Patent Description:
In a second example, storage and transport periods of the transducer lifecycle may include relative humidity <NUM> to <NUM> percent. However, in an operating environment, it is common small amounts of water to leak into the enclosure of a transducer, and for the use of desiccant to reduce the humidity levels to <NUM> percent or less. Accordingly, an enclosure of a transducer that is more compatible with such variances in relative humidity during different periods of the lifecycle would be advantageous.

In a third example, known enclosures for transducers have failed to conduct ultrasonic signals with low losses and consistency and/or failed to provide the needed structural strength. Accordingly, improved techniques would result in increased signal strength and signal consistency, as well as greater physical strength and resistance to pressure. <CIT>, according to its abstract, describes an ultrasonic flowmeter which aims to stabilize its shape by suppressing thermal expansion of a measurement conduit line made of fluororesin. An ultrasonic flowmeter <NUM> in a time difference system is provided comprising ultrasonic transceivers <NUM>, <NUM> on an upstream side and a downstream side of a measurement conduit line <NUM> made of fluororesin where fluid F to be measured flows. It is fitted to a sheath tube <NUM> made of carbon fiber-reinforced resin in the close contact state with the outer peripheral surface of the measurement conduit line <NUM> made of fluororesin. <CIT>, according to its abstract, describes an intravascular catheter for nerve activity ablation and/or sensing includes one or more needles advanced through supported guide tubes (needle guiding elements) which expand to contact the interior surface of the wall of the renal artery or other vessel of a human body allowing the needles to be advanced though the vessel wall into the extra-luminal tissue including the media, adventitia and periadvential space. The catheter also includes structures which provide radial and lateral support to the guide tubes so that the guide tubes open uniformly and maintain their position against the interior surface of the vessel wall as the sharpened needles are advanced to penetrate into the vessel wall. <CIT>, according to its abstract, describes a Coriolis flowmeter including an oscillator for oscillating a fluid pipe that forms a flow path for allowing a measurement fluid to flow; first and second detectors that are disposed to be spaced apart from each other along the flow path of the fluid pipe so as to detect a state of oscillation of the fluid pipe; and a calculator for calculating a mass flow rate of the measurement fluid that passes through the flow path of the fluid pipe on the basis of a relative amount of the states of oscillation that are detected by the first and second detectors. The fluid pipe includes an inner pipe made of a fluororesin whose inner circumferential surface is in contact with the flow path, and an outer pipe having fibers that are arranged in order to surround an outer circumferential surface of the inner pipe and a resin that is cured in a state of close adhesion between the fibers arranged in order, and having an elastic modulus larger than that of the inner pipe. <CIT>, according to its abstract, describes systems and methods of a transducer having a plastic matching layer. Transducers are described comprising a housing (having a proximal end, a distal end and an internal volume, the housing configured to couple to a spoolpiece of an ultrasonic meter), a plastic matching layer that has an external surface and an internal surface (the plastic matching layer seals to and occludes the distal end of the housing), and a transducer element abutting the internal surface of the plastic matching layer.

In an aspect, there is provided a transducer assembly according to claim <NUM>.

The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to reference like features and components. Moreover, the figures are intended to illustrate general concepts, and not to indicate required and/or necessary elements.

<FIG> show example transducer assemblies that may be converted from a moisture-proof state suitable for storage and/or transport to an operational state that allows a desiccant to remove moisture.

In a first example, the disclosure describes techniques for providing an ultrasonic transducer (usable in some examples in a water meter, gas meter, or other device) having features and techniques for maintaining the transducer in a waterproof state and a non-waterproof state. After manufacture (e.g., during storage and transportation), ambient relative humidity can vary widely, and may reach levels that are too high. Such humidity may degrade electronic components such as an ultrasonic transducer (e.g., a piezo device). In some cases, the high humidity may damage the glue that couples the piezo device to the housing. Accordingly, example features and techniques hold the transducer in a waterproof state during these times. Upon installation in a water meter or other device, the transducer is transitioned to a non-waterproof state, to thereby allow water to be exhausted from the transducer. In operation of a water-metering device, water may enter the transducer in small quantities. A desiccant may be used to lower the humidity in the environment of the transducer. Because the transducer is in the non-waterproof state, any small quantities of water that entered the transducer are removed from the transducer and absorbed by the desiccant. In an example, a tube may provide a channel within the transducer. At one end of the channel is an area near the piezo device and associated glue attaching it to the housing and/or enclosure. At the other end of the channel, an end of the tube protrudes from the enclosure of the transducer. In the example, a frangible end of the tube can be broken off. Prior to breaking the end of the tube, the transducer is in the waterproof state, and the internal components such as the piezo device and glue attaching it to the enclosure are protected from humidity. The state is considered waterproof at least in part because the environmental conditions during storage and transportation are not nearly as wet as they are in the operational mode, and the transducer is essentially waterproof. After breaking off the end of the tube, the transducer is in the non-waterproof state. In an operative state, some water may enter the transducer's enclosure. Accordingly, by transitioning to the non-waterproof state, water can be removed. Thus, any moisture entering the transducer, such as from condensation on a pipe to which the transducer is attached, may exit through the open end of the tube, where the moisture is absorbed by the desiccant. Accordingly, before and after installation and operation, the piezo unit, glue and other transducer components are held and maintained in a sufficiently low humidity environment.

In a second example, the disclosure describes techniques for providing a plug to protect and guide wiring during storage, transportation, and the manufacturing process. The techniques provide for an improved connection between the transducer and an electronic printed circuit board (PCB) and allow for a fully automated manufacturing process. In the example, a plastic plug is configured for insertion into an enclosure of a transducer. Two wires (e.g., electrical cables) extend through passages defined in two wire guides on an upper portion of the plug. In an example, an assembly process attaches the wires of the transducer to a PCB.

In a third example, the disclosure describes advantages of a transducer assembly having a bi-material enclosure. In a more specific example, a plastic housing with mechanical reinforcements (e.g., <NUM>% glass fiber) provides the advantage of strength and resistance to a high-pressure environment encountered during use. Transducer assemblies using a plastic sleeve having little or no reinforcing materials may provide less variations in signal transmission between assemblies than such assemblies having reinforcing materials. Removing reinforcing materials from the plastic sleeve obviates concern over variations in fiber content and/or alignment. Removing reinforcing material from the plastic sleeve also obviates concern over the quality of fiber coatings, which may become exposed after wear and create a moisture-entry path. Accordingly, the bi-material transducer enclosure provides resistance to pressure and consistency between transducer assemblies.

<FIG> show examples by which example transducers may be converted from a waterproof state suitable for storage and/or transport to an operational state that allows water molecules to be exhausted through an open tube and to be absorbed by a desiccant to remove moisture from the transducers.

<FIG> shows an example of a lifecycle timeline <NUM> of a transducer for a metering device. The first period <NUM> in the lifecycle (e.g., zero to eighteen months) the transducer may be subject to high humidity (e.g., <NUM>% to <NUM>% relative humidity). Humidity may damage electronic components, the piezo device, and/or glue attaching the piezo device to a housing or enclosure of the transducer. Accordingly, the transducer must be protected from the humidity, and an enclosure of the transducer must be in a waterproof mode, state and/or condition. After installation at time <NUM>, the transducer and an associated water or gas metering device may have a <NUM>- to <NUM>-year lifespan <NUM>. During the lifespan <NUM>, any humidity entering the enclosure must be exhausted from the enclosure. Water may enter the enclosure of the ultrasonic transducer due to that enclosure's connection and/or proximity to water or gas pipes. Accordingly, an opening in the enclosure is used to exhaust and/or transfer any moisture and humidity from the enclosure. Such water may be transferred to a desiccant within the water or gas meter. This process keeps the humidity within the metering device quite low (e.g., less than <NUM>% relative humidity). Because the transducer must be able to exhaust any humidity to the desiccant, it is in a non-waterproof mode, state and/or condition during the operating period <NUM>.

<FIG> shows an example transducer assembly <NUM>, having an enclosure <NUM>. Within the enclosure, the transducer assembly <NUM> may include an ultrasonic sensor (e.g., a piezo device), wiring, glue, layers of epoxy or plastic, backing, a humidity-exhausting tube, etc. The transducer assembly <NUM> is shown in a waterproof state to protect it from a high humidity environment. The waterproof state obviates the need to pack the transducer in desiccant during the storage, warehousing, transportation and/or inventorying phases of its lifecycle. The waterproof state also reduces failure rates that would accompany the failure of such desiccant during wet environments, poor warehousing techniques, etc..

<FIG> shows a portion of the transducer assembly <NUM>. In the example shown, a plastic tube <NUM> connects the internal areas of the transducer assembly (not shown) to the atmosphere outside the enclosure of the transducer (e.g., the interior of the metering device). The tube <NUM> shows a closed end-cap <NUM> of the plastic tube <NUM>, which results in a waterproof state or mode of the transducer assembly <NUM>. The waterproof state or more is associated with the storage, transportation and/or warehousing stages of the lifecycle of the transducer, before it is installed on a water pipe and/or in a meter. A thin or frangible region <NUM> of the tube <NUM> allows the closed end-cap <NUM> of the tube to be easily broken off. With the end-cap broken off, an open channel of the tube provides ventilation between an interior of the transducer assembly <NUM> and atmosphere outside the enclosure portion of the transducer assembly. After the end-cap <NUM> of the tube is broken off, the transducer assembly <NUM> is in the non-waterproof state or mode. The non-waterproof state or mode allows water that essentially cannot be stopped from very slowly entering the enclosure of the transducer assembly <NUM> to be exhausted (through tube <NUM>) at a similar rate, thereby keeping the relative humidity within the enclosure of the transducer assembly at a low level. The non-waterproof state or mode is associated with the <NUM> to <NUM>-year operational life span of the transducer assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> shows an example transducer assembly <NUM> in cross-section. The transducer assembly <NUM> of the transducer is configured to protect an ultrasonic transducer and other components both in storage and after installation in a metering device. The tube <NUM> defines a channel <NUM> that provides ventilation (if the open state, with end-cap <NUM> removed) between the atmosphere and the region <NUM> within the enclosure <NUM> of the transducer assembly near the ultrasonic device. The tube <NUM> has an end-cap <NUM> which may be broken off at a frangible or weakened location <NUM>. Accordingly, when the endcap <NUM> is present, the channel <NUM> of the tube <NUM> is sealed, and the enclosure is in the waterproof state for warehousing, transportation and/or inventory. When the end-cap <NUM> is removed, the channel <NUM> of the tube <NUM> provides ventilation from the inside of the enclosure <NUM> to the atmosphere outside the transducer assembly, and the enclosure is in the non-waterproof state or mode. The non-waterproof mode allows small amounts of water that cannot be conveniently stopped from entering the enclosure <NUM> of the transducer to be exhausted out the channel <NUM> of the tube <NUM> and into a desiccant over an approximately <NUM>-year operating lifetime of the transducer.

<FIG> shows a portion of the enclosure <NUM> of a transducer assembly <NUM>. In the view shown, the tube <NUM> of the enclosure <NUM> of the transducer extends through a layer <NUM>, which provides structural support and water-proofing. In an example, the layer <NUM> is made of epoxy resin. Accordingly, the tube <NUM> passing through the resin layer <NUM> is held in place in a waterproof manner.

<FIG> shows portions of the example enclosure <NUM> of a transducer assembly <NUM>, and an arrangement of components within the enclosure, including an ultrasonic (e.g., piezo) device <NUM> and glue <NUM> sealing the piezo device to a base portion of the enclosure. The channel <NUM> of the tube <NUM> is configured to transfer humidity from the area of the piezo device to the atmosphere (if the end-cap has been removed). The view shows a layer of epoxy resin <NUM> and a layer of silicon glue <NUM>.

<FIG> shows an example enclosure <NUM> for an ultrasonic transducer assembly <NUM> with a closed channel, suitable for warehousing, shipping, storage and pre-installation situations. The tube <NUM> defining a channel is sealed by the end-cap <NUM>. The frangible region <NUM> has not be broken. Accordingly, the enclosure <NUM> is in the waterproof condition, phase and/or mode of the transducer lifecycle.

<FIG> shows an example process by which the tube <NUM> and associated internal channel (channel <NUM>, seen in <FIG>) is opened. The process involves breaking the frangible region <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) to thereby remove the end-cap <NUM>. The process transitions the enclosure <NUM> for a transducer assembly <NUM> from the waterproof configuration used for shipping, storage and/or pre-installation situations to a non-waterproof configuration used during operation. Because the waterproof condition may not be truly waterproof in an operating environment, the transducer is kept drier by having the tube <NUM> open, to thereby allow water to be removed from the enclosure <NUM> of the transducer assembly <NUM> and absorbed by the desiccant within an enclosure of a metering device.

<FIG> shows an example enclosure <NUM> for ultrasonic transducer assembly <NUM> with an open channel <NUM> of the tube <NUM> channel <NUM>, suitable for operational situations. The endcap has been removed and is not shown. The tube <NUM> is open because the frangible region has been cut or broken during the assembly and/or manufacturing process, thereby releasing the endcap.

<FIG> shows an enclosure <NUM> for a transducer assembly <NUM> in an operational configuration with the channel <NUM> within the tube <NUM> in an opened condition. In the view shown, the enclosure <NUM> may enclose, protect and/or support an epoxy resin layer <NUM>, a silicone glue layer <NUM>, and/or other layer(s) <NUM>. In the example, the piezo device <NUM> is secured to an inside surface of the enclosure <NUM> by a layer of glue <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a meter <NUM> (e.g., a water meter) having two transducer assemblies <NUM>, including respective piezo or ceramic devices <NUM>. The water meter <NUM> is installed on a water pipe <NUM> so that the transducer assemblies <NUM> position the piezo or ceramic devices in a position to receive ultrasonic signals and/or vibrations from the pipe. The transducer assemblies <NUM> have had their end-caps removed (not shown) so that the open channels <NUM> of tubes <NUM> are exposed to the atmosphere of the interior of the enclosure <NUM> of the water meter <NUM>. Accordingly, any water and/or humidity passing through the plastic of the enclosures <NUM> of the transducer assemblies <NUM> will be exhausted through the channels <NUM> of the open tubes <NUM>. Once exhausted, the water will be absorbed by desiccant <NUM> within the enclosure <NUM> of the water meter <NUM>. The resultant low humidity environment within the transducer assemblies <NUM> will protect the glue <NUM> of holding the piezo devices <NUM> in place. Accordingly, small amounts of water passing through the plastic of the enclosures <NUM> of the transducer assemblies <NUM> is exhausted through tubes <NUM> and absorbed by desiccant <NUM>, thereby resulting in a low humidity environment and longer life of the transducer assemblies <NUM>.

<FIG> show examples of a transducer enclosure with variable moisture proofing. Accordingly, different modes and/or variable moisture proofing may be associated with different respective environments in which a transducer, transducer enclosure and/or metering device is located. In a first example, a transducer assembly includes an enclosure and a transducer located within the enclosure. In the example, a tube defining a channel may connect an interior of the enclosure and an exterior of the enclosure. An end-cap may be disposed on an end of the tube to prevent ventilation and passage of humidity through the channel defined in the tube. A frangible portion allows the end-cap is to be removably coupled to the tube, i.e., the end-cap may be broken off the end of the tube. When the end-cap is installed, it prevents humidity from entering the tube and causing damage to the transducer assembly, such as the glue holding the transducer in place. However, in a very wet environment, such as when the transducer enclosure is attached to a water pipe, water may slowly migrate through the plastic of the enclosure. By breaking off the end-cap of a tube upon installation, such water may be exhausted through the tube, and absorbed by desiccant within a utility meter in which the transducer assembly is located. Accordingly, the environment of the transducer device (e.g., a piezo device) may be keep at a low relative humidity.

In an example, the channel defined in the tube provides sufficient ventilation to remove water entering the enclosure when the enclosure is attached to a waterpipe and when the end-cap is removed at the frangible portion.

In an example, the transducer is a piezo (e.g., piezo electric) device glued to an inside surface of the enclosure.

In an example, the enclosure and the end-cap prevent entrance of water when the transducer assembly is in a storage location.

In an example, transducer assembly may include additionally include layers of waterproof material within the interior of the enclosure to define a chamber within the enclosure. In the example, the transducer may be located within the chamber. In the example, the layers may include a layer of epoxy and a layer of silicone within the enclosure. In the example, the tube passes through the layer of epoxy and a layer of silicone.

In an example, the enclosure is sufficiently waterproof to prevent entry of water in storage and transfer of the transducer assembly. However, the enclosure may be insufficiently waterproof to prevent entry of water when the enclosure of the transducer assembly is attached to a waterpipe. Accordingly, buy removing the end-cap, any water that enters the transducer assembly is exhausted through the tube and absorbed by desiccant.

In an example, the transducer assembly may be located within an enclosure of a water meter. The enclosure of the water meter may also include a desiccant located outside the enclosure of the transducer and inside the enclosure of the water meter.

In a second example, a transducer assembly may include an enclosure and a transducer located within the enclosure. In the example a tube may define a channel connecting an interior of the enclosure and an exterior of the enclosure. The channel may be defined in the tube to provide enough ventilation to remove water entering the enclosure when the transducer assembly is attached to a waterpipe.

In the example, the transducer assembly may be part of a water meter. The combined system may also include an enclosure of the water meter within which the transducer assembly is disposed, and a desiccant located outside the enclosure of the transducer assembly and inside the enclosure of the water meter.

In the example, the transducer assembly may be part of a water meter. Within the combined system, the transducer assembly may be a first transducer assembly. In the example, the water meter may include an enclosure of the water meter within which the first transducer assembly is disposed. The second transducer assembly may also be disposed within the enclosure of the water meter.

In the example, the transducer assembly may be part of a water meter. Within the combined system, an enclosure of the water meter may contain the transducer assembly. In an example, the tube provides ventilation between the interior of the enclosure of the transducer assembly and an interior of the enclosure of the water meter.

In an example, the transducer of the transducer assembly is a piezo or piezo electric device glued to an inside surface of the enclosure.

In an example, a layer of waterproof material(s) within the interior of the enclosure define a chamber within the enclosure, wherein the transducer is located within the chamber, and wherein the tube passes through the layer.

In an example, a broken frangible region at an end of the tube indicating removal of an end-cap of the tube.

In a third example, operation of a metering device is described. In the example, humidity is prevented from passing through a tube and into an enclosure of a transducer assembly by sealing an end of the tube with an end-cap. In the example, the end-cap is removed from the end of the tube. In the example, the transducer assembly is installed within the metering device. In the example, humidity exhausted from the tube is absorbed using a desiccant.

In an example, removing the end-cap may be performed by manually breaking the end-cap using a frangible region of the tube.

In an example, the transducer assembly may be stored before removing the end-cap. The end-cap will protect the transducer from humidity during the storage period.

In an example, the transducer assembly may be operated after removing the end-cap. During operation, water may enter the transducer enclosure due to a wet operating environment. However, the water will be exhausted through the tube due to removal of the end-cap, and once exhausted, the water will be absorbed by desiccant.

In an example, the transducer assembly may be installed for operation by enclosing the transducer assembly within an enclosure of the metering device and enclosing the desiccant within the enclosure of the metering device.

In an example, the transducer assembly may be installed on a water pipe or a gas pipe and may be part of a water meter or a gas meter.

<FIG> show examples of a transducer enclosure to protect and position transducer wiring, such as in an automated manufacturing environment. In an example, a plug is adapted for connection to an enclosure of an ultrasonic transducer to protect, guide, position and/or orient wiring during storage, transportation, and the manufacturing and/or on-site installation process(s). The plug protects and orients wires to allow for automated manufacturing and to provide an improved connection between the transducer and an electronic printed circuit board. The plug may include a first portion having wire guide(s) and a second portion configured for attachment to the enclosure of the transducer. The plug includes at least one wire guide to protect wire(s) that connect the ultrasonic transducer to a printed circuit board. A wire extends through a passage defined in each wire guide in a first portion of the plug. The first portion slides with respect to the second portion to expose portions of first and second wires carried within the first and second channels, respectively. Once exposed, the wires can be soldered to a PCB in an automated manner.

<FIG> shows an example transducer assembly <NUM>, having an enclosure <NUM>. A wiring guide or plug <NUM> is connected to an upper part of the enclosure <NUM>. In the example, the plug <NUM> includes a first portion that provides two wire guides, and a second portion that connects to the enclosure <NUM> of the transducer assembly <NUM>. In a first position, the first portion protects and orients two wires providing a signal from an ultrasonic sensor (e.g., piezo device). Sliding the first portion into a second position within the second portion exposes the wires. The exposed wires may be soldered to a printed circuit board. Accordingly, the enclosure <NUM> (for the transducer <NUM>) and the plastic plug <NUM> guide and protect electrical wires, cable and/or wiring guides during storage and transport and may obviate the need for special packaging. Further, when a first portion of the plug is in the second position the wires are exposed, allowing them to be soldered into place.

<FIG> shows an example enclosure <NUM> for a transducer assembly <NUM> including a wiring guide or plug <NUM> connected to, and/or forming a part of, the enclosure. The plug <NUM> may be made of plastic and may include a first portion <NUM> that includes one or more wire guides and a second portion <NUM> that attaches to the enclosure <NUM>. In the example shown, the first portion <NUM> includes two wire guides <NUM>, <NUM>, associated with respective wires <NUM>, <NUM>. When the first portion <NUM> is in the upper position (as shown) the wires <NUM>, <NUM> are protected by the wire guides <NUM>, <NUM>. When the first portion <NUM> is moved downwardly with respect to the second portion <NUM>, i.e., moved into the enclosure body <NUM>, the wires <NUM>, <NUM> are exposed.

The second portion <NUM> may be glued and/or friction-fit into the enclosure for the transducer. Such fastening means avoids twisting the wires <NUM>, <NUM>, although some threaded connections could be used.

In the example shown, several components, regions, and/or materials are included within the enclosure <NUM> of the transducer assembly <NUM>. The example shows a layer of epoxy resin <NUM>, a layer of silicone glue <NUM>, an ultrasonic sensor <NUM>, and glue <NUM> holding the sensor in place.

<FIG> show an example method used to install a metering device on a pipe, including installation of a transducer in an enclosure on the pipe, and including wiring the transducer to a PCB (which may be contained in a metering device, such as a water or gas meter). The sequence shows example features, structures and techniques of the two-portion plug of the housing of the transducer.

<FIG> shows the enclosure <NUM> of a transducer assembly <NUM> mounted on a pipe <NUM>. The enclosure <NUM> of a transducer assembly may be attached with any fastening means, such as clips or clamps <NUM>. The wiring guide <NUM> (seen edge-on) supports two wires in a pre-determined location. An electronic casing or meter enclosure <NUM> is placed on the enclosure <NUM> of the transducer assembly <NUM>. The meter enclosure <NUM> may be part of a water or gas meter and may protect and enclose one or more transducer assemblies <NUM>.

<FIG> shows the electronic casing or meter housing <NUM> attached to the housing <NUM> of the transducer assembly <NUM> by a fastener such as a nut <NUM>.

<FIG> shows an electronic printed circuit board (PCB) <NUM> that has been place on, and attached to, the electronic casing or meter enclosure <NUM>.

<FIG> shows two surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of the wiring guide or plug <NUM>. In the assembly process, an automated tool is used to push the upper surface <NUM> to the level of the lower surface <NUM>. This pushes a first or upper portion of the plug to side with respect to a second or lower portion of the plug. While the first portion moves, the wires of the wiring guide do not move, and then become exposed. Accordingly, the movement of the upper surface <NUM> lowers the wire guides <NUM>, <NUM>, which exposes the wires passing through them (as seen in <FIG>). The exposed wires are then in position to be soldered to the printed circuit board.

<FIG> shows an exposed wire <NUM> (and wire <NUM>, hidden in the view), which was exposed as the wire guide <NUM> (and wire guide <NUM>, hidden in the view) of the wiring guide or plug <NUM> moved downwardly, as the wire guide as the surface <NUM> was pushed to the level of the surface <NUM>. Accordingly, the wires <NUM> (shown, and wire <NUM> directly behind wire <NUM>) are at a level slightly higher than the PCB <NUM>.

<FIG> shows the wire <NUM> extending from the wire guide <NUM> of the plug <NUM>. An automated tool (not shown) has pushed the wire <NUM> into contact with the PCB. Thus, the wires <NUM>, <NUM> extend just over the top of the PCB <NUM>, which locates it appropriately to be soldered to the PCB.

<FIG> show a first example of a two-part plug or wiring guide <NUM>. In the view of <FIG>, a first portion <NUM> of the plug includes two wire guides <NUM>, <NUM> and a second portion <NUM> attaches to an enclosure <NUM> of a transducer assembly <NUM> (both seen in <FIG>). In the view of <FIG>, the first portion <NUM> is in an extended position, which covers and protects the wires of the transducer unit. An upper surface <NUM> and a lower surface <NUM> are at different elevations. When in the upper position (as seen in <FIG>) the upper surface <NUM> may be pushed down to the level of, and flush with, the lower surface <NUM> (as seen in <FIG>). Such movement of the upper portion <NUM> will expose two wires <NUM> (seen in <FIG>). Accordingly, <FIG> shows that part of the upper portion <NUM> has been pushed down into the lower portion <NUM>. The wires are not visible in this view for clarity, but are seen in <FIG>.

<FIG> show a second example of a two-part plug or wiring guide <NUM>. The second example differs from the example of <FIG> in that a stop <NUM> affirmatively stops motion of the first portion <NUM> relative to the second portion <NUM>. In the view of <FIG>, a first portion <NUM> of the plug includes two wire guides <NUM>, <NUM> and a second portion <NUM> attaches to an enclosure <NUM> of a transducer assembly <NUM> (both seen in <FIG>). In the view of <FIG>, the first portion <NUM> is in an extended position, which covers and protects the wires of the transducer unit. The stop <NUM> and a lower surface <NUM> are at different elevations. When the upper position the stop <NUM> is pushed down to the level of, and flush with, the lower surface <NUM>. Such movement of the upper portion <NUM> will expose wiring of the transducer device. Accordingly, <FIG> shows that part of the upper portion <NUM> has been pushed down into the lower portion <NUM>. The wires are not visible in this view for clarity, but are seen in <FIG>.

<FIG> show example wiring guides (i.e., plugs insertable into an enclosure of a transducer assembly). In the examples, the wiring guide may include two portions that slide with respect to each other, and which are connected to an enclosure of a transducer assembly. In an example, movement of one portion of the wiring guide results in breakage of a frangible portion of one or both portions of the wiring guide. In an example of the movement, a first surface <NUM> of a first portion of the wiring guide is depressed to the level of a second surface <NUM> of a second portion of the wiring guide. In an example of the movement, an automated tool pushes on surface <NUM>, thereby breaking the thin plastic area <NUM>. The thin plastic area <NUM> may be a frangible or breakable seal or perforation. In operation, the surface <NUM> and the wire guides are lowered, until the surface <NUM> is flush with surface <NUM>. The lowering of the wire guides breaks the seal or perforation <NUM>. As the wire guides are lowered, wire in the channels defined by each wire guide is exposed. Accordingly, the wire is covered during storage and transport, but is exposed after movement of the surface <NUM> to the level of surface <NUM>.

<FIG> shows the first and second portions of a wiring guide <NUM> in an opposite orientation to that seen in <FIG>. A first portion <NUM> and a second portion <NUM> are friction-fit, so allow the first portion <NUM> to slide with respect to the second portion <NUM> between first and second positions. In the view of <FIG>, the first portion <NUM> is in a first position which protects and encloses wiring of the transducer device. In the view of <FIG>, the first portion has slid into a second position, which would reveal the wiring (shown in the views of <FIG>).

As seen in <FIG>, ribs <NUM> may be defined in the plug, to guide and retain a connection between upper and lower parts of the plug or wiring guide. The wiring guide (e.g., plug <NUM> of <FIG> and plug <NUM> of <FIG>) may have an upper portion including the surface <NUM> (seen in <FIG>) and the two wire guides <NUM>, <NUM> (seen in <FIG>). Additionally, the wiring guide has a lower portion including the surface <NUM> (seen in <FIG>) and the connecting portion for attachment to the enclosure of the transducer.

<FIG> show examples of a transducer enclosure to protect and position transducer wiring, such as in an automated manufacturing environment. In a first example of a transducer assembly, a transducer includes a first wire and a second wire. A housing may at least partially enclose the transducer. A plug may be disposed in an opening of the housing. An example plug may include a first portion coupled to the opening of the housing and a second portion encircling the first wire and the second wire. In an example, the second portion of the plug is movably coupled to the first portion of the plug, such that the second portion is movable from a first position in which the first wire and the second wire are recessed in the second portion, to a second position in which the first wire and the second wire protrude from the second portion.

In an example, the second portion may include a first wire guide and a second wire guide. The first wire guide and the second wire guide may define a first channel and a second channel, respectively. The first wire and the second wire may be located at least in part within the first channel and the second channel, respectively.

In an example, the first portion may include a first frictional surface and the second portion may include a second frictional surface. In the example, contact between the first frictional surface and second frictional surface resists movement of the second portion with respect to the first portion.

In an example, the first portion may include a first frictional surface and the second portion may include a second frictional surface in contact with the first frictional surface. In the example, movement overcoming friction between the first frictional surface and second frictional surface exposes portions of the first wire and portions of the second wire.

In an example, a first channel and a second channel are defined within the second portion. In the example, when the second portion is in the first position, an end of the first wire and an end of the second wire are enclosed within the first channel and the second channel, respectively.

In an example, a first channel and a second channel are defined within the second portion. In the example, when the second portion is in the second position, an end of the first wire and an end of the second wire extend out of the first channel and the second channel, respectively.

In an example, the transducer assembly may additionally include a circuit board. In the example, when the second portion is in the second position, an end of the first wire and an end of the second wire extend out of a first channel defined in the second portion and a second channel defined in the second channel, respectively. In the example, the wires may extend by a distance sufficient for the first wire and the second wire to contact the circuit board.

In an example, the transducer assembly may additionally include a stop disposed on the second portion to limit relative movement of the second portion with respect to the first portion.

In a second example, a transducer assembly may include a transducer having a first wire and a second wire. In the example, a housing may at least partially enclose the transducer. In the example, a plug may be disposed in an opening of the housing. In the example, the plug may include a first portion coupled to the opening of the housing and a second portion. In the example, the second portion may include a first wire guide and a second wire guide. In the example, the first wire guide and the second wire guide may define a first channel and a second channel, respectively. In the example, portions of the first wire and portions of the second wire may be located at least in part within the first channel and the second channel, respectively.

In an example, the second portion of the plug may be movably coupled to the first portion of the plug between a first position and a second position. In the example, an end of the first wire and an end of the second wire are encased in the first position and exposed when the second position.

In an example, the first portion may include a first frictional surface and the second portion may include a second frictional surface in contact with the first frictional surface.

In an example, the transducer assembly may additionally include a circuit board. In the example, the second portion of the plug may be movably coupled to the first portion of the plug, such as to allow movement between a first position and a second position. In the example, when the second portion is in the second position, an end of the first wire and an end of the second wire extend out of the first channel and the second channel, respectively, by a distance sufficient for the first wire and the second wire to contact the circuit board.

In an example, the first portion may additionally include a first frictional surface and the second portion may additionally include a second frictional surface. In the example, the first frictional surface and second frictional surface are in contact.

In a third example, a metering device may be manufactured according to one or more actions and/or techniques. In the example, a housing of a transducer may be attached to a pipe. A printed circuit board (PCB) may be attached to an assembly adjacent to the housing. A force may be applied to move a first portion of the housing to expose wires of the metering device. The exposed wires bending the wiring to contact the PCB; and electrically connecting the wiring to the PCB.

In an example, the force applied to move the first portion may include applying force to the first portion until a stop contacts a second portion of the housing.

In an example, the force applied to move the first portion may include applying force to the first portion until a surface of the first portion is substantially planar with a surface of a second portion of the housing.

In an example, the force applied to move the first portion may include applying force to break a seal of the housing.

In an example, the force applied to move the first portion may include sliding the first portion against a second portion of the housing.

In an example, the force applied to move the first portion may include sliding wire guides against wires of the metering device to thereby expose the wires.

<FIG> show example designs of transducer assemblies. The designs are made of plastic that includes reinforcing material (e.g., glass fiber) and/or plastic that does not include reinforcing material or includes less reinforcing material. In an example, a bi-material enclosure is configured for use in an acoustic sensor assembly, such as for use in a water or gas metering applications. A plastic housing with mechanical reinforcements (e.g., <NUM>% glass fiber) provides the advantage of strength and resistance to a high-pressure environment encountered during use. Use of a plastic sleeve without fiber reinforcements may result in transducer assemblies with more consistent signal transmission characteristics. In some examples, a less-reinforced plastic sleeve may result in more homogeneous and/or consistent data from different transducer assemblies under the same or similar conditions.

In an example, acoustic signal loss or attenuation may be reduced if a material of the less-reinforced sleeve (e.g., sleeve <NUM> and endcap <NUM> of <FIG>) is selected to have an impedance of a piezo device and/or water. Additionally or alternatively, the thickness of the sleeve and/or endcap may be selected to be an odd multiple of a quarter wavelength of an acoustic signal to be measured by a piezo and/or transducer device.

In contrast, use of reinforced material as a sleeve, endcap, and/or other conduit of an acoustic signal may attenuate the acoustic signal because of diffraction, deflection, diffusion, dispersion, etc. The use of reinforcing fibers as the signal conduit may result in variations of fiber content, variations in fiber alignment, and/or failure of a fiber coating to cohesively contain the fibers and/or to provide an entry path for gas, water or other fluid along the fibers. Such entry points may be exposed by, and/or result from, wear during use.

Accordingly, the bi-material transducer enclosure provides a high resistance to pressure, less acoustic signal attenuation, and/or high reproducibility of signal-transmission characteristics between transducer assemblies operating under similar conditions.

<FIG> shows an example sensor unit or transducer assembly <NUM> including a transducer device <NUM>. In the example, a piezo device <NUM> is shown within the housing <NUM>. In the example, the housing <NUM> of the transducer is made of a plastic that is zero percent (or alternatively, <NUM>% to <NUM>%) glass fiber (GF) or other reinforcing material. Advantageously, the housing or enclosure <NUM> is consistent with a high signal level by the piezo device and/or high signal transmissivity through the housing <NUM>.

<FIG> shows an example sensor unit or transducer assembly <NUM> including a transducer <NUM>. In the example, a piezo device <NUM> is shown within the housing <NUM>. In the example, the housing <NUM> of the transducer is made of a plastic that is approximately <NUM>% percent glass fiber (e.g., <NUM>% to <NUM>% glass fiber). Advantageously, a plastic enclosure made with glass fiber provides high strength characteristics and high resistance to pressure.

<FIG> shows an example sensor unit or transducer assembly <NUM> including a transducer device <NUM> (e.g., ultrasonic sensor such as a piezo device). In the example, a piezo device <NUM> is shown within the housing. In the example, the housing has a bi-material design, including portions that are made of plastic with reinforcing material (e.g., glass fiber) and portions that are made of plastic without reinforcing material. In the example, an outer tube <NUM> is made of plastic with fiber and forms a high-strength shell of the sensor unit <NUM>. An inner tube <NUM> of the sensor unit <NUM> made of plastic without fiber. The inner tube <NUM> also forms, and/or is connected to, an end-portion or cap <NUM>, which is also made of plastic without fiber.

The sensor unit <NUM> provides strength and excellent ultrasonic signal transmission characteristics. The outer tube <NUM> has is stronger than the inner tube <NUM>, and results in a sensor unit <NUM> having strength and resistance to pressure. The inner tube <NUM> has better ultrasonic signal conduction than the outer tube <NUM>, and the fiber-free construction results in a higher signal level from an ultrasonic sensor or piezo device. Additionally, without variability in fiber content and distribution, the use of inner tubes made with non-fiber plastic results in high signal reproducibility and consistency. That is, the use of fiber-free inner sleeves <NUM> and end-portions <NUM> results in production of sensor units that are more similar or homogenous in signal detection and ultrasonic transducer response, due at least in part to their fiber-free construction. Additionally, due to the absence of glass fiber plastic in the inner tube <NUM>, water (e.g., drinking water) is not contact with glass fiber. Accordingly, the bi-material ultrasonic sensor unit <NUM> results in production of transducer assemblies that provide excellent and consistent signal transmission from a pipe to a piezo device, high strength and water pressure resistance, and excellent protection against water contamination.

<FIG> shows an example sensor unit or transducer assembly <NUM> including a transducer device <NUM> (e.g., ultrasonic sensor such as a piezo device). In the example, a piezo device <NUM> is shown within the housing. In the example, the housing has a bi-material design, including portions that are made of plastic with fiber and portions that are made of plastic without fiber. In the example, a tube <NUM> is made of plastic with fiber, and forms a high-strength shell of the sensor unit <NUM>. An end-portion or end cap <NUM> of the sensor unit <NUM> made of plastic without fiber and provides excellent ultrasonic signal transmission from a pipe to an ultrasonic sensor device (e.g., a piezo device).

The transducer assembly <NUM> includes both strength and good ultrasonic signal transmission. The tube <NUM> has strength derived in part from a reinforced plastic, e.g., glass fiber design, and results in a sensor unit <NUM> having considerable strength and resistance to pressure. The end-portion or end cap <NUM> has better ultrasonic signal conduction than the tube <NUM>, and the fiber-free construction results better ultrasonic signal transfer from a pipe to an ultrasonic transducer device. Additionally, the transducer device will produce a more accurate and/or a higher signal level. Without variability in fiber content and distribution, the end-portion <NUM> made of non-fiber plastic results in high signal reproducibility and consistency. Accordingly, the bi-material ultrasonic sensor unit <NUM> results in production of transducer assemblies that provide excellent and consistent signal transmission from a pipe to a piezo device, and high strength and water pressure resistance and protection.

<FIG> show examples of an enclosure for a transducer made of multiple materials, to provide strength and ultrasonic signal conduction.

In a first example, a transducer assembly includes a first tube, a second tube and an end-portion. In the example, the first tube may be made of a mechanically reinforced plastic material. The second tube may be made of a first unreinforced plastic material and may be disposed within the first tube. The end-portion may be made of a second unreinforced plastic material and may be connected to the second tube.

In an example, the mechanically reinforced plastic material comprises plastic with glass fiber.

In an example, the first unreinforced plastic material and the second unreinforced plastic material may include plastic free of glass fiber.

In an example, the first unreinforced plastic material and the second unreinforced plastic material may be the same material.

In an example, the first tube may be made of approximately <NUM>% glass fiber by weight.

In an example, the second unreinforced plastic material of the end-portion attenuates an ultrasonic signal less than the mechanically reinforced plastic material of the first tube.

In an example, the transducer assembly may additionally include an ultrasonic transducer in contact with the end-portion.

In an example, the transducer assembly may additionally include a piezo electric transducer in contact with the end-portion.

In an example, the transducer assembly may additionally include an ultrasonic transducer. In the example, an outside diameter of the ultrasonic transducer is less than an inside diameter of the second tube and the ultrasonic transducer is coupled to the end-portion.

In an example, the first tube has greater mechanical resistance than the second tube and the second unreinforced plastic material of the end-portion attenuates an ultrasonic signal less than the mechanically reinforced plastic material of the first tube.

In a second example, a sensor unit for a meter may include a tube, a tube-end, and an ultrasonic transducer. The tube may be made of a mechanically reinforced plastic material. The tube-end may be made of an unreinforced plastic material. The ultrasonic transducer may be attached to the tube-end.

In an example, the tube is a first tube, and the sensor unit may additionally include a second tube. The second tube may be disposed within the first tube and may be made of the same material as the tube-end.

In an example, the mechanically reinforced plastic material may be made of plastic with glass fiber and the second tube and tube-end may be made of unreinforced plastic material.

In an example, the first tube has better mechanical resistance than the second tube and a material of the second tube and the tube-end attenuates a signal from a pipe less than a material of the first tube.

In an example, the mechanically reinforced plastic material and the unreinforced plastic material are made of a same resin type, but have differing levels of glass fiber and/or other mechanical reinforcement material.

In an example, the ultrasonic transducer is a piezoelectric transducer in contact with the tube-end.

In an example, the mechanically reinforced plastic material and the unreinforced plastic material are made of a same resin type and the mechanically reinforced plastic material comprises glass fiber.

In a third example, a transducer assembly may include a first tube, a second tube, and an end-portion. In the example, the first tube may be made of plastic with a reinforcing material and the second tube may be made of plastic, having less reinforcing material (e.g., glass fiber) than the plastic of the first tube or no reinforcing material (e.g., no glass fiber). In the example, the end-portion may be made of plastic without reinforcing material and may be connected to the second tube.

In an example, the transducer assembly may additionally include an ultrasonic transducer in contact with the end-portion. In the example, the plastic of the second tube and plastic of the end-portion may be made of plastic without glass fiber.

In an example, the plastic of the second tube has no glass fiber.

Claim 1:
A transducer assembly (<NUM>), comprising:
a first tube (<NUM>) comprising a mechanically reinforced plastic material;
a second tube (<NUM>) comprising a first unreinforced plastic material, wherein the second tube is disposed within the first tube;
an end-portion (<NUM>) comprising a second unreinforced plastic material, wherein the end-portion is connected to the second tube; and
a transducer, wherein the transducer is in contact with the end-portion comprising the second unreinforced plastic material and is an ultrasonic transducer,
wherein the first unreinforced plastic material and the second unreinforced plastic material comprise plastic free of glass fiber.