JPH0821436B2 - Specific gravity of electrolyte, liquid level and liquid temperature measuring device in storage battery - Google Patents

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates generally to a device for measuring the specific gravity, liquid level and liquid temperature of an electrolyte in a storage battery, and more particularly to a specific gravity, liquid level and liquid temperature of an electrolyte in a storage battery such as a lead storage battery. Regarding measuring device.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Generally, a device for remotely measuring the specific gravity, liquid level height and liquid temperature of an electrolytic solution housed in a storage battery of this type comprises a hydrometer, a liquid level gauge and a thermometer. Each of the hydrometer, the liquid level gauge, and the thermometer has a sensor section and a signal conversion section. Conventionally, in the above-described remote measuring device, each sensor unit of the hydrometer and the hydrometer is composed of a differential pressure pipe. Further, it was also found that each signal conversion unit was composed of a water column manometer. Air pressure (differential pressure) is obtained as an output from each of the above-mentioned sensor sections, and air pressure (differential pressure) as an output from each of the above-mentioned sensor sections is obtained at each of the signal conversion sections. It is shown on a scale, etc., but each of these values is
It was sampled by direct reading by the operator. On the other hand, regarding the thermometer of the above-mentioned remote measuring device, the sensor section is composed of a platinum resistance temperature detector,
Further, the signal conversion unit was composed of a wide angle resistance indicator. From the sensor section, an electric resistance value of a size commensurate with the temperature of the electrolytic solution is obtained as an output, and the signal conversion section indicates the electric resistance value. Similar to the above-described specific gravity meter and liquid level gauge, the indicated value was sampled by direct reading by the operator.

[0003]

By the way, in the conventional remote measuring device having the above-mentioned structure, air piping is required for each of the differential pressure pipe of the hydrometer and the differential pressure pipe of the liquid level gauge. Wiring is required for the thermometer. Besides,
Each of the above air pipes requires an air source,
Further, since the thermometer also requires a power source, there is a drawback that the number of parts is large.

On the other hand, with respect to the signal converters of the above-mentioned specific gravity meter and liquid level gauge, the operation of the scales attached to the signal converters is large and heavy, has a complicated structure and is likely to cause various troubles. It has the drawback of being complicated. Moreover, since the above-mentioned differential pressure value is obtained by so-called manual calculation, it takes a great deal of work, and in some cases, a calculation error may occur.

Therefore, various improvements have been made to the above-mentioned conventional remote measuring device for the purpose of eliminating the various drawbacks and problems described above.

According to the first improvement proposal, the sensor section of each of the hydrometer and the hydrometer is composed of a differential pressure tube as in the conventional case, and the signal conversion section of each is composed of an electronic differential pressure gauge. The differential pressure detected by the sensor unit is output from the signal conversion unit as an electric signal having a magnitude corresponding to the differential pressure. The thermometer is composed of a platinum resistance thermometer sensor in the same way as the conventional sensor,
Further, the signal conversion unit is composed of a bridge circuit, and an electric resistance value according to the liquid temperature is obtained as an output from the sensor unit, and an electric signal is output from the signal conversion unit.

A second improvement proposal is that the sensor section of the hydrometer comprises an optical (light refraction) sensor,
The signal converter included in the hydrometer is composed of a photosensitive element (which detects the amount of light), and the optical signal detected by the sensor is output from the signal converter as an electric signal having a magnitude corresponding to the optical signal. It is configured to do. Further, in the above improvement proposal, the sensor unit included in the liquid level gauge is composed of an optical (light refraction type) sensor like the sensor unit of the hydrometer, and the signal conversion unit included in the liquid level gauge is also included. , Which is composed of a photosensitive element (which detects the amount of light) like the signal conversion unit of the above-mentioned densitometer, and outputs an optical signal indicating the air pressure (differential pressure) detected by the sensor unit to an electric power of a magnitude corresponding to the optical signal. It is configured to be output from the signal conversion unit as a signal. The thermometer is composed of a resistance temperature detector or a thermistor for the sensor part, and its signal conversion part is composed of a bridge circuit as in the above, and responds to the liquid temperature in the same manner as above. The electric resistance value and electric signal are output.

However, both of the above two proposals for improvement have drawbacks and problems as described below. That is, in the first improvement proposal, since the same differential pressure tube as the conventional one is adopted in the sensor unit, as described above, the differential pressure tube of the specific gravity meter and the differential pressure tube of the liquid level gauge are respectively applied. Air piping is required, the thermometer needs wiring, and each air piping requires an air source, and the thermometer also requires a power source. Therefore, the drawback that the number of parts is increased cannot be eliminated. Further, since the electronic differential pressure gauge is used for the signal conversion unit, there is an advantage that the size and weight can be reduced, but the pressure transducer included in the electronic differential pressure gauge is connected by bonding. Corrosive liquids such as sulfuric acid are often vulnerable to corrosive gases and corrosive liquids, such as those where polyester, silicon, glass, epoxy adhesives, etc. are used. There is a problem that it cannot be used in a storage battery used as an electrolytic solution. On the other hand, with regard to the second improvement proposal, by only measuring the specific gravity of the electrolytic solution in the upper part of the storage battery, various impurities floating in the electrolytic solution adhere to the mirror surface of the optical sensor and stain the mirror surface. Since a measurement error occurs, it is necessary to clean the mirror surface frequently, which is not suitable for long-term use, and it is difficult to construct an explosion-proof structure.

As is clear from the above description, there is still room for improvement in measuring the specific gravity, liquid level height and temperature of the electrolytic solution in the storage battery in any of the above two proposed improvements. It had been.

Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its object is to be applicable in an environment where a corrosive gas or a corrosive liquid is used, and to simplify the structure and reduce the size. ， It is possible to make it lighter weight and explosion proof structure,
An object of the present invention is to provide a device for measuring the specific gravity, liquid surface height and liquid temperature of an electrolytic solution in a storage battery with a small measurement error and easy maintenance.

[0011]

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides a differential pressure value signal for determining the specific gravity and liquid surface height of an electrolytic solution by immersing the electrolytic solution in a storage battery. A detection unit that outputs a liquid temperature value signal of the electrolytic solution, respectively, by inputting each of the signals output from the detection unit,
A signal processing unit for performing a predetermined signal processing, wherein the detection unit detects a differential pressure between any two points in the electrolytic solution at a predetermined depth interval and corresponds to the detected differential pressure. A first differential pressure detecting means for outputting an electric signal and a differential pressure between a pressure at a position submerged in the electrolytic solution and a gas pressure at a position outside the electrolytic solution at a predetermined height away from the position inside the storage battery are detected. Second differential pressure detecting means for outputting an electric signal corresponding to the detected differential pressure, and liquid temperature detection for detecting the liquid temperature of the electrolytic solution and outputting an electric signal corresponding to the detected liquid temperature. The first differential pressure detection means is a hollow passage in which one end and the other end communicate with each other through a bent portion, and both end portions are substantially It is formed in a spiral shape, and the distance from one end to the bent part and the other end A hollow passage defining member that defines a hollow passage formed by differentiating a distance from a bent portion to a bent portion by a predetermined length, and a hollow passage defining member attached to the hollow passage defining member and applied to both ends of the hollow passage, respectively. A pressure / electrical signal conversion unit that outputs an electric signal according to the differential pressure of the pressure applied to the second pressure difference detection unit, and the second differential pressure detection means is provided between one end and the other end. Hollow passages that are communicated with each other through a bent portion and that are formed by differentiating a distance from one end portion to the bent portion and a distance from the other end portion to the bent portion by a predetermined length. A hollow passage defining member that defines a hollow passage that is formed in a substantially spiral shape at least at the end of the long distance to the bent portion, and is attached to this hollow passage defining member, The difference between the pressure in the electrolyte and the gas pressure inside the storage battery applied to both ends of the passage. A pressure / electric signal converting unit for outputting an electric signal corresponding to, have,
The liquid temperature detecting means is a hollow passage defining member included in the first differential pressure detecting means or a hollow passage defining member included in the second differential pressure detecting means when measuring a differential pressure. The structure is such that it is fixedly attached to the part that is constantly immersed in the liquid.

[0012]

In the above structure, the first electrolyte is stored in the electrolytic solution in the storage battery.
By immersing the hollow passage defining member of the differential pressure detecting means, the electrolytic solution permeates into the spirally formed portions at both ends of the hollow passage defined by the member. The infiltration of the electrolytic solution is up to the middle of the spirally formed portion of the hollow passage, and does not reach the rising portions of the hollow passage. By forming both ends of the hollow passage in a spiral shape, the rise of the electrolytic solution due to the expansion / contraction of gas is prevented, and the long distance from the end of the hollow passage to the bent portion , Mechanically compensating for the compression difference of the gas in the hollow passage caused by the above-mentioned infiltration of the electrolytic solution between the end of the hollow passage and the portion having a shorter distance from the bent portion. There is. At both ends of the hollow passage, different pressures are applied to the inside of the hollow passage by the invading electrolytic solution.

The difference in atmospheric pressure generated in the hollow passage in the electrolytic solution between the portion having a longer distance from the end portion and the portion having a shorter distance in the hollow passage in the electrolytic solution. Is applied to the pressure / electrical signal conversion unit of the first differential pressure detection means, and the electric signal of a magnitude corresponding to the differential pressure is output from the pressure / electrical signal conversion unit to the signal processing unit. .

On the other hand, by immersing the portion of the hollow passage defining member included in the second differential pressure detecting means, which has a longer distance from the end portion to the bent portion, in the electrolytic solution in the storage battery,
The electrolytic solution penetrates into the spirally formed portion of the end of the hollow passage defined by the member, which is immersed in the electrolytic solution. As for the invasion of the electrolytic solution, similarly to the above, it is up to the middle of the part formed in a spiral shape, and up to the rising part of the part of the hollow passage member on the side immersed in the electrolytic solution. Does not penetrate. The gas pressure inside the storage battery is applied to the portion of the hollow passage that is not immersed in the electrolytic solution. The gas pressure generated by the invading electrolytic solution and the gas pressure inside the storage battery are applied to both ends of the hollow passage. In this way, the pressure difference generated in the hollow passage is used as the pressure difference between the pressure in the electrolytic solution and the pressure of the gas in the storage battery, and the pressure / electric signal converting unit of the second pressure difference detecting means. Then, the pressure / electrical signal converting section outputs an electric signal having a magnitude corresponding to the differential pressure to the signal processing section.

In this way, when electric signals are output from the first and second differential pressure detecting means, the signal processing section inputs these electric signals. Then, the signal processing unit also inputs the liquid temperature detection signal output from the liquid temperature detection means, and executes predetermined signal processing according to a preset algorithm.

[0016]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the overall structure of the electrolyte specific gravity, liquid level height and liquid temperature measuring device in the storage battery according to one embodiment of the present invention. As is apparent from FIG. 5, the measuring device according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a detection unit, that is, a sensor unit 5 immersed in the electrolyte solution 3 stored in the storage battery 1, The sensor unit 5 and the signal processing unit 9 connected via a plurality of signal transmission lines 7 are included. In FIG. 5, reference numeral 11 is an exhaust plug for discharging the gas filled in the storage battery 1 to the outside. Both the sensor unit 5 and the signal processing unit 9 according to the present embodiment employ an intrinsically safe explosion-proof circuit to ensure safety against explosion of hydrogen gas.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a structure of a sensor unit 5 included in a device for measuring specific gravity of electrolyte, liquid level and liquid temperature in a storage battery according to an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, the casing 13 is formed so as to have a substantially cylindrical shape as a whole, and the lower end thereof is open so that the electrolytic solution 3 inside the storage battery 1 can enter. On the other hand, on the upper portion of the casing 13, a stepped collar portion 15 formed to have a diameter larger than the outer diameter of the casing 13 is provided. As shown in the figure, a liquid RTV rubber member 19 having a substantially convex cross-section is fitted into the stepped collar portion 15.
On the outer peripheral surface of the lower step of the stepped collar portion 15, for example, a female screw portion 15a is formed over the entire circumference. The female screw part 15a is used when the sensor part 5 is attached and fixed to the inside of the storage battery 1 by screwing and fixing the sensor part 5 to, for example, a liquid inlet of a battery tank of the storage battery 1. Therefore, a male screw portion is formed on the inner wall surface of the battery tank so as to correspond to the female screw portion 15a. When the outer peripheral surface of the lower step of the stepped collar portion 15 is formed with a male screw portion instead of a female screw portion, the female wall portion is naturally formed on the inner wall surface of the injection port. Will be formed. A cylindrical chamber 17 having an outer diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the casing 13 and sealed is formed in an upper portion of the stepped collar portion 15. At the upper part of the liquid type RTV rubber member 19 inside the chamber 17, a pressure / electric signal converting portion, that is, a pressure transducer 23 for specific gravity described later.
a and an amplifier 21 for amplifying the electric signals output from the liquid surface pressure transducer 25a with a predetermined amplification degree, respectively.
a, 21b and liquid temperature detecting means, that is, the IC temperature sensor 3
An amplifier 21c that amplifies the electric signals output from the respective terminals 1 with a predetermined amplification degree is provided. In addition, in the chamber 17, three kinds of electric signals amplified by the amplifiers 21a, 21b, and 21c, respectively, are supplied to the signal processing unit 9 respectively.
A plurality of signal transmission lines 7 for transmitting the signal are exposed. Each member such as the above-mentioned casing 13 including the flange portion 15 and the liquid RTV rubber member 19 is made of a material having sufficient corrosion resistance to a corrosive liquid such as sulfuric acid. .

At a substantially central portion of the liquid type RTV rubber member 19, there is provided a first differential pressure detecting means, that is, a tubular support member 27 for supporting the specific gravity sensor 23, and a second differential pressure detecting means,
That is, the tubular support member 2 for supporting the liquid level sensor 25.
9 and 9 have been penetrated. Each of these tubular support members 2
In the inside of 7, 29, the pressure transducer 23 for specific gravity
A signal transmission line for transmitting the electric signal output from a to the corresponding amplifier 21a, the liquid surface pressure transducer 25
A signal transmission line that transmits the electric signal output from a to the corresponding amplifier 21b and a signal transmission line that transmits the electric signal output from the IC temperature sensor 31 to the corresponding amplifier 21c are laid.

As is apparent from the above description, the specific gravity sensor 23 has a bending portion between the specific gravity pressure transducer 23a and the hollow passage defining member, that is, one end portion and the other end portion. And a rod-shaped resin member 23b having a hollow passage formed therein. As is clear with reference to FIG. 2, the rod-shaped resin member 23b of the specific gravity sensor 23 is bent in a substantially J-shape as a whole, and the length from one end to the bent portion and the other end. The length from the portion to the bent portion is different. That is, the rod-shaped resin member 23b is set so that the difference value between the length from one end to the bent portion and the length from the other end to the bent portion becomes a predetermined value (H). It has been done. Then, the rod-shaped resin member 2
Both ends of 3b are processed to have a spiral shape as shown in FIG. If both ends of the rod-shaped resin member 23b are not formed in a spiral shape, gas expansion /
The contraction causes a problem that the above-mentioned predetermined value H fluctuates and a problem that the electrolytic solution 3 rises to the rising portion of the hollow passage of the rod-shaped resin member 23b, but both ends of the rod-shaped resin member 23b are swirled. Since it is configured to have a shape, the electrolytic solution 3 stored in the storage battery 1 is supplied from the lower end of the casing 13 to the rod-shaped resin member 23b.
Only the middle of the spirally formed portion of both ends of the hollow passage (see FIG. 3) penetrates, and the value of H does not change. That is, since both ends of the rod-shaped resin member 23b are formed in a spiral shape, the fluctuation of the predetermined value H due to expansion / contraction of gas such as air existing in the hollow passage of the rod-shaped resin member 23b is prevented and It is possible to prevent the electrolytic solution 3 from rising to the rising portion of the hollow passage of the rod-shaped resin member 23b. In addition, between the portion having a longer distance from the end of the rod-shaped resin member 23b to the bent portion and the portion having a shorter distance from the end of the rod-shaped resin member 23b to the bent portion, electrolysis is performed. The compression difference of the gas in the hollow passage of the rod-shaped resin member 23b caused by the above-mentioned infiltration of the liquid 3 is mechanically compensated. Thus, the rod-shaped resin member 23b
Since both ends of each are formed in a spiral shape,
From both ends of the rod-shaped resin member 23b, the rod-shaped resin member 23b
The electrolytic solution 3 that has penetrated into the hollow passage of the
Since it does not rise toward the rising portion of the hollow passage of b, the specific gravity pressure transducer 23a is installed at an appropriate position in the rod-shaped resin member 23b so as to face the hollow passage.
However, there is no risk of corrosion due to the direct or indirect influence of the electrolytic solution 3. If a non-corrosive gas such as nitrogen gas is enclosed in the hollow passage of the rod-shaped resin member 23b, the pressure transducer 23a for specific gravity can be obtained.
However, it is possible to more reliably prevent the problem of corrosion caused by the direct or indirect influence of the electrolytic solution 3. in this case,
In order to prevent the enclosed nitrogen gas from leaking to the outside from the hollow passage of the rod-shaped resin member 23b when the liquid level sensor 25 and the IC temperature sensor 31, which will be described later, including the specific gravity sensor 23 are not used. It is necessary to keep itself upside down.

The pressure transducer 23a for specific gravity
As described above, is provided in an appropriate position in the rod-shaped resin member 23b so as to face the hollow passage and is incorporated therein. The pressure transducer 23a for specific gravity includes
For example, a diffusion type semiconductor element utilizing the piezoresistive effect is adopted. This diffusion type semiconductor element utilizing the piezoresistive effect is more reliable than the mechanical type using a bellows or a metal diaphragm, which has been used conventionally, and has a pressure sensitivity of several mm square single crystal silicon. Since the device is used, it is extremely small and lightweight, and since it has a precision temperature compensation resistor built in, it has the feature that a highly accurate output can be obtained.

The pressure transducer 23a for specific gravity
Is applied between both ends of the hollow passage of the rod-shaped resin member 23b when different pressures are applied from the respective ends due to the electrolytic solution 3 that has infiltrated into the both ends of the hollow passage. Generates an electric signal of a magnitude commensurate with the differential pressure,
The generated electric signal is output to the signal processing unit 9.

The liquid level sensor 25 is also the specific gravity sensor 2 described above.
It has the same configuration as that of No. 3. That is, the liquid level sensor 25
Is a rod-shaped resin member formed with a liquid passage pressure transducer 25a and a hollow passage defining member, that is, a hollow passage in which one end and the other end communicate with each other through a bent portion. It consists of 25b. As is clear with reference to FIG. 2, the rod-shaped resin member 25b of the liquid level sensor 25 is also bent into a substantially J-shape as a whole, and the length from one end to the bent portion and other The length from the end to the bent portion is different. That is,
The rod-shaped resin member 25b is designed such that the difference value between the length from one end to the bent portion and the length from the other end to the bent portion becomes a predetermined value (H '). It is assumed that And, of the rod-shaped resin member 25b,
The end of the longer part up to the bent part is processed to have a spiral shape as shown in FIG. In this way, the rod-shaped resin member 25b
The reason why the end portion of the longer part up to the bent part is configured to have a spiral shape has been described in the part related to the specific gravity sensor 23, so refer to that part. I want to. In the present embodiment, the rod-shaped resin member 25b is configured to have a spiral shape as shown in FIG. 3 only at the end of the longer portion between the bent portions. Of course, the end portion of the shorter portion of the rod-shaped resin member 25b up to the bent portion may be configured to have the same spiral shape as the above.

Since the liquid level sensor 25 is provided to detect the liquid level of the electrolytic solution 3 stored in the storage battery 1, unlike the specific gravity sensor 23 described above, a rod-shaped resin is used. The end of the longer part of the member 25b up to the bent part (that is, the part having the spiral shape)
Only the part is immersed in the electrolytic solution 3, and the end of the portion having the shorter length up to the bent portion is exposed to the outside of the electrolytic solution 3 in the storage battery 1. However, since the end of the rod-shaped resin member 25b that is immersed in the electrolytic solution 3 is formed in a spiral shape as described above, the air existing in the hollow passage of the rod-shaped resin member 25b is formed. Since the electrolytic solution 3 that has penetrated into the hollow passage from the end due to expansion / contraction of the like does not rise toward the rising portion of the hollow passage of the rod-shaped resin member 25b and the value of H does not fluctuate. In addition, there is no possibility that the liquid level pressure transducer 25a, which is installed at an appropriate position in the rod-shaped resin member 25b so as to face the hollow passage, is directly or indirectly affected by the electrolytic solution 3 and corrodes. In addition, as in the specific gravity sensor 23, in the hollow passage of the rod-shaped resin member 25b,
By enclosing, for example, nitrogen gas as the non-corrosive gas, it is possible to more reliably prevent the problem that the liquid surface pressure transducer 25a is corroded by the direct or indirect influence of the electrolytic solution 3. In order to prevent the enclosed nitrogen gas from leaking out from the hollow passage of the rod-shaped resin member 25b, it is necessary to make the sensor unit 5 itself in an inverted state as described above.

Liquid level pressure transducer 25a
As described above, is provided in an appropriate position in the rod-shaped resin member 25b so as to be installed so as to face the hollow passage. The liquid level pressure transducer 25a includes
As in the pressure transducer 25a for specific gravity, for example, a diffusion type semiconductor element utilizing the piezoresistive effect is adopted. This diffused semiconductor device has already been described in detail, so its explanation is omitted.

Liquid level pressure transducer 25a
Is the atmospheric pressure applied due to the electrolytic solution 3 that has entered the hollow passage from the end of the rod-shaped resin member 25b that is immersed in the electrolytic solution 3, and the rod-shaped resin. An electric signal of a magnitude commensurate with the pressure difference between the end of the member 25b, which is exposed to the outside of the electrolytic solution 3 inside the storage battery 1, and the atmospheric pressure applied through the hollow passage. Is generated and the generated electric signal is output to the signal processing unit 9.

In this embodiment, the IC temperature sensor 31 includes a portion of the rod-shaped resin member 25b of the liquid surface sensor 25 which is immersed in the electrolytic solution 3, that is, a bent portion of the rod-shaped resin member 25b. Is incorporated in the vicinity of the end of the longer part between the two. Since the IC temperature sensor 31 is provided to detect the liquid temperature of the electrolytic solution 3,
This is because the liquid temperature cannot be measured if the rod-shaped resin member 25b is provided at a portion exposed to the outside of the electrolytic solution 3. I
The C temperature sensor 31 uses an extremely small and lightweight semiconductor element of several millimeters square. The IC temperature sensor 31
Is configured to generate an electric signal having a magnitude corresponding to the detected liquid temperature of the electrolytic solution 3, and output the generated electric signal to the signal processing unit 9.

In this embodiment, the IC temperature sensor 31 is used.
Is incorporated in the rod-shaped resin member 25b of the liquid level sensor 25 in the above-described manner, but may be incorporated in an appropriate place in the rod-shaped resin member 23b of the specific gravity sensor 23.

The rod-shaped resin members 23b and 25b described above are, of course, made of a material having corrosion resistance to a corrosive liquid such as sulfuric acid. As described above, the sensor unit 5 having the above-described configuration is screwed and fixed to the liquid inlet of the battery tank, so that the sensor unit 5 is in a substantially vertical state beside the electrode plate 2 inside the storage battery 1 as shown in FIG. Will be installed in. As is clear from the above description, in this embodiment, the specific gravity sensor 23 is composed of the specific gravity pressure transducer 23a and the rod-shaped resin member 23b, and the liquid level sensor 25 is composed of the liquid level pressure transducer 25a and the rod-shaped resin member 23b. The resin member 25b and the rod-shaped resin member 23b of the specific gravity sensor 23 and the rod-shaped resin member 25b of the liquid level sensor 25 are used instead of the resin member 25b to form a hollow passage in the above-described manner by resin processing. Therefore, the pressure transducer 23a for specific gravity and the pressure transducer 25a for liquid surface may be attached to each of these members.
Further, in the present embodiment, the specific gravity pressure transducer 23a and the liquid level pressure transducer 25a are respectively
Although the rod-shaped resin members 23b and 25b are attached to the portions where the electrolytic solution 3 can be immersed, by taking appropriate measures such as using members having a longer extension than the rod-shaped resin members 23b and 25b. The transducers 23a and 25a may be installed in the chamber 17 in which the electrolyte solution 3 is unlikely to enter.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of the signal processing unit 9 provided in the electrolyte specific gravity, liquid level height and liquid temperature measuring device in the storage battery according to the embodiment of the present invention. As apparent from FIG. 6, the signal processing unit 9 according to the embodiment of the present invention includes an arithmetic processing unit 51 that functions as a specific gravity value calculating means, a liquid level height calculating means, and a specific gravity value converting means. First, input port 39, output port 43, RO
M / RAM memory (hereinafter simply referred to as "memory") 4
1, A / D converters 34, 36, 38, and a specific gravity display unit 45 as a display unit, a liquid level display unit 47, and a liquid temperature display unit 49. The above-mentioned respective parts constituting the signal processing section 9 will be described in more detail below.

That is, the A / D converter 34 includes the amplifier 21a.
The electrical signal output from the specific gravity sensor 23 via
The / D converter 3 receives the liquid level sensor 25 via the amplifier 21b.
The A / D converter 38 inputs the electric signals output from the IC temperature sensor 31 via the amplifier 21c, and the input / output electric signals are converted into analog / digital signals. And then input port 39
It is configured to be output to the arithmetic processing unit 51 via.

The specific gravity display section 45, the liquid level display section 47, and the liquid temperature display section 49 employ, for example, a plurality of 7-segment segments composed of LED (light emitting diode) elements. Each of the display units 45, 47 and 49 has an arithmetic processing unit 51.
Under the control of 1), a predetermined display operation is executed based on the display command signal given from the arithmetic processing unit 51 through the output port 43.

The keyboard 33 is provided with a keypad for outputting various command signals necessary for driving and controlling the apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention to the signal processing unit 9, a ten-key pad and the like. ing. The keys provided on the keyboard 33 include, for example, the differential pressure value P1e when the specific gravity of the electrolytic solution 3 is 1.00 and the differential pressure value when the specific gravity of the electrolytic solution is 1 and 30 with respect to the specific gravity pressure transducer 23a. P3
e (any differential pressure value is a differential pressure value when the height between two points in the electrolytic solution 3 is constant at H),
There is a key group used when registering in one storage area. The keys provided on the keyboard 33 are
Regarding the liquid surface pressure transducer 25a, the electrolytic solution 3
Differential pressure values P3e ₁ and P3e ₂ when the differential pressure P1e ₁ and P1e _2, electrolyte specific gravity 1.30 in the case of specific gravity 1.00
(Each differential pressure value is a liquid pressure at a point existing in the electrolyte solution 3 and a point above the point by a certain height H ′ and above the liquid surface of the electrolyte solution 3 in the storage battery 1. There is also a group of keys used when registering the differential pressure value between the atmospheric pressure at the point) in the storage area of the memory 41. Various command signals output from the keyboard 33 are given to the arithmetic processing unit 51 via the input port 39, and predetermined arithmetic processing is performed in the arithmetic processing unit 51.

The memory 41 contains a control program and the like and also stores necessary data. Examples of the programs stored in the memory 41 include those embodied in the flowchart of FIG. Further, the formula for calculating the specific gravity ρ of the electrolytic solution 3 described later, the formula for calculating the liquid surface height h of the electrolytic solution 3, and the specific gravity of the electrolytic solution 3 when the liquid temperature of the electrolytic solution 3 is 20 The equation for converting the specific gravity G20 at the temperature of ° C, the equation for converting the specific gravity of the electrolytic solution 3 into the specific gravity Gb when the liquid surface of the electrolytic solution 3 is the regular liquid surface, and the specific gravity of the electrolytic solution 3 are: An equation for converting the specific gravity G20b when the liquid temperature of the electrolytic solution 3 is 20 ° C. and the liquid surface of the electrolytic solution 3 is the regular liquid surface is also stored in the memory 41. In addition, H, which is the difference value between the lengths of both ends of the rod-shaped resin member 23b, H ′, which is the difference value between the lengths of both ends of the rod-shaped resin member 25b, or the electrolytic solution inside the storage battery 1. The value b and the like indicating the normal liquid level height of 3 are also stored in the memory 41. Further, when the above-mentioned respective key groups are pressed by an operator or the like and the differential pressure value data as described above is given from the arithmetic processing unit 51, the memory 41 stores the differential pressure values. The value data is stored in the predetermined storage area. Memory 4
Also, in response to a data read request from the arithmetic processing unit 51, the data No. 1 gives the data corresponding to the data read request to the arithmetic processing unit 51.

The arithmetic processing section 51 performs a series of arithmetic processing such as arithmetic operation and logical operation to obtain an input port 39, an output port 43, a memory 41, a specific gravity display section 45,
The liquid level display unit 47 and the liquid temperature display unit 49 are placed under the control thereof.
The arithmetic processing unit 51 executes the following arithmetic processing operation based on the various data stored in the memory 41. (A) Input the signal (digital signal) P given from the specific gravity sensor 23 through the above-mentioned signal transmission path, and use the formula ρ = P / H to obtain the specific gravity ρ of the electrolytic solution 3 stored in the memory 41. To obtain ρ. Here, P is a pressure difference between pressures P ₂ and P ₁ (see FIG. 7) applied to both ends of the rod-shaped resin member 23b constituting the specific gravity sensor 23, and H is, as described above, It is a difference in length between the both ends. (A) Input the signal (digital signal) P ′ given from the liquid level sensor 25 through the above-mentioned signal transmission path,
The P ', the specific gravity ρ of the electrolytic solution 3 obtained in (a), and the equation h = P' / ρ for the liquid level height h of the electrolytic solution 3 stored in the memory 41 are used to obtain h. . Here, P ′ is a pressure difference between pressures P ₄ and P ₃ (see FIG. 8) applied to both ends of the rod-shaped resin member 25b forming the liquid level sensor 25, respectively. As apparent from the above description and FIG. 8, the end portion of the rod-shaped resin member 25b to which the pressure P ₄ is applied is located at the position of the depth h from the liquid surface of the electrolytic solution 3. It is in a state of being immersed in the electrolytic solution 3 and shows the pressure at this position. On the other hand, the pressure P _{3 of the} rod-shaped resin member 25b
As described above, the end to which the
It is in a state of being exposed to the outside of the electrolytic solution 3 at a position above H ′ from the end portion immersed in the inside. The normal liquid level height b of the electrolytic solution 3 is a known number, and the mounting position of the sensor unit 5 with respect to the storage battery 1 is fixed. Therefore, the liquid level height h of the electrolytic solution 3 is calculated by the above formula. It is possible to do so. (C) The signal (digital signal) t given from the IC temperature sensor 31 through the signal transmission path described above is input. This t is recognized as the liquid temperature t [° C.] of the electrolytic solution 3 when the specific gravity ρ of the electrolytic solution 3 is calculated in (a) and when the liquid level height h of the electrolytic solution 3 is calculated in (a). That is,
The specific gravity ρ of the electrolytic solution 3 obtained in (a) is used as the liquid temperature t
Recognizing as the specific gravity Gt of the electrolyte 3 at [° C.],
And the specific gravity of the electrolytic solution 3 stored in the memory 41,
Formula for converting specific gravity G20 when the liquid temperature of the electrolytic solution 3 is 20 ° C. G20 = Gt + 0.0007 (t−20)
Is used to find G20. (D) The specific gravity ρ of the electrolytic solution 3 obtained in (a) is the specific gravity of the electrolytic solution 3 at the liquid surface height h of the electrolytic solution 3 obtained in (b), and the liquid surface of the electrolytic solution 3 is normal. It is not the specific gravity at the liquid level. Therefore, the specific gravity ρ of the electrolytic solution 3 obtained in (a), the liquid level height h of the electrolytic solution 3 obtained in (b), and the liquid level of the electrolytic solution 3 stored in the memory 41 are regular liquids. Gb is calculated using the equation Gb = GL + C (b−L) for converting the specific gravity Gb when it is a surface. Here, b indicates the normal liquid surface height of the electrolytic solution 3. Further, L corresponds to the liquid level height h of the electrolytic solution 3 obtained in (a), and GL is the electrolytic solution 3 obtained in (a).
Corresponding to the specific gravity ρ of (1) and Gt of (c), and shows the specific gravity of the electrolytic solution 3 at the liquid level height L. Furthermore, C
Is a liquid level conversion coefficient required when converting the measured liquid level into a regular liquid level. (E) The value of G20 in (c), that is, the specific gravity of the electrolytic solution 3 at a liquid temperature of 20 ° C.
The value of Gb in (d), that is, the electrolytic solution 3 when the liquid level height L is 3
After obtaining the specific gravity of, the equation 41 for converting to the specific gravity G20b stored in the memory 41 when the liquid temperature of the electrolytic solution 3 is 20 ° C. and the liquid level of the electrolytic solution 3 is the normal liquid level G20b =
G20b is calculated | required using Gt + 0.0007 (t-20) + C (bL). Gt + 0.0007 (t-2
0) is a known number because it is calculated in (c),
Further, C (b−L) is also a known number because it is calculated in (D).

In this way, the reason why the specific gravity of the electrolytic solution 3 is converted into the specific gravity when the liquid temperature is 20 ° C. and the liquid surface is regular is that the specific gravity of the electrolytic solution 3 changes depending on the liquid temperature and the height of the liquid surface. Therefore, when comparing the specific gravities of the electrolytic solutions, it is necessary to convert the specific gravity ρ of the electrolytic solution obtained in (a) into the specific gravity G20b of the electrolytic solution at the liquid temperature of 20 ° C. and at the normal liquid surface. With respect to G20b obtained in (f) and (e), temperature drift correction is performed as necessary. That is, the liquid temperature detection value t output from the IC temperature sensor 31 and the above-mentioned differential pressure value data P1e, P3e, registered in the memory 41 in advance,
Based on P1e ₁ , P1e ₂ , P3e ₁ , P3e _2, etc.,
By performing a predetermined calculation process, the value of G20b obtained in the above (e) is corrected. (G) Starting from the value of G20b obtained as described above, h
Value and t value respectively corresponding to the above-mentioned respective display units 4
Display output for 5, 47 and 49. In addition, when a plurality of storage batteries 1 described above are installed, and a sensor unit having the same configuration as the sensor unit 5 corresponding to each of the plurality of storage batteries 1 is installed inside the storage battery 1, respectively. Between the input side of the A / D converter 34 of the signal processing unit 9 and the output side of the amplifier 21a of each sensor unit 5, the input side of the A / D converter 36, and the amplifier of each sensor unit 5. Multiplexers are provided between the output side of 21b and between the input side of the A / D converter 38 and the output side of the amplifier 21c of each sensor unit 5, respectively. In the above-described aspect, multiplexers are provided respectively corresponding to the specific gravity sensor 23, the liquid level sensor 25, and the IC temperature sensor 31 of each sensor unit 5, and the arithmetic processing unit 51 controls each of these multiplexers, whereby the arithmetic processing unit 51 enables time-divisional selection and input of electric signals output from the specific gravity sensor 23, the liquid level sensor 25, and the IC temperature sensor 31 of each sensor unit 5.

Next, the control operation of the above configuration will be described mainly with reference to the flow chart shown in FIG. When the operator turns on the driving power source of the measuring apparatus according to the present invention, the respective parts constituting the signal processing section 9 are brought into an operable state.

The arithmetic processing unit 51 stores the differential pressure value P1e when the specific gravity of the electrolytic solution 3 is 1.00 and the differential pressure value P3e when the specific gravity of the electrolytic solution 3 is 1.30 in the memory for the specific gravity pressure transducer 23a. It is checked whether or not it is registered in 41 (step S ₁ ). At the same time, the arithmetic processing unit 51 causes the differential pressure values P1e ₁ and P1e ₂ when the specific gravity of the electrolytic solution 3 is 1.00 and the differential pressure values when the specific gravity of the electrolytic solution 3 is 1.30 with respect to the liquid level pressure transducer 25a. Value P3
It is also checked whether e ₁ and P3e ₂ are registered in the memory 41 (step S ₂ ). As a result of the above checks in step S ₁ and step S ₂ , if the above-mentioned respective data are not registered in the memory 41, the arithmetic processing section 51 does not shift to the processing operation of step S _{3 and} subsequent steps. The above-mentioned data in step S ₁ and step S ₂ are corrected when an error occurs in the value of G20b described above due to the temperature drift generated in the pressure-output voltage characteristics of the specific gravity sensor 23 and the liquid level sensor 25. It is used when doing. The data related to step S ₁ and step S ₂ can be freely registered and deleted in the memory 41 by the operator operating the respective key groups described above.

As a result of the above checks in steps S ₁ and S ₂ , if the above-mentioned respective data are registered in the memory 41, the arithmetic processing section 51 shifts to the processing operation of step S _{3 and} thereafter. . Arithmetic processing unit 51
As described above, the specific gravity pressure transducer 23
The differential pressure value P output from a is read (step S ₃ ),
The equation ρ = P / H and the value of H are read from the memory 41 to calculate the specific gravity ρ of the electrolytic solution 3 (step S ₄ ).
The value of ρ calculated in step S ₄ is temporarily stored in the predetermined storage area of the memory 41 by the arithmetic processing unit 51 (step S ₅ ). When the series of processing operations from step S ₃ to step S ₅ is completed, the process proceeds to step S ₅ .
That is, the arithmetic processing unit 51 reads the differential pressure value P ′ output from the liquid level pressure transducer 25a in the manner as described above (step S ₆ ), and reads the h value from the memory 41.
= P '/ ρ and the value of ρ stored in step S ₅ are read (step S ₇ ), and the liquid level height h of the electrolytic solution 3 is calculated (step S ₈ ). The value of h calculated in step S ₈ is temporarily stored in the predetermined storage area of the memory 41 by the arithmetic processing unit 51 (step S ₉ ). In step S ₉ , when the value of h is stored in the predetermined storage area in the memory 41, the arithmetic processing unit 51 reads the liquid temperature detection value t output from the IC temperature sensor 31, and stores it in the predetermined storage area in the memory 41. temporarily stores (step S _10).

Step S_Four Specific gravity ρ of electrolyte 3
And step S_TenLiquid temperature detection value t read in and memory 4
When the temperature of the electrolyte 3 stored in 1 is 20 ° C
Equation for converting specific gravity of G20 to G20 = Gt + 0,
With 0007 (t-20), the liquid temperature of the electrolytic solution 3 is 2
Calculate the specific gravity G20 at 0 ° C. Configure the above conversion formula
The details of each section to
Yes (Step S₁₁). Step S₁₁Calculation in
Then, the arithmetic processing unit 51 causes the step S_Four Electrolysis obtained in
Specific gravity ρ of liquid 3 and step S₈ Liquid level of electrolyte 3 determined in
The height h and the electrolytic solution 3 stored in the memory 41
To convert to specific gravity Gb when the liquid surface is a regular liquid surface
Gb is calculated using the equation Gb = GL + C (b−L)
It The details of each term making up the above conversion formula have already been explained.
I have not written it because I have revealed it (Step S ₁₂). Steps
S₁₁, Step S₁₂The calculation described in each is completed
And the arithmetic processing unit 51 is stored in the memory 41.
Of the electrolyte 3 when the liquid temperature is 20 ° C and the liquid level is normal.
Formula for converting to specific gravity G20b G20b = Gt +
Using 0.007 (t-20) + C (b-L),
The specific gravity G20b is calculated (step S₁₃). Step
S₁₃As for G20b found in
Temperature drift correction as described above is performed (step
S₁₄). Step S₁₄Temperature drift correction at
The value of G20b after being broken is displayed on the specific gravity display 45.
Up S₉ Electrolysis temporarily stored in memory 41 at
The value of the liquid level height h of the liquid 3 is displayed on the liquid level display unit 47 in the step
S_TenThe liquid temperature detection value t of the electrolytic solution 3 read in is the liquid temperature table.
The arithmetic processing unit 51 displays and outputs to the display unit 49.
(Step S_Fifteen).

When the processing operations shown in steps S _{1 to} S ₁₅ described above are completed, a series of arithmetic processing operations by the arithmetic processing unit 51 is completed.

[0042]

As described above, according to the present invention,
First detecting means for detecting a differential pressure between arbitrary two points in the electrolytic solution at a predetermined depth interval and outputting an electric signal corresponding to the detected differential pressure; Detecting a differential pressure between a pressure at a position submerged in the liquid and a gas pressure at a position outside the electrolytic solution at a predetermined height away from the position inside the storage battery, and outputting an electric signal corresponding to the detected differential pressure And a liquid temperature detection unit that detects the liquid temperature of the electrolytic solution and outputs an electric signal corresponding to the detected liquid temperature, wherein the first differential pressure detection unit is A hollow passage communicating between one end and the other end through a bent portion, both ends of which are formed in a substantially spiral shape, and bent from one end. The distance to the part and the distance from the other end to the bent part are made different by a predetermined length. A hollow passage defining member that defines a hollow passage, and a pressure / electric signal converter that is attached to the hollow passage defining member and that outputs an electric signal according to a pressure difference applied to both ends of the hollow passage. The second differential pressure detection means has one end and the other end communicated with each other via a bent portion, and the second differential pressure detection means is bent from one end. A hollow passage having a distance to the bent portion and a distance from the other end to the bent portion that are different from each other by a predetermined length, and at least the end having the longer distance to the bent portion is substantially A hollow passage defining member that defines a hollow passage that is formed in a spiral shape, and a pressure in the electrolytic solution and a gas inside the storage battery that are attached to the hollow passage defining member and are applied to both ends of the hollow passage. A pressure / electric signal conversion unit that outputs an electric signal according to the pressure difference from the pressure. The liquid temperature detecting means is a difference between the hollow passage defining member included in the first differential pressure detecting means and the hollow passage defining member included in the second differential pressure detecting means. Since it is configured to be attached and fixed to the part that is constantly immersed in the liquid when measuring the pressure,
A storage battery that can be applied in environments where corrosive gases and corrosive liquids are used, which can simplify the structure, reduce the size, reduce the weight, and provide an explosion-proof structure, which has a small measurement error and is easy to maintain. It is possible to provide a device for measuring the specific gravity, liquid surface height and liquid temperature of the electrolytic solution.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a structure of a sensor unit included in an electrolytic solution specific gravity, liquid surface height and liquid temperature measuring device in a storage battery according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of a specific gravity sensor and a liquid level sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of a specific gravity sensor and a liquid surface sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory view showing a mounting state of a sensor unit to a storage battery according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of an apparatus for measuring specific gravity, liquid level and liquid temperature of an electrolytic solution in a storage battery according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of a signal processing unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory view showing the principle of measuring the specific gravity of the electrolytic solution according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing the principle of measuring the liquid surface height of an electrolytic solution according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a processing operation of the signal processing unit according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Storage battery 3 Electrolyte 5 Sensor part 9 Signal processing part 23 Specific gravity sensor 23a Specific gravity pressure transducer 23b Rod-shaped resin member 25 Liquid level sensor 25a Liquid level pressure transducer 25b Rod-shaped resin member 31 IC temperature sensor

Claims (3)

[Claims] 1. A detector for outputting a differential pressure value signal for determining the specific gravity and the liquid surface height of the electrolytic solution by immersing it in the electrolytic solution inside the storage battery, and a detection unit for outputting a liquid temperature value signal of the electrolytic solution. A signal processing unit for inputting each of the signals output from the detection unit and performing a predetermined signal processing, wherein the detection unit is any two points with a predetermined depth interval in the electrolytic solution. First differential pressure detecting means for detecting a differential pressure between the two and outputting an electric signal corresponding to the detected differential pressure; pressure at a position submerged in the electrolytic solution and a predetermined height from the position inside the storage battery. Second differential pressure detecting means for detecting a differential pressure from a gas pressure at a position outside the electrolytic solution and outputting an electric signal corresponding to the detected differential pressure; and detecting a liquid temperature of the electrolytic solution. Liquid temperature detecting means for outputting an electric signal corresponding to the detected liquid temperature, or The first differential pressure detecting means is a hollow passage in which one end and the other end communicate with each other through a bent portion, and both ends have a substantially spiral shape. A hollow passageway that is formed and defines a hollow passageway that is formed by differentiating the distance from one end to the bent portion and the distance from the other end to the bent portion by a predetermined length. And a pressure / electrical signal conversion unit that is attached to the hollow passage defining member and that outputs an electric signal according to the pressure difference between the pressures applied to both ends of the hollow passage. In the second differential pressure detecting means, one end and the other end communicate with each other through a bent portion, and the distance from the one end to the bent portion and the other end. A hollow passage formed by differentiating a distance from a bent portion to a bent portion by a predetermined length, at least A hollow passage defining member that defines a hollow passage that is formed in a substantially spiral shape at the end of the longer distance to the curved portion, and a hollow passage defining member that is attached to the hollow passage defining member and is provided at both ends of the hollow passage, respectively. A pressure / electric signal conversion unit that outputs an electric signal according to a pressure difference between the pressure in the applied electrolytic solution and the gas pressure inside the storage battery; and the liquid temperature detection unit, A hollow passage defining member included in the differential pressure detecting means of
Alternatively, the specific gravity of the electrolytic solution in the storage battery is characterized in that the specific gravity of the electrolytic solution in the storage battery is fixedly attached to a portion of the hollow passage defining member included in the second differential pressure detecting means, which is constantly immersed in the liquid when measuring the differential pressure. , Liquid level and liquid temperature measuring device. 2. The apparatus for measuring specific gravity, liquid level and liquid temperature of an electrolytic solution in a storage battery according to claim 1, wherein air or nitrogen is provided in each hollow passage defined by each hollow passage defining member. A device for measuring specific gravity, liquid surface height and liquid temperature of an electrolytic solution in a storage battery, which is filled with gas. 3. The apparatus for measuring the specific gravity, liquid level and liquid temperature of the electrolytic solution in the storage battery according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the signal processing unit includes a difference output from the first differential pressure detecting means. Specific gravity calculating means for calculating a specific gravity value of the electrolytic solution by inputting an electric signal indicating a pressure value and preset distance data between the two points, and a specific gravity of the calculated electrolytic solution. Value and the differential pressure value output from the second differential pressure detecting means, and a liquid level height calculating means for calculating the liquid level height value of the electrolytic solution by a predetermined arithmetic expression; Specific gravity value of the liquid and the calculated liquid surface height value of the electrolytic solution are input, and the specific gravity value is converted to a specific gravity value at a predetermined electrolytic solution temperature and a predetermined liquid surface height by a predetermined calculation formula. A value conversion means, a liquid temperature value output from the liquid temperature detection means, and a liquid level height calculation means. The liquid surface height value output from the specific gravity value and the specific gravity value output from the specific gravity value conversion means are respectively input and displayed separately, and the display device has: Surface height and liquid temperature measuring device.