Variable Orifice Flow Sensor Utilizing Localized Contact Force

摘要

A variable orifice fluid flow sensor is provided that includes a fluid flow passage therethrough formed with a first port portion adjacent to one end of said passage and a second port portion adjacent to the other end of said passage. A bending member is mounted in the fluid flow passage between the first and second port portions and having a fluid flow limiting flapper extending across the fluid flow passage for creating a fluid flow opening in the passage, the size of the opening being variable responsive to fluid flow in said fluid flow passage. A biasing member is also mounted between the first and second port portions and includes at least one biasing element extending away from the biasing member into contact with the bending member to exert a contact force on the bending member.

主权项

1. A variable orifice fluid flow sensor comprising:
a) a housing having a fluid flow passage therethrough, said fluid flow passage being formed with a first port portion adjacent to one end of said passage and a second port portion adjacent to the other end of said passage; b) a bending member mounted in the fluid flow passage between the first and second port portions and having a fluid flow limiting flapper extending across the fluid flow passage for creating a fluid flow opening in the passage, the size of the opening being variable responsive to fluid flow in said fluid flow passage; and c) a biasing member mounted between the first and second port portions, the biasing member including at least one biasing element extending outwardly from the biasing member into contact with the bending member to exert a contact force on the bending member.