EP3527829B1 - Pump system and pump control method - Google Patents

Pump system and pump control method Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3527829B1
EP3527829B1 EP18157404.7A EP18157404A EP3527829B1 EP 3527829 B1 EP3527829 B1 EP 3527829B1 EP 18157404 A EP18157404 A EP 18157404A EP 3527829 B1 EP3527829 B1 EP 3527829B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
pump
sensor
control
fluid
unit
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP18157404.7A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3527829A1 (en
Inventor
Carsten Nielsen
Morten Ødum Halse
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Grundfos Holdings AS
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Grundfos Holdings AS
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Application filed by Grundfos Holdings AS filed Critical Grundfos Holdings AS
Priority to EP18157404.7A priority Critical patent/EP3527829B1/en
Priority to US16/970,559 priority patent/US20210115928A1/en
Priority to CN201980014138.8A priority patent/CN111757986B/en
Priority to AU2019220150A priority patent/AU2019220150B2/en
Priority to PCT/EP2019/051455 priority patent/WO2019158320A1/en
Publication of EP3527829A1 publication Critical patent/EP3527829A1/en
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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04D—NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
    • F04D15/00—Control, e.g. regulation, of pumps, pumping installations or systems
    • F04D15/0066—Control, e.g. regulation, of pumps, pumping installations or systems by changing the speed, e.g. of the driving engine
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04D—NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
    • F04D13/00—Pumping installations or systems
    • F04D13/02—Units comprising pumps and their driving means
    • F04D13/06—Units comprising pumps and their driving means the pump being electrically driven
    • F04D13/0686—Mechanical details of the pump control unit
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04B—POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS
    • F04B49/00—Control, e.g. of pump delivery, or pump pressure of, or safety measures for, machines, pumps, or pumping installations, not otherwise provided for, or of interest apart from, groups F04B1/00 - F04B47/00
    • F04B49/06—Control using electricity
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04D—NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
    • F04D13/00—Pumping installations or systems
    • F04D13/02—Units comprising pumps and their driving means
    • F04D13/06—Units comprising pumps and their driving means the pump being electrically driven
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04D—NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
    • F04D13/00—Pumping installations or systems
    • F04D13/12—Combinations of two or more pumps
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04D—NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
    • F04D15/00—Control, e.g. regulation, of pumps, pumping installations or systems
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08C—TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS FOR MEASURED VALUES, CONTROL OR SIMILAR SIGNALS
    • G08C17/00—Arrangements for transmitting signals characterised by the use of a wireless electrical link

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates to a pump system with one or more pumps and a pump control method therefor.
  • This is preferably one or more wet-running circulating pumps, which are designed as single-stage or multi-stage centrifugal pumps for pumping water.
  • CMOS complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor
  • PLCs programmable logic controllers
  • US 9,670,918 B2 describes, for example, a booster system with a PLC that tries to determine the optimal switch-on parameters for the pumps.
  • the EP 0 711 920 A1 and the WO 00/03142 each describe an electronics housing with motor control and pressure sensor arranged externally to a pump unit.
  • the present disclosure provides a pump system and pump control method that eliminates the need for a PLC or external electronics package for motor control, thereby reducing system complexity and cost.
  • a pump system is provided with a first of at least one pump unit for pumping a fluid, the first pump unit having a pump, an electric drive motor, a motor housing and a motor controller, the electronics housing being arranged on the motor housing or in the motor housing is integrated, a pump control for commanding the motor control, and a sensor with a sensor housing and a Sensor electronics located in the sensor housing for detecting at least one parameter of the fluid in the pump or in a pipe fluidly connected to the pump, the pump control being integrated into the sensor electronics.
  • the sensor is arranged externally from a housing for the engine control.
  • the pump system disclosed herein thus uses the sensor electronics located in the sensor in order to save on the complex and cost-intensive SPS and to command the pump(s) directly from the sensor.
  • the "motor control” is intended here to have those power electronic components that control the working current through the coils of the drive motor, such as a frequency converter.
  • the term "command” is intended to mean here in the sense of a control that command signals are sent from the pump controller to the engine controller, which determine the mode of operation of the drive motor, for example an on and / or off signal, a target speed and / or target power consumption.
  • the sensor electronics can also provide measurement signals, the provision of measurement signals should not be misunderstood here as commanding, even if a pump controller makes the operating mode of the drive motor dependent on a measurement signal.
  • the present disclosure is therefore to be distinguished from systems in which a pump controller outside of the sensor receives a measurement signal from the sensor and makes the mode of operation of the drive motor dependent on a measurement signal.
  • Such a sensor-external pump control is saved by the pump control integrated into the sensor electronics of the present disclosure.
  • the pump control can be integrated into the sensor electronics in the form of software without the need to change the sensor electronics, which usually only provide measurement signals.
  • any hardware components present in the sensor electronics such as memory, processor, interface and signal connection, which are usually used to provide measurement signals can be used here for commanding the motor control.
  • one or more such hardware components can be adapted or expanded to command the motor controller.
  • the senor can be attached to a measuring point on the pump or on a pipe that is fluidly connected to the pump.
  • the sensor electronics are preferably designed for the direct detection of at least one parameter of the fluid in the pump or in a pipe that is fluidly connected to the pump.
  • the sensor preferably has a sensor surface which, during sensor operation, is in direct contact with the fluid to be pumped in the pump or in a pipe fluidly connected to the pump.
  • the senor can be signal-connected to the engine controller, with the pump controller integrated into the sensor electronics being able to command the engine controller via the signal connection.
  • a signal connection can be wireless or via a cable connection.
  • the pump controller command signals for commanding the motor controller may be digital and/or analog.
  • the at least one parameter of the fluid to be detected by the sensor can include a fluid temperature, a fluid pressure, a fluid flow rate and/or a fluid vibration.
  • the at least one sensor can therefore be a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, a flow sensor and/or a vibration sensor.
  • a plurality of sensors for different parameters of the fluid to be detected such as a fluid temperature, a fluid pressure, a fluid flow rate, a fluid vibration and/or a vibration of the at least one pump unit and/or parts thereof, can be arranged in a common sensor housing.
  • a number, a frequency, an amplitude and/or a time integral is also used as fluid vibration understood as pressure surges that can be caused in the pipe system, for example by closing a valve.
  • the pump system can have a sensor power pack for powering the sensor.
  • the sensor power pack can be designed separately from the at least one sensor with pump control and can supply the sensor with power, preferably via a cable connection.
  • the sensor power pack can also be used for communication with the sensor via the cable connection between the sensor power pack and the sensor.
  • the sensor power pack can also be used not only for the power supply of the sensor, but also for the drive motor and/or the motor control of the at least one pump unit.
  • the sensor power pack can have an additional cable connection to the drive motor and/or the motor controller of the at least one pump unit.
  • the pump system can have a sensor communication interface, via which the pump control can be programmed.
  • the sensor communication interface can be integrated into the sensor electronics and/or the sensor power supply. If the sensor communication interface is at least partially integrated in the sensor power pack, the pump control can be programmed via the cable connection between the sensor power pack and the sensor to the pump control in the sensor.
  • the pump system can have a mobile communication device, by means of which the pump control can be programmed via a preferably wireless communication connection with the sensor communication interface.
  • a communication device can be a notebook, tablet or smartphone, for example, which communicates with the sensor communication interface via a preferably wireless communication connection such as Bluetooth or WLAN can.
  • an executable program such as an app on the communication device, a user can program the pump controller and/or set operating parameters of one or more pump units.
  • "programming" means, for example, an upload or update of an operating program, a selection from a plurality of available operating programs and/or the setting of one or more operating parameters such as target speed, target delivery head, target flow rate, target power and/or on/off be meant.
  • the communication link between the communication device and the sensor communication interface can be a two-way communication link, by means of which the communication device informs a user about operating parameters, error messages, alarms, measured values and/or available operating programs visually via a display or a light and/or acoustically can.
  • the data can also be stored on the communication device, a server and/or as part of a cloud solution for statistical evaluation and/or error analysis.
  • the pump system can have a control interface that is signal-connected to the engine controller, via which the engine controller of the first pump unit can be commanded by the pump controller.
  • the control interface can be integrated into the sensor electronics and/or a sensor power supply unit, for example. If the control interface is at least partially integrated in the sensor power pack, the motor controller can be commanded via the cable connection between the sensor power pack and the sensor from the pump controller in the sensor to the sensor power pack.
  • the pump controller can be set up to command the engine controller based on the at least one parameter of the fluid detected by the sensor.
  • It can additionally one or more conventional sensors, such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, flow sensors and/or vibration sensors, in which the pump control is not integrated into the sensor electronics.
  • These conventional sensors can make measurement signals available to the at least one sensor with pump control via a communication link in order to be able to use them for pump control.
  • a pump control sensor can be provided on one pump unit, while conventional sensors can be provided on the other pumps.
  • the at least one sensor with pump control can control the majority of the pump units on the basis of the fluid parameters that it detects itself and those that are detected by the conventional sensors.
  • the pump controller can optionally be set up to command the motor controller of the first pump unit in accordance with a selectable operating program.
  • the operating program can preferably be selected using an executable program such as an app on a mobile communication device.
  • the pump system can have a second of at least two pump units for pumping the fluid, the pump controller being set up to command the motor controller of the first pump unit and/or a motor controller of the second pump unit according to a selectable operating program.
  • the pump controller in the sensor can control two or more pump units according to a selectable operating program.
  • the at least one sensor can be directly or indirectly signal-connected to the respective motor controller of each of the pump units to be controlled.
  • the pump controller can optionally be set up to command the motor controller of the first pump unit and/or a motor controller of a second pump unit with operating parameter commands, such as switch-on and switch-off commands, setpoint speed commands, setpoint delivery head commands, setpoint flow rate commands and/or setpoint power commands.
  • operating parameter commands such as switch-on and switch-off commands, setpoint speed commands, setpoint delivery head commands, setpoint flow rate commands and/or setpoint power commands.
  • a pump control method according to claim 17 is disclosed.
  • the pump control method can also have the step of programming the pump control via a sensor communication interface integrated into the sensor electronics and/or a sensor power supply.
  • Such programming can preferably take place by means of a mobile communication device and via a preferably wireless communication connection between the communication device and the sensor communication interface.
  • the step of commanding can take place based on the at least one parameter of the fluid detected by the sensor.
  • parameters of the fluid can be detected by other conventional sensors without an integrated pump controller and the at least one sensor with an integrated pump controller be provided to base the commanding of the engine controller(s) thereon.
  • the commanding step can have an operating parameter command, such as a switch-on and switch-off command, setpoint speed command, and/or setpoint power command for a drive motor of the first pump unit according to a selectable operating program.
  • an operating parameter command such as a switch-on and switch-off command, setpoint speed command, and/or setpoint power command for a drive motor of the first pump unit according to a selectable operating program.
  • These operating parameter commands can preferably correspond to a selectable operating program.
  • the operating program can be selected from a group of operating programs with a first operating program in which the second pump unit is switched on as an additional unit to the first pump unit as the main unit if the detected at least one parameter of the fluid indicates that the performance of the first pump unit is not sufficient , wherein preferably in an alternating rotation, the second pump unit serves as the main unit and the first pump unit as an additional unit.
  • only the second pump unit can be switched on as the main unit, preferably in an alternating cycle.
  • the first and second pump unit can be switched on.
  • the first and second pump units can also both be selectively switched off.
  • the pump control method can also include the step of recording the number of switch-on processes and/or the operating time of the first and/or second pump unit, the commanding step being based on the recorded number of switch-on processes and/or the recorded operating time of the first and/or second pump unit takes place.
  • the first pump unit 3 and the second pump unit 5 are connected to a pipe system, not shown here, in order to contain a fluid 11, preferably water to pump.
  • the first pump unit 3 and the second pump unit 5 can be connected in series or parallel to one another in the pipe system.
  • the pump system 1 can also have more pump units in series and/or in parallel with one another.
  • the pump units 3, 5 are of the same type, namely of a multi-stage type Centrifugal pump unit with vertical rotor axis.
  • the pumping units of the pumping system can be of different sizes and/or different types, for example one or more of the pumping units can only be a single-stage pump unit with vertical or horizontal rotor axis. It does not necessarily have to be a centrifugal pump unit, but other types of pumps can be used.
  • the first pump unit 3 here has a pump housing 13 with a suction connection 15 and a pressure connection 17 with associated flanges 19, 21 for connection to the pipe system, not shown here.
  • the fluid 11 to be pumped is sucked in at the suction port 15 and pumped to the pressure port 17 .
  • a plurality of impellers are arranged in stages one above the other around a vertical rotor axis within the pump housing 13 .
  • the rotor axis is driven by an electric drive motor within a motor housing 23 arranged above the pump housing 13 .
  • An electronics housing 25 is arranged on the motor housing 23 and contains a motor controller with a frequency converter in order to provide the working current for the drive motor.
  • the motor control can be at least partially in the motor housing 23 so that no separate electronics housing 25 is required or the electronics housing 25 is integrated as an area in the motor housing 23 .
  • the first sensor 7 is arranged at a measuring point on the pressure connection 17 of the pump housing 13 for detecting at least one parameter of the fluid 11 in the pressure connection 17 of the first pump unit 3.
  • the first sensor 7 can be remote from the first pump unit 3, for example at a measuring point on a pipe of the pipe system connected to the first pump unit 3, be arranged by at least one To detect parameters of the fluid 11 in the fluid-connected to the pump pipe.
  • the first sensor 7 has a sensor housing 27 and sensor electronics 28 located in the sensor housing 27 .
  • the first sensor 7 has sensing elements 29, 31, which at least partially protrude into the fluid 11 to be pumped, while the sensor housing 27 is arranged entirely or at least partially outside of the pressure port 17.
  • the sensing elements 29, 31 can be designed to measure the fluid temperature, the fluid pressure, the fluid flow and/or the fluid vibration as parameters of the fluid 11.
  • the vibration of one of the pump units 3, 5 or parts thereof and/or of a pipe fluidly connected to one of the pump units 3, 5 can be measured.
  • Fluid vibration is also understood here to mean, for example, a number, a frequency, an amplitude and/or a time integral of pressure surges that can be caused in the pipe system, for example by closing a valve.
  • a pump control is integrated into the sensor electronics 28 in the sensor housing 27, with which the motor control in the electronics housing 25 of the first pump unit 3 can be commanded.
  • the first signal connection 35 can be wireless or via cable.
  • the first sensor 7 is additionally connected to the motor controller of the second pump unit 5 via a second signal connection 39 in order to also be able to command it.
  • a second sensor 41 is attached to a pressure connection of the second pump unit 5, which in a conventional manner only detects at least one parameter of the fluid and in which no pump control is integrated into the sensor electronics.
  • the second sensor 41 like the first sensor 7 with an in the sensor electronics be equipped with integrated pump control to command the motor control of the first pump unit 3 and/or the second pump unit 5.
  • the first sensor 7 is supplied with power by a sensor power supply unit 43 .
  • the sensor power pack 43 is connected to the first sensor 7 via a cable connection 45 .
  • the sensor power supply unit 43 can have a transformer and/or a power converter 47 in order to provide a suitable DC voltage supply for the first sensor 7 via the cable connection 45 from an AC line voltage.
  • the cable connection 45 and/or an additional wireless or wired communication connection between the first sensor 7 and the sensor network part 43 can be used for communication between the sensor network part 43 and the sensor 7 .
  • the sensor power pack 43 can also be used here via a cable connection 47 to the pump-side interface 37 to supply power to the drive motor and/or to control the motor of the first pump unit 3 .
  • the exemplary embodiment shown shows two ways in which the pump control can be programmed in the sensor electronics 28 of the first sensor 7 .
  • a sensor communication interface 49 can be integrated into the sensor electronics 28 and/or the sensor power supply unit 43 .
  • the pump control in the first sensor 7 can be programmed via respective preferably wireless communication connections 51 , 53 between the mobile communication device 9 , here in the form of a smartphone, and the sensor communication interface 49 . If the sensor communication interface 49 is exclusively integrated in the sensor power pack 43 , the sensor electronics 28 can be programmed via the cable connection 45 .
  • the motor controller is commanded via the first signal connection 35 and/or the first signal connection 39 via a control interface 55.
  • the control interface 55 can also be signal-connected to a motor controller of one or more other pump units, such as the second pump unit 5 ( here via the second signal connection 39) in order to be able to command them as well.
  • the control interface 55 can be integrated into the sensor electronics 28 (as in 1 shown) and/or the sensor power pack 43 can be integrated.
  • the pump controller is set up here to command the engine controller of the first pump unit 3 and the second pump unit 5 based on the at least one parameter of the fluid detected by the sensor 7 .
  • the sensor 7 can be a pressure sensor that provides a signal that correlates with the fluid pressure in the pressure port 17 as a detected parameter. If the signal exceeds or falls below a defined setpoint, the pump control can command a higher or lower pump speed or pump capacity of the first pump unit 3 and/or the second pump unit 5 and/or switch them on or off as required.
  • the pump control is preferably set up to command the respective motor control of the first pump unit 3 and/or the second pump unit 5 according to a selectable operating program.
  • Figures 2a-e show the sensor 7, here in the form of a pressure sensor, more precisely from different sides.
  • the side view 2a shows the sensor housing 27, which encloses a lower sensing element 29 and the upper sensor electronics 28.
  • the lower sensing element 29 is designed to protrude into the fluid to be pumped and is as narrow as possible in order to keep the flow-induced resistance to the fluid through the sensing element 29 as low as possible.
  • the sensing element 29 has an opening 57 through which fluid flows into a sealed volume 59 and is connected to a pressure sensor 61 protruding into the sealed volume 59 (see detailed section BB in Fig. 2d ) can come into contact.
  • the fluid pressure on the pressure sensor 61 is detected by means of the sensor electronics 28 which are arranged on a circuit board 67 .
  • the sensor 7 is adapted for a corresponding measuring point and has sealing and sealing means 69 above the sensing element 29, for example in the form of an O-ring, so that it can be installed in a sealed manner at a measuring point of the pump unit 3, 5 or the pipe system.
  • An upper part of the sensor housing 27, which comprises at least a large part of the sensor electronics 28, is located outside the pump unit 3, 5 or the pipe in the embodiment shown. This outside part of the sensor housing 27 can therefore be made larger than the sensing element 29.
  • the circuit board 67 with the sensor electronics 28 and the pump control integrated therein can be made correspondingly large (see section AA in Figure 2e ). Alternatively, however, the entire sensor housing 27 can be fully integrated into the pump unit 3, 5 or the tube, without part of the sensor housing 27 protruding from the pump unit 3, 5 or the tube.
  • FIG. 12 schematically shows an example of the pump control method disclosed herein.
  • the pump control is programmed 301 via a sensor communication interface 49 integrated into the sensor electronics 28 and/or a sensor power supply unit 43.
  • Such programming can preferably be carried out using a mobile communication device and via a preferably wireless communication connection between the communication device and the sensor communication interface.
  • a motor control of the first pump unit 3 is commanded by means of the pump control integrated into sensor electronics 28 of the sensor 7 and programmed via the sensor communication interface 49.
  • the step of commanding 305 can be based on the at least one parameter of the fluid detected by the sensor.
  • parameters of the fluid can be detected by other conventional sensors without an integrated pump controller and provided to the at least one sensor with an integrated pump controller in order to base the commanding of the engine controller(s) thereon.
  • the step of commanding 305 can have an operating parameter command, such as a switch-on and switch-off command, setpoint speed command, and/or setpoint power command for a drive motor of the first pump unit according to a selectable operating program.
  • the pump control method can also have the following step: commanding 307 a motor control of a second 5 of at least two pump units 3, 5 by means of the pump control integrated in the sensor electronics of the sensor with operating parameter commands, such as switch-on and switch-off commands, setpoint speed commands, and/or target power commands.
  • operating parameter commands can preferably correspond to a selectable operating program.
  • the operating program can be selected from a group of operating programs with a first operating program in which the second pump unit is switched on as an additional unit to the first pump unit 3 as the main unit if the detected at least one parameter of the fluid indicates that the performance of the first pump unit 3 is not sufficient, preferably in an alternating rotation, the second pump unit 5 serves as the main unit and the first pump unit 3 as an additional unit.
  • a second selectable Operating program in which only the first pump unit 3 is switched on as the main unit, preferably only the second pump unit 5 is switched on as the main unit in an alternating cycle.
  • the first and second pump unit 3, 5 can be switched on.
  • the first and second pump unit 3, 5 can also both be switched off optionally.
  • the number of switch-on processes and/or the operating time of the first and/or second pump unit 3, 5 is recorded 309, with the step of commanding 305, 307 being based on the recorded number of switch-on processes and/or the recorded operating time of the first and/or second pump unit 3, 5 takes place.
  • the pump units 3, 5 can be stressed to the same extent as possible in order to prevent premature wear of one of the pump units. This also avoids prolonged non-use of one of the pump units, so that a pump which has not been used for a long period of time does not function correctly when it is needed.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Control Of Positive-Displacement Pumps (AREA)
  • Control Of Non-Positive-Displacement Pumps (AREA)

Description

Die vorliegende Offenbarung betrifft ein Pumpensystem mit einer oder mehreren Pumpen und ein Pumpensteuerungsverfahren dafür. Vorzugsweise handelt es sich dabei um eine oder mehrere nasslaufende Umwälzpumpen, die als ein- oder mehrstufige Kreiselpumpen zum Pumpen von Wasser ausgestaltet sind.The present disclosure relates to a pump system with one or more pumps and a pump control method therefor. This is preferably one or more wet-running circulating pumps, which are designed as single-stage or multi-stage centrifugal pumps for pumping water.

Bekannte Systeme mit einer Mehrzahl von Pumpen weisen speicherprogrammierbare Steuergeräte (SPS; englisch: programmable logic Controller, PLC) auf, die das Zusammenspiel der Pumpen steuern. Die US 9,670,918 B2 beschreibt beispielsweise ein Booster-System, mit einem SPS, mit dem versucht wird, die optimalen Einschaltparameter für die Pumpen zu bestimmen. Die EP 0 711 920 A1 und die WO 00/03142 beschreiben jeweils ein von einer Pumpeneinheit extern angeordnetes Elektronikgehäuse mit Motorsteuerung und Drucksensor.Known systems with a plurality of pumps have programmable logic controllers (PLCs) that control the interaction of the pumps. the US 9,670,918 B2 describes, for example, a booster system with a PLC that tries to determine the optimal switch-on parameters for the pumps. the EP 0 711 920 A1 and the WO 00/03142 each describe an electronics housing with motor control and pressure sensor arranged externally to a pump unit.

Die vorliegende Offenbarung stellt dagegen ein Pumpensystem und Pumpensteuerungsverfahren bereit, das ohne ein SPS oder externes Elektronikgehäuse für die Motorsteuerung auskommt und dadurch Komplexität und Kosten des Systems einspart.In contrast, the present disclosure provides a pump system and pump control method that eliminates the need for a PLC or external electronics package for motor control, thereby reducing system complexity and cost.

Gemäß einem ersten Aspekt der vorliegenden Offenbarung wird ein Pumpensystem bereitgestellt mit einer ersten von mindestens einer Pumpeneinheit zum Pumpen eines Fluids, wobei die erste Pumpeneinheit eine Pumpe, einen elektrischen Antriebsmotor, ein Motorgehäuse und eine Motorsteuerung aufweist, wobei das Elektronikgehäuse am Motorgehäuse angeordnet oder im Motorgehäuse integriert ist, einer Pumpensteuerung zum Kommandieren der Motorsteuerung, und einem Sensor mit einem Sensorgehäuse und einer in dem Sensorgehäuse befindlichen Sensorelektronik zur Erfassung mindestens eines Parameters des Fluids in der Pumpe oder in einem mit der Pumpe fluidverbundenen Rohr, wobei die Pumpensteuerung in die Sensorelektronik integriert ist. Der Sensor ist dabei extern von einem Gehäuse für die Motorsteuerung angeordnet.According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a pump system is provided with a first of at least one pump unit for pumping a fluid, the first pump unit having a pump, an electric drive motor, a motor housing and a motor controller, the electronics housing being arranged on the motor housing or in the motor housing is integrated, a pump control for commanding the motor control, and a sensor with a sensor housing and a Sensor electronics located in the sensor housing for detecting at least one parameter of the fluid in the pump or in a pipe fluidly connected to the pump, the pump control being integrated into the sensor electronics. The sensor is arranged externally from a housing for the engine control.

Das hierin offenbarte Pumpensystem nutzt also die im Sensor befindliche Sensorelektronik, um sich das komplexe und kostenintensive SPS zu sparen und die Pumpe(n) direkt vom Sensor aus zu kommandieren. Die "Motorsteuerung" soll hier diejenigen leistungselektronischen Komponenten aufweisen, die den Arbeitsstrom durch die Spulen des Antriebsmotors steuern, wie etwa ein Frequenzumrichter. Der Begriff "Kommandieren" soll hierin im Sinne eines Ansteuerns bedeuten, dass Befehlssignale von der Pumpensteuerung an die Motorsteuerung gesendet werden, die die Betriebsweise des Antriebsmotors bestimmen, beispielsweise ein Ein- und/oder Ausschaltsignal, eine Solldrehzahl und/oder Soll-Leistungsaufnahme. Zusätzlich kann die Sensorelektronik zwar auch Messsignale bereitstellen, aber die Bereitstellung von Messsignalen soll hier nicht als Kommandieren missverstanden werden, selbst wenn eine Pumpensteuerung die Betriebsweise des Antriebsmotors von einem Messsignal abhängig macht. Die vorliegende Offenbarung soll also von Systemen unterschieden werden, bei denen eine Pumpensteuerung außerhalb des Sensors vom Sensor ein Messsignal empfängt und die Betriebsweise des Antriebsmotors von einem Messsignal abhängig macht. Eine solche sensorexterne Pumpensteuerung wird durch die in die Sensorelektronik integrierte Pumpensteuerung der vorliegenden Offenbarung gerade eingespart. Die Pumpensteuerung kann in Form einer Software in die Sensorelektronik integriert sein, ohne dass es einer Veränderung der Sensorelektronik bedarf, die üblicherweise nur Messsignale bereitstellt. Etwaige in der Sensorelektronik vorhandene Hardware-Komponenten wie Speicher, Prozessor, Schnittstelle und Signalverbindung, die üblicherweise zur Bereitstellung von Messsignalen genutzt werden, können hier für das Kommandieren der Motorsteuerung genutzt werden. Alternativ oder zusätzlich können eine oder mehr solcher Hardware-Komponenten an das Kommandieren der Motorsteuerung angepasst bzw. erweitert werden.The pump system disclosed herein thus uses the sensor electronics located in the sensor in order to save on the complex and cost-intensive SPS and to command the pump(s) directly from the sensor. The "motor control" is intended here to have those power electronic components that control the working current through the coils of the drive motor, such as a frequency converter. The term "command" is intended to mean here in the sense of a control that command signals are sent from the pump controller to the engine controller, which determine the mode of operation of the drive motor, for example an on and / or off signal, a target speed and / or target power consumption. In addition, although the sensor electronics can also provide measurement signals, the provision of measurement signals should not be misunderstood here as commanding, even if a pump controller makes the operating mode of the drive motor dependent on a measurement signal. The present disclosure is therefore to be distinguished from systems in which a pump controller outside of the sensor receives a measurement signal from the sensor and makes the mode of operation of the drive motor dependent on a measurement signal. Such a sensor-external pump control is saved by the pump control integrated into the sensor electronics of the present disclosure. The pump control can be integrated into the sensor electronics in the form of software without the need to change the sensor electronics, which usually only provide measurement signals. Any hardware components present in the sensor electronics, such as memory, processor, interface and signal connection, which are usually used to provide measurement signals can be used here for commanding the motor control. As an alternative or in addition, one or more such hardware components can be adapted or expanded to command the motor controller.

Optional kann der Sensor an einer Messstelle an die Pumpe oder an ein mit der Pumpe fluidverbundenes Rohr anbringbar sein. Die Sensorelektronik ist hierbei vorzugsweise zur direkten Erfassung mindestens eines Parameters des Fluids in der Pumpe oder in einem mit der Pumpe fluidverbundenen Rohr ausgestaltet. Der Sensor weist dazu vorzugsweise eine Sensorfläche auf, die im Sensorbetrieb in direktem Kontakt mit dem zu pumpenden Fluid in der Pumpe oder in einem mit der Pumpe fluidverbundenen Rohr steht.Optionally, the sensor can be attached to a measuring point on the pump or on a pipe that is fluidly connected to the pump. In this case, the sensor electronics are preferably designed for the direct detection of at least one parameter of the fluid in the pump or in a pipe that is fluidly connected to the pump. For this purpose, the sensor preferably has a sensor surface which, during sensor operation, is in direct contact with the fluid to be pumped in the pump or in a pipe fluidly connected to the pump.

Optional kann der Sensor mit der Motorsteuerung signalverbunden sein, wobei die in die Sensorelektronik integrierte Pumpensteuerung die Motorsteuerung über die Signalverbindung kommandieren kann. Solche eine Signalverbindung kann drahtlos oder über eine Kabelverbindung erfolgen. Die Befehlssignale der Pumpensteuerung zum Kommandieren der Motorsteuerung können digital und/oder analog sein.Optionally, the sensor can be signal-connected to the engine controller, with the pump controller integrated into the sensor electronics being able to command the engine controller via the signal connection. Such a signal connection can be wireless or via a cable connection. The pump controller command signals for commanding the motor controller may be digital and/or analog.

Optional kann der mindestens eine vom Sensor zu erfassende Parameter des Fluids eine Fluidtemperatur, einen Fluiddruck, einen Fluiddurchfluss und/oder eine Fluidvibration aufweisen. Der mindestens eine Sensor kann also ein Temperatursensor, ein Drucksensor, ein Durchflusssensor und/oder ein Vibrationssensor sein. In einem gemeinsamen Sensorgehäuse kann eine Mehrzahl von Sensoren für unterschiedliche zu erfassende Parameter des Fluids, wie etwa eine Fluidtemperatur, einen Fluiddruck, einen Fluiddurchfluss, eine Fluidvibration und/oder eine Vibration der mindestens einen Pumpeneinheit und/oder Teile dieser, angeordnet sein. Als Fluidvibration wird hier beispielsweise auch eine Anzahl, eine Häufigkeit, eine Amplitude und/oder ein zeitliches Integral von Druckstößen verstanden, die im Rohrsystem beispielsweise durch Schließen eines Ventils hervorgerufen werden können.Optionally, the at least one parameter of the fluid to be detected by the sensor can include a fluid temperature, a fluid pressure, a fluid flow rate and/or a fluid vibration. The at least one sensor can therefore be a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, a flow sensor and/or a vibration sensor. A plurality of sensors for different parameters of the fluid to be detected, such as a fluid temperature, a fluid pressure, a fluid flow rate, a fluid vibration and/or a vibration of the at least one pump unit and/or parts thereof, can be arranged in a common sensor housing. Here, for example, a number, a frequency, an amplitude and/or a time integral is also used as fluid vibration understood as pressure surges that can be caused in the pipe system, for example by closing a valve.

Optional kann das Pumpensystem ein Sensornetzteil zur Stromversorgung des Sensors aufweisen. Das Sensornetzteil kann separat von dem mindestens einen Sensor mit Pumpensteuerung ausgestaltet sein und den Sensor vorzugsweise über eine Kabelverbindung mit Strom versorgen. Dabei kann das Sensornetzteil zusätzlich einer Kommunikation mit dem Sensor über die Kabelverbindung zwischen dem Sensornetzteil und dem Sensor dienen. Das Sensornetzteil kann außerdem nicht nur der Stromversorgung des Sensors, sondern auch des Antriebsmotors und/oder der Motorsteuerung der mindestens einen Pumpeneinheit dienen. Dazu kann das Sensornetzteil eine zusätzliche Kabelverbindung mit dem Antriebsmotor und/oder der Motorsteuerung der mindestens einen Pumpeneinheit aufweisen.Optionally, the pump system can have a sensor power pack for powering the sensor. The sensor power pack can be designed separately from the at least one sensor with pump control and can supply the sensor with power, preferably via a cable connection. The sensor power pack can also be used for communication with the sensor via the cable connection between the sensor power pack and the sensor. The sensor power pack can also be used not only for the power supply of the sensor, but also for the drive motor and/or the motor control of the at least one pump unit. For this purpose, the sensor power pack can have an additional cable connection to the drive motor and/or the motor controller of the at least one pump unit.

Optional kann das Pumpensystem eine Sensorkommunikationsschnittstelle aufweisen, über welche die Pumpensteuerung programmierbar ist. Die Sensorkommunikationsschnittstelle kann dabei in die Sensorelektronik und/oder das Sensornetzteil integriert sein. Ist die Sensorkommunikationsschnittstelle zumindest teilweise im Sensornetzteil integriert, so kann die Programmierung der Pumpensteuerung über die Kabelverbindung zwischen Sensornetzteil und Sensor zur Pumpensteuerung im Sensor geleitet werden.Optionally, the pump system can have a sensor communication interface, via which the pump control can be programmed. The sensor communication interface can be integrated into the sensor electronics and/or the sensor power supply. If the sensor communication interface is at least partially integrated in the sensor power pack, the pump control can be programmed via the cable connection between the sensor power pack and the sensor to the pump control in the sensor.

Optional kann das Pumpensystem ein mobiles Kommunikationsgerät aufweisen, mittels welchem die Pumpensteuerung über eine vorzugsweise drahtlose Kommunikationsverbindung mit der Sensorkommunikationsschnittstelle programmierbar ist. Solch ein Kommunikationsgerät kann beispielsweise ein Notebook, Tablet oder Smartphone sein, das über eine vorzugsweise drahtlose Kommunikationsverbindung wie etwa Bluetooth oder WLAN mit der Sensorkommunikationsschnittstelle kommunizieren kann. Mittels eines ausführbaren Programms wie etwa einer App auf dem Kommunikationsgerät kann ein Benutzer die Pumpensteuerung programmieren und/oder Betriebsparameter einer oder mehrerer Pumpeneinheiten einstellen. Mit "Programmieren" sei in diesem Zusammenhang beispielsweise ein Upload oder Update eines Betriebsprogramms, eine Auswahl aus einer Mehrzahl von zur Verfügung stehenden Betriebsprogrammen und/oder das Einstellen eines oder mehrerer Betriebsparameter wie etwa Solldrehzahl, Sollförderhöhe, Solldurchfluss, Sollleistung und/oder Ein/Aus gemeint sein. Die Kommunikationsverbindung zwischen dem Kommunikationsgerät und der Sensorkommunikationsschnittstelle kann eine Zwei-Wege-Kommunikationsverbindung sein, mittels derer das Kommunikationsgerät einen Benutzer über Betriebsparameter, Fehlermeldungen, Alarme, Messwerte und/oder zur Verfügung stehende Betriebsprogramme visuell über ein Display oder eine Leuchte und/oder akustisch informieren kann. Die Daten können auch zur statistischen Auswertung und/oder Fehleranalyse auf dem Kommunikationsgerät, einem Server und/oder im Rahmen einer Cloud-Lösung gespeichert werden.Optionally, the pump system can have a mobile communication device, by means of which the pump control can be programmed via a preferably wireless communication connection with the sensor communication interface. Such a communication device can be a notebook, tablet or smartphone, for example, which communicates with the sensor communication interface via a preferably wireless communication connection such as Bluetooth or WLAN can. By means of an executable program such as an app on the communication device, a user can program the pump controller and/or set operating parameters of one or more pump units. In this context, "programming" means, for example, an upload or update of an operating program, a selection from a plurality of available operating programs and/or the setting of one or more operating parameters such as target speed, target delivery head, target flow rate, target power and/or on/off be meant. The communication link between the communication device and the sensor communication interface can be a two-way communication link, by means of which the communication device informs a user about operating parameters, error messages, alarms, measured values and/or available operating programs visually via a display or a light and/or acoustically can. The data can also be stored on the communication device, a server and/or as part of a cloud solution for statistical evaluation and/or error analysis.

Optional kann das Pumpensystem eine mit der Motorsteuerung signalverbundene Steuerschnittstelle aufweisen, über welche die Motorsteuerung der ersten Pumpeneinheit mittels der Pumpensteuerung kommandierbar ist. Die Steuerschnittstelle kann beispielsweise in die Sensorelektronik und/oder ein Sensornetzteil integriert sein. Ist die Steuerschnittstelle zumindest teilweise im Sensornetzteil integriert, so kann das Kommandieren der Motorsteuerung über die Kabelverbindung zwischen Sensornetzteil und Sensor von der Pumpensteuerung im Sensor zum Sensornetzteil geleitet werden.Optionally, the pump system can have a control interface that is signal-connected to the engine controller, via which the engine controller of the first pump unit can be commanded by the pump controller. The control interface can be integrated into the sensor electronics and/or a sensor power supply unit, for example. If the control interface is at least partially integrated in the sensor power pack, the motor controller can be commanded via the cable connection between the sensor power pack and the sensor from the pump controller in the sensor to the sensor power pack.

Optional kann die Pumpensteuerung dazu eingerichtet sein, die Motorsteuerung basierend auf dem mindestens einen mittels des Sensors erfassten Parameter des Fluids zu kommandieren. Es können zusätzlich ein oder mehr herkömmliche Sensoren, wie etwa Temperatursensoren, Drucksensoren, Durchflusssensoren und/oder Vibrationssensoren vorgesehen sein, bei denen die Pumpensteuerung nicht in die Sensorelektronik integriert ist. Diese herkömmlichen Sensoren können dem mindestens einen Sensor mit Pumpensteuerung Messsignale über eine Kommunikationsverbindung zur Verfügung stellen, um diese für die Pumpensteuerung nutzen zu können. Beispielsweise bei einer Mehrzahl von Pumpeneinheiten kann an einer Pumpeneinheit ein Sensor mit Pumpensteuerung vorgesehen sein während an den anderen Pumpen herkömmliche Sensoren vorgesehen sein können. Der mindestens eine Sensor mit Pumpensteuerung kann dabei aufgrund des selbst erfassten sowie den von den herkömmlichen Sensoren erfassten Fluidparameteren die Mehrzahl der Pumpeneinheiten steuern.Optionally, the pump controller can be set up to command the engine controller based on the at least one parameter of the fluid detected by the sensor. It can additionally one or more conventional sensors, such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, flow sensors and/or vibration sensors, in which the pump control is not integrated into the sensor electronics. These conventional sensors can make measurement signals available to the at least one sensor with pump control via a communication link in order to be able to use them for pump control. For example, in the case of a plurality of pump units, a pump control sensor can be provided on one pump unit, while conventional sensors can be provided on the other pumps. The at least one sensor with pump control can control the majority of the pump units on the basis of the fluid parameters that it detects itself and those that are detected by the conventional sensors.

Optional kann die Pumpensteuerung dazu eingerichtet sein, die Motorsteuerung der ersten Pumpeneinheit entsprechend einem auswählbaren Betriebsprogramm zu kommandieren. Vorzugsweise ist das Betriebsprogramm mittels eines ausführbaren Programms wie etwa einer App auf einem mobilen Kommunikationsgerät auswählbar.The pump controller can optionally be set up to command the motor controller of the first pump unit in accordance with a selectable operating program. The operating program can preferably be selected using an executable program such as an app on a mobile communication device.

Optional kann das Pumpensystem eine zweite von mindestens zwei Pumpeneinheiten zum Pumpen des Fluids aufweisen, wobei die Pumpensteuerung dazu eingerichtet ist, entsprechend einem auswählbaren Betriebsprogramm die Motorsteuerung der ersten Pumpeneinheit und/oder eine Motorsteuerung der zweiten Pumpeneinheit zu kommandieren. Die Pumpensteuerung im Sensor kann zwei oder mehr Pumpeneinheiten gemäß einem auswählbaren Betriebsprogramm steuern. Dazu kann der mindestens eine Sensor mit der jeweiligen Motorsteuerung jeder der zu steuernden Pumpeneinheiten direkt oder indirekt signalverbunden sein.Optionally, the pump system can have a second of at least two pump units for pumping the fluid, the pump controller being set up to command the motor controller of the first pump unit and/or a motor controller of the second pump unit according to a selectable operating program. The pump controller in the sensor can control two or more pump units according to a selectable operating program. For this purpose, the at least one sensor can be directly or indirectly signal-connected to the respective motor controller of each of the pump units to be controlled.

Optional kann die Pumpensteuerung dazu eingerichtet sein, die Motorsteuerung der ersten Pumpeneinheit und/oder eine Motorsteuerung einer zweiten Pumpeneinheit mit Betriebsparameter-Kommandos, wie beispielsweise Ein- und Ausschaltkommandos, Solldrehzahlkommandos, Sollförderhöhekommandos, Solldurchflusskommandos und/oder Sollleistungskommandos, zu kommandieren.The pump controller can optionally be set up to command the motor controller of the first pump unit and/or a motor controller of a second pump unit with operating parameter commands, such as switch-on and switch-off commands, setpoint speed commands, setpoint delivery head commands, setpoint flow rate commands and/or setpoint power commands.

Gemäß einem zweiten Aspekt der vorliegenden Offenbarung wird ein Pumpensteuerungsverfahren nach Anspruch 17 offenbart.According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a pump control method according to claim 17 is disclosed.

Optional kann das Pumpensteuerungsverfahren ferner den Schritt eines Programmierens der Pumpensteuerung über eine in die Sensorelektronik und/oder ein Sensornetzteil integrierte Sensorkommunikationsschnittstelle aufweisen. Solch ein Programmieren kann vorzugsweise mittels eines mobilen Kommunikationsgeräts und über eine vorzugsweise drahtlose Kommunikationsverbindung zwischen dem Kommunikationsgerät und der Sensorkommunikationsschnittstelle erfolgen.Optionally, the pump control method can also have the step of programming the pump control via a sensor communication interface integrated into the sensor electronics and/or a sensor power supply. Such programming can preferably take place by means of a mobile communication device and via a preferably wireless communication connection between the communication device and the sensor communication interface.

Optional kann der Schritt des Kommandierens basierend auf dem mindestens einen mittels des Sensors erfassten Parameter des Fluids erfolgen. Alternativ oder zusätzlich können Parameter des Fluids von anderen herkömmlichen Sensoren ohne integrierte Pumpensteuerung erfasst und dem mindestens einen Sensor mit integrierter Pumpensteuerung bereitgestellt werden, um das Kommandieren der Motorsteuerung(en) darauf zu basieren.Optionally, the step of commanding can take place based on the at least one parameter of the fluid detected by the sensor. Alternatively or additionally, parameters of the fluid can be detected by other conventional sensors without an integrated pump controller and the at least one sensor with an integrated pump controller be provided to base the commanding of the engine controller(s) thereon.

Optional kann der Schritt des Kommandierens ein Betriebsparameter-Kommando, wie beispielsweise Ein- und Ausschaltkommando, Solldrehzahlkommando, und/oder Sollleistungskommando für einen Antriebsmotor der ersten Pumpeneinheit entsprechend einem auswählbaren Betriebsprogramm aufweisen.Optionally, the commanding step can have an operating parameter command, such as a switch-on and switch-off command, setpoint speed command, and/or setpoint power command for a drive motor of the first pump unit according to a selectable operating program.

Optional kann das Pumpensteuerungsverfahren ferner den folgenden Schritt aufweisen:

  • Kommandieren einer Motorsteuerung einer zweiten von mindestens zwei Pumpeneinheiten mittels der in die Sensorelektronik des Sensors integrierten Pumpensteuerung mit Betriebsparameter-Kommandos, wie beispielsweise Ein- und Ausschaltkommandos, Solldrehzahlkommandos, und/oder Sollleistungskommandos.
Optionally, the pump control method may further include the step of:
  • Commanding a motor controller of a second of at least two pump units using the pump controller integrated into the sensor electronics of the sensor with operating parameter commands, such as on and off commands, setpoint speed commands, and/or setpoint power commands.

Diese Betriebsparameter-Kommandos können vorzugsweise einem auswählbaren Betriebsprogramm entsprechen. Optional kann dabei das Betriebsprogramm auswählbar aus einer Gruppe von Betriebsprogrammen sein mit einem ersten Betriebsprogramm, bei dem die zweite Pumpeneinheit als Zusatzeinheit zur ersten Pumpeneinheit als Haupteinheit hinzugeschaltet wird, wenn der erfasste mindestens eine Parameter des Fluids anzeigt, dass die Leistung der ersten Pumpeneinheit nicht ausreicht, wobei vorzugsweise in einem abwechselnden Turnus die zweite Pumpeneinheit als Haupteinheit und die erste Pumpeneinheit als Zusatzeinheit dient.These operating parameter commands can preferably correspond to a selectable operating program. Optionally, the operating program can be selected from a group of operating programs with a first operating program in which the second pump unit is switched on as an additional unit to the first pump unit as the main unit if the detected at least one parameter of the fluid indicates that the performance of the first pump unit is not sufficient , wherein preferably in an alternating rotation, the second pump unit serves as the main unit and the first pump unit as an additional unit.

Optional kann in einem zweiten wählbaren Betriebsprogramm, bei dem nur die erste Pumpeneinheit als Haupteinheit eingeschaltet ist, vorzugsweise in einem abwechselnden Turnus nur die zweite Pumpeneinheit als Haupteinheit eingeschaltet sein. In einem optionalen dritten wählbaren Betriebsprogramm können die erste und zweite Pumpeneinheit eingeschaltet sein. Die erste und zweite Pumpeneinheit können auch beide wahlweise ausgeschaltet werden.Optionally, in a second selectable operating program, in which only the first pump unit is switched on as the main unit, only the second pump unit can be switched on as the main unit, preferably in an alternating cycle. In an optional third selectable operating program, the first and second pump unit can be switched on. The first and second pump units can also both be selectively switched off.

Optional kann das Pumpensteuerungsverfahren ferner den Schritt eines Erfassens der Anzahl der Einschaltvorgänge und/oder der Betriebslaufzeit der ersten und/oder zweiten Pumpeneinheit aufweisen, wobei der Schritt des Kommandierens basierend auf der erfassten Anzahl der Einschaltvorgänge und/oder der erfassten Betriebslaufzeit der ersten und/oder zweiten Pumpeneinheit erfolgt.Optionally, the pump control method can also include the step of recording the number of switch-on processes and/or the operating time of the first and/or second pump unit, the commanding step being based on the recorded number of switch-on processes and/or the recorded operating time of the first and/or second pump unit takes place.

Die Offenbarung ist nachfolgend anhand von in den Zeichnungen dargestellten Ausführungsbeispielen näher erläutert. Es zeigen:

  • Fig. 1 eine schematische Ansicht eines Ausführungsbeispiels des hierin offenbarten Pumpensystems;
  • Fig. 2a-e verschiedene Ansichten eines Ausführungsbeispiels eines Sensors gemäß dem hierin offenbarten Pumpensystem; und
  • Fig. 3 eine schematische Ansicht eines Ausführungsbeispiels des hierin offenbarten Pumpensteuerungsverfahrens.
The disclosure is explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawings. Show it:
  • 1 Figure 12 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the pump system disclosed herein;
  • Fig. 2a-e various views of an embodiment of a sensor according to the pump system disclosed herein; and
  • 3 12 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the pump control method disclosed herein.

Fig. 1 zeigt ein Pumpensystem 1 mit einer ersten Pumpeneinheit 3, einer zweiten Pumpeneinheit 5, einem ersten Sensor 7 und einem mobilen Kommunikationsgerät 9. Die erste Pumpeneinheit 3 und die zweite Pumpeneinheit 5 sind an ein hier nicht gezeigtes Rohrsystem angeschlossen, um darin ein Fluid 11, vorzugsweise Wasser, zu pumpen. Die erste Pumpeneinheit 3 und die zweite Pumpeneinheit 5 können dabei in Serie oder parallel zueinander im Rohrsystem angeschlossen sein. Das Pumpensystem 1 kann auch mehr Pumpeneinheiten in Serie und/oder parallel zueinander aufweisen. Die Pumpeneinheiten 3, 5 sind in diesem Ausführungsbeispiel gleichen Typs, und zwar eines mehrstufigen Kreiselpumpenaggregats mit vertikaler Rotorachse. In alternativen Ausführungsbeispielen können die Pumpeneinheiten des Pumpensystems unterschiedlicher Größe und/oder unterschiedlichen Typs sein, beispielsweise kann eine oder mehr der Pumpeneinheiten nur ein einstufiges Pumpenaggregat sein mit vertikaler oder horizontaler Rotorachse. Es muss sich auch nicht zwangsläufig um Kreiselpumpenaggregate handeln, sondern es können andere Pumpenarten zum Einsatz kommen. 1 shows a pump system 1 with a first pump unit 3, a second pump unit 5, a first sensor 7 and a mobile communication device 9. The first pump unit 3 and the second pump unit 5 are connected to a pipe system, not shown here, in order to contain a fluid 11, preferably water to pump. The first pump unit 3 and the second pump unit 5 can be connected in series or parallel to one another in the pipe system. The pump system 1 can also have more pump units in series and/or in parallel with one another. In this exemplary embodiment, the pump units 3, 5 are of the same type, namely of a multi-stage type Centrifugal pump unit with vertical rotor axis. In alternative embodiments, the pumping units of the pumping system can be of different sizes and/or different types, for example one or more of the pumping units can only be a single-stage pump unit with vertical or horizontal rotor axis. It does not necessarily have to be a centrifugal pump unit, but other types of pumps can be used.

Die erste Pumpeneinheit 3 weist hier ein Pumpengehäuse 13 mit einem Saugstutzen 15 und einem Druckstutzen 17 mit zugehörigen Flanschen 19, 21 zum Anschluss an das hier nicht gezeigte Rohrsystem auf. Das zu pumpende Fluid 11 wird am Saugstutzen 15 angesaugt und zum Druckstutzen 17 gepumpt. Innerhalb des Pumpengehäuses 13 ist dazu eine Mehrzahl von Laufrädern um eins vertikale Rotorachse übereinander gestuft angeordnet. Die Rotorachse wird von einem elektrischen Antriebsmotor innerhalb eines über dem Pumpengehäuse 13 angeordneten Motorgehäuses 23 angetrieben. Am Motorgehäuse 23 ist ein Elektronikgehäuse 25 angeordnet, in dem sich eine Motorsteuerung mit einem Frequenzumrichter befindet, um den Arbeitsstrom für den Antriebsmotor bereitzustellen. In einer alternativen Ausführungsform kann die Motorsteuerung zumindest teilweise im Motorgehäuse 23, sodass es keines separaten Elektronikgehäuses 25 bedarf bzw. das Elektronikgehäuse 25 als ein Bereich im Motorgehäuse 23 integriert ist.The first pump unit 3 here has a pump housing 13 with a suction connection 15 and a pressure connection 17 with associated flanges 19, 21 for connection to the pipe system, not shown here. The fluid 11 to be pumped is sucked in at the suction port 15 and pumped to the pressure port 17 . For this purpose, a plurality of impellers are arranged in stages one above the other around a vertical rotor axis within the pump housing 13 . The rotor axis is driven by an electric drive motor within a motor housing 23 arranged above the pump housing 13 . An electronics housing 25 is arranged on the motor housing 23 and contains a motor controller with a frequency converter in order to provide the working current for the drive motor. In an alternative embodiment, the motor control can be at least partially in the motor housing 23 so that no separate electronics housing 25 is required or the electronics housing 25 is integrated as an area in the motor housing 23 .

Der erste Sensor 7 ist in diesem Ausführungsbeispiel an einer Messstelle am Druckstutzen 17 des Pumpengehäuses 13 angeordnet zur Erfassung mindestens eines Parameters des Fluids 11 im Druckstutzen 17 der ersten Pumpeneinheit 3. In einer alternativen Ausführungsform kann der erste Sensor 7 entfernt von der ersten Pumpeneinheit 3, beispielsweise an einer Messstelle an einem Rohr des mit der ersten Pumpeneinheit 3 verbundenen Rohrsystems, angeordnet sein, um mindestens einen Parameter des Fluids 11 in dem mit der Pumpe fluidverbundenen Rohr zu erfassen. Der erste Sensor 7 weist ein Sensorgehäuse 27 und eine in dem Sensorgehäuse 27 befindliche Sensorelektronik 28 auf. Darüber hinaus weist der erste Sensor 7 Fühlelemente 29, 31 auf, die zumindest teilweise in das zu pumpende Fluid 11 ragen während das Sensorgehäuse 27 ganz oder zumindest teilweise außerhalb des Druckstutzens 17 angeordnet ist. Die Fühlelemente 29, 31 können dazu ausgestaltet sein, die Fluidtemperatur, den Fluiddruck, den Fluiddurchfluss und/oder die Fluidvibration als Parameter des Fluids 11 zu messen. Alternativ oder zusätzlich zu einer Fluidvibration kann die Vibration einer der Pumpeneinheiten 3, 5 bzw. Teile dieser und/oder eines mit einer der Pumpeneinheiten 3, 5 fluidverbundenen Rohrs gemessen werden. Als Fluidvibration wird hier beispielsweise auch eine Anzahl, eine Häufigkeit, eine Amplitude und/oder ein zeitliches Integral von Druckstößen verstanden, die im Rohrsystem beispielsweise durch Schließen eines Ventils hervorgerufen werden können.In this exemplary embodiment, the first sensor 7 is arranged at a measuring point on the pressure connection 17 of the pump housing 13 for detecting at least one parameter of the fluid 11 in the pressure connection 17 of the first pump unit 3. In an alternative embodiment, the first sensor 7 can be remote from the first pump unit 3, for example at a measuring point on a pipe of the pipe system connected to the first pump unit 3, be arranged by at least one To detect parameters of the fluid 11 in the fluid-connected to the pump pipe. The first sensor 7 has a sensor housing 27 and sensor electronics 28 located in the sensor housing 27 . In addition, the first sensor 7 has sensing elements 29, 31, which at least partially protrude into the fluid 11 to be pumped, while the sensor housing 27 is arranged entirely or at least partially outside of the pressure port 17. The sensing elements 29, 31 can be designed to measure the fluid temperature, the fluid pressure, the fluid flow and/or the fluid vibration as parameters of the fluid 11. Alternatively or in addition to a fluid vibration, the vibration of one of the pump units 3, 5 or parts thereof and/or of a pipe fluidly connected to one of the pump units 3, 5 can be measured. Fluid vibration is also understood here to mean, for example, a number, a frequency, an amplitude and/or a time integral of pressure surges that can be caused in the pipe system, for example by closing a valve.

In die Sensorelektronik 28 im Sensorgehäuse 27 ist eine Pumpensteuerung integriert, mit der die Motorsteuerung im Elektronikgehäuse 25 der ersten Pumpeneinheit 3 kommandiert werden kann. Dazu besteht zwischen der Sensorelektronik 28 und der Motorsteuerung im Elektronikgehäuse 25 eine erste Signalverbindung 35 zur Übertragung von Kommandos über eine pumpenseitige Schnittstelle 37. Die erste Signalverbindung 35 kann drahtlos oder über Kabel erfolgen. In diesem Ausführungsbeispiel ist der erste Sensor 7 zusätzlich über eine zweite Signalverbindung 39 mit der Motorsteuerung der zweiten Pumpeneinheit 5 verbunden, um auch diese kommandieren zu können. An einem Druckstutzen der zweiten Pumpeneinheit 5 ist hier ein zweiter Sensor 41 angebracht, der in herkömmlicher Weise lediglich zumindest einen Parameter des Fluids erfasst und bei dem keine Pumpensteuerung in die Sensorelektronik integriert ist. In einer alternativen Ausführungsform kann der zweite Sensor 41 wie der erste Sensor 7 mit einer in die Sensorelektronik integrierten Pumpensteuerung ausgestattet sein, um die Motorsteuerung der ersten Pumpeneinheit 3 und/oder der zweiten Pumpeneinheit 5 zu kommandieren.A pump control is integrated into the sensor electronics 28 in the sensor housing 27, with which the motor control in the electronics housing 25 of the first pump unit 3 can be commanded. For this purpose, there is a first signal connection 35 between the sensor electronics 28 and the motor controller in the electronics housing 25 for the transmission of commands via an interface 37 on the pump side. The first signal connection 35 can be wireless or via cable. In this exemplary embodiment, the first sensor 7 is additionally connected to the motor controller of the second pump unit 5 via a second signal connection 39 in order to also be able to command it. A second sensor 41 is attached to a pressure connection of the second pump unit 5, which in a conventional manner only detects at least one parameter of the fluid and in which no pump control is integrated into the sensor electronics. In an alternative embodiment, the second sensor 41 like the first sensor 7 with an in the sensor electronics be equipped with integrated pump control to command the motor control of the first pump unit 3 and/or the second pump unit 5.

Der erste Sensor 7 wird in diesem Ausführungsbeispiel von einem Sensornetzteil 43 mit Strom versorgt. Das Sensornetzteil 43 ist dazu über eine Kabelverbindung 45 mit dem ersten Sensor 7 verbunden. Das Sensornetzteil 43 kann dazu einen Transformator und/oder einen Stromrichter 47 aufweisen, um aus einer Netzwechselspannung für den ersten Sensor 7 eine geeignete Gleichspannungsversorgung über die Kabelverbindung 45 bereitzustellen. Die Kabelverbindung 45 und/oder eine zusätzliche drahtlose oder verkabelte Kommunikationsverbindung zwischen dem ersten Sensor 7 und dem Sensornetzteil 43 können der Kommunikation zwischen dem Sensornetzteil 43 und dem Sensor 7 dienen. Das Sensornetzteil 43 kann hier zusätzlich über eine Kabelverbindung 47 mit der pumpenseitigen Schnittstelle 37 der Stromversorgung des Antriebsmotors und/oder der Motorsteuerung der ersten Pumpeneinheit 3 dienen.In this exemplary embodiment, the first sensor 7 is supplied with power by a sensor power supply unit 43 . For this purpose, the sensor power pack 43 is connected to the first sensor 7 via a cable connection 45 . For this purpose, the sensor power supply unit 43 can have a transformer and/or a power converter 47 in order to provide a suitable DC voltage supply for the first sensor 7 via the cable connection 45 from an AC line voltage. The cable connection 45 and/or an additional wireless or wired communication connection between the first sensor 7 and the sensor network part 43 can be used for communication between the sensor network part 43 and the sensor 7 . The sensor power pack 43 can also be used here via a cable connection 47 to the pump-side interface 37 to supply power to the drive motor and/or to control the motor of the first pump unit 3 .

In dem in Fig. 1 gezeigten Ausführungsbeispiel sind zwei Möglichkeiten gezeigt, wie die Pumpensteuerung in der Sensorelektronik 28 des ersten Sensors 7 programmierbar ist. Eine Sensorkommunikationsschnittstelle 49 kann dazu in die Sensorelektronik 28 und/oder das Sensornetzteil 43 integriert sein. Über jeweilige vorzugsweise drahtlose Kommunikationsverbindungen 51, 53 zwischen dem mobilen Kommunikationsgerät 9, hier in Form eines Smartphones, und der Sensorkommunikationsschnittstelle 49 ist die Pumpensteuerung im ersten Sensor 7 programmierbar. Falls die Sensorkommunikationsschnittstelle 49 ausschließlich im Sensornetzteil 43 integriert ist, kann die Programmierung der Sensorelektronik 28 über die Kabelverbindung 45 erfolgen.in the in 1 The exemplary embodiment shown shows two ways in which the pump control can be programmed in the sensor electronics 28 of the first sensor 7 . For this purpose, a sensor communication interface 49 can be integrated into the sensor electronics 28 and/or the sensor power supply unit 43 . The pump control in the first sensor 7 can be programmed via respective preferably wireless communication connections 51 , 53 between the mobile communication device 9 , here in the form of a smartphone, and the sensor communication interface 49 . If the sensor communication interface 49 is exclusively integrated in the sensor power pack 43 , the sensor electronics 28 can be programmed via the cable connection 45 .

Das Kommandieren der Motorsteuerung über die erste Signalverbindung 35 und/oder erste Signalverbindung 39 erfolgt hier über eine Steuerschnittstelle 55. Die Steuerschnittstelle 55 kann, wie gezeigt, zusätzlich mit einer Motorsteuerung einer oder mehrerer weiterer Pumpeneinheiten, wie etwa der zweiten Pumpeneinheit 5, signalverbunden sein (hier über die zweite Signalverbindung 39), um diese ebenfalls kommandieren zu können. Die Steuerschnittstelle 55 kann in die Sensorelektronik 28 (wie in Fig. 1 gezeigt) und/oder das Sensornetzteil 43 integriert sein.The motor controller is commanded via the first signal connection 35 and/or the first signal connection 39 via a control interface 55. As shown, the control interface 55 can also be signal-connected to a motor controller of one or more other pump units, such as the second pump unit 5 ( here via the second signal connection 39) in order to be able to command them as well. The control interface 55 can be integrated into the sensor electronics 28 (as in 1 shown) and/or the sensor power pack 43 can be integrated.

Die Pumpensteuerung ist hier dazu eingerichtet, die Motorsteuerung der ersten Pumpeneinheit 3 und der zweiten Pumpeneinheit 5 basierend auf dem mindestens einen mittels des Sensors 7 erfassten Parameter des Fluids zu kommandieren. Beispielsweise kann der Sensor 7 ein Drucksensor sein, der ein Signal bereitstellt, das mit dem Fluiddruck im Druckstutzen 17 als erfasstem Parameter korreliert. Wenn das Signal einen festgelegten Sollwert über- oder unterschreitet, kann die Pumpensteuerung eine höhere oder niedrigere Pumpendrehzahl bzw. Pumpenleistung der ersten Pumpeneinheit 3 und/oder der zweiten Pumpeneinheit 5 kommandieren und/oder diese je nach Bedarf an- oder abschalten. Die Pumpensteuerung ist vorzugsweise dazu eingerichtet, die jeweilige Motorsteuerung der ersten Pumpeneinheit 3 und/oder der zweiten Pumpeneinheit 5 entsprechend einem auswählbaren Betriebsprogramm zu kommandieren.The pump controller is set up here to command the engine controller of the first pump unit 3 and the second pump unit 5 based on the at least one parameter of the fluid detected by the sensor 7 . For example, the sensor 7 can be a pressure sensor that provides a signal that correlates with the fluid pressure in the pressure port 17 as a detected parameter. If the signal exceeds or falls below a defined setpoint, the pump control can command a higher or lower pump speed or pump capacity of the first pump unit 3 and/or the second pump unit 5 and/or switch them on or off as required. The pump control is preferably set up to command the respective motor control of the first pump unit 3 and/or the second pump unit 5 according to a selectable operating program.

Figuren 2a-e zeigen den Sensor 7, hier in Form eines Drucksensors, genauer von verschiedenen Seiten. Die Seitenansicht 2a zeigt das Sensorgehäuse 27, das ein unteres Fühlelement 29 und die obere Sensorelektronik 28 umschließt. Das untere Fühlelement 29 ist dazu ausgestaltet, in das zu pumpende Fluid zu ragen, und möglichst schmal, um den durch das Fühlelement 29 strömungsinduzierten Widerstand für das Fluid so gering wie möglich zu halten. Wie in der Frontansicht 2b gezeigt, weist das Fühlelement 29 eine Öffnung 57 auf, durch die Fluid in ein abgedichtetes Volumen 59 einströmen und mit einem in das abgedichtete Volumen 59 ragenden Druckfühler 61 (s. detaillierten Schnitt B-B in Fig. 2d) in Kontakt kommen kann. Der Fluiddruck auf den Druckfühler 61 wird mittels der Sensorelektronik 28 erfasst, die auf einer Platine 67 angeordnet ist. Figures 2a-e show the sensor 7, here in the form of a pressure sensor, more precisely from different sides. The side view 2a shows the sensor housing 27, which encloses a lower sensing element 29 and the upper sensor electronics 28. The lower sensing element 29 is designed to protrude into the fluid to be pumped and is as narrow as possible in order to keep the flow-induced resistance to the fluid through the sensing element 29 as low as possible. As shown in front view 2b, the sensing element 29 has an opening 57 through which fluid flows into a sealed volume 59 and is connected to a pressure sensor 61 protruding into the sealed volume 59 (see detailed section BB in Fig. 2d ) can come into contact. The fluid pressure on the pressure sensor 61 is detected by means of the sensor electronics 28 which are arranged on a circuit board 67 .

Der Sensor 7 ist für eine entsprechende Messstelle angepasst und weist oberhalb des Fühlelements 29 Verschluss- und Dichtmittel 69 auf, beispielsweise in Form eines O-Rings, um dichtend an einer Messstelle der Pumpeneinheit 3, 5 oder des Rohrsystems installiert werden zu können. Ein oberer Teil des Sensorgehäuses 27, der zumindest einen Großteil der Sensorelektronik 28 umfasst, liegt in der gezeigten Ausführungsform außerhalb der Pumpeneinheit 3, 5 bzw. des Rohrs. Dieser außerhalb liegende Teil des Sensorgehäuses 27 kann daher größer ausgestaltet sein als das Fühlelement 29. Die Platine 67 mit der Sensorelektronik 28 und darin integrierter Pumpensteuerung kann entsprechend groß ausgestaltet sein (s. Schnitt A-A in Fig. 2e). Alternativ kann allerdings das gesamte Sensorgehäuse 27 vollständig in die Pumpeneinheit 3, 5 bzw. das Rohr integriert sein, ohne dass ein Teil des Sensorgehäuses 27 aus der Pumpeneinheit 3, 5 bzw. das Rohr ragt.The sensor 7 is adapted for a corresponding measuring point and has sealing and sealing means 69 above the sensing element 29, for example in the form of an O-ring, so that it can be installed in a sealed manner at a measuring point of the pump unit 3, 5 or the pipe system. An upper part of the sensor housing 27, which comprises at least a large part of the sensor electronics 28, is located outside the pump unit 3, 5 or the pipe in the embodiment shown. This outside part of the sensor housing 27 can therefore be made larger than the sensing element 29. The circuit board 67 with the sensor electronics 28 and the pump control integrated therein can be made correspondingly large (see section AA in Figure 2e ). Alternatively, however, the entire sensor housing 27 can be fully integrated into the pump unit 3, 5 or the tube, without part of the sensor housing 27 protruding from the pump unit 3, 5 or the tube.

Fig. 3 zeigt schematisch ein Beispiel für das hierin offenbarte Pumpensteuerungsverfahren. Zunächst wird dabei die Pumpensteuerung über eine in die Sensorelektronik 28 und/oder ein Sensornetzteil 43 integrierte Sensorkommunikationsschnittstelle 49 programmiert 301. Solch ein Programmieren kann vorzugsweise mittels eines mobilen Kommunikationsgeräts und über eine vorzugsweise drahtlose Kommunikationsverbindung zwischen dem Kommunikationsgerät und der Sensorkommunikationsschnittstelle erfolgen. Dann folgt ein Schritt des Erfassens 303 mindestens eines Parameters eines Fluids in einer Pumpe einer ersten von mindestens einer Pumpeneinheit 3 oder in einem mit der Pumpe fluidverbundenen Rohr mittels eines Sensors 7. Anschließend wird eine Motorsteuerung der ersten Pumpeneinheit 3 mittels der in eine Sensorelektronik 28 des Sensors 7 integrierten und über die Sensorkommunikationsschnittstelle 49 programmierten Pumpensteuerung kommandiert. Optional kann der Schritt des Kommandierens 305 basierend auf dem mindestens einen mittels des Sensors erfassten Parameter des Fluids erfolgen. Alternativ oder zusätzlich können Parameter des Fluids von anderen herkömmlichen Sensoren ohne integrierte Pumpensteuerung erfasst und dem mindestens einen Sensor mit integrierter Pumpensteuerung bereitgestellt werden, um das Kommandieren der Motorsteuerung(en) darauf zu basieren. Optional kann der Schritt des Kommandierens 305 ein Betriebsparameter-Kommando, wie beispielsweise Ein- und Ausschaltkommando, Solldrehzahlkommando, und/oder Sollleistungskommando für einen Antriebsmotor der ersten Pumpeneinheit entsprechend einem auswählbaren Betriebsprogramm aufweisen. 3 FIG. 12 schematically shows an example of the pump control method disclosed herein. First, the pump control is programmed 301 via a sensor communication interface 49 integrated into the sensor electronics 28 and/or a sensor power supply unit 43. Such programming can preferably be carried out using a mobile communication device and via a preferably wireless communication connection between the communication device and the sensor communication interface. Then follows a step of detecting 303 at least one parameter of a fluid in a pump of a first of at least one pump unit 3 or in one with the Pump fluid-connected pipe by means of a sensor 7. Then a motor control of the first pump unit 3 is commanded by means of the pump control integrated into sensor electronics 28 of the sensor 7 and programmed via the sensor communication interface 49. Optionally, the step of commanding 305 can be based on the at least one parameter of the fluid detected by the sensor. Alternatively or additionally, parameters of the fluid can be detected by other conventional sensors without an integrated pump controller and provided to the at least one sensor with an integrated pump controller in order to base the commanding of the engine controller(s) thereon. Optionally, the step of commanding 305 can have an operating parameter command, such as a switch-on and switch-off command, setpoint speed command, and/or setpoint power command for a drive motor of the first pump unit according to a selectable operating program.

Optional kann das Pumpensteuerungsverfahren ferner den folgenden Schritt aufweisen: Kommandieren 307 einer Motorsteuerung einer zweiten 5 von mindestens zwei Pumpeneinheiten 3, 5 mittels der in die Sensorelektronik des Sensors integrierten Pumpensteuerung mit Betriebsparameter-Kommandos, wie beispielsweise Ein- und Ausschaltkommandos, Solldrehzahlkommandos, und/oder Sollleistungskommandos. Diese Betriebsparameter-Kommandos können vorzugsweise einem auswählbaren Betriebsprogramm entsprechen. Optional kann dabei das Betriebsprogramm auswählbar aus einer Gruppe von Betriebsprogrammen sein mit einem ersten Betriebsprogramm, bei dem die zweite Pumpeneinheit als Zusatzeinheit zur ersten Pumpeneinheit 3 als Haupteinheit hinzugeschaltet wird, wenn der erfasste mindestens eine Parameter des Fluids anzeigt, dass die Leistung der ersten Pumpeneinheit 3 nicht ausreicht, wobei vorzugsweise in einem abwechselnden Turnus die zweite Pumpeneinheit 5 als Haupteinheit und die erste Pumpeneinheit 3 als Zusatzeinheit dient. Optional kann in einem zweiten wählbaren Betriebsprogramm, bei dem nur die erste Pumpeneinheit 3 als Haupteinheit eingeschaltet ist, vorzugsweise in einem abwechselnden Turnus nur die zweite Pumpeneinheit 5 als Haupteinheit eingeschaltet sein. In einem optionalen dritten wählbaren Betriebsprogramm können die erste und zweite Pumpeneinheit 3, 5 eingeschaltet sein. Die erste und zweite Pumpeneinheit 3, 5 können auch beide wahlweise ausgeschaltet werden.Optionally, the pump control method can also have the following step: commanding 307 a motor control of a second 5 of at least two pump units 3, 5 by means of the pump control integrated in the sensor electronics of the sensor with operating parameter commands, such as switch-on and switch-off commands, setpoint speed commands, and/or target power commands. These operating parameter commands can preferably correspond to a selectable operating program. Optionally, the operating program can be selected from a group of operating programs with a first operating program in which the second pump unit is switched on as an additional unit to the first pump unit 3 as the main unit if the detected at least one parameter of the fluid indicates that the performance of the first pump unit 3 is not sufficient, preferably in an alternating rotation, the second pump unit 5 serves as the main unit and the first pump unit 3 as an additional unit. Optionally, in a second selectable Operating program in which only the first pump unit 3 is switched on as the main unit, preferably only the second pump unit 5 is switched on as the main unit in an alternating cycle. In an optional third selectable operating program, the first and second pump unit 3, 5 can be switched on. The first and second pump unit 3, 5 can also both be switched off optionally.

Während des Pumpenbetriebs wird schließlich die Anzahl der Einschaltvorgänge und/oder der Betriebslaufzeit der ersten und/oder zweiten Pumpeneinheit 3, 5 erfasst 309, wobei der Schritt des Kommandierens 305, 307 basierend auf der erfassten Anzahl der Einschaltvorgänge und/oder der erfassten Betriebslaufzeit der ersten und/oder zweiten Pumpeneinheit 3, 5 erfolgt. Damit können die Pumpeneinheiten 3, 5 in möglichst gleichem Maße beansprucht werden, um einem vorzeitigen Verschleiß einer der Pumpeneinheiten vorzubeugen. Auch eine längere Nichtbenutzung einer der Pumpeneinheiten wird dadurch vermieden, damit nicht der Fall entsteht, dass eine über eine längere Zeit nicht benutzte Pumpe nicht korrekt funktioniert, wenn sie gebraucht wird.Finally, during pump operation, the number of switch-on processes and/or the operating time of the first and/or second pump unit 3, 5 is recorded 309, with the step of commanding 305, 307 being based on the recorded number of switch-on processes and/or the recorded operating time of the first and/or second pump unit 3, 5 takes place. In this way, the pump units 3, 5 can be stressed to the same extent as possible in order to prevent premature wear of one of the pump units. This also avoids prolonged non-use of one of the pump units, so that a pump which has not been used for a long period of time does not function correctly when it is needed.

Die nummerierten Bezeichnungen der Bauteile oder Bewegungsrichtungen als "erste", "zweite", "dritte" usw. sind hierin rein willkürlich zur Unterscheidung der Bauteile oder Bewegungsrichtungen untereinander gewählt und können beliebig anders gewählt werden. Es ist damit kein Bedeutungsrang verbunden. Eine Bezeichnung eines Bauteils oder technischen Merkmals als "erstes" soll nicht dahingehend missverstanden werden, dass es ein zweites Bauteil oder technisches Merkmal dieser Art geben muss.The numbered designations of the components or directions of movement as "first", "second", "third", etc. are chosen herein purely arbitrarily to distinguish the components or directions of movement from one another and can be chosen arbitrarily differently. There is no rank associated with it. A designation of a component or technical feature as "first" should not be misconstrued as meaning that there must be a second component or technical feature of this type.

Als optional, vorteilhaft, bevorzugt, erwünscht oder ähnlich bezeichnete "kann"-Merkmale sind als optional zu verstehen und nicht als schutzbereichsbeschränkend.“Can” features designated as optional, advantageous, preferred, desirable or similar are to be understood as optional and not as restricting the scope of protection.

Die beschriebenen Ausführungsformen sind als illustrative Beispiele zu verstehen und stellen keine abschließende Liste von möglichen Ausführungsformen dar. Jedes Merkmal, das im Rahmen einer Ausführungsform offenbart wurde, kann allein oder in Kombination mit einem oder mehreren anderen Merkmalen verwendet werden, unabhängig davon, in welcher Ausführungsform die Merkmale jeweils beschrieben wurden. Während mindestens ein Ausführungsbeispiel hierin beschrieben und gezeigt ist, seien Abwandlungen und alternative Ausführungsformen, die einer fachmännisch versierten Person in Anbetracht dieser Beschreibung als offensichtlich erscheinen, vom Schutzbereich dieser Offenbarung mit erfasst. Im Übrigen soll hierin weder der Begriff "aufweisen" zusätzliche andere Merkmale oder Verfahrensschritte ausschließen noch soll "ein" oder "eine" eine Mehrzahl ausschließen.The described embodiments are to be understood as illustrative examples and do not represent an exhaustive list of possible embodiments. Each feature disclosed within the scope of an embodiment can be used alone or in combination with one or more other features, regardless of the embodiment the characteristics have been described in each case. While at least one embodiment has been described and illustrated herein, modifications and alternative embodiments that may become apparent to a person skilled in the art in view of this description are intended to be considered within the scope of this disclosure. Incidentally, herein the term "comprising" is not intended to exclude additional other features or method steps, nor is "a" or "an" intended to exclude a plurality.

Claims (25)

  1. A pump system (1) comprising:
    - a first (3) of at least one pump unit (3, 5) for pumping a fluid (11), wherein the first pump unit (3) comprises a pump, an electrical drive motor and a motor control in an electronic housing (25), wherein the electronic housing (25) is arranged on the motor housing (23) or is integrated in the motor housing (23),
    - a pump control for commanding the motor control, and
    - a sensor (7) with a sensor housing (27) and with sensor electronics (28) which are located in the sensor housing (27), for detecting at least one parameter of the fluid (11) in the pump or in a pipe which is fluid-connected to the pump, wherein the sensor (7) is arranged external from the electronic housing (25) for the motor control and the pump control is integrated into the sensor electronics (28).
  2. A pump system (1) according to claim 1, wherein the sensor (7) can be attached to the pump or to a pipe which is fluid-connected to the pump, at a measuring location.
  3. A pump system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sensor (7) is signal-connected to the motor control.
  4. A pump system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one parameter of the fluid (11) which is to be detected by the sensor (7) comprises a fluid temperature, a fluid pressure, a fluid flow rate, a fluid vibration and/or a vibration of the at least one pump unit (3, 5) and/or parts of this.
  5. A pump system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further with a sensor mains part (43) for the electricity supply of the sensor (7).
  6. A pump system (1) according to claim 5, wherein the sensor mains part (43) serves for a communication with the sensor (7) via a cable connection between the sensor mains part (43) and the sensor (7).
  7. A pump system (1) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the sensor mains part (43) serves for the electricity supply of the drive motor and/or for the motor control of the at least one pump unit (3, 5).
  8. A pump system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further with a sensor communication interface (49), via which the pump control is programmable.
  9. A pump system, (1) according to claim 8 in dependency to one of the claims 5 to 7, wherein the sensor communication interface (49) is integrated into the sensor electronics (28) and/or the sensor mains part (43).
  10. A pump system (1) according to claim 8 or 9, further with a mobile communication device (9), by way of which the pump control is programmable via a preferably wireless communication connection (51, 53) to the sensor communication interface (49).
  11. A pump system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further with a control interface (55) which is signal-connected to the motor control and via which the motor control of the at least one pump unit (3, 5) can be commanded by way of the pump control.
  12. A pump system (1) according to claim 11 in dependency to one of the claims 5 to 10, wherein the control interface (55) is integrated into the sensor electronics (28) and/or sensor mains part (43).
  13. A pump system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pump control is configured to command the motor control on the basis of the at least one parameter of the fluid which is detected by way of the sensor.
  14. A pump system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pump control is configured to command the motor control of the at least one pump unit (3, 5) in accordance with a selectable operating program.
  15. A pump system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further with a second (5) of at least two pump units (3, 5) for pumping the fluid (11), wherein the pump control is configured to command the motor control of the first pump unit (3) and/or a motor control of the second pump unit (5) according to a selectable operating program.
  16. A pump system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pump control is configured to command the motor control of the first pump unit (3) and/or a motor control of a second pump unit (5) with operating parameter commands, such as for example switch-on and switch-off commands, desired speed commands and/or desired power commands.
  17. A pump control method with the steps:
    - detecting (303) at least one parameter of a fluid (11) in a pump of a first (3) of at least one pump unit (3, 5) or in a pipe which is fluid-connected to the pump, by way of a sensor (7), which is arranged external from an electronic housing (25) for a motor control of the first pump unit (3), wherein the electronic housing (25) is arranged on a motor housing (23) or is integrated in the motor housing (23) and
    - commanding (305) the motor control which is arranged in the electronic housing (25) of the first pump unit (3) by way of a pump control which is integrated into the sensor electronics (28) of the sensor (7).
  18. A pump control method according to claim 17, further with the step
    - programming (301) the pump control via a sensor communication interface (49) which is integrated into the sensor electronics (28) and/or a sensor mains part (43).
  19. A pump control method according to claim 18, wherein the step of the programming (301) is effected by way of a mobile communication device (9) and via a preferably wireless communication connection (51, 53) between the communication device (9) and the sensor communication interface (49).
  20. A pump control method according to one of the claims 17 to 19, wherein the step of the commanding (305) is effected on the basis of the at least one parameter of the fluid (11) which is detected by way of the sensor (7).
  21. A pump control method according to one of the claims 17 to 20, wherein the step of the commanding (305) can comprise an operating parameter command, such as for example a switch-on and switch-off command, a desired speed command and/or desired power command, for a drive motor of the first pump unit (3) in accordance with a selectable operating program.
  22. A pump control method according to one of the claims 17 to 21, further with the step
    - commanding (307) a motor control of a second (5) of at least two pump units (3, 5) by way of the pump control which is integrated into the sensor electronics (28) of the sensor (7), with operating parameter commands, such as for example switch-on and switch-off commands, desired speed commands and/or desired power commands.
  23. A pump control method according to claim 22, wherein the operating parameter commands are commanded according to a selectable operating program.
  24. A pump control method according to claim 23, wherein the operating program can be selectable from a group of operating programs with
    - a first operating program, concerning which the second pump unit (5) as a supplementary unit is connected to the first pump unit (13) as a main unit, if the detected at least one parameter of the fluid (11) indicates that the power of the first pump unit (3) is not sufficient, wherein the second pump unit (5) serves as main unit and the first pump unit (3) as a supplementary unit, preferably in an alternating schedule.
  25. A pump control method according to one of the claims 17 to 24, further with the step:
    - detecting (309) the number of switch-on procedures and/or the operational running time of the first (3) and/or the second pump unit (5),
    wherein the step of the commanding (305, 307) is effected on the basis of the detected number of switch-on procedures and/or the detected operational running time, of the first (3) and/or second pump unit (5).
EP18157404.7A 2018-02-19 2018-02-19 Pump system and pump control method Active EP3527829B1 (en)

Priority Applications (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP18157404.7A EP3527829B1 (en) 2018-02-19 2018-02-19 Pump system and pump control method
US16/970,559 US20210115928A1 (en) 2018-02-19 2019-01-22 Pressure sensor with integrated pump control
CN201980014138.8A CN111757986B (en) 2018-02-19 2019-01-22 Pressure sensor with integrated pump control
AU2019220150A AU2019220150B2 (en) 2018-02-19 2019-01-22 Pressure sensor with integrated pump control
PCT/EP2019/051455 WO2019158320A1 (en) 2018-02-19 2019-01-22 Pressure sensor with integrated pump control

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP18157404.7A EP3527829B1 (en) 2018-02-19 2018-02-19 Pump system and pump control method

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3527829A1 EP3527829A1 (en) 2019-08-21
EP3527829B1 true EP3527829B1 (en) 2022-03-16

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP18157404.7A Active EP3527829B1 (en) 2018-02-19 2018-02-19 Pump system and pump control method

Country Status (5)

Country Link
US (1) US20210115928A1 (en)
EP (1) EP3527829B1 (en)
CN (1) CN111757986B (en)
AU (1) AU2019220150B2 (en)
WO (1) WO2019158320A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP4006660A1 (en) 2020-11-25 2022-06-01 Grundfos Holding A/S Hydraulic system

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EP0619432A1 (en) 1993-04-08 1994-10-12 Pumpenfabrik Ernst Vogel Gesellschaft m.b.H. Installation with at least one pump for liquids
EP0711920A1 (en) 1994-10-05 1996-05-15 FRANKLIN ELECTRIC Co., Inc. Liquid flow apparatus
WO2000003142A1 (en) 1998-07-08 2000-01-20 Ebara Corporation Frequency converter assembly
US20070154322A1 (en) * 2004-08-26 2007-07-05 Stiles Robert W Jr Pumping system with two way communication
WO2007112928A1 (en) 2006-04-06 2007-10-11 Alfred Kärcher Gmbh & Co. Kg Submersible pump
US20110223038A1 (en) 2010-03-10 2011-09-15 Ogawa Takahiko Controller-integrated motor pump
US20130108473A1 (en) 2011-11-02 2013-05-02 Abb Oy Method and controller for operating a pump system
DE102014110231B3 (en) 2014-07-21 2015-09-10 Nidec Gpm Gmbh Coolant pump with integrated control
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US9670918B2 (en) 2013-04-12 2017-06-06 Pentair Flow Technologies, Llc Water booster control system and method

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0619432A1 (en) 1993-04-08 1994-10-12 Pumpenfabrik Ernst Vogel Gesellschaft m.b.H. Installation with at least one pump for liquids
EP0711920A1 (en) 1994-10-05 1996-05-15 FRANKLIN ELECTRIC Co., Inc. Liquid flow apparatus
WO2000003142A1 (en) 1998-07-08 2000-01-20 Ebara Corporation Frequency converter assembly
US20070154322A1 (en) * 2004-08-26 2007-07-05 Stiles Robert W Jr Pumping system with two way communication
WO2007112928A1 (en) 2006-04-06 2007-10-11 Alfred Kärcher Gmbh & Co. Kg Submersible pump
US20110223038A1 (en) 2010-03-10 2011-09-15 Ogawa Takahiko Controller-integrated motor pump
US20130108473A1 (en) 2011-11-02 2013-05-02 Abb Oy Method and controller for operating a pump system
US9670918B2 (en) 2013-04-12 2017-06-06 Pentair Flow Technologies, Llc Water booster control system and method
DE102014110231B3 (en) 2014-07-21 2015-09-10 Nidec Gpm Gmbh Coolant pump with integrated control
DE102015219150A1 (en) 2015-10-02 2017-04-06 Ziehl-Abegg Se Motor for fans or fans, pumps or compressors, method for operating such a motor and fan system with one or more motor (s) / fan (s)

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AU2019220150B2 (en) 2021-06-24
AU2019220150A1 (en) 2020-07-16
US20210115928A1 (en) 2021-04-22
WO2019158320A1 (en) 2019-08-22
CN111757986B (en) 2023-08-25
EP3527829A1 (en) 2019-08-21
CN111757986A (en) 2020-10-09

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