ist, vor allem wenn es in dĆ¼nnen Membranlagen verarbeitet wird. Jedoch brechen solche Kunststoffmembranen mit der Zeit an besonders beanspruchten Stellen. Diese liegen im Fall von Membranen, die als Fƶrdermembranen in Pumpen verwendet werden, vor allem in den zu den Einspannbereichen der Membran benachbarten Bereichen der Fƶrdermembran, die wƤhrend des Betriebes besonders gewalkt werden. Kommt es zum Bruch der Fƶrdermembran, so strƶmt das zu fƶrdernde Fluid in den Bereich der Antriebsmechanik fĆ¼r die Membran, wo es zum Beispiel aufgrund seiner Ƥtzenden oder korrosiven Wirkung zu dauerhaften SchƤdigungen der Pumpenmechanik fĆ¼hren kann.Diaphragm pumps have been known in the prior art in which a flexible diaphragm which seals a pump volume is rapidly reciprocated to produce a fluid, i. a liquid or gas to be sucked through an intake valve and exhausted in the next cycle through an exhaust valve. Such diaphragm pumps are often used for dosing chemicals in process engineering processes. The membranes must be inert to harsh chemicals, e.g. Acids, be. Therefore, the delivery membrane is usually made of the PTFE available under the brand Teflon (polytetrafluoroethylene). PTFE has the property of being highly flexible, especially when processed in thin membrane layers. However, such plastic membranes break with time in particularly stressed areas. These are in the case of membranes, which are used as conveyor membranes in pumps, especially in the areas adjacent to the clamping areas of the membrane areas of the delivery membrane, which are particularly driven during operation. If the delivery diaphragm breaks, the fluid to be pumped flows into the area of the drive mechanism for the diaphragm, where, for example, due to its corrosive or corrosive action, it can lead to permanent damage to the pump mechanism.

Daher ist es wĆ¼nschenswert, BrĆ¼che und Risse in der Fƶrdermembran mƶglichst frĆ¼hzeitig zu erkennen, so daƟ die Membran ausgetauscht werden kann bevor sie vollends durchbricht.Therefore, it is desirable to detect breaks and cracks in the delivery membrane as early as possible, so that the membrane can be replaced before it breaks completely.

Zum frĆ¼hzeitigen Erkennen von BrĆ¼chen in der Fƶrdermembran sind sogenannte Sensormembranen bekannt, die beim EinreiƟen der Fƶrdermembran ein elektrisches Warnsignal erzeugen.For early detection of cracks in the delivery membrane so-called sensor membranes are known which generate an electrical warning signal when tearing the delivery membrane.

Die Druckschrift EP 0 715 690 B1 zeigt eine Fƶrdermembran, bei der in die PTFE-Lage eine Drahtschleife eingegossen ist, die eine mƶglichst groƟe FlƤche der Membran bedeckt. ReiƟt oder bricht die Membran, so reiƟt der Draht der Schleife ebenfalls und der elektrische Kontakt wird unterbrochen. Die Unterbrechung des Kontaktes wird durch eine entsprechende Auswertelektronik erfaƟt und ein Alarmsignal ausgelƶst. Als nachteilig erweist sich hierbei, daƟ die DrƤhte aufgrund dessen, daƟ sie sehr dĆ¼nn ausgelegt werden mĆ¼ssen, bereits durch die mechanische Beanspruchung beim Walken der Membran abreiƟen kƶnnen, obwohl noch keine Risse im PTFE-Material der Fƶrdermembran aufgetreten sind.The publication EP 0 715 690 B1 shows a conveyor membrane, in which in the PTFE layer, a wire loop is poured, which covers the largest possible area of the membrane. If the membrane tears or breaks, the wire of the loop also breaks and the electrical contact is interrupted. The interruption of the contact is detected by a corresponding evaluation and triggered an alarm signal. A disadvantage here proves that the wires due to which, that they must be designed very thin, can already tear off by the mechanical stress during walking of the membrane, although no cracks have occurred in the PTFE material of the delivery membrane.

Die Druckschriften US 4,569,634 und WO 95/27194 zeigen Fƶrdermembranen, bei denen die Membran eine leitfƤhige Membranlage unterhalb der eigentlichen Fƶrdermembran aufweist, bzw. die Fƶrdermembran von einer leitfƤhigen Membranlage durchzogen ist. Die leitfƤhige Membranlage ist mit dem einen AnschluƟ eines WiderstandsmeƟgerƤtes verbunden. Der zweite AnschluƟ des WiderstandsmeƟgerƤtes ist mit dem Korpus des Pumpenvolumens bzw. mit einer darin angebrachten Elektrode verbunden. Treten nun Risse oder BrĆ¼che in der Fƶrdermembran auf, so schlieƟt die FlĆ¼ssigkeit den Kontakt zwischen dem Korpus und der leitfƤhigen Membranlage in der Membran, und es wird ein Warnsignal ausgegeben. Als nachteilig erweist sich bei diesen Sensormembranen, daƟ der Korpus des Pumpvolumens aus einem leitfƤhigen Material bestehen muƟ, bzw. eine leitfƤhige Elektrode in dem Pumpvolumen angebracht sein muƟ. Dies beschrƤnkt den Anwendungsbereich einer Pumpe mit einer solchen Membran auf FlĆ¼ssigkeiten, die die Metalle nicht angreifen, da sich das Pumpvolumen nicht vollstƤndig mit einem chemisch inerten Kunststoff belegen lƤƟt.The pamphlets US 4,569,634 and WO 95/27194 show conveyor membranes, in which the membrane has a conductive membrane layer below the actual conveyor membrane, or the delivery membrane is traversed by a conductive membrane layer. The conductive membrane layer is connected to the one terminal of a resistance measuring device. The second terminal of the resistance measuring device is connected to the body of the pump volume or with an electrode mounted therein. If cracks or breaks now occur in the delivery membrane, the liquid closes the contact between the body and the conductive membrane layer in the membrane, and a warning signal is issued. A disadvantage of these sensor membranes proves that the body of the pumping volume must consist of a conductive material, or a conductive electrode must be mounted in the pump volume. This limits the scope of a pump with such a membrane to liquids that do not attack the metals, since the pumping volume can not be fully occupied with a chemically inert plastic.

In der EP 0 732 501 B1 wird demgegenĆ¼ber eine Sensormembran offenbart, die zwei leitfƤhige Lagen innerhalb der Membran aufweist, die durch eine weitere nicht leitende Lage gegeneinander isoliert sind. Dabei bestehen alle drei Lagen aus Gummi, das fĆ¼r die leitfƤhigen Lagen mit Kohlenstoff vermischt ist. Bricht nun die Ć¼ber den Gummilagen angeordnete Fƶrdermembran, so kommt die zu pumpende FlĆ¼ssigkeit oder das Gas mit der ersten leitfƤhigen Lage in Kontakt. Bricht nun auch diese erste leitfƤhige Lage und auch die darunter liegende isolierende Gummilage, so schlieƟt die FlĆ¼ssigkeit die beiden leitfƤhigen Lagen kurz und ein Warnsignal wird ausgegeben. Ein groƟer Nachteil bei dieser Ausgestaltung einer Sensormembran ist, daƟ BrĆ¼che in der Fƶrdermembran erst erfaƟt werden, wenn auch die unter der Fƶrdermembran liegenden leitfƤhigen und isolierenden Membranlagen aus Gummi durchgebrochen sind. Ein Membranbruch wird somit erst zu einem sehr weit fortgeschrittenen Zeitpunkt der BeschƤdigung angezeigt. Gerade bei sehr aggressiven FlĆ¼ssigkeiten kann zu diesem Zeitpunkt bereits FlĆ¼ssigkeit in die Antriebseinheit der Pumpe gelangt sein.In the EP 0 732 501 B1 In contrast, a sensor membrane is disclosed, which has two conductive layers within the membrane, which are isolated by a further non-conductive layer against each other. There are all three layers of rubber, which is mixed for the conductive layers with carbon. If the delivery membrane arranged above the rubber layers now breaks, the liquid or gas to be pumped comes into contact with the first conductive layer. If this first conductive layer and also the underlying insulating rubber layer breaks, then the liquid shorts the two conductive layers and a warning signal is output. A major disadvantage of this embodiment of a sensor membrane is that fractures in the delivery membrane are detected only when the lying below the conveyor membrane conductive and insulating membrane layers are broken out of rubber. A membrane rupture is therefore only displayed at a very advanced time of damage. Especially in the case of very aggressive liquids, liquid may have already entered the drive unit of the pump at this time.

GegenĆ¼ber diesem Stand der Technik liegt der vorliegenden Erfindung die Aufgabe zugrunde, eine Sensormembran zur VerfĆ¼gung zu stellen, die die zuvor genannten Probleme lƶst.Compared to this prior art, the present invention has the object to provide a sensor membrane available that solves the aforementioned problems.

Diese Aufgabe wird von der erfindungsgemƤƟen Sensormembran dadurch gelƶst, daƟ sie mehrere sandwichartig Ć¼bereinander angeordnete Membranlagen aufweist, welche eine Fƶrdermembran, eine darunter angeordnete erste elektrisch leitfƤhige Membranlage, eine darunter angeordnete elektrisch isolierende Membranlage und eine darunter angeordnete zweite elektrisch leitfƤhige Membranlage umfassen, wobei die ersten und zweiten leitfƤhigen Membranlagen durch die elektrisch isolierende Membranlage voneinander getrennt und elektrisch isoliert sind und die zweite elektrisch leitfƤhige Membranlage Abschnitte aufweist, die durch Ɩffnungen in der elektrisch isolierenden Membranlage und durch Ɩffnungen in der ersten elektrisch leitfƤhigen Membranlage hindurchgreifen und die elektrisch isolierende Membranlage Abschnitte aufweist, die durch Ɩffnungen in der ersten leitfƤhigen Membranlage hindurchgreifen.This object is achieved by the sensor membrane according to the invention in that it comprises a plurality of sandwiched membrane layers comprising a conveyor membrane, arranged underneath a first electrically conductive membrane layer, an underlying disposed electrically insulating membrane layer and a second disposed underneath electrically conductive membrane layer, wherein the first and second conductive membrane layers through the electrical insulating membrane layer are separated from each other and electrically insulated and the second electrically conductive membrane layer has portions which pass through openings in the electrically insulating membrane layer and through openings in the first electrically conductive membrane layer and the electrically insulating membrane layer has portions passing through openings in the first conductive Pass through membrane layer.

Die erfindungsgemƤƟe Lƶsung der Aufgabenstellung ist besonders vorteilhaft, da ein Bruch in der Fƶrdermembran erkannt wird, sobald FlĆ¼ssigkeit die Fƶrdermembran passiert hat und bis zur Ebene der ersten leitfƤhigen Membranlage vorgedrungen ist. Bis zu dieser Ebene, d.h. oberhalb der ersten leitfƤhigen Membranlage, reicht auch das durch die Ɩffnungen hindurchgreifende Material der zweiten Membranlage. Im Normalzustand, d.h. intakten Zustand, sind die Materialien der ersten und zweiten leitfƤhigen Membranlagen jedoch durch das Material der isolierenden Membranlage, das ebenfalls durch die Ɩffnungen in der ersten leitfƤhigen Membranlage hindurchgreift, elektrisch voneinander isoliert. Erst wenn die FlĆ¼ssigkeit eindringt und im Bereich der Durchtrittsƶffnungen eine Benetzung mit FlĆ¼ssigkeit stattfindet, kommt es zur Ausbildung einer meƟbaren elektrisch leitfƤhigen Verbindung zwischen erster leitfƤhiger Membranlage und zweiter leitfƤhiger Membranlage Ć¼ber die FlĆ¼ssigkeit. Ein Aufbrechen der unter der Fƶrdermembran liegenden Membranlagen ist zur Auslƶsung des Signals hingegen nicht notwendig.The inventive solution of the task is particularly advantageous because a break in the delivery membrane is detected as soon as liquid has passed through the delivery membrane and has penetrated to the level of the first conductive membrane layer. Up to this level, i. above the first conductive membrane layer, the material of the second membrane layer extending through the openings also extends. In the normal state, i. intact condition, however, the materials of the first and second conductive membrane layers are electrically isolated from each other by the material of the insulating membrane layer which also passes through the openings in the first conductive membrane layer. Only when the liquid penetrates and wetting takes place in the region of the passage openings with liquid, there is the formation of a measurable electrically conductive connection between the first conductive membrane layer and the second conductive membrane layer on the liquid. On the other hand, it is not necessary to break up the membrane layers lying below the delivery membrane in order to trigger the signal.

Bevorzugt wird eine AusfĆ¼hrungsform der Erfindung, bei der die Fƶrdermembran aus einem flexiblen chemisch inerten Kunststoff, vorzugsweise Polytetrafluorethylen (PTFE) hergestellt ist. Eine solche Ausgestaltung hat den Vorteil, daƟ die Membran von den meisten zu fƶrdernden Chemikalien nicht angegriffen wird.An embodiment of the invention is preferred in which the delivery membrane is made of a flexible chemically inert plastic, preferably polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Such an embodiment has the advantage that the membrane is not attacked by most chemicals to be delivered.

ZweckmƤƟig ist es, wenn die elektrisch leitfƤhigen und elektrisch isolierenden Membranlagen aus Gummi, vorzugsweise einem mit Kunststoffasern verstƤrkten EPDM (Ethylen-Propylen-Terpolymer) hergestellt sind. Ein solcher Gummi hat den Vorteil, daƟ er hoch flexibel, druckfest und sehr beanspruchbar ist. Dies gilt gerade fĆ¼r die bei den Membranen in Membranpumpen auftretenden Walkbewegungen. Wird der Gummi mit einer entsprechenden Menge von Kohlenstoffpartikeln vermischt, so wird er leitfƤhig, wobei die positiven Eigenschaften des Gummis voll oder zumindest in ausreichendem MaƟe erhalten bleiben.It is expedient if the electrically conductive and electrically insulating diaphragm layers are made of rubber, preferably a plastic-fiber-reinforced EPDM (ethylene-propylene terpolymer). Such a rubber has the advantage that it is highly flexible, pressure resistant and very durable. This applies precisely to the flexing movements occurring in the membranes in membrane pumps. When the rubber is mixed with an appropriate amount of carbon particles, it becomes conductive, with the positive properties of the rubber being fully or at least sufficiently preserved.

Es erweist sich als vorteilhaft, wenn die Durchgriffe der zweiten elektrisch leitfƤhigen Lage durch die erste elektrisch leitfƤhige Membranlage und die isolierende Membranlage in der NƤhe der beim Membranhub gewalkten Membranbereiche angeordnet sind. Diese liegen vor allem im Bereich um den Einspannbereich der Membran herum und in den den Membrankern umgebenden Bereichen. Diese werden bei den Hubbewegungen der Membran besonders beansprucht. Daher treten BrĆ¼che und Risse in der Fƶrdermembran zuerst an diesen Stellen auf, so daƟ zu erwarten ist, daƟ an diesen Stellen zuerst FlĆ¼ssigkeit auf die unter der Fƶrdermembran liegenden Membranlagen trifft. Sind die Durchgriffe in diesem Bereich angeordnet, so wird ein Alarmsignal unmittelbar beim Durchtreten der FlĆ¼ssigkeit ausgelƶst.It proves to be advantageous if the passages of the second electrically conductive layer through the first electrically conductive membrane layer and the insulating membrane layer are arranged in the vicinity of the diaphragm regions in the gewalkten membrane regions. These are mainly in the area around the clamping area of the membrane and in the areas surrounding the membrane core. These are particularly stressed during the lifting movements of the membrane. Therefore, cracks and cracks in the delivery membrane first occur at these points, so that it is expected that this Make first liquid on the lying under the conveyor diaphragm membrane layers. If the passages are arranged in this area, an alarm signal is triggered immediately when the liquid passes through.

Bevorzugt wird eine AusfĆ¼hrungsform der Erfindung, bei der die Membran im wesentlichen kreisscheibenfƶrmig ist. Aufgrund der Symmetrie treten dann die Belastungen durch die walkenden Bewegungen gleichmƤƟig verteilt Ć¼ber den Umfang der Membran auf. Vorteilhaft ist es, wenn die Membranlagen im wesentlichen den gleichen Durchmesser aufweisen. So wird verhindert, daƟ beispielsweise beim EinreiƟen der Fƶrdermembran an den darunterliegenden Membranlagen FlĆ¼ssigkeit vorbei in den Bereich des Pumpenantriebs gelangt.Preferred is an embodiment of the invention in which the membrane is substantially circular disk-shaped. Due to the symmetry then the loads occur through the walking movements evenly distributed over the circumference of the membrane. It is advantageous if the membrane layers have substantially the same diameter. This prevents, for example, liquid from passing into the region of the pump drive when tearing of the delivery membrane to the underlying membrane layers.

Besonders bevorzugt wird eine AusfĆ¼hrungsform der Erfindung, bei der die Durchgriffe durch die erste elektrisch leitfƤhige Membranlage eine kreisfƶrmige, ovale oder quadratische Form aufweisen, wobei kreisfƶrmige Durchgriffe aus StabilitƤtsgrĆ¼nden besonders bevorzugt sind. Bei einer weiteren bevorzugten AusfĆ¼hrungsform sind wenigsten einige der Durchgriffe nierenfƶrmig um den Mittelpunkt der Membran angeordnete Ɩffnungen. Durch diese Ausgestaltung lassen sich auf dem Umfang der Membran viele mƶgliche KontaktbrĆ¼cken, die einen Bruch der Fƶrdermembran erfassen kƶnnen, anordnen. Aufgrund der Kreisscheibenform der Membran ist es vorteilhaft, wenn die Durchgriffe symmetrisch um den Mittelpunkt der Membran herum angeordnet sind. ZusƤtzlich kann es vorteilhaft sein, wenn ein Durchgriff im Mittelpunkt der Membran angeordnet ist. So lassen sich alle besonders durch Walken beanspruchten Bereiche der Fƶrdermembran auf Risse und BrĆ¼che Ć¼berwachen.An embodiment of the invention is particularly preferred in which the passages through the first electrically conductive membrane layer have a circular, oval or square shape, with circular penetrations being particularly preferred for stability reasons. In a further preferred embodiment, at least some of the passages are kidney-shaped openings arranged around the center of the membrane. By means of this embodiment, many possible contact bridges which can detect a rupture of the delivery membrane can be arranged on the circumference of the membrane. Due to the circular disk shape of the membrane, it is advantageous if the passages are arranged symmetrically around the center of the membrane. In addition, it may be advantageous if a penetration in the center of the membrane is arranged. In this way, all areas of the delivery membrane that are particularly stressed by walking can be monitored for cracks and breaks.

ZweckmƤƟig ist dabei eine AusfĆ¼hrungsform der Erfindung, bei der vorzugsweise zwischen 4 und 20 Durchgriffe symmetrisch in konzentrischen Kreisen um den Mittelpunkt der Membran angeordnet sind. Dies erlaubt fĆ¼r die typischen Durchmesser der Fƶrdermembranen eine gute FlƤchenabdekkung durch die mƶglichen KontaktbrĆ¼cken zwischen der ersten und der zweiten leitfƤhigen Membranlage. So lassen sich die besonders stark gewalkten Bereiche der Membran nahe des Einspannbereiches besonders gut und auf der LƤnge des gesamten Umfanges Ć¼berwachen.It is expedient here an embodiment of the invention in which preferably between 4 and 20 passages are arranged symmetrically in concentric circles around the center of the membrane. This allows for the typical diameter of the conveyor membranes a good FlƤchenabdekkung by the possible contact bridges between the first and the second conductive membrane layer. In this way, it is possible to monitor particularly strongly forged areas of the membrane near the clamping area particularly well and over the entire circumference.

Alternativ dazu kƶnnen die Durchgriffe in Form von konzentrischen Kreisen um den Mittelpunkt der Membran herum angeordnet sein. Dies ermƶglicht eine Ɯberwachung der Dichtigkeit der Fƶrdermembran auf der LƤnge des gesamten Umfangs im Bereich grĆ¶ĆŸter Beanspruchung.Alternatively, the passages may be in the form of concentric circles around the center of the membrane. This makes it possible to monitor the tightness of the delivery membrane over the entire circumference in the region of maximum stress.

Bevorzugt wird eine AusfĆ¼hrungsform der Erfindung, bei der die Fƶrdermembran einen oder mehrere konzentrisch um den Mittelpunkt der Membran angeordnete DichtwĆ¼lste aufweist. Dabei sind diese im Bereich des Einspannbereichs der Membran angeordnet, so daƟ sie hier eine effektive Abdichtung zwischen der Fƶrdermembran und dem das Pumpvolumen begrenzenden GehƤuses bilden. Da die Fƶrdermembran nicht weiter abgedichtet werden muƟ, kann sie leicht, ohne zusƤtzliche Dichtmittel zu verwenden, ausgetauscht werden.An embodiment of the invention is preferred in which the delivery membrane has one or more sealing beads arranged concentrically around the center of the membrane. These are arranged in the region of the clamping region of the membrane, so that they form an effective seal between the delivery membrane and the pump volume limiting housing here. Since the delivery membrane does not need to be further sealed, it can be easily replaced without the need for additional sealant.

Besonders vorteilhaft ist eine AusfĆ¼hrungsform der Erfindung, bei der die Membran einen Membrankern aus Kunststoff oder Metall oder Kombinationen davon aufweist, der unterhalb der zweiten leitfƤhigen Membranlage symmetrisch zum Mittelpunkt der Membran angeordnet ist. Dieser bildet die mechanische Verbindung zwischen den einzelnen Membranlagen und der die Membran antreibenden Mechanik.Particularly advantageous is an embodiment of the invention, wherein the membrane has a membrane core made of plastic or metal or combinations thereof, which is arranged below the second conductive membrane layer symmetrically to the center of the membrane. This forms the mechanical connection between the individual membrane layers and the mechanism driving the membrane.

Als zweckmƤƟig erweist es sich, wenn unterhalb der zweiten leitfƤhigen Membranlage, d.h. zwischen dieser und dem Membrankern, eine weitere isolierende Membranlage angeordnet ist. Diese stellt eine elektrische Isolierung zwischen der zweiten leitfƤhigen Membranlage und dem Membrankern her. Sie kann darĆ¼ber hinaus formschlĆ¼ssig mit dem Membrankern verbunden sein, so daƟ sie die Bewegung des Kerns direkt auf die Membran Ć¼bertrƤgt.It proves useful if, below the second conductive membrane layer, i. between this and the membrane core, a further insulating membrane layer is arranged. This establishes electrical insulation between the second conductive membrane layer and the membrane core. It can also be positively connected to the membrane core, so that it transmits the movement of the core directly to the membrane.

Als vorteilhaft erweist sich bei der vorliegenden Erfindung, wenn die einzelnen Lagen der Membran beispielsweise durch Vulkanisieren oder Kleben miteinander untrennbar verbunden sind. So wird die Hubbewegung optimal auf alle Lagen und vor allem auf die Fƶrdermembran Ć¼bertragen.It proves to be advantageous in the present invention, when the individual layers of the membrane are inseparably connected to each other, for example by vulcanization or gluing. Thus, the lifting movement is optimally transferred to all layers and especially to the delivery membrane.

Besonders bevorzugt wird eine AusfĆ¼hrungsform der Erfindung, bei der die beiden elektrisch leitfƤhigen Membranlagen mit den zwei AnschlĆ¼ssen eines Widerstands-, Strom- oder SpannungsmeƟgerƤtes verbunden sind. So lƤƟt sich eine ƜberbrĆ¼ckung der Isolierung zwischen den beiden elektrisch leitenden Membranlagen durch die zu pumpende FlĆ¼ssigkeit leicht anhand einer Ƅnderung des Widerstandes erfassen und gegebenenfalls ein Alarmsignal ausgeben.Particularly preferred is an embodiment of the invention in which the two electrically conductive diaphragm layers are connected to the two terminals of a resistance, current or voltage measuring device. Thus, a bridging of the insulation between the two electrically conductive membrane layers by the liquid to be pumped can be easily detected by means of a change in the resistance and possibly output an alarm signal.

Die leitfƤhigen Membranlagen werden vorzugsweise, wie oben ausgefĆ¼hrt, aus Gummi hergestellt, dem fĆ¼r die LeitfƤhigkeit Kohlenstoffpartikel beigemischt sind. Die LeitfƤhigkeit dieser Mischungen ist jedoch nicht vergleichbar mit derjenigen von metallischen Leitern, sondern um einige GrĆ¶ĆŸenordnungen geringer. Die zu messenden WiderstƤnde bei KontaktschluƟ zwischen der ersten und zweiten leitfƤhigen Membranlage liegen daher Ć¼blicherweise im Megaohmbereich. Es ist zweckmƤƟig, wenn die leitfƤhigen Membranlagen mit Hilfe von metallischen Kontaktstiften von der der zu pumpenden FlĆ¼ssigkeit gegenĆ¼berliegenden Seite aus kontaktiert werden. Dabei muƟ darauf geachtet werden, daƟ der die erste leitfƤhige Membranlage kontaktierende Stift durch die zweite elektrisch leitfƤhige Membranlage und die elektrisch isolierende Membranlage hindurchgreift, wobei er im Bereich der zweiten elektrisch leitfƤhigen Membranlage durch Material der isolierenden Membranlage gegenĆ¼ber der zweiten elektrisch leitfƤhigen Membranlage oder einem anderen isolierenden Material isoliert ist. Eine solche Ausgestaltung ermƶglicht es, die Membran leicht auszutauschen, da sich auf die Kontaktstifte eine einfache Steckverbindung aufbringen lƤƟt, die die Membran mit der entsprechenden MeƟelektronik verbindet.The conductive membrane layers are preferably, as stated above, made of rubber, which are admixed with carbon particles for the conductivity. However, the conductivity of these mixtures is not comparable to that of metallic conductors, but a few orders of magnitude lower. The resistors to be measured at contact closure between the first and second conductive membrane layer are therefore usually in the megaohm range. It is expedient if the conductive membrane layers are contacted by means of metallic contact pins from the opposite side of the liquid to be pumped from. It must be ensured that the first conductive membrane layer contacting pin passes through the second electrically conductive membrane layer and the electrically insulating membrane layer, wherein it is in the region of the second electrically conductive membrane layer by material of the insulating membrane layer opposite the second electrically conductive membrane layer or another insulating material is isolated. Such a design makes it possible to easily replace the membrane, since can apply a simple plug-in connection on the contact pins, which connects the membrane with the corresponding measuring electronics.

Es ist vorteilhaft, wenn die zuvor beschriebene Sensormembran in einer Membranpumpe verwendet wird.It is advantageous if the sensor membrane described above is used in a diaphragm pump.

Weitere Merkmale, Vorteile und AusfĆ¼hrungsformen der vorliegenden Erfindung ergeben sich aus den beigefĆ¼gten Figuren und der zugehƶrigen Beschreibung. Es zeigen:

Figur 1
eine dreidimensionale aufgebrochene Ansicht der erfindungsgemƤƟen Sensormembran,
Figur 2
eine Explosionsdarstellung der erfindungsgemƤƟen Sensormembran,
Figur 3
einen seitlichen Schnitt durch eine alternative AusfĆ¼hrungsform der erfindungsgemƤƟen Sensormembran.
Further features, advantages and embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the accompanying figures and the accompanying description. Show it:
FIG. 1
a three-dimensional, broken-away view of the sensor membrane according to the invention,
FIG. 2
an exploded view of the sensor membrane according to the invention,
FIG. 3
a lateral section through an alternative embodiment of the sensor membrane according to the invention.

Figur 1 zeigt deutlich den schematischen Aufbau einer bevorzugten AusfĆ¼hrungsform der erfindungsgemƤƟen Sensormembran. Die Fƶrdermembran 1 bildet die oberste Lage der Sensormembran. Sie besteht in der gezeigten AusfĆ¼hrungsform aus PTFE. In den AuƟenbereichen der Membran sind deutlich zwei DichtwĆ¼lste 8 zu erkennen, die aus der Fƶrdermembran 1 herausragen. Die beiden DichtwĆ¼lste 8 liegen im sogenannten Einspannbereich 9 der Membran. Dieser Bereich wird in der dafĆ¼r vorgesehenen Klemmhalterung der Membranpumpe unter Druck eingeklemmt. Dabei dichten die DichtwĆ¼lste 8 die Membran gegen ihre Halterung ab, so daƟ keine FlĆ¼ssigkeit aus dem Arbeitsraum austreten kann. Unterhalb der Fƶrdermembran 1 ist die erste leitfƤhige Membranlage 2 angeordnet. Diese besteht aus Gummi, das zur Erhƶhung der StabilitƤt mit Kunststoffasern angereichert ist und zusƤtzlich Kohlenstoffpartikel in einer Menge enthƤlt, so daƟ die Gummimembran leitfƤhig ist. Die erste leitfƤhige Membranlage 2 bildet einen zusammenhƤngenden Kƶrper, der als ein Teil gefertigt wird. Dies ist besonders deutlich in der Explosionszeichnung in Figur 2 zu erkennen. Hierin sind die einzelnen Lagen der erfindungsgemƤƟen Sensormembran vor dem ZusammenfĆ¼gen gezeigt.FIG. 1 clearly shows the schematic structure of a preferred embodiment of the sensor membrane according to the invention. The delivery membrane 1 forms the uppermost layer of the sensor membrane. It consists in the embodiment shown of PTFE. In the outer regions of the membrane clearly two sealing beads 8 can be seen, which protrude from the conveying membrane 1. The two sealing beads 8 are located in the so-called clamping region 9 of the membrane. This area is clamped under pressure in the clamping bracket of the diaphragm pump provided for this purpose. The sealing beads 8 seal the membrane against its holder, so that no liquid can escape from the working space. Below the conveying membrane 1, the first conductive membrane layer 2 is arranged. This is made of rubber, which is enriched to increase the stability with plastic fibers and additionally contains carbon particles in an amount so that the rubber membrane is conductive. The first conductive membrane layer 2 forms a continuous body, which is manufactured as a part. This can be seen particularly clearly in the exploded view in FIG. Herein, the individual layers of the sensor membrane according to the invention are shown prior to assembly.

Die erste leitfƤhige Membranlage 2 weist Ɩffnungen 6 auf. Unterhalb der ersten leitfƤhigen Membranlage 2 ist die isolierende Membranlage 3, ebenfalls aus Gummi mit Kunststoffasern hergestellt, angeordnet. Diese weist Bereiche 12 auf, die sich Ć¼ber die von der Membranlage 3 gebildete Ebene hinaus nach oben erstrecken und durch die Ɩffnungen 6 der ersten leitfƤhigen Membranlage 2 hindurchgreifen.The first conductive membrane layer 2 has openings 6. Below the first conductive membrane layer 2, the insulating membrane layer 3, also made of rubber with plastic fibers, arranged. This has areas 12 which extend beyond the plane formed by the membrane layer 3 upwards and reach through the openings 6 of the first conductive membrane layer 2.

Unterhalb der isolierenden Membranlage 3 ist die zweite elektrisch leitfƤhige Membranlage 4 angeordnet. Diese weist Bereiche 7 auf, die aus der von der Membranlage 4 gebildeten Ebene herausragen und durch die Ɩffnungen 5 in der isolierenden Membranlage 3 in die Ɩffnungen 6 der erste leitfƤhigen Membranlage 2 eingreifen. Dabei werden sie von den ebenfalls in die Ɩffnungen 6 der ersten leitfƤhigen Membranlage 2 eingreifenden Bereichen 12 der isolierenden Membranlage 3 umgeben und so elektrisch von der ersten leitfƤhigen Membranlage 2 isoliert.Below the insulating membrane layer 3, the second electrically conductive membrane layer 4 is arranged. This has areas 7, which protrude from the plane formed by the membrane layer 4 and through the openings 5 in the insulating membrane layer 3 in the openings 6 of the first conductive Engage membrane layer 2. They are surrounded by the likewise engaging in the openings 6 of the first conductive membrane layer 2 areas 12 of the insulating membrane layer 3 and thus electrically isolated from the first conductive membrane layer 2.

In Figur 2 ist zu sehen, daƟ in der beschriebenen AusfĆ¼hrungsform insgesamt 19 Durchgriffe der zweiten LeitfƤhigen Membran 4 in die erste leitfƤhige Membran vorgesehen sind. Diese sind wie folgt verteilt: in der Mitte der Membran findet sich ein zentraler Durchgriff, der von einem ersten konzentrischen Kreis von 6 Durchgriffen umgeben ist und von einem weiteren konzentrischen Kreis mit 12 Durchgriffen. Diese Anordnung ermƶglicht eine optimale Abdeckung der FlƤche der Membran mit mƶglichen KontaktbrĆ¼cken, vor allem in den am stƤrksten gewalkten Bereichen.In Figure 2 it can be seen that in the described embodiment, a total of 19 passages of the second conductive membrane 4 are provided in the first conductive membrane. These are distributed as follows: in the middle of the membrane there is a central penetration surrounded by a first concentric circle of 6 penetrations and another concentric circle with 12 penetrations. This arrangement allows for optimal coverage of the membrane surface with possible contact bridges, especially in the most flexed areas.

Figur 3 zeigt eine alternative AusfĆ¼hrungsform zu der Membran der Figuren 1 und 2 mit einer etwas anderen Anzahl und Anordnung der Durchgriffsƶffnungen. Ansonsten ist der Aufbau gleich, weshalb gleiche Teile mit gleichen Bezugszahlen bezeichnet sind.Figure 3 shows an alternative embodiment to the membrane of Figures 1 and 2 with a slightly different number and arrangement of the through openings. Otherwise, the structure is the same, which is why the same parts are designated by the same reference numerals.

Wie in Figuren 2 und 3 besonders gut zu erkennen ist, ist unterhalb der zweiten elektrisch leitfƤhigen Membranlage 4 eine weitere isolierende Membranlage 11, die aus dem gleichen Gummimaterial wie die isolierende Membranlage 3 hergestellt ist, angeordnet.As can be seen particularly clearly in FIGS. 2 and 3, below the second electrically conductive membrane layer 4, a further insulating membrane layer 11, which is produced from the same rubber material as the insulating membrane layer 3, is arranged.

Die einzelnen Lagen der Membran werden durch Vulkanisieren oder Kleben miteinander verbunden, so daƟ sie mechanisch eine Einheit bilden.The individual layers of the membrane are joined together by vulcanization or gluing, so that they form a unit mechanically.

Unterhalb der Membranlage 11 ist ein Membrankern 10 aus Metall oder Kunststoff angeordnet. Dieser besteht im wesentlichen aus einer zylindrischen Stange, die am unteren Ende eine Aufnahme 15 aufweist, in welche die Pleuelstange der Antriebseinheit eingreift. Der Membrankern 10 Ć¼bertrƤgt die Translationsbewegung der Antriebseinheit auf die Ć¼ber dem Membrankern 10 befindlichen Lagen der Sensormembran. FĆ¼r eine effektive Ɯbertragung der Bewegung auf die Membranlagen ist die unterste isolierende Membranlage 11 so ausgefĆ¼hrt, daƟ sie formschlĆ¼ssig in den Kopf 16 des Membrankerns 10 eingreift. Dadurch wird die Translationsbewegung des Membrankerns 10 sowohl in Hub- als auch in Saugrichtung auf die Ć¼ber dem Kern 10 angeordneten Membranlagen (1, 2, 3, 4, 11) Ć¼bertragen. Dies ist auch besonders deutlich in Figur 3 zu sehen.Below the membrane layer 11, a membrane core 10 is arranged made of metal or plastic. This consists essentially of a cylindrical rod having a receptacle 15 at the lower end, in which engages the connecting rod of the drive unit. The membrane core 10 transmits the translational movement of the drive unit to the layers of the sensor membrane located above the membrane core 10. For an effective transmission of the movement to the membrane layers, the lowermost insulating membrane layer 11 is designed so that it engages positively in the head 16 of the membrane core 10. As a result, the translational movement of the membrane core 10 in both the lifting and in the suction direction is transferred to the membrane layers (1, 2, 3, 4, 11) arranged above the core 10. This can also be seen particularly clearly in FIG.

Die elektrische Kontaktierung der elektrisch leitfƤhigen Membranlagen 2, 4 erfolgt mit Hilfe von Metallstiften 13 und 14, die durch die unterste isolierende Membranlage 11 durchgreifen bis in die entsprechende elektrisch leitfƤhige Membranlagen hinein. Dabei ist darauf zu achten, daƟ der Stift 13, der die erste elektrisch leitfƤhige Membranlage 2 kontaktiert mit Hilfe des Materials aus der isolierenden Membranlage 3 oder mit einem anderen Material gegenĆ¼ber der zweiten elektrisch leitfƤhigen Membranlage 4 isoliert ist.The electrical contacting of the electrically conductive membrane layers 2, 4 takes place with the aid of metal pins 13 and 14, which pass through the lowermost insulating membrane layer 11 into the corresponding electrically conductive membrane layers. It is important to ensure that the pin 13, which contacts the first electrically conductive membrane layer 2 by means of the material of the insulating membrane layer 3 or with another material with respect to the second electrically conductive membrane layer 4 is isolated.

In dieser AusfĆ¼hrungsform der Erfindung werden die Stifte 13 und 14 mit den beiden AnschlĆ¼ssen eines WiderstandsmeƟgerƤtes verbunden. Der elektrische Widerstand zwischen den beiden elektrisch leitfƤhigen Membranen 2, 4 wird gemessen. Ist die Fƶrdermembran 1 intakt, d.h. weist sie keine durchgehenden Risse oder BrĆ¼che auf, so wird die OberflƤche der unter der Fƶrdermembran 1 gelegenen Membranlagen nicht von der FlĆ¼ssigkeit benetzt und der Widerstand zwischen der ersten und zweiten elektrisch leitfƤhigen Lage (2, 4) ist extrem groƟ. Im Schadensfall, d.h. wenn in der Fƶrdermembran 1 durchgehende Risse oder BrĆ¼che auftreten, dringt die zu fƶrdernde FlĆ¼ssigkeit durch die Fƶrdermembran 1 hindurch und benetzt die OberflƤche der unter der Fƶrdermembran 1 liegenden Membranlagen, so daƟ der elektrische Widerstand zwischen der ersten 2 und zweiten 2 elektrisch leitfƤhigen Membranlage kleiner wird, z.B. in den Bereich von 50 MĪ© und weniger gelangt. Ein solches Absinken des elektrischen Widerstandes kann von dem WiderstandsmeƟgerƤt erfaƟt werden und lƶst bei Unterschreiten eines zuvor gesetzten Schwellenwertes einen Alarm aus.In this embodiment of the invention, the pins 13 and 14 are connected to the two terminals of a resistance measuring device. The electrical resistance between the two electrically conductive membranes 2, 4 is measured. If the delivery membrane 1 is intact, i. if it has no continuous cracks or breaks, the surface of the membrane layers located below the delivery membrane 1 will not be wetted by the liquid and the resistance between the first and second electrically conductive layers (2, 4) is extremely large. In case of damage, i. if continuous cracks or breaks occur in the conveying membrane 1, the liquid to be conveyed passes through the conveying membrane 1 and wets the surface of the membrane layers underlying the conveying membrane 1, so that the electrical resistance between the first 2 and second 2 electrically conductive membrane layer becomes smaller , eg in the range of 50 MĪ© and less. Such a decrease in the electrical resistance can be detected by the resistance measuring device and triggers when falling below a previously set threshold, an alarm.

Die Sensormembran kann nach Auftreten des Undichtigkeitsalarms sofort oder nach einem vorbestimmten Zeitintervall ausgetauscht werden. Der Austausch der Membran ist aufgrund der Ausgestaltung ihrer mechanischen und elektrischen AnschlĆ¼sse denkbar einfach und auch von angelernten HilfskrƤften ausfĆ¼hrbar. Die Randbereiche der Membran werden in einer dafĆ¼r vorgesehenen Halterung eingeklemmt und sind aufgrund der vorgesehenen DichtwĆ¼lste 8 nach dem Einklemmen automatisch gedichtet. Der AnschluƟ des Membrankerns 10 an die Kupplungsstange der Antriebseinheit, z. B. eines Motors mit Exzenterantrieb oder eines elektromechanischen Linearantriebs, erfolgt mit Hilfe des Anschlusses 15 im unteren Bereich des Kerns 10. Der elektrische AnschluƟ an die Stifte 13 und 14 erfolgt mit Hilfe eines standardisierten Steckerelements.The sensor membrane can be replaced immediately after the occurrence of the leak alarm or after a predetermined time interval. The replacement of the membrane is due to the design of their mechanical and electrical connections conceivable simple and executable semi-skilled workers. The edge regions of the membrane are clamped in a holder provided for this purpose and are automatically sealed due to the provided sealing beads 8 after clamping. The connection of the diaphragm core 10 to the coupling rod of the drive unit, z. As a motor with eccentric drive or an electromechanical linear drive, is carried out with the aid of the terminal 15 in the lower region of the core 10. The electrical connection to the pins 13 and 14 by means of a standardized connector element.

Claims (19)

  1. A sensor diaphragm comprising a plurality of diaphragm layers which are arranged in sandwich-like mutually superposed relationship and which include a conveyor or separating diaphragm (1), a first electrically conductive diaphragm layer (2) arranged therebeneath, an electrically insulating diaphragm layer (3) arranged therebeneath and a second electrically conductive diaphragm layer (4) arranged therebeneath, wherein the first and second conductive diaphragm layers (2, 4) are separated from each other and electrically insulated by the electrically insulating diaphragm layer (3) characterised in that the second electrically conductive diaphragm layer (4) has portions (7) which engage through openings (5) in the electrically insulating diaphragm layer (3) and through openings (6) in the first electrically conductive diaphragm layer (2) and the electrically insulating diaphragm layer (3) has portions (12) which engage through the openings (6) in the first conductive diaphragm layer.
  2. A sensor diaphragm according to claim 1 characterised in that the conveyor diaphragm (1) is made from a flexible, chemically inert plastic material, preferably polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).
  3. A sensor diaphragm according to claim 1 or claim 2 characterised in that the electrically conductive (2, 4) and electrically insulating (3) diaphragm layers are made from rubber, preferably a EPDM (ethylene-propylene terpolymer) reinforced with plastic fibres.
  4. A sensor diaphragm according to one of claims 1 to 3 characterised in that the electrically conducted diaphragm layers (2, 4) of rubber include an admixing of carbon particles in an amount such that the diaphragm layers are electrically conductive.
  5. A sensor diaphragm according to one of claims 1 to 4 characterised in that the through portions are arranged in the proximity of the diaphragm regions which are flexed in the diaphragm stroke movement.
  6. A sensor diaphragm according to one of claims 1 to 5 characterised in that the diaphragm is substantially in the shape of a circular disc.
  7. A sensor diaphragm according to one of claims 1 to 6 characterised in that the diaphragm layers (1, 2, 3, 4, 11) are of substantially the same diameter.
  8. A sensor diaphragm according to one of claims 1 to 7 characterised in that the through portions through the first electrically conductive diaphragm layer (2) are of a circular, circular segment-shaped, kidney-shaped, square or oval form.
  9. A sensor diaphragm according to one of claims 1 to 8 characterised in that the through portions are arranged symmetrically around the centre point of the diaphragm.
  10. A sensor diaphragm according to one of claims 1 to 9 characterised in that a through portion is arranged at the centre point of the diaphragm.
  11. A sensor diaphragm according to one of claims 1 to 10 characterised in that preferably between 4 and 20 18 through portions are arranged symmetrically around the centre point of the diaphragm.
  12. A sensor diaphragm according to one of claims 1 to 11 characterised in that the through portions through the first electrically conductive diaphragm layer (2) form concentric circles around the centre point of the diaphragm.
  13. A sensor diaphragm according to one of claims 1 to 12 characterised in that the conveyor diaphragm (1) has one or more sealing ridges (8) which extend concentrically around the centre point of the diaphragm and which are arranged in the clamping region (9) of the diaphragm.
  14. A sensor diaphragm according to one of claims 1 to 13 characterised in that the diaphragm has a diaphragm core (10) of plastic material or metal or combinations thereof and which is arranged beneath the second conductive diaphragm layer (4) symmetrically with respect to the centre point of the diaphragm.
  15. A sensor diaphragm according to one of claims 1 to 14 characterised in that the sensor diaphragm has a further non-conductive or insulating diaphragm layer (11) of rubber between the second conductive diaphragm layer (4) and the diaphragm core (10), which is positively lockingly connected to the diaphragm core (10).
  16. A sensor diaphragm according to one of claims 1 to 15 characterised in that layers (1, 2, 3, 4, 11) of the diaphragm are fixedly connected together, preferably by glueing or vulcanising.
  17. A sensor diaphragm according to one of claims 1 to 16 characterised in that the electrically conductive diaphragm layers (2, 4) are connected to the two terminals of a resistance, current or voltage measuring device.
  18. A sensor diaphragm according to one of claims 1 to 17 characterised in that the conductive diaphragm layers (2, 4) are contacted by means of metallic contact pins (13, 14), wherein the pin (13) which contacts the first conductive diaphragm layer (2) engages through the second conductive diaphragm layer (4) and through the insulating diaphragm layer (3) and is insulated by means of material of the insulating diaphragm layer (3) or another insulating material in relation to the second conductive diaphragm layer (4).
  19. A diaphragm pump having a sensor diaphragm according to one of claims 1 to 18.
EP04101686A 2003-05-20 2004-04-22 Sensor membrane Expired - Lifetime EP1479910B1 (en)

Priority Applications (2)

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PL04101686T PL1479910T3 (en) 2003-05-20 2004-04-22 Sensor membrane
SI200430443T SI1479910T1 (en) 2003-05-20 2004-04-22 Sensor membrane

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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DE10323059 2003-05-20
DE10323059A DE10323059A1 (en) 2003-05-20 2003-05-20 sensor diaphragm

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EP1479910A2 EP1479910A2 (en) 2004-11-24
EP1479910A3 EP1479910A3 (en) 2005-09-21
EP1479910B1 true EP1479910B1 (en) 2007-09-05

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US (1) US6935180B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1479910B1 (en)
JP (1) JP4666340B2 (en)
AT (1) ATE372461T1 (en)
DE (2) DE10323059A1 (en)
DK (1) DK1479910T3 (en)
ES (1) ES2290626T3 (en)
PL (1) PL1479910T3 (en)
SI (1) SI1479910T1 (en)

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EP3025077B1 (en) 2013-07-22 2017-09-06 GEMƜ Gebr. MĆ¼ller Apparatebau GmbH & Co. Kommanditgesellschaft Membrane and method for the production thereof
EP3604876B1 (en) 2018-08-03 2021-03-10 SISTO Armaturen S.A. Membrane diagnosis via air interface

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EP3025077B2 (en) ā€  2013-07-22 2020-09-30 GEMƜ Gebr. MĆ¼ller Apparatebau GmbH & Co. Kommanditgesellschaft Membrane and method for the production thereof
EP3604876B1 (en) 2018-08-03 2021-03-10 SISTO Armaturen S.A. Membrane diagnosis via air interface
EP3604876B2 (en) ā€  2018-08-03 2024-04-03 SISTO Armaturen S.A. Membrane diagnosis via air interface

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
SI1479910T1 (en) 2007-12-31
EP1479910A2 (en) 2004-11-24
US6935180B2 (en) 2005-08-30
PL1479910T3 (en) 2008-01-31
DE502004004843D1 (en) 2007-10-18
ES2290626T3 (en) 2008-02-16
JP4666340B2 (en) 2011-04-06
DK1479910T3 (en) 2008-04-21
ATE372461T1 (en) 2007-09-15
US20040261536A1 (en) 2004-12-30
JP2004347115A (en) 2004-12-09
EP1479910A3 (en) 2005-09-21
DE10323059A1 (en) 2004-12-09

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