FR3067107A1 - DEVICE AND MEASUREMENT NETWORK, FLUID TRANSPORT TUBE FIXED THEREFOR, AND FIXING METHOD - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1) for measuring, intended to be fixed in an external opening (T) of access, which is delimited by a wall (P), extends in a first direction (D) through which fluid in the wall (P), has an internal thread (TAR) located around the direction (D) and opens into an inner section (CAN) fluid passage, wider than the opening (T) transversely to the direction (D). The invention is characterized in that the device (1) comprises a part (7) for selectively contacting the fluid with the sensor (2), the part (7) being able to be displaced via the body ( 3) and / or the fixing part in the first direction (S1) of insertion direction (D), directed from the opening (T) to the section (CAN), so that - the fluid is prevented from passing from the inlet (72) in the channel (71) to the outlet (73), when the part (7) is in a first position, in which the inlet (72) is against the wall ( P) and is closed by the wall (P) and - that the fluid passes from the inlet (72) in the channel (71) to the outlet (73), when the part (7) is in a second position, wherein the inlet (72) is in the section (CAN) located beyond the wall (P) in the direction (S1) or flush with the wall (P).

Description

® MEASURING DEVICE AND NETWORK, FLUID TRANSPORT TUBE ATTACHED TO SAME AND FIXING METHOD.

FR 3 067 107 - A1 (57) The invention relates to a measuring device (1), intended to be fixed in an external opening (T) of access, which is delimited by a wall (P), extends along a first direction (D) of fluid passage in the wall (P), has an internal thread (TAR) located around the direction (D) and opens into an interior section (CAN) of fluid passage, wider than the opening (T) transverse to direction (D).

The invention is characterized in that the device (1) comprises a part (7) for selective contact of the fluid with the sensor (2), the part (7) being able to be moved through the body ( 3) and / or the fixing part in the first direction (S1) of insertion of the steering (D), directed from the opening (T) towards the section (CAN), so that

- the fluid is prevented from passing from the inlet (72) in the channel (71) towards the outlet (73), when the part (7) is in a first position, in which the inlet (72) is against the wall (P) and is closed by the wall (P) and

- that the fluid passes from the inlet (72) in the channel (71) towards the outlet (73), when the part (7) is in a second position, in which the inlet (72) is in the section (CAN) located beyond the wall (P) in the direction (S1) or is flush with the wall (P).

The invention relates to a measuring device, a fluid transport tube, as well as a method of fixing the measuring device to the tube.

The invention relates in particular to a module for measurement (s) by sensor (s) and data exchange by radio frequency, integrated and secured by its mechanics (tight to a tube for transporting product (s) or fluid (s) , as well as a method of fixing the module to the tube.

A field of application of the invention relates generally to the tubes for transporting fluids, such as for example buried pipelines transporting gas or liquids or air or semi-liquid materials such as for example food materials such as compote or wheat. The tube can in particular be used in a distribution network or used to transport a material.

One of the problems with fluid transport tubes in a distribution network is that they are most often buried in the ground like gas and water pipes or in a concrete screed as is the case in factory or integrated in a closed partition like a wall and therefore difficult to access.

Another problem is to make precise measurements on the transported product or inside the tube without having direct access to the tube.

Another problem is to make the most direct measurements possible on the product or in the tube without affecting the product or with the least possible effect on the mechanical integrity of the transport tube.

Another problem is the respect of the mechanical and / or chemical seals which the Module must guarantee in order to provide perfect insulation between the interior of the tube where a potentially dangerous product such as town gas for example or the oxygen which circulates circulates. in hospitals and outside the tube.

Another problem relates to the integration aspects of product measurement sensor systems integrated into a tube and the security guaranteed by this integration with respect to the product and the operation of the tube. There is a risk of ejection from the measurement system or even explosion of the tube or pollution of the product internal to the tube by the external measurement system.

Another problem is to transmit in a viable and safe way to a receiver - person, point, node, network - by a radio frequency signal, the measurement data of sensors integrated in the module associated with a tube buried in the ground which can be of earth, stone, sand, water (...) at depths varying from 1cm to 3 meters or a concrete screed or a cement wall. The environment of the tube or the environment of the pipeline, potentially composed of a multitude of configurations possible by their nature such as concrete, water, earth, cement, sand (...) directly affects the signal radio frequency and can considerably attenuate the power of the radio frequency signal, effect phase changes of the signal and finally effect modifications in its propagation.

We seek in particular to measure at least one physical parameter of the product transported in the tube such as the pressure or the temperature for the fluids and / or a derivative of the product such as CO2 following a combustion of the product such as an electric cable which burns and / or detecting a product leak through the tube in order to validate, for example, the tightness of the tube or its robustness or ensure preventive surveillance of the tube or ensure security or manage the activity of the tube by reading parameters linked inside the tube and the product transported.

So, currently, to check if a buried gas transport tube does not leak during its installation, we pass water with a certain pressure and a certain temperature in the tube and we measure the temperature of the soil around the tube to deduce by correlation with the flow and the pressure if locally the tube leaks or does not leak. The disadvantage of this method is that it is not sufficiently reliable, which is due to the various errors in the measurement or due to the smallness of the quantities of leaks to be measured.

On these types of pipes such as gas pipes, small or large diameter D30cm to D140cm, buried in the ground, it is not easy and not easy for mechanical constraints in particular, to install, integrate and operate it pressure gauges for example due to the very fact that the tube is buried. Burial operations can potentially present a risk of deterioration on the pressure gauge integrated into the tube. Its direct use and direct exploitation are impossible. Communication with the operator on the surface is therefore necessary. Such a pressure gauge should also have a current source such as a battery and therefore require maintenance of this battery. It is known to the skilled person to have such a pressure gauge with battery associated with radio transmission means but only in operation on the surface free of any burial constraints. It is possible to associate an electrical wired connection between, for example, a pressure gauge installed on a buried pipe in order to provide energy for its operation and to acquire the pressure data in the tube, but the problems of maintenance, for example, of such an achievement would not be resolved however, since the manometers need periodic calibration therefore would entail significant costs in its operation just to fetch the equipment.

In addition, currently, no means for measuring smoke, fire (...) are directly provided inside the tubes or pipes for the same operating constraints of this type of equipment integrated in a buried tube or piping. The operating costs of this type of equipment directly integrated into a tube, for example to fetch defective equipment in a 10-ton pipeline buried 3 meters below a channel or to change a battery or a battery of this equipment would be too large. Another constraint relates to the integrity of the system. In addition, it is desired that a sensor measurement module can be integrated with all the guarantees on operation and risks in a tube carrying very sensitive materials such as oxygen or gas or very corrosive or mechanically very as hard as sand.

Furthermore, it is known to have a conduit (called spacer) opening into the tube to fix on the conduit, for example, a pressure gauge to measure the gas pressure inside the tube. These manometers have the disadvantage of being expensive, of having guaranteed accuracy only for a limited period and in addition of being potentially dangerous, because they present a risk of ejection under the pressure of the gas prevailing in the tube. These pressure gauges are widely used in the industry. They are favorably integrated into overhead lines, therefore for surface application.

The invention aims to obtain a, which overcomes the drawbacks mentioned above and which guarantees the operational security of the measurement system and the tube, which allows physical measurements to be easily carried out in buried or aerial tubes.

To this end, a first object of the invention is a measuring device (1), intended to be fixed in an external opening (T, C) of access, which is delimited by a wall (P), extends along a first direction (D) of fluid crossing in the wall (P), has an internal thread (TAR, Cl) located around the first direction (D) of crossing and opens into an inner section (CAN, C3) of passage of fluid from a fluid transport tube (TTF), wider than the access opening (T, C) transversely to the crossing direction (D),

According to one embodiment of the invention, the device (1) comprises a part (32) for fixing at least one measurement sensor (2), which makes it possible to measure at least one determined quantity.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the device (1) comprises a body (3), which is intended to be fixed to the fixing part (32) and which comprises at least one first interior housing (33), in which is an electronic unit (4) intended to be electrically connected to the sensor (2), a cap (8) for closing the first interior housing (33) being fixed to the body (3).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the device (1) further comprises at least a first antenna (6) connected by at least one electrical conductor to the electronic unit (4) and arranged to allow communication towards the outside the body (3) the quantity having been measured by the sensor (2).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the device (1) comprises a part (7) for selective contact of the fluid with the sensor (2).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the part (7) for selective contact comprises a first lateral surface (76) for fixing to the opening (T, C), which extends around the first direction ( D) through and in which there is a first external thread (760) arranged around the first direction (D) through to be able to be screwed into the thread (TAR, Cl) of the external opening (T, C) according to a first direction (SI) of insertion of the first crossing direction (D), directed from the external opening (T, C) towards the internal section (CAN, C3).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the part (7) for selective contact comprises a first internal channel (71) starting from a fluid inlet (72), which opens into the first lateral surface (76) in upstream of at least a first part (761) of the first external thread (760) and downstream of at least a second part (762) of the first external thread (760) in the first direction (SI) of insertion of the first crossing direction (D), the first internal channel (71) going to an internal outlet (73) opening towards the sensor (2).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the body (3) and / or the fixing part (32) comprises fixing means (31, 321, 322) for fixing the body (3) in a fluid-tight manner and / or the part (32) for fixing to the opening (T, C) and / or to the part (7) for selective contact and for positioning the sensor (2) upstream of the interior outlet (73) according to the first direction (SI) of insertion.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the part (7) for selective contacting is able to be moved by means of the body (3) and / or of the part (32) for fixing in the first direction ( SI) of insertion of the first crossing direction (D), directed from the external opening (T, C) towards the internal section (CAN, C3), so that

- the fluid is prevented from passing from the inlet (72) in the channel (71) towards the outlet (73), when the part (7) of selective contact is in a first position, in which the inlet (72) is against the wall (P) delimiting the opening (T, C) and is closed by the wall (P) and

- That the fluid passes from the inlet (72) in the channel (71) towards the outlet (73), when the part (7) of selective contact is in a second position, in which the inlet (72 ) is located in the interior section (CAN, C3) of fluid passage located beyond the wall (P) in the direction (SI) of insertion or flush with the wall (P).

Thanks to the invention, the measurement provided by the sensor can be taken at a distance from the tube buried under the surface, by using for example an HF and / or UHF reading device, which an operator passes near the modules to allow to receive the electromagnetic signal which is emitted by the antenna and which contains the measurement. The invention thus makes it possible to position the sensor in direct contact with the fluid and therefore to have a measurement on the fluid itself and not an indirect measurement. This measurement can for example be a measurement of fluid pressure and / or of temperature. Thus, the invention allows an operator to take measurements from a distance of up to 3 meters from the fluid transported in a buried tube. The invention makes it possible to position a series of measurement modules along a buried tube, which allows an operator to successively take the measurements provided by the modules by simply moving over them on the ground. The invention thus makes it possible to quickly record the measurements and to reduce the costs associated with collecting the measurements. The invention also makes it possible to obtain a reliable measurement module having a long service life and compatible with mechanical, chemical and explosive constraints. The invention thus makes it possible to obtain an intelligent communicating sensor with a self-diagnostic capacity by measuring for example its consumption, its memory capacity, its temperature and to transmit an analysis report in order to follow the aging of the Module integrated in the tube or conduit. The measuring module device can form a measuring module which can be for example a bolt or a screw, secured and screwed into the hole or conduit.

For example, by its form and its functionality, this module is called by the acronym as "B.S.R.M. »Or as a Secure Radiofrequency Measurement Bolt.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the fixing means (31, 321, 322) comprise a second lateral surface (31) of the body (3) and / or of the fixing part (32), which extends around the first crossing direction (D) and in which there is a second external thread (310) arranged around the first crossing direction (D) to be screwed or unscrewed in the thread (TAR, Cl) of the opening outer (T, C) for fixing the body (3) and / or the part (32) for fixing to the opening (T, C).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the second thread (760) extends over at least 50% or at least 90% of the length of the second lateral surface (31) of the body (3) and / or of the part (32) for fixing along the first direction (D) of fluid crossing.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the part (7) for selective contact of the fluid with the sensor (2) is separate from the body (3) and from the fixing part (32) and is capable of being fixed. detachably relative to the body (3) and to the fixing part (32), the part (7) of selective contact being applied against the fixing part (32) and / or against the sensor (2) ) in the second position, the interior outlet (73) being applied against the sensor (2) in the second position.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the part (32) for fixing the sensor (2) is distant from a second end part (35) of the body (3) in the direction (SI) of insertion of the body (3) in the opening (T, C), the second end part (35) having a second opening (351), which allows the electronic unit (4) to be inserted in the first housing (33) and which is closed by the cap (8), the fixing means (31, 321, 322) being able to position the part (32) for fixing the sensor (2) upstream from the part (7) for contacting selective according to the first direction (SI) of insertion.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the part (32) for fixing the sensor (2) comprises at least a first drive member (321, 322) capable of cooperating with a second member (74, 75) of drive located on the part (7) of selective contact, making it possible to rotate, by rotation of the body (3) around the direction (D), the part (7) of selective contact around the direction (D ) to move it in the first direction (SI).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the part (7) for selective contact of the fluid with the sensor (2) is in one piece with the fixing part (32).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the fixing part (32) is in one piece with the body (3).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the part (32) for fixing the sensor (2) is separate from the body (3) and is capable of being fixed in a removable manner relative to the body (3).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the body (3) and the part (32) for fixing the sensor (2) together have a first length along the first direction (D) of fluid passage, located at minus 90% or entirely in the exterior opening (T, C).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the body (3) and the part (32) for fixing the sensor (2) together have a first length, which is situated along the first direction (D) of fluid passage. and of which at least 10% protrudes from the external opening (T, C) in a second direction (S2), inverse of the first direction (SI).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the first thread (760) extends over at least 50% or at least 90% of the length of the first lateral surface (76) of the contacting part (7) selective along the first direction (D) of fluid crossing.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the cap (8) is fixed to a third end portion (35) of the body (3), the sensor (2) being remote from the third end portion (35) in the first direction (SI) of insertion of the first direction (D) of crossing, a first opening (351) for inserting the electronic unit (4) in the first housing (33) being provided in the third part (35) end and being closed by the cap (8).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the second part (7) is distant from a third end part (35) of the body (3) in the first direction (SI) of insertion of the first direction (D ) through, the third end portion (35) having a second opening (351) for inserting the electronic unit (4) and the sensor (2) in the first housing (33).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the third end portion (35) of the body (3) has a head (34), which is wider than the outer surface (31) transversely to the first direction (D) which is intended to be on or above the hole (T) or conduit (C) outside the tube (TTF) in a second direction (S2), inverse of the first direction (SI) of insertion.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the third end portion (35) of the body (3) is as wide or less wide than the outer surface (31) transverse to the first direction (D) of crossing and is intended to be on or in the hole (T) or conduit (C).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the fixing part (32) comprises a second housing (37), in which the sensor (2) is fixed.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the sensor (2) has a second external thread (20) allowing the sensor (2) to be screwed into a first internal thread (370) of the second housing (37) from a second opening ( 371) of the body (3), communicating with the second housing (37).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the body (3) and / or the fixing part (32) and / or the selective contacting part (7) is metallic.

According to one embodiment of the invention, around the sensor (2) and / or the sensor fixing part (32) (2) there is at least one seal (21) applied against the part (7 ) of selective contacting in the second position, so that the fluid is sent in a sealed manner from the interior outlet (73) to the sensor (2).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the first antenna (6) is entirely housed in the first interior housing (33), the cap (8) being made of a material arranged to allow electromagnetic radiation to pass outward, which carries the quantity having been measured by the sensor (2) and which is capable of being emitted by the first antenna (6).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the first antenna (6) is partially or entirely located outside the first interior housing (33) and outside the body (3).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the first antenna (6) comprises a first part (64) of antenna housed in the first interior housing (33) and a second part (65) of antenna, which is fixed on the cap (8) and which is connected to the first part (64) of the antenna by capacitive or inductive coupling, the cap (8) being made of a material arranged to let pass an electromagnetic radiation capable of being emitted by the first part ( 64) of antenna and by the second part (65) of antenna.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the first antenna (6) is of the LF or HF or UHF type.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the first antenna (6) is of the WPC and / or RFID and / or GSM and / or LoRa and / or WiFi type.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the first antenna (6) is of the RFID and / or NFC and / or RFID HF and / or NFC HF type.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the first antenna (6) is of the UHF RFID and / or NFC UHF type.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the measuring device (1) is associated with a remote reader and / or remote transmitter and / or remote receiver, which or which are of a type corresponding to the type of the first antenna ( 6).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the remote reader and / or remote transmitter and / or remote receiver is of the RFID and / or NFC and / or LF and / or HF and / or UHF and / or WPC and / or type. RFID and / or GSM and / or LoRa and / or WiFi and / or RFID HF and / or NFC HF and / or RFID UHF and / or NFC UHF.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the first antenna (6) is of the UHF type, at least one battery (10) for supplying electricity to the first antenna (6) being housed in the first interior housing (33).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the first antenna (6) is connected by the at least one electrical conductor to reception means (Rx) of a signal capable of being received by the first antenna (6) and to means for transmitting (Tx) a signal capable of being transmitted by the first antenna (6).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the reception means (Rx) and the transmission means (Tx) comprise a repeater for retransmitting in the signal transmitted by the transmission means (Tx), in addition to the magnitude having been measured by the sensor (2), the signal received by the reception means (Rx).

According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one rechargeable battery (10) or a rechargeable battery (10) for supplying electricity to the electronic unit (4) and / or the sensor (2) is housed in the first housing interior (33), the rechargeable battery (10) or rechargeable battery (10) being connected by electrical conductors to a second antenna (6 ') contained in the first interior housing (33) or to the first antenna (6), the first or second antenna (6, 6 ') being configured to be able to receive energy without contact, by electromagnetic radiation from the outside sent by a remote charger, in order to charge or recharge the rechargeable battery (10) or rechargeable battery ( 10).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the rechargeable battery (10) or rechargeable battery (10) is connected by electrical conductors to the second antenna (6 ') contained in the first interior housing (33), the second antenna ( 6 ') is of the HF type and is configured to be able to receive energy without contact, by HF electromagnetic radiation from the outside sent by a remote charger, in order to charge or recharge the rechargeable battery (10) or rechargeable battery (10 ).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the first antenna (6) is of the UHF type.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the first antenna (6) is configured to be able to receive energy without contact, by electromagnetic radiation from the outside sent by a remote device, in order to supply electricity to the unit electronics (4) and / or the sensor (2).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the measuring device (1) has neither a battery nor a battery.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the measuring device (1) comprises means allowing its geolocation.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the means allowing the geolocation comprises at least one RFID tag fixed to the device (1).

According to one embodiment of the invention, the electronic unit (4) is capable of transmitting to the outside of the body (3) by means of the first antenna (6) at least intrinsic diagnostic information.

Another object of the invention is a measuring network, comprising a plurality of measuring devices (1) as described above, intended to be fixed in respectively a plurality of said external access openings (T, C) in the interior section (CAN, C3) of fluid passage and distributed over a length of the tube (TTF), the measuring devices (1) being distributed over the length (L) of the tube (TTF).

Another object of the invention is a tube (TTF) for transporting fluid, comprising:

an internal section (CAN) for transporting the fluid in the tube (TTF), at least one external opening (T) for access, which is delimited by a wall (P), extends in a first direction (D) of fluid passage in the wall (P), has an internal thread (TAR, Cl) located around the first direction (D) of passage and opens into the interior section (CAN, C3) of fluid passage, wider than the opening (T, C) transversely to the first crossing direction (D), at least one measuring device (1) as described above, of which the part (7) for selective contacting is screwed in the internal thread (TAR, Cl) of the external access opening (T), the body (3) and / or the fixing part (32) being fixed in a fluid-tight manner at the opening (T , C) of access and / or to the part (7) of selective contact in order to position the sensor (2) upstream of the following interior outlet (73) the first direction (SI) of insertion, the wall (P) being that delimiting the interior section (CAN) of transport of the fluid in the tube (TTF) or being that of a conduit (C), which is fixed to a another wall delimiting the interior section (CAN) of fluid transport and opening into the latter and which extends towards the outside of the interior section (CAN) of fluid transport.

According to one embodiment of the invention, there is provided as an access opening (T, C) a plurality of access openings (T, C) distributed over a length (L) of the tube (TTF), it as a measuring device (1), a plurality of said measuring devices (1) as described above are provided, which are distributed over the length (L) of the tube (TTF) and the respective parts (7) of which selective contact are screwed into the thread (TAR, Cl) of the respective access openings (T, C), the body (3) and / or the part (32) for fixing the respective measuring devices (1) being fixed d '' a fluid-tight manner at the respective access opening (T, C) and / or at the respective selective contacting part (7) for positioning the respective sensor (2) upstream of the outlet (73) respective interior according to the first direction (St) of respective insertion.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the fluid is combustible gas.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the access opening (T, C) is located in an upper part of the tube (TTF).

Another object of the invention is a method of fixing the measuring device (1) as described above in an external opening (T, C) of access, which is delimited by a wall (P), s' extends in a first direction (D) of fluid crossing in the wall (P), has an internal thread (TAR, Cl) located around the first direction (D) of crossing and opens into an interior section (CAN, C3) passage of fluid, wider than the opening (T, C) for access transversely to the direction (D) of passage, method in which the body (3) and / or the part (32) for fixing d '' a fluid-tight manner at the opening (T, C) and / or at the part (7) of selective contact, for positioning the sensor (2) upstream of the interior outlet (73) in the first direction (St) of insertion, one screws through the body (3) and / or the part (32) of fixing the part (7) of selected contacting ve in the internal thread (TAR, Cl) of the external opening (T, C) in the first direction (SI) of insertion up to the first position, then we screw through the body (3) and / or of the fixing part (32) the part (7) of selective contact in the internal thread (TAR, Cl) of the external opening (T, C) in the first direction (SI) of insertion up to 'in the second position.

The reader can be an RFID NFC HF reader, which can be for example at 13.56 MHz, or a UHF RFID reader, which can be for example at 868 MHz or 915 MHz. Ideally, this reader works rather in a frequency band making it possible to limit the effects of the grounds on Radio wave and the propagation of Radio wave. A frequency below 50MHZ is a good compromise. The 13.56MHZ frequency enables the expected communication between the Module integrated into the buried Tube and the surface and provides the energy necessary for the operation of the Module and for contactless recharging of the battery by Harvesting. A lower frequency like 100KHZ or 1MHZ increases the number of turns of the antenna of the Reader and the Module which can be a disadvantage for the integration of the Module. UHF frequencies have a fairly low power transfer power compared to HF and LF frequencies.

The measurement reader can be mobile and transportable or fixed on a mobile support such as a drone, a motorized vehicle such as a crane or any work machine or a quad. The measurement reader can also be fixed on a support fixed to the ground near one or more Modules.

The reader can be equipped with radio frequency telecommunications means such as Wifi, GSM, UMTS, SigFox or LoRa. The reader then has the possibility of transmitting the data exchanged with the Module integrated into the buried tube to a network.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the movements of the buried tube or its rotation can be measured.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the external surface is surmounted by a head, which is narrower than the external surface transversely to a direction of insertion of the body into the hole or conduit and which is intended to be located on or above the hole or leads to the outside of the tube.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the outer surface is surmounted by a head, which is the same width as the outer surface transversely to a direction of insertion of the body into the hole or conduit and which is intended to be on or above the hole or leads to the outside of the tube.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the cap is fixed to a third end portion of the body, the sensor being remote from the third end portion in a direction of insertion of the body into the hole or conduit, a first opening for inserting the electronic unit in the first housing being formed in the third end portion and being closed by the cap. According to one embodiment of the invention, the external surface of the body has a first external thread for fixing the body in the hole or conduit.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the first part comprises a second housing, which is formed in the body and in which the sensor is fixed.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the sensor comprises a second external thread allowing the screwing of the sensor into a first internal thread of the second housing from a second opening of the body, communicating with the second housing.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the first part is distant from a third end part of the body in a direction of insertion of the body into the hole or conduit, the third end part having a first opening allowing insert the electronic unit into the first housing, the second part being a separate part, cooperating with the first part against the sensor inserted between the first part and the second part.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the second part is in one piece with the body.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the second part is spaced from a third end part of the body in a direction of insertion of the body into the hole or conduit, the third end part having a first opening allowing insert the electronic unit and the sensor into the first housing.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the second part comprises a first internal channel starting from a fluid inlet opening towards the outside and going up to an internal outlet opening towards the sensor.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the body and / or the second part is metallic.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the antenna is entirely housed in the first interior housing, the cap being made of a material arranged to allow electromagnetic radiation to pass outside, which transports the quantity having been measured by the sensor and which is capable of being transmitted by the antenna.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the antenna is partially or entirely located outside the first interior housing and outside the body, the antenna being connected by at least one electrical contact passing through the cap or the body to the electronic unit.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the antenna is of the RFID and / or NFC and / or RFID HF and / or NFC HF type.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the antenna is of UHF RFID and / or NFC UHF type.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the antenna is of the UHF type.

According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one cell or a rechargeable battery by radio frequency (WPC) for supplying electricity to the electronic part being housed in the first interior housing.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the antenna has at least one winding intended to be arranged around the tube.

Another object of the invention is a fluid transport tube, comprising: a wall defining a second fluid transport channel, at least one hole passing through the wall, at least one measurement module as described above being fixed in said at least one hole or in a conduit, which is fixed in the hole and which extends outwards.

According to an embodiment of the invention, a plurality of measurement modules as described above are fixed in a plurality of holes or conduits, which are fixed in the plurality of holes and which extend outwards of the tube, the plurality of holes or conduits being distributed over a length of the tube.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the fluid is combustion gas.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the hole is located in an upper part of the tube.

Another object of the invention is a method of fixing the measurement module as described above to a hole passing through a wall of a fluid transport tube or in a conduit which is fixed to the hole and which extends towards the outside of the tube, the external surface of the body of the measurement module comprising a first external thread, a process in which the body is screwed into the hole of the tube or into the conduit for fixing the body in the hole or conduit.

The invention will be better understood on reading the description which follows, given solely by way of nonlimiting example with reference to the appended drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a measurement module fixed to a fluid transport tube, according to an embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 2 is a schematic view in vertical section of the measurement module fixed in a fluid transport tube, according to an embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 3 is a schematic exploded view in longitudinal section of a measurement module according to an embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 4 is a schematic view in longitudinal section of the measurement module according to FIG. 3 in the assembled state,

FIG. 5 is a schematic view in longitudinal section of the measurement module according to another embodiment of the invention, in the assembled state,

FIG. 6 is a schematic exploded view in longitudinal section of the measurement module according to another embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 7 is a schematic view in longitudinal section of the measurement module according to FIG. 6, in the assembled state,

FIG. 8 is a schematic view of a measurement module fixed to a conduit, according to an embodiment of the invention,

- Figures 9 to 17 are schematic views of the measurement module according to other embodiments of the invention,

- Figures 18, 19, 20, 21 and 26 are schematic views in vertical section of the measurement module according to other embodiments of the invention,

FIGS. 22 and 23 are schematic front and perspective views of embodiments of an antenna support, which can be used in the measurement module according to another embodiment of the invention,

- Figures 24 and 25 are schematic views from above and a corresponding electrical circuit, of an antenna that can be used in the measurement module according to another embodiment of the invention.

Various characteristics and embodiments of the invention are described below.

In the figures, the measuring device 1 according to the invention is intended to be associated with a TTF fluid transport tube. In the figures, the measuring device 1 according to the invention is intended to be fixed in a hole T passing through a wall P of the TTF fluid transport tube (Figures 1 and 2) or in a conduit C which is fixed in the hole T and which extends outwards (Figures 6, 7 and 8). The hole T or the conduit C are generally designated by external opening T, C. In the following and in the figures, the measuring device 1 is also called measuring module 1.

The external opening T, C for access is delimited by the wall P. The external opening T, C extends in the first direction D of fluid passage in the wall P. The external opening T, C, comprises an internal thread TAR, Cl located around the first direction D of crossing. The outer opening T, C opens into the inner section of the CAN fluid passage (Figures 1, 2 and 8) or C3 (Figures 6, 7 and 8), which is wider than the access opening T, C transverse to the crossing direction D.

The device 1 comprises a part 32 for fixing at least one measurement sensor 2, which makes it possible to measure at least one determined quantity.

The device 1 comprising a body 3, which is intended to be fixed to the fixing part 32 and which comprises at least one first interior housing 33, in which there is an electronic unit 4 intended to be electrically connected to the sensor 2.

A cap 8 used to close the first interior housing 33 is fixed to the body 3.

The device 1 comprises at least a first antenna 6 connected by at least one electrical conductor to the electronic unit 4. The first antenna 6 is arranged to allow the emitting towards the outside of the body 3 a first electromagnetic radiation at least the magnitude having been measured by sensor 2.

The device 1 comprises a part 7 for selective contact of the fluid with the sensor 2. The part 7 for selective contact comprises a first lateral surface 76 for fixing to the opening T, C. This first lateral surface 76 s' extends around the first crossing direction D (Figures 3 to 7). In this first lateral surface 76 is a first external thread 760 arranged around the first direction D of crossing to be able to be screwed into the internal thread TAR, Cl of the external opening T, C in a first direction SI of insertion of the first crossing direction D, directed from the external opening T, C towards the internal section CAN, C3, that is to say transversely to the direction L of the length of the tube TTF.

The selective contacting part 7 comprises a first internal channel 71 starting from a fluid inlet 72, which opens into the first lateral surface 76 upstream of at least a first part 761 of the first external thread 760 and downstream of 'at least a second part 762 of the first external thread 760 in the first direction SI of insertion of the first direction D of crossing (Figures 3 to 7). The first interior channel 71 extends to an interior outlet 73 leading to the sensor 2.

The body 3 and / or the fixing part 32 comprise means 31 and / or 321 and / or 322 for fixing in order to fix in a fluid-tight manner the body 3 and / or the part 32 for fixing to the opening T , C and / or to part 7 for selective contact and for positioning the sensor 2 upstream of the interior outlet 73 in the first direction SI of insertion.

In a first position of the selective contacting part 7, the inlet 72 is located against the wall P delimiting the opening T, C and is closed by the wall P.

In a second position of the selective contacting part 7, the inlet 72 is located in the interior section CAN, C3 of fluid passage located beyond the wall P in the direction D of insertion or is flush with the wall P.

The part 7 of selective contact is able to be moved by means of the body 3 and / or of the part 32 for fixing in the first direction SI of insertion of the first direction D of crossing, directed from the opening outside T, C to the inside section CAN, C3, from the first position to the second position.

Thus, the fluid is prevented from passing from the inlet 72 in the channel 71 towards the outlet 73, when the part 7 of selective contact is in the first position.

The fluid passes from the inlet 72 in the channel 71 towards the outlet 73, when the part 7 of selective contact is in the second position.

The displacement of the contacting part 7 thus makes it possible not to pass and then to pass fluid from the interior section CAN, C3 of the tube in the channel 71 to the sensor 2.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the part 7 of selective contact passes through or is flush with the internal section CAN, C3 of fluid passage in the second position.

According to one embodiment of the invention, there is thus obtained a secure, anti-ejection and anti-projection waterproof module (1) for acquisition and radiofrequency transmission of physical measurements of a product placed in a conduit intended to be fixed in a threaded hole (T), the ends of which pass through or are flush with the walls (P) of the interior and exterior of a fluid transport tube (TTF) or intended to be fixed in a conduit (C) which is fixed to the hole (T) and which extends towards the outside of the tube (TTF).

The fluid can be any gas or liquid, such as for example a combustible gas, which can be natural gas, or semi-solid or semi-liquid or solid such as sand or wheat. The TTF tube can for example be part of a distribution network for this fluid, which can extend into a territory to supply fluid to residential premises or businesses, in cities and / or villages. The TTF tube can in particular be buried.

The TTF tube can be made of metal, PVC, polypropylene or a compound of metals and non-conductive materials.

The measurement module 1 comprises one or more measurement sensor (s) 2, making it possible to measure at least one determined quantity, for example of the fluid and / or of the tube. This determined quantity can be for example, in the case of a gas, a pressure of the fluid in the TTF tube. Of course, the quantity determined can be any parameter, which can for example be a temperature of the fluid or of the tube, a pressure of the fluid, a humidity of the fluid, a vibration of the tube, a position of the sensor or of the module or of the tube, a flow rate of the fluid in the tube, an electric and / or magnetic field of the fluid, a force on the tube, a twist of the tube, electromagnetic radiation from the tube or fluid, the presence of or the content of a determined chemical substance in the fluid , a concentration of a determined chemical composition in the fluid, a chemical, the presence or absence of fluid, the volume of fluid in the tube, the height of fluid in the tube or any other parameter of the fluid or of the tube.

The measurement module 1 comprises the body 3 allowing the measurement module 1 to be fixed in the hole T of the wall P of the TTF tube in FIG. 1 or in the conduit C fixed to the hole T of the wall P of the TTF tube in the Figure 8. Of course, what is described above for fixing the measuring module 1 in the hole T is also valid for fixing the measuring module 1 in the conduit C.

The wall P delimits the interior section CAN of fluid transport in the tube TTF. The hole T passes through the wall P from the inside of the TTF tube, formed by the CAN channel for transporting fluid to the outside of the TTF tube. In FIG. 2, the interior surface of the wall P, which delimits the CAN channel, bears the reference SI and is shown in dashed lines. The outer surface of the wall P bears the reference SE and is shown in solid lines. The hole T extends from the interior surface SI to the exterior surface SE.

The body 3 has an external surface 31 used for the insertion and fixing of the body 3 in the hole T or conduit C. This external surface 31 of the body 3 may include a second external thread 310 for fixing the body 3 in the hole T of conduit C. For this purpose, hole T or conduit C may include an internal thread TAR into which the body 3 is screwed to fix it, the internal thread TAR having a thread pitch corresponding to the thread pitch of the thread 310. In this case, the module 1 may be in the form of a threaded bolt or threaded screw and may include a bolt head 34 (with flat outer edges) or a screw head 34 (comprising one or more upper grooves, for example in the cap 8) making it possible to actuate the head 34 to rotate the body 3 using a screwing tool around the direction D of crossing, to screw the module 1 into the hole T or conduit C.

Thanks to the invention, the installation of the measurement module 1 on the TTF tube is easy and can be carried out in the factory or on site.

The outer surface 31 of the measurement module 1 can also be fixed by other means in the hole T or conduit C, for example by welding or the like.

The body 3 has a first interior housing 33 used to contain an electronic unit 4. The electronic unit 4 is connected by wires 51, 52 for electrical connection to the sensor 2. The connection wires 51, 52 can pass through one or more recess (s) 510, 520 formed in the body 3 and communicating with the first housing 33 and with the first part 32.

The module 1 also comprises at least the antenna 6 electrically connected to the electronic unit 4. The antenna 6 is arranged to communicate towards the outside of the TTF tube the quantity having been measured by the sensor 2.

A material can be introduced into the first interior housing 33 to fix the electronic unit 4, the connection wires 51, 52 and / or the antenna 6 in the body 3, this material possibly being an insulating material which is poured into it then solidifies there, such as silicone.

The module 1 comprises a second part 7 for bringing the fluid transported by the TTF tube into contact with the sensor 2. This second part 7 is fixed to the body 3.

The module 1 comprises a cap 8 fixed to the body 3 to close the first interior housing 33. The cap 8 is fixed to a third end portion 35 of the body 3.

A series of holes T or conduits C can be provided in the wall P of the TTF tube, in which a series of measurement modules 1 is fixed respectively. The measurement modules 1 are distributed over the length L of the TTF tube. The measurement modules 1 can be associated together by a radiofrequency or wired connection, or by the TTF tube, in order to create a network of measurement modules 1. This network can go from a few meters to several kilometers. Furthermore, it can be provided that certain measurement modules are used as repeaters along the TTF tube, instead of performing measurements or in addition to this function.

The measurement module (s) 1 can be connected, by wireless communication via the antenna 6, to a remote external device, such as for example a reader, an alarm or fluid control unit (for example to monitor the parameters of the fluid, measured by the module (s) 1).

In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 2 to 7 and 18 to 21, the sensor 2 is moved away from the third end part 35 in the direction SI of insertion of the body 3 into the hole T or conduit C. In the third end part 35 is finds a first opening 351 allowing the electronic unit 4 to be inserted into the first housing 33. This first opening 351 communicates with the first housing 33 and is closed by the cap 8. The first part 32 for mounting the sensor is distant from the third end portion 35 of the body 3 in the direction SI of insertion of the body 3 into the hole T or conduit C.

According to one embodiment, the outer surface 31 of the body 3 can be surmounted by a head 34, which is wider than the outer surface 31 transversely to the direction D of crossing. This head 34 can for example form the third end portion 35 of the body 3, include the first opening 351 and receive the cap 8. In the embodiments shown in Figures 1, 2, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16 , 18, the head 34 is located on the hole T and protrudes outside the TTF tube when the module 1 is mounted on the TTF tube. In the embodiments shown in Figures 10, 13, 15, 17, the head 34 is located in whole or in part in the hole T when the module 1 is mounted on the TTF tube. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the head 34 is on the conduit C and protrudes outside the conduit C when the module 1 is mounted on the conduit C. Of course, in other embodiments , the head 34 may be located, in whole or in part in the conduit C when the module 1 is mounted on the conduit C.

According to an embodiment shown in Figures 3, 4, 6 and 7, the sensor 2 is fixed in a second housing 37 provided in the first part 32 of the body 3. For this purpose, the sensor 2 can include a second external thread 20 allowing the sensor 2 to be screwed into a first internal thread 370 of the second housing 37, the first part 32 of the body 3 having a second opening 371 communicating with the second housing 37 and making it possible to insert the sensor 2 there.

According to the embodiment shown in Figures 3, 4, 6 and 7, the second part 7 for contacting the fluid is a part 70, distinct from the body 3. This part 70 cooperates with the first part 32 for mounting the sensor 2 In the assembly position of the different parts of the module 1, shown in FIGS. 4 and 7, the part 70 is positioned against the sensor 2 inserted between the first part 32 and the second part 7 for bringing the fluid into contact. To this end, the first part 32 for mounting the sensor 2 may comprise one or more lug (s) or rod (s) or member (s) 321, 322, which fit into one or more recess (s) 74, 75 of the part 70 in the assembly position, which are turned towards the recess (s) 74, 75 in the direction of insertion SI and which for example protrude from the first part 32 while being located near the opening 371.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the second part 7 for contacting the fluid is in one piece with the body 3. In this case, the first opening 351 provided in the third end part 35 used to insert the sensor 2, then the electronic unit 4 into the first housing 33. In the assembly position shown in FIG. 5, the internal channel 71 of the second contacting part 7 is in fluid communication via the interior outlet 73 with the sensor 2 located in the first housing 33.

According to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 2 to 7 and 18 to 21, the second part 7 comprises the inlet 72 for fluid opening outwards to allow the introduction of fluid from the CAN channel of the TTF tube into the inner channel 71 of the second part 7 , which interior channel 71 extends inside the second part 7 to an interior outlet 73 leading to the sensor 2. Fluid Fe is thus brought from the inlet 72 to the outlet 73 towards the sensor 2 in passing through the inner channel 71, in the second position.

According to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 2 to 7 and 18 to 21, the inlet 72 is located on the lateral surface 76 of the second part 7 for selective contacting of the fluid and / or away from the lower end surface 77 of this second part 7, distant from its output 73 near the sensor 2 in the direction of insertion SI, and is capable of being plugged or left open by displacement of the body 3 and of the second part 7 in the hole T or conduit C (by unscrewing or screwing the body 3 and / or the second part 7 into the hole T or conduit C). Thus, the body 3 and / or the second part 7 for selective contacting of the fluid is moved in the direction of insertion SI by screwing them into the hole T or conduit C, to pass the inlet 72 past the edge of the hole T first in the first position, then in the second position, so in the second position to enter the CAN channel, so that the fluid enters the channel 71 to the sensor 2 in the second position. According to one embodiment, by moving the body 3 and / or the part 7 of selective contacting of the fluid in the opposite direction to the direction of insertion, the part 7 of selective contacting of the fluid from the second is passed position at the first position, which closes the inlet 72 by covering it with the wall P of the TTF tube, to prevent the penetration of the fluid in the channel 71 to the sensor 2, by the means 31, 321, 322.

The body 3 and / or the second part 7 may for example be metallic.

The body 3 and / or the second part 7 could also be made of a synthetic material, for example PVC or polypropylene, ceramic or the like.

The environment of the TTF fluid transport tube can be of any type, for example a soil, and this environment can also be gaseous, such as air, or liquid, such as water.

According to an embodiment shown in Figures 6 and 7, the body 3 is fixed, for example screwed, by its outer surface 31 described above, in the conduit C. The conduit C comprises for example the internal thread Cl in which is screwed the external thread 310 of the external surface 31 of the body 3 in the direction of insertion SI. This embodiment can be used with the embodiment of Figures 3 and 4 as shown in Figures 6 and 7, wherein the second part 7 is a part 70 separate from the body 3, in which case this part 70 has the external thread 760 identical to the external thread 310 of the body 3 and situated in the extension of the latter in the direction of insertion SI in the assembly position, so that the body 3-second part 7 assembly can be screwed into the duct C, the thread 760 also being screwed into the internal thread Cl of the conduit C. The conduit C has an opening C2 facing the hole T and / or towards the surface SI to allow the introduction of fluid into the conduit C towards the sensor 2 by the 'intermediary of the second contacting part 7. The conduit C may comprise, between its end opening C2 and its surface C1 for fixing to the body 3 and / or to the second part 7 for bringing the fluid into contact, a compartment C3 communicating with the opening C2. The displacement of the body 3 and / or of the second part 7 in the direction SI of insertion from the first position to the second position allows respectively to leave free the entry 72 in the compartment C3, thus allowing the fluid to penetrate, via the opening C2, in the compartment C3, then in the channel 71 to the sensor 2. According to one embodiment, the displacement of the body 3 and / or of the second part 7 from the second position to the first position in the opposite direction to the SI insertion direction allows respectively to close the inlet 72 against the surface Cl, in order to prevent the fluid from penetrating through the channel 71 to the sensor 2. Of course, these embodiments can also be used with the embodiment of Figure 5 to also be inserted in the same way in the conduit C.

According to an embodiment, known as of the type with integrated antenna, the antenna 6 is entirely housed in the first interior housing 33. The cap 8 is made of a material arranged to allow an electromagnetic radiation to pass outside, which transports the magnitude having been measured by the sensor 2 and which is capable of being emitted by the antenna 6.

According to another embodiment, called of the type with external antenna, the antenna 6 is partially or entirely located outside the first interior housing 33 and outside the body 3, the antenna 6 being connected by at least an electrical contact passing through the cap 8 or the body 3 to the electronic unit 4 and by a secure mechanical interface.

According to the embodiments described below, the antenna 6 can be of the RFID and / or NFC and / or RFID HF and / or NFC HF type. The antenna 6 is capable of being read by a remote RFID and / or NFC reader, not shown, when this reader is approached to the antenna 6.

RFID is the abbreviation for radio frequency identification (in English: radiofrequency identification '). NFC is the abbreviation for near field communication. HF is the abbreviation for high frequencies.

The antenna 6 can be of the type with integrated antenna, as shown in FIGS. 1, 8 to 11, 20 and 21. In this case, the antenna 6 allows a communication distance of approximately 50 cm.

The antenna 6 can include an RFID tag and the frequency band of the antenna 6 of the RFID HF and / or NFC HF type can correspond to a tuning frequency of the antenna 6 located in an HF band of higher frequency or equal to 30 kHz and less than 80 MHz. For example, this tuning frequency can be 13.56 MHz. Of course, this antenna 6 could be integrated in the cap 8 or more generally in the upper part of the module 1.

Advantageously, the electronic unit 4 can be without battery and without electrical supply on board the module 1 as shown in the figure

20, the energy required to operate the sensor 2, the electronic unit 4 and the antenna 6 being sent remotely by the reader to the antenna 6, when this reader is approached from the module 1.

The antenna 6 can also be of the type with external antenna, as shown in FIGS. 16, 17, 19, 26. This type of antenna makes it possible to increase the field received from the reader. In this case, the antenna 6 allows a communication distance of approximately 300 cm. In FIGS. 16, 19 and 26, the antenna 6 can comprise one or more windings 60 arranged around the TTF tube, that is to say around its outer surface S. The winding (s) can be arranged with a side of the TTF tube with respect to module 1, as shown in Figures 19 and 26, or on both sides of the TTF tube with respect to module 1, as shown in Figure 16. In Figure 17, the antenna may include one or more windings 60 arranged on an outer side TTF1, by the upper outer side TTF1, of the TTF tube.

According to the embodiments described below, the antenna 6 is of the RFID and / or NFC and / or RFID UHF and / or NFC UHF and / or UHF type. The antenna 6 is capable of being read by a remote RFID and / or NFC reader, not shown, when this reader is approached to the antenna 6.

UHF is the abbreviation for ultra high frequencies.

The antenna 6 can be of the type with integrated antenna, as shown in FIGS. 1, 8 to 11, 20 and 21. In this case, the antenna 6 allows a communication distance of approximately 20 m.

The antenna 6 can also be of the type with external antenna, as shown in FIGS. 12 to 15, 20 and 21. This type of antenna makes it possible to increase the field received from the reader. In this case, the antenna 6 allows a communication distance of 20 meters to around 200 m. This antenna 6 has a tuning frequency included in the ultra-high frequency band (UHF) corresponding to frequencies greater than or equal to 80 MHz and less than or equal to 5800 MHz.

For example, the tuning frequency of the antenna 6 can be 868 MHz or 915 MHz.

In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the antenna 6 of the external antenna type and of the UHF RFID and / or NFC UHF type may comprise a strand 61 extending parallel to the direction D.

In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the antenna 6 of the external antenna type and of the UHF RFID and / or NFC UHF type can be of the monopole strand type 61. The metal body 3 connected mechanically and electrically to the TTF tube metal serves as a reference for the antenna 6. In FIG. 14, the antenna 6 is arranged for example to extend parallel to the direction D. In FIG. 15, the antenna 6 can be any type of antenna using a reference plane such as for example a planar antenna located at a distance from a reference plane. This reference plane can be electrically connected to the external metallic surface SE of the TTF tube. The TTF tube then brings a beneficial effect to the antenna 6 by mechanically increasing the surface of the reference plane.

According to another embodiment shown in Figures 18 and 21, the antenna 6 is of the UHF type. At least one battery 10 for supplying electricity to the antenna 6 is housed in the first interior housing 33. This antenna 6 may be of the antenna type integrated in FIG. 21 or of the external antenna type in FIG. 18. In FIG. 18, the UHF antenna 6 may be of the PIFA type (planar inverted-F antenna), that is to say comprising a plate 62, which is located at a distance from a plane 63 of reference and which is short-circuited to this reference plane 63. This reference plane 63 can be electrically connected to the metallic exterior surface SE of the TTF tube.

In general, due to its low cost and long service life, the antenna 6 and the measurement module 1 can remain buried or installed on site on the TTF tube and be used for several years and for any the lifetime of the TTF tube.

According to one embodiment, the antenna 6 can be with ferrite.

According to an embodiment shown in Figures 16, 19, 22, 23 and 26, in the case where the antenna 6 is wound around the TTF tube, the at least one winding 60 of the antenna 6 is fixed on an electric support insulator 610, for example annular or circular cylindrical, able to surround the TTF tube and able to be open to pass the open winding 60 around the TTF tube and to be closed around this TTF tube to form the closed winding 60 around the TTF tube. The support 610 comprises for example at least one axis 62 of articulation connected to two semi-circular parts 611 and 612 of the support 61, which can rotate around this axis 62 between one and the other

- An open position, not shown, in which the first semi-circular part 611 and a first semi-circular part 601 of the winding 60 carried by this first semi-circular part 611 are separated from a second part semi-circular 612 of the support 61 and of a second semi-circular part 602 of the winding 60 carried by this second semi-circular part 612 (allowing the antenna 6 to be brought into the open position around the TTF tube),

- And from a closed position, represented in FIGS. 22 and 23, in which the first semi-circular parts 611 and 601 are in contact with the second semi-circular parts 612 and 602, the end 603 of the first semi-circular part 601 of the winding 60, remote from the articulation 62, being in electrical contact with the end 604 of the second semicircular part 602 of the winding 60, remote from the articulation 62, to form, by other contacts at the joint 62, one or more windings 60.

The advantage of the fact that the antenna 6 is wound around the TTF tube is that its positioning around the TTF tube can be done in advance and that the antenna 6 can transmit upwards and towards the reader. an operator whatever the angular position of installation of the antenna 6 around the TTF tube, since the winding (s) 60 of the antenna 6 always have a part located at the top of the TTF tube and radiate in all directions around the TTF tube. Of course, any other device for integrating or fixing or mounting the antenna 6 around the TTF tube can be provided.

Generally, the reader can be connected to a network by a GSM and / or GPRS and / or Wi-Fi and / or Bluetooth type (registered trademark) connection.

The UHF type antenna makes it possible to transmit the measurements autonomously at fairly short time intervals, less than the hour, for example every second.

In addition, generally, as shown in Figures 11, 12, 14, 16, a cover 9 can be mounted above the cap 8 and the first end portion 35, in order to strengthen the mechanical protection. of module 1 and therefore security.

In addition, in general, the measurement module 1 can include a reading screen, not shown, for example integrated into the cap 8 or the cover, this reading screen being activated only when a reader device reads the antenna 6 .

The RFID HF or UHF reader makes it possible to read the measurement carried out by module 1 and can include a screen to display to the user the measurement received from module 1 and / or a memory for recording the measurement transmitted by module 1.

Of course, a wired connection can also be provided to transmit the measurement and / or provide a supply voltage to the operation of the measurement module 1. A wired connection can also complete a connection by the antenna 6. The measurement module 1 can further comprise a detector recording the position variations of the sensor 2. The user can then control, via the transmission by the antenna 6, the variations undergone between the TTF tube and the measurement module 1.

According to one embodiment, in the case where the sensor 2 or module 1 has no on-board voltage source (battery), the user can request the position of the sensor 2 from the module 1 and a comparison logic can be made between the n previous measurements. A calculation logic or the user can then conclude that the measurement module 1 has undergone too many shocks, deformations, vibrations or stresses, and thus make the decision necessary for the good safety of the installation.

According to one embodiment of the invention, a method of fixing the measurement module 1 to a TTF fluid transport tube provides that the body 3 and / or the second part 7 for bringing the fluid into contact is screwed, having on their outer surface 31 and / or 76 an external thread 310 and / or 760 in the corresponding thread TAR or Cl of the hole T or conduit C, in order to fix the measurement module 1 in the hole T or conduit C.

According to one embodiment, shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, the antenna 6 of the RFID and / or NFC types described above is of the loop type and comprises several turns 60 formed from conductive sections, for example rectilinear and bent, wound in a plan around at least one interior perimeter.

According to the embodiment shown in Figures 24 and 25, the antenna 6 of the RFID and / or NFC types described above comprises a number of at least three turns (60), the antenna (6) having a first terminal (D) end and a second terminal (E) end, at least two access terminals (100, 200) for the connection of a load, at least one capacitance (Cl) according to a frequency prescribed agreement, having a first capacity terminal (C1X) and a second capacity terminal (CIE), an intermediate socket (A) connected to the antenna (6) and distinct from the end terminals (D, E) , a first means (CON1 A) for connecting the intermediate socket (A) to a first (100) of the two access terminals, a second means (CON2E) for connecting the second terminal (E) to the end second capacity terminal (CIE), third means (CON31, CON32) for connecting the first capacity terminal (C1X) and the second (2) of the two terminals nes of access to respectively a first point (PI) of the antenna (6) and a second point (P2) of the antenna (6), the second point (P2) of the antenna (L) being connected to the second terminal (E) of the antenna (6) by at least one turn (30) of the antenna (6) and being connected to the first point (PI) of the antenna (6) by at least one turn (S) of the antenna (6).

The module 1 can have radiofrequency means of reception (Rx) of electromagnetic radiation and radiofrequency means of emission (Tx) of electromagnetic radiation, connected to the antenna 6 and corresponding to it, these means Rx, TX can be RFID and / or NFC or RFID HF and / or NFC HF, or RFID UHF and / or NFC UHF or UHF. For example, module 1 associated with a TTF tube buried 3 m deep can be interrogated by RFID HF.

According to one embodiment, the antenna 6 is formed by the metal TTF tube. In this case, the means Rx, Tx use a propagation of the electromagnetic radiation by propagation by the metal tube TTF, which can for example be at a frequency located in the ultra-high frequency band (UHF) corresponding to frequencies greater than or equal to 80 MHz and less than or equal to 5 800 MHz, and for example 868MHz. It can be the same when the module 1 is used in Pressure Manometer.

According to one embodiment, shown in FIG. 21, the module 1 comprises a rechargeable battery 10 electrically connected to the electronic unit 4 and recharging means 11 for recharging the battery 10.

According to one embodiment, the recharging means 11 are connected by electrical conductors to another antenna 6 'contained in the compartment 33 or to the antenna 6. The antenna 6 or 6' is configured to be able to receive contactless energy, namely by electromagnetic radiation from the outside (sent by a remote charger, not shown, having means for emitting this contactless radiation), in order to recharge via the means 11 for recharging the battery 10. L 'antenna 6 or 6' and the charger can be at low frequency of transmission and reception, included in the LF band of frequency greater than or equal to 30 kHz and less than or equal to 300 kHz, and for example equal to 100 kHz. In this case, the 6 or 6 ’antenna and the charger can be of the WPC type, which is the abbreviation for wireless power charging. The antenna 6 or 6 ′, the recharging means 11 and the charger can be at HF frequency of transmission and reception, included in the HF band described above, and for example equal to 13.56 MHz (RFID) or in the UHF band (for example RFID at 915MHZ or 868MHz). It is therefore possible to have recharging means 11 integrated in the module 1 (second antenna 6 'called recharging or the same antenna 6 used for communication) and a contactless recharging charger and / or reader also forming contactless recharging charger .

According to one embodiment, the battery 10 of the module 1 can also be recharged by contact. There can be two first and second contacts (+ and -) accessible on the external box (cover 9 or part 35 or head 34) of module 1. The first contact can be electrically connected to the metal tube TTF, on the external surface SE of it. The TTF tube can also be used as a contact channel for recharging module 1.

According to one embodiment, a first module 1 as described above (for example RFID and / or NFC or RFID HF and / or NFC HF, or RFID UHF and / or NFC UHF or UHF) can be associated with a system fixed or mobile with a second module 1 as described above (for example RFID and / or NFC or RFID HF and / or NFC HF, or RFID UHF and / or NFC UHF or UHF). These modules 1 can be used to measure a twist between them or a distance between them. The first module 1 (master) incorporates a battery and is fixed on a first structure. The second module 1 is fixed on a second structure and is a slave to the first module 1. The master module 1 interrogates by antennas 6 the second slave module 1, for example to measure the position of the second slave module 1 relative to the position of the first module 1 master. The 1 master module analyzes N measurements having been carried out and concludes on these.

The invention makes it possible in particular to obtain a module, waterproof and secure by its mechanical design "one body", electrically supplied without contact to an external source, acquisition of physical measurement as close as possible to the contact of the product to be measured and transported. by a tube to be measured and radiofrequency transmission of measurement data from the sensor and a method of fixing the module to a tube, which makes it possible to multiply the measurement points along the tube, which makes it possible to easily perform physical measurements in buried or overhead tubes by taking the measurement, by radio frequency communication, over short distances from the tube (there 30cm), average distances from the tube (1 to 3 meters) as long distances from the tube (10 to 300 meters) by communications

RFID HF, RFID UHF and Telecoms UHF, even very long distances (1 to 50 kilometers).

Of course, the features and embodiments of the invention described above can each be selected independently of one another and be combined with each other.

Claims (44)

1. Measuring device (1), intended to be fixed in an external opening (T, C) of access, which is delimited by a wall (P), extends in a first direction (D) of fluid crossing in the wall (P), has an internal thread (TAR, Cl) located around the first direction (D) of crossing and opens into an internal section (CAN, C3) for the passage of fluid from a tube (TTF) of transport of fluid, wider than the opening (T, C) for access transversely to the direction (D) of crossing, the device (1) comprising a part (32) for fixing at least one sensor (2) measuring device, which makes it possible to measure at least one determined quantity, the device (1) comprising a body (3), which is intended to be fixed to the fixing part (32) and which comprises at least one first internal housing (33 ), in which there is an electronic unit (4) intended to be electrically connected to the sensor (2), a cap (8) s serving to close the first interior housing (33) being fixed to the body (3), the device (1) further comprising at least a first antenna (6) connected by at least one electrical conductor to the electronic unit (4) and arranged to allow the quantity having been measured by the sensor (2) to be communicated to the outside of the body (3), characterized in that the device (1) comprises a part (7) for selective contact of the fluid with the sensor (2), the part (7) for selective contacting comprising a first lateral surface (76) for fixing to the opening (T, C), which extends around the first direction (D) of crossing and in which there is a first external thread (760) arranged around the first direction (D) of crossing to be able to be screwed into the thread (TAR, Cl) of the external opening (T, C) in a first direction (SI ) insertion of the first crossing direction (D), directed from the ow outer structure (T, C) towards the inner section (CAN, C3), the part (7) of selective contacting comprising a first inner channel (71) starting from a fluid inlet (72), which opens into the first lateral surface (76) upstream of at least a first part (761) of the first external thread (760) and downstream of at least a second part (762) of the first external thread (760) in the first direction ( SI) of insertion of the first crossing direction (D), the first interior channel (71) going as far as an interior outlet (73) opening towards the sensor (2), the body (3) and / or the part (32) for fixing comprising fixing means (31, 321, 322) for fixing in a fluid-tight manner the body (3) and / or the part (32) for fixing to the opening (T, C) and / or to the part (7) for selective contact and for positioning the sensor (2) upstream of the interior outlet (73) in the first direction (SI) of insse rtion, the part (7) of selective contact being able to be moved via the body (3) and / or the part (32) for fixing in the first direction (SI) of insertion of the first crossing direction (D), directed from the outside opening (T, C) to the inside section (CAN, C3), so that - the fluid is prevented from passing from the inlet (72) in the channel (71) towards the outlet (73), when the part (7) of selective contact is in a first position, in which the inlet (72) is against the wall (P) delimiting the opening (T, C) and is closed by the wall (P) and - That the fluid passes from the inlet (72) in the channel (71) towards the outlet (73), when the part (7) of selective contact is in a second position, in which the inlet (72 ) is located in the interior section (CAN, C3) of fluid passage located beyond the wall (P) in the direction (SI) of insertion or flush with the wall (P). 2. Measuring device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the fixing means (31, 321, 322) comprise a second lateral surface (31) of the body (3) and / or of the part (32) fastening, which extends around the first direction (D) of crossing and in which there is a second external thread (310) arranged around the first direction (D) of crossing to be screwed or unscrewed in the thread (TAR , Cl) of the external opening (T, C) for fixing the body (3) and / or the part (32) for fixing to the opening (T, C). 3. Measuring device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the second thread (760) extends over at least 50% or at least 90% of the length of the second lateral surface (31) of the body (3 ) and / or the fixing part (32) along the first direction (D) of fluid crossing. 4. Measuring device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the part (7) for selective contact of the fluid with the sensor (2) is separate from the body (3) and from the fixing part (32) and is able to be fixed in a removable manner with respect to the body (3) and to the fixing part (32), the selective contacting part (7) being applied against the part (32) for fixing and / or against the sensor (2) in the second position, the interior outlet (73) being applied against the sensor (2) in the second position. 5. Measuring device (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the part (32) for fixing the sensor (2) is distant from a second end part (35) of the body (3) in the direction (SI) for inserting the body (3) into the opening (T, C), the second end part (35) having a second opening (351), which allows the electronic unit (4) to be inserted in the first housing (33) and which is closed by the cap (8), the fixing means (31, 321, 322) being able to position the part (32) for fixing the sensor (2) upstream of the part (7) selective contacting in the first direction (SI) of insertion. 6. Measuring device (1) according to any one of claims 4 and 5, characterized in that the part (32) for fixing the sensor (2) comprises at least a first drive member (321, 322) capable to cooperate with a second drive member (74, 75) located on the part (7) of selective contact, making it possible to rotate, by rotation of the body (3) around the direction (D), the part ( 7) of selective contact around the direction (D) to move the latter in the first direction (SI). 7. Measuring device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the part (7) for selective contact of the fluid with the sensor (2) is in one piece with the part (32) fixing. 8. Measuring device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the fixing part (32) is in one piece with the body (3). 9. Measuring device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the part (32) for fixing the sensor (2) is separate from the body (3) and is able to be fixed from removable from the body (3). 10. Measuring device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the body (3) and the part (32) for fixing the sensor (2) together have a first length along the first direction (D) of fluid crossing, located at least 90% or entirely in the opening (T, C) outside. 11. Measuring device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the body (3) and the part (32) for fixing the sensor (2) together have a first length, which is located along the first direction (D) of fluid passage and of which at least 10% protrudes from the opening (T, C) outside in a second direction (S2), inverse of the first direction (SI). 12. Measuring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first thread (760) extends over at least 50% or at least 90% of the length of the first lateral surface (76 ) of the part (7) of selective contact along the first direction (D) of fluid crossing. 13. Measuring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cap (8) is fixed to a third end portion (35) of the body (3), the sensor (2) being remote from the third end part (35) in the first direction (SI) of insertion of the first direction (D) of crossing, a first opening (351) allowing the electronic unit (4) to be inserted into the first housing (33) being formed in the third end portion (35) and being closed by the cap (8). 14. Measuring device (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that the second part (7) is distant from a third end part (35) of the body (3) in the first direction (SI) of insertion of the first crossing direction (D), the third end part (35) having a second opening (351) allowing the electronic unit (4) and the sensor (2) to be inserted into the first housing (33 ). 15. Measuring device (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that the third end portion (35) of the body (3) has a head (34), which is wider than the outer surface (31) transversely to the first crossing direction (D) and which is intended to be located on or above the hole (T) or conduit (C) outside the tube (TTF) in a second direction (S2), opposite to the first direction (SI) of insertion. 16. Measuring device (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that the third end portion (35) of the body (3) is as wide or less wide than the outer surface (31) transversely to the first direction ( D) through and is intended to be on or in the hole (T) or conduit (C). 17. Measuring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fixing part (32) comprises a second housing (37), in which the sensor (2) is fixed. 18. Measuring device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the sensor (2) has a second external thread (20) allowing the sensor (2) to be screwed into a first internal thread (370) of the second housing ( 37) from a second opening (371) of the body (3), communicating with the second housing (37). 19. Measuring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the body (3) and / or the fixing part (32) and / or the selective contacting part (7) is metallic. 20. Measuring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that around the sensor (2) and / or the part (32) for fixing the sensor (2) is at least one seal. (21) sealing applied against the part (7) of selective contact in the second position, so that the fluid is sent in a leaktight manner from the interior outlet (73) to the sensor (2). 21. Measuring device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the first antenna (6) is entirely housed in the first interior housing (33), the cap (8) being made of a material arranged to allow electromagnetic radiation to pass outside, which transports the quantity having been measured by the sensor (2) and which is capable of being emitted by the first antenna (6). 22. Measuring device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the first antenna (6) is partially or entirely located outside the first interior housing (33) and outside of the body (3). 23. Measuring device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 22, characterized in that the first antenna (6) comprises a first part (64) of antenna housed in the first interior housing (33) and a second part (65) of antenna, which is fixed on the cap (8) and which is connected to the first part (64) of antenna by capacitive or inductive coupling, the cap (8) being made of a material arranged to leave pass an electromagnetic radiation capable of being emitted by the first part (64) of antenna and by the second part (65) of antenna. 24. Measuring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first antenna (6) is of the LF or HF or UHF type. 25. Measuring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first antenna (6) is of the WPC and / or RFID and / or GSM and / or LoRa and / or WiFi type. 26. Measuring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first antenna (6) is of the RFID and / or NFC and / or RFID HF and / or NFC HF type. 27. Measuring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first antenna (6) is of UHF RFID and / or NFC UHF type. 28. Measuring device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 27, characterized in that it is associated with a remote reader and / or remote transmitter and / or remote receiver, which or which are of a type corresponding to the type of the first antenna (6). 29. Measuring device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 24, characterized in that the first antenna (6) is of the UHF type, at least one battery (10) for supplying electricity to the first antenna (6 ) being housed in the first interior housing (33). 30. Measuring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first antenna (6) is connected by the at least one electrical conductor to reception means (Rx) of a signal capable of be received by the first antenna (6) and to transmission means (Tx) of a signal capable of being transmitted by the first antenna (6). 31. Measuring device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the reception means (Rx) and the transmission means (Tx) comprise a repeater for retransmitting in the signal transmitted by the transmission means (Tx ), in addition to the quantity having been measured by the sensor (2), the signal received by the reception means (Rx). 32. Measuring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one rechargeable battery (10) or a rechargeable battery (10) for supplying electricity to the electronic unit (4) and / or the sensor (2) is housed in the first interior housing (33), the rechargeable battery (10) or rechargeable battery (10) being connected by electrical conductors to a second antenna (6 ') contained in the first interior housing ( 33) or to the first antenna (6), the first or second antenna (6, 6 ') being configured to be able to receive energy without contact, by electromagnetic radiation from the outside sent by a remote charger, in order to charge or recharge the rechargeable battery (10) or rechargeable battery (10). 33. Measuring device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the rechargeable battery (10) or rechargeable battery (10) is connected by electrical conductors to the second antenna (6 ') contained in the first interior housing ( 33), the second antenna (6 ') is of the HF type and is configured to be able to receive energy without contact, by HF electromagnetic radiation from the outside sent by a remote charger, in order to charge or recharge the rechargeable battery ( 10) or rechargeable battery (10). 34. Measuring device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the first antenna (6) is of the UHF type. 35. Measuring device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 31, characterized in that the first antenna (6) is configured to be able to receive energy without contact, by electromagnetic radiation from the outside sent by a remote device, in order to supply electricity to the electronic unit (4) and / or the sensor (2). 36. Measuring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises means allowing its geolocation. 37. Measuring device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the means for geolocation comprises at least one RFID tag attached to the device (1). 38. Measuring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electronic unit (4) is capable of transmitting to the outside of the body (3) via the first antenna ( 6) at least intrinsic diagnostic information. 39. Measuring network, comprising a plurality of measuring devices (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, intended to be fixed in respectively a plurality of said external access openings (T, C) opening into the internal section ( CAN, C3) for fluid passage and distributed over a length of the tube (TTF), the measuring devices (1) being distributed over the length (L) of the tube (TTF). 40. Fluid transport tube (TTF), comprising: an internal section (CAN) for transporting the fluid in the tube (TTF), at least one external opening (T) for access, which is delimited by a wall (P), extends in a first direction (D) of fluid passage in the wall (P), has an internal thread (TAR, Cl) located around the first direction (D) of passage and opens into the interior section (CAN, C3) of fluid passage, wider than the opening (T, C) transversely to the first direction (D) of crossing, at least one measuring device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 38, including the part (7) for setting selective contact is screwed into the internal thread (TAR, Cl) of the external access opening (T), the body (3) and / or the fixing part (32) being fixed in a fluid-tight manner to the opening (T, C) for access and / or to the part (7) for selective contact in order to position the sensor (2) upstream of the outlet inner tie (73) in the first direction (SI) of insertion, the wall (P) being that delimiting the interior section (CAN) of transport of the fluid in the tube (TTF) or being that of a conduit (C) , which is fixed to another wall delimiting the interior section (CAN) of fluid transport and opening into the latter and which extends towards the outside of the interior section (CAN) of fluid transport. 41. Fluid transport tube (TTF) according to claim 40, in which there is provided as an access opening (T, C) a plurality of access openings (T, C) distributed over a length (L) of the tube (TTF), there is provided as a measuring device (1) a plurality of said measuring devices (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 38, which are distributed over the length (L) of the tube (TTF) and the respective parts (7) of selective contact are screwed into the thread (TAR, Cl) of the respective access openings (T, C), the body (3) and / or the fixing part (32) respective measuring devices (1) being fixed in a fluid-tight manner to the respective access opening (T, C) and / or to the respective selective contacting part (7) for positioning the sensor ( 2) respective upstream of the respective interior outlet (73) along the respective first insertion direction (SI). 42. Fluid transport tube (TTF) according to claim 40 or 41, wherein the fluid is combustible gas. 43. Fluid transport tube (TTF) according to any one of claims 40 to 42, in which the access opening (T, C) is located in an upper part of the tube (TTF). 44. Method for fixing the measuring device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 38 in an external opening (T, C) of access, which is delimited by a wall (P), extends along a first direction (D) of fluid crossing in the wall (P), has an internal thread (TAR, Cl) located around the first direction (D) of crossing and opens into an interior section (CAN, C3) of passage fluid, wider than the opening (T, C) for access transversely to the direction (D) of crossing, method in which the body (3) and / or the fixing part (32) is fixed in a manner fluid tight at the opening (T, C) and / or at the part (7) of selective contact, for positioning the sensor (2) upstream of the interior outlet (73) in the first direction (SI) insertion, we screw through the body (3) and / or the fixing part (32) the part (7) of selective contact in the internal thread (TAR, Cl) of the external opening (T, C) in the first direction (SI) of insertion to the first position, then screwed through the body (3) and / or of the fixing part (32) the part (7) of selective contact in the internal thread (TAR, Cl) of the external opening (T, C) in the first direction (SI) of insertion until the second position.