DE102019106976B4 - Filter cover, filter device, filter system and method for calculating the remaining service life of a filter element - Google Patents

Abstract

Filter cover (10) for a hydraulic filter and / or for a hydraulic tank with a cover housing (11) which can be connected to a filter housing (12) and at least two control devices (ST1, ST2), a first control device (ST1) being configured for this purpose To read out and process data from at least one data memory (DS1, DS2), and wherein a second control device (ST2) is configured to receive sensor signals from at least one sensor (S1), to process the received sensor signals into measured values and then to process the measured values to send further processing to the first control device (ST1), the first control device (ST1) also being configured to: - assign a remaining service life of a filter element (13) based on the measured values and the data read out from the data memory (DS1, DS2) - based on the remaining service life of the filter element (13), a maintenance prognosis and / or a recommendation for action for the filter element create ent (13); and to forward the maintenance prognosis and / or recommended action for output to the second control device (ST2) and / or to at least one external controller (EST1), in particular a machine controller.

Description

The invention relates to a filter cover for a hydraulic filter and / or for a hydraulic tank, a filter device, a filter system and a method for calculating the remaining service life of a filter element.

In general, filter devices with a filter element are used for the filtration of liquid or gaseous media. Such filter devices can be suction filters, return filters or return suction filters, which are mainly used in mobile hydraulics in combination with hydraulic tanks. In order to detect the condition of the filter element during operation, the filter devices often have sensors for measuring pressure or temperature.

From the DE 10 2004 054 172 A1 For example, a filter device is known in which a differential pressure of the fluid between the inlet point and the outlet point is measured. The filter device has a filter element with a data memory. A local control unit on the filter head calculates a degree of contamination and / or a remaining service life of a filter element on the basis of the differential pressure and the data read out from the data memory and displays it on a display device. The filter device also includes a higher-level control device that uses the read-out data to check whether it is a filter element that is suitable for the application. The higher-level control device is provided separately from the filter head. This has the disadvantage that the filter device has an increased number of components. Furthermore, system complexity and manufacturing expenditure are increased, which furthermore results in an increase in the overall costs.

A filter with a monitoring device attached to the filter housing for determining the operating state is in the DE 600 26 696 T2 described. The monitoring device is connected to the high pressure side and the low pressure side of the filter element of the filter. The monitoring device continuously measures a differential pressure between the two pressure sides and, on the basis of this and other calculations, determines a number of days until the filter is replaced.

Furthermore, from the DE 20 2015 001 147 U1 a filter system is known which comprises a filter with a sensor and a filter element. In addition, a control device is provided for determining the necessary maintenance outside the filter, which processes the sensor data of the sensor and an identification signal of the filter element. The disadvantage here is that the processing of the sensor data and the detection of the filter element take place outside the filter, that is to say it is separate from the filter. The external control device and the filter are required to determine the maintenance. The filter system according to DE 20 2015 001 147 U1 thus has an increased system complexity and thus increased overall costs.

In the DE 10 2013 004 112 A1 For example, a filter is described which has a filter element with an RFID tag, from which information for recognizing the filter element by a detector can be read out.

Another filter with an RFID tag is from the US 2018/0 117 508 A1 known. Information for recognizing the filter or the filter element and for determining the remaining service life can be stored on the RFID tag. Such information can be a filter element part number, production batch number and physical parameters of the fluid to be filtered, operating hours, differential pressure, fluid status, power setpoints and / or operating limits.

The invention is based on the object of specifying a filter cover for a hydraulic filter or for a hydraulic tank, by means of which the operational reliability is increased and the operating costs or the total costs are reduced. Furthermore, the invention is based on the object of specifying a filter device, a filter system and a method for calculating the remaining service life of a filter element.

According to the invention, this object is achieved with regard to the filter cover by the subject matter of claim 1. With regard to the filter device, the filter system and the method, the aforementioned object is achieved by the subject matter of claim 21 (filter device), claim 24 (filter system) and claim 28 (method).

• - auf Basis der Messwerte und den aus dem Datenspeicher ausgelesenen Daten eine restliche Standzeit eines Filterelements zu berechnen;
• - auf Basis der restlichen Standzeit des Filterelements eine Wartungsprognose und/oder eine Handlungsempfehlung für das Filterelement zu erstellen; und
• - die Wartungsprognose und/oder Handlungsempfehlung zur Ausgabe an die zweite Steuereinrichtung und/oder an wenigstens eine externe Steuerung, insbesondere eine Maschinensteuerung weiterzuleiten.

Specifically, the object is achieved by a filter cover for a hydraulic filter and / or for a hydraulic tank with a cover housing, which can be connected to a filter housing, and at least two control devices. A first control device is configured to read out data from at least one data memory and to process it. A second control device is configured to receive sensor signals from at least one sensor, to process the received sensor signals into measured values and then to send the measured values to the first control device for further processing. The first control device is also configured to:

• - to calculate a remaining service life of a filter element on the basis of the measured values and the data read out from the data memory;
• - to create a maintenance prognosis and / or a recommendation for action for the filter element based on the remaining service life of the filter element; and
• to forward the maintenance prognosis and / or recommended action for output to the second control device and / or to at least one external controller, in particular a machine controller.

The invention has several advantages. By dividing the tasks between two control devices, complexity is advantageously reduced compared to a single control device. It is advantageous here that an installation space in the filter cover can be better utilized by means of two control devices. The control devices are preferably arranged in the filter cover housing. In other words, the control devices can be arranged in a mounting space of the filter cover housing. The control devices can be arranged completely in the assembly space.

The second control device is responsible for receiving the sensor signals from the sensor, processing the received sensor signals into measured values and sending them to the first control device. In other words, the second control device forms an interface between the sensor and the first control device. The second control device processes the sensor signals of the sensor into high-quality or meaningful measured values or sensor data, which enables a more precise calculation of the remaining service life of the filter element. The first control device can prioritize the measured values or data to be processed, so that a processing speed of the control device is advantageously increased and susceptibility to errors is reduced. The precise calculation advantageously extends the service life of the filter element and thus operates the filter element until the actual end of its service life. In other words, better use is made of the filter element. The precise calculation of the service life has the further advantage that an imminent change of the filter element is known at an early stage and thus delivery bottlenecks can be prevented. This advantageously results in optimized warehouse planning. This also reduces operating costs.

By precisely calculating the remaining service life of the filter element, in the event of a deviation from the maintenance intervals customary for the filter element, it can advantageously be concluded that the fluid to be filtered has an increased proportion of dirt, as a result of which the filter element is laid or soiled unusually quickly. This, in turn, can indicate impending component damage, for example transmission damage, in the hydraulic system, which is thus advantageously recognized at an early stage. This increases the operational reliability of the filter device and the hydraulic system.

The first control device is responsible for reading out the data from the data memory and for calculating the remaining service life of the filter element. A corresponding algorithm can be stored on the first control device to calculate the remaining service life of the filter element. The first control device also has the task of forwarding the maintenance prognosis and / or the recommended action for output. This clear distribution of tasks reduces system and control complexity and thus simplifies the structure of the filter cover.

The invention has the further advantage that the operating state of the filter element is monitored or detected by the control devices. In other words, the evaluation of the measured values enables conclusions to be drawn about the condition, in particular the degree of installation, of the filter element. Furthermore, the precise determination of the remaining service life and thus the time of maintenance increases the operational reliability of the hydraulic filter or the hydraulic system, since impermissible filter operation due to a defective or overloaded filter element is prevented. Damage to the hydraulic filter as well as to downstream components during operation is thus prevented.

Preferred embodiments of the invention are specified in the subclaims.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, at least one counter is provided which assigns a measurement time to the respective measured value and / or the respective sensor signal of the at least one sensor for creating a time-dependent measured value curve. In other words, the counter provides each measured value and / or each sensor signal of the sensor with a time stamp, so that a time course of the measured values can be created. This has the advantage that a change in the measured values can be determined over a measuring period. As a result, the remaining service life of the filter element can advantageously be determined with increased accuracy. This increases operational reliability and saves operating costs.

The meter can be arranged as a separate component in the filter cover. The counter can be connected to the first and / or the second control device in a signal-transmitting manner. The counter can also be integrated into the first and / or the second control device.

In a further particularly preferred embodiment, the first control device and / or the second control device is / are configured to create a time-dependent measured value curve for calculating the remaining service life of the filter element on the basis of the measured values or the sensor signals of the at least one sensor. The measured values generated by processing the sensor signals of the at least one sensor can be temporarily stored in the data memory. For this purpose, the sensor signals are preferably processed by the second control device into further processable measured values before they are temporarily stored. The first and / or the second control device can read out the temporarily stored measured values for creating the time-dependent measured value curve from the data memory. With the help of an algorithm, the remaining service life of the filter element is calculated on the basis of the data read out from the data memory and the measured value curve over time. It is advantageous here that the remaining service life of the filter element is determined with a very high degree of accuracy. This increases operational reliability and saves operating costs.

In a preferred embodiment, the first control device for forwarding the maintenance prognosis and / or a recommendation for action is connected or can be connected to the external control in a signal-transmitting manner. In other words, the first control device is signal-connected to the external control in a wireless and / or wired manner. This has the advantage that an increased number of variants is made possible with regard to the signal transmission or data transmission. In particular, the system complexity and the number of components can advantageously be reduced by the wireless connection type.

The external control can be connected to a, in particular external, display device that is decoupled from the filter cover in order to output the maintenance prognosis and / or the recommended action or to display it to a user for information purposes. The first control device thus forms an interface to the external control or the machine control in order to transmit data.

The cover housing preferably has at least one display device, in particular an LED display device, for displaying the maintenance prognosis and / or the recommended action. The maintenance prognosis or recommended action is preferably displayed optically. The visual display can be made by regular lighting of LEDs. The maintenance prognosis and / or the recommended action can be given by a recurring, in particular regular or irregular, flashlight. As an alternative or in addition, the visual display can take place by means of a defined color gradient, which shows the maintenance prognosis and / or the recommended action. It is advantageous here that any necessary maintenance or action with regard to the filter element is displayed on the filter cover or at the installation location of the filter device equipped with the filter cover. It is also advantageous that the direct display means that no additional reading device or diagnostic device is required to read out or query the state of the filter element. Maintenance effort and maintenance costs are thereby reduced.

The display device can be arranged on the cover housing by means of at least one LED ring. The display device can also be formed by at least one LED strip. The display device can be embedded in the cover housing so that it is visible to the outside. The display device can be arranged distributed in a pattern on the cover housing. It is conceivable that at least two LED patterns are provided, each of which indicates a different maintenance prognosis or recommended action.

In a further preferred embodiment, the second control device is configured to receive the maintenance prognosis and / or recommended action and to send it to the display device for display. The maintenance prognosis or the recommended action are created by the first control device and sent to the second control device. The second control device receives the maintenance prognosis or the recommended action and forwards it to the display device. The second control device forms an interface to the internal display device. It is advantageous that the division of functions between the control devices reduces the control complexity and thus represents a simplified structure.

In a preferred embodiment, the two control devices are connected to one another in a bidirectional signal-transmitting manner. In other words, the control devices can communicate bidirectionally between one another. The second control device can thus send the measured values of the to the first control device for further processing. Furthermore, the first control device can send the maintenance prognosis or recommended action to be forwarded to the display device to the second control device.

For this purpose, the second control device is preferably connected to the display device in a signal-transmitting manner. The second control device can with the display device for transmitting the Maintenance forecast or the recommended action can also be connected wirelessly and / or wired.

The two control devices can be arranged in and / or on the cover housing. In other words, the control devices are preferably integrated into the cover housing. The control devices are arranged in an assembly space of the cover housing. This has the advantage that the filter cover has a compact design, which saves installation space. Furthermore, the control devices are thus protected from external influences. This advantageously increases operational reliability or failure safety.

It is conceivable that the data memory is arranged in and / or on the cover housing. The data memory can be arranged as a separate component in and / or on the cover housing. It is also conceivable that the data memory is arranged on the outside of the cover housing. The data memory can also be part of the first control device or part of the second control device. The data memory is preferably arranged in the cover housing. The filter cover thus advantageously has a compact design. Furthermore, the data memory is protected from external influences.

In a preferred embodiment, the data memory is part of an external element which is structurally separated from the filter cover. The data can preferably only be read out once from the data memory. In other words, the data memory of the external element can be adapted in such a way that the data can only be read out once. This can be achieved by automatically deleting the data after reading it out using software measures. It is also conceivable that after reading out the data memory is irreversibly damaged by hardware measures, for example by melting contacts or connecting lines. The data can thus only be read out once from the data memory by the first control device, for example via at least one receiver unit. This ensures that the data can only be read from a filter cover. When maintaining or replacing a filter element, this has the particular advantage that filter element-specific data can only be used once to identify a filter element. The use of unsuitable or incorrect filter elements can thus be prevented.

The data transmission between the data memory of the external element and the first control device can take place optically and / or by radio and / or magnetically.

In a further preferred embodiment, the data memory is part of the filter element, the data memory being writable with data, in particular operating data, and / or data being able to be read out from the data memory. For example, the measured values generated by processing the sensor signals of the at least one sensor are temporarily stored in the data memory. For this purpose, the sensor signals are preferably processed by the second control device into further processable measured values before they are temporarily stored. To create the time-dependent measured value curve, the first and / or the second control device can read out the temporarily stored measured values from the data memory. The operating data can particularly preferably be stored in encrypted form in the data memory in order to prevent subsequent manipulation of the operating data. This is advantageous in the case of warranty claims that could be made in the event of a failure of the filter element. This makes it possible to reliably check the fluid conditions under which the filter element was operated.

The data stored on the data memory can include at least one time curve of measured values and / or identification data, in particular filter element-specific data, and / or operating data for identification and / or for calculating the remaining service life of the filter element. The filter element-specific data can be at least a manufacturer's specification, a type designation, a serial number, an initial dirt capacity of the filter element and / or status information of the filter element. The filter element-specific data is used to check whether a new filter element is being used or whether the filter element is suitable for the specific application. It can also be checked whether the filter element used is an original manufacturer's filter element.

The operating data of the filter element can be the date of commissioning, the type and duration of use, the fluid to be filtered or the like. Furthermore, the operating data can include the measured values determined on the basis of the sensor signals of the at least one sensor in relation to a pressure, in particular dynamic pressure and / or differential pressure, and / or a temperature of the fluid on the filter element.

The data memory is preferably formed by an RFID tag. The RFID tag is excited by an electromagnetic signal that is emitted, for example, by at least one receiver unit of the first control device. The electromagnetic signal is changed in its amplitude and / or frequency and / or phase by the data memory. This change will be from the first Control device detected and evaluated accordingly. It is also possible for at least one circuit in the data memory to be activated by the electromagnetic signal from the first control device. As a result, defined memory sectors of the data memory can be read out in order to query special data. By designing the data memory as an RFID tag, energy, installation space and costs are saved. The high level of reliability of the RFID tag also increases operational reliability.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, at least one transmission unit, in particular a radio module, is provided through which the first control device communicates wirelessly with the external control. This has the advantage that there is no need for a fixed connection or a cable connection, thus saving costs. The transmission unit can also be configured to connect to an external wireless network in order to display information in a web-based manner.

The transmission unit is particularly preferably configured to connect to at least one external sensor, in particular a radio sensor, in order to send sensor signals from the external sensor to the first control device for further processing and / or to send them to the external controller for further processing. This has the advantage that the transmitter unit is used as a central gateway for external sensors. The external sensors can quickly and easily connect to the transmission unit in order to transmit data or sensor signals to the first control device and / or the external control.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one sensor is arranged in the cover housing. Several, in particular at least two, sensors are preferably arranged in the cover housing. It is advantageous here that the component-integrated design of the filter cover means that it has a compact design.

The at least one sensor is signal-connected to the second control device for transmitting the sensor data. The sensor can be connected to the second control device in a wireless or wired manner. The at least one sensor is preferably configured to detect at least one measured variable, in particular a temperature and / or a pressure, of a fluid on a filter element and to send it to the second control device for further processing. The at least one sensor can be formed by a temperature sensor or a pressure sensor, in particular a dynamic pressure sensor or a differential pressure sensor. The sensor thus detects at least one environmental parameter on the filter element and transmits it to the second control device.

A secondary aspect of the invention relates to a filter device with a filter cover according to the invention, at least one filter element and a filter housing. The filter housing has at least one inlet and at least one outlet for a fluid. The filter cover is detachably connected to the filter housing and the filter element is arranged in the filter housing in an exchangeable manner. The releasable connection of the filter cover to the filter housing means that the filter cover can advantageously be replaced quickly and easily. To remove the filter element, e.g. for maintenance, the filter cover must be removed. The filter element can have a temperature indicator to indicate an operating temperature.

In a preferred embodiment of the filter device, the filter element has at least one data memory which is wirelessly connected to the first control device of the filter cover for writing with data and / or for reading out data. The data memory can be designed as described above. Furthermore, the data memory can also contain the data described above.

In a further preferred embodiment of the filter device, the at least one sensor of the filter cover is connected to a fluid space in such a way that the sensor detects a state, in particular a temperature and / or a pressure, of the fluid.

Regarding the advantages of the filter device, reference is made to the advantages explained in connection with the filter cover. In addition, the filter device can alternatively or additionally have individual features or a combination of several features mentioned above with regard to the filter cover.

Another secondary aspect of the invention relates to a filter system with a filter cover according to the invention and / or a filter device of the type mentioned above, an external controller and at least one external sensor. The filter cover is connected or can be connected in a signal-transmitting manner to the external control for data transmission.

In a preferred embodiment of the filter system, the external control is connected in a signal-transmitting manner to an external display device in order to display a maintenance prognosis and / or a recommended action for a filter element. It is conceivable that the user can also use the external control to make settings or adjustments to the first and / or second Control device can make. For example, the user can set the display device integrated in the filter cover in a user-defined manner. Furthermore, the user can query various information such as the remaining service life, temperature and / or pressure, as well as filter element-specific data from the data memory. The user only has read authorization to prevent any manipulation.

In a further preferred embodiment of the filter system, an external data memory is provided from which filter element-specific data can be read out through the filter cover. The external sensor of the filter system can be wirelessly connected to the filter cover for the transmission of sensor signals.

Regarding the advantages of the filter system, reference is made to the advantages explained in connection with the filter cover. In addition, the filter system can alternatively or additionally have individual features or a combination of several features mentioned above with regard to the filter cover.

In a method according to the invention for calculating a remaining service life of a filter element, a filter device comprises a filter cover, at least one filter element and a filter housing. The filter housing has at least one inlet and at least one outlet for a fluid. The filter cover comprises at least two control devices, a first control device reading out and processing data from at least one data memory. A second control device receives sensor signals from at least one sensor, processes the received sensor signals into measured values and then sends the measured values to the first control device for further processing. The first control device calculates a remaining service life of a filter element on the basis of the measured values and the data read out from the data memory. Furthermore, based on the remaining service life of the filter element, the first control device creates a maintenance prognosis and / or a recommended action for the filter element and forwards the maintenance prognosis and / or recommended action for output to the second control device and / or to at least one external control, in particular a machine control.

In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, at least one counter is provided, by means of which a measurement time is assigned to the respective measured value and / or the respective sensor signal of the at least one sensor in order to create a time-dependent measured value curve.

In a further preferred embodiment, the first control device and / or the second control device create a time-dependent measured value curve for calculating the remaining service life of the filter element on the basis of the measured values or the sensor signals of the at least one sensor.

Preferably, the second control device and / or the external control is / are each connected to at least one display device in order to display the maintenance prognosis and / or recommended action.

Regarding the advantages of the method for calculating the remaining service life of a filter element, reference is made to the advantages explained in connection with the filter cover, the filter device and the filter system. In addition, as an alternative or in addition, the method can have individual features or a combination of several features mentioned above with regard to the filter cover, the filter device and the filter system.

The invention is explained in more detail below with further details with reference to the accompanying drawings. The illustrated embodiments represent examples of how the filter cover according to the invention, the filter device according to the invention and the filter system according to the invention can be configured.

• 1 eine Längsschnittansicht einer Filtereinrichtung mit einem Filterdeckel nach einem bevorzugten erfindungsgemäßen Ausführungsbeispiel;
• 2 einen Detailausschnitt der Filtereinrichtung mit dem Filterdeckel gemäß 1; und
• 3 eine Prinzipdarstellung eines Filtersystems mit einer Filtereinrichtung nach einem bevorzugten erfindungsgemäßen Ausführungsbeispiel.

In these show

• 1 a longitudinal sectional view of a filter device with a filter cover according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;
• 2 a detail section of the filter device with the filter cover according to 1 ; and
• 3 a schematic diagram of a filter system with a filter device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.

1 shows a longitudinal sectional view of a filter device 20th . The filter device 20th forms a return suction filter, which is mainly used in mobile hydraulics in combination with a hydraulic tank. The filter devices are preferred 20th Used in closed hydraulic circuits in conjunction with hydrostatic drives and / or in open hydraulic circuits in conventional working hydraulics. Such return-suction filters are generally used in hydraulic tanks of mobile devices or vehicles.

The filter device 20th according to 1 has a filter cover 10 , a filter housing 12th and a filter element 13th on. The filter housing 12th includes an inlet 16 and an outlet, not shown 17th for a fluid. The filter housing 12th can also have more than one inlet 16 and or more than one outlet 17th exhibit. The fluid can be a hydraulic oil. In the following description, the fluid is generally referred to as hydraulic oil.

The filter cover 10 is with the filter housing 12th releasably connected. The filter cover 10 is by means of a thread in the filter housing 12th screwed in. Specifically, the filter cover points 10 an external thread that in an internal thread of the filter housing 12th is screwed in. Between the filter cover 10 and the filter housing 12th is also a first sealing element 21 arranged. The filter cover 10 is thus with the filter housing 12th connected in a fluid-tight manner.

The filter housing 12th according to 1 is essentially designed in two parts. The filter housing 12th has a first, in particular upper, housing part 22nd and a second, in particular lower, housing part 23 on. The filter cover 10 is with the first housing part 22nd connected in a fluid-tight manner. Furthermore, the second housing part 23 in the first housing part 22nd inserted arranged. Between the first housing part 22nd and the second housing part 23 is a second sealing element 24 arranged. Through the second sealing element 24 is a fluid-tight connection between the housing part 22nd , 23 produced. The first housing part 22nd is formed essentially as a hollow cylinder. The second housing part 23 is bell-shaped.

The filter housing 12th forms a fluid space 18th into which the filter element 13th into the filter housing 12th inserted is arranged. The filter element 13th is in the filter housing 12th arranged interchangeably. According to 1 is the filter element 13th shown schematically. The filter element 13th comprises at least one filter layer 25th with at least one filter material through which the hydraulic oil flows during operation. The filter layer 25th or the filter material can be formed by a fabric. The filter element 13th is designed as a hollow cylinder. In operation, the filter element 13th the hydraulic oil flows through it from the inside to the outside. The hydraulic oil occurs at the first axial end 27 in the longitudinal direction in the filter element 13th a, flows through the filter element 13th radially outwards and then flows between the filter element 13th and the filter housing 12th to the outlet 17th down.

According to 1 is on the filter housing 12th a suction valve 33 with at least one protective screen 34 arranged. Through the suction valve 33 If necessary, in the event of a brief lack of oil, in particular when the hydraulic system is vented or during a cold start, hydraulic oil from a hydraulic tank can be passed through the filter device 20th be sucked up. This advantageously compensates for the short-term lack of oil.

The filter element 13th has a first end plate 26th on that at a first axial end 27 of the filter element 13th is arranged. The first axial end 27 is the filter cover 10 facing. Furthermore, the filter element 13th a second end plate 28 on that at a second axial end 29 of the filter element 13th is arranged. The second axial end 29 of the filter element 13th corresponds to that of the filter cover 10 remote end of the filter element 13th .

The filter element 13th is opposite the filter housing 12th by a third sealing element arranged in between 31 sealed. The third sealing element is concrete 31 between the first end plate 26th and an inner wall of the first housing part 22nd of the filter housing 12th arranged. The first end disk comprises an extension 32 that extends lengthways to the filter cover 10 extends towards. The appendix 32 is U-shaped. In other words, it is the appendix 32 designed in the shape of a handle. The appendix 32 can also have a different geometric shape.

The appendix 32 has a crossbar 34 on, the two vertical webs 35 connects with each other. The crosspiece 34 comprises a data memory (not shown) DS2 , which will be discussed in more detail later.

According to 2 FIG. 13 is a detail of the longitudinal sectional view according to FIG 1 the filter device 20th shown. Specifically, in 2 the structure of the filter cover according to the invention 10 shown, the one with the filter housing 12th which is detachably connected to the return suction filter. The filter cover according to the invention 10 is configured in such a way that it can also be used in combination with a return filter and / or a suction filter. It is conceivable that the filter cover 10 can also be used in combination with another filter device not mentioned.

The filter cover 10 the filter device 20th according to 1 and 2 has a cover housing 11 , two control devices ST1 , ST2 , a display device 14th and a sensor S1 on. The filter device 20th is in 3 shown as part of a filter system. 3 shows a schematic diagram of the filter system according to an exemplary embodiment according to the invention. 3 shows several sensors S1 as well as several external sensors ES1 . 3 is only a schematic representation and illustrates the possibility of multiple sensors S1 , ES1 . The filter cover 10 according to 3 can also only have one sensor S1 exhibit. This also applies to the number of external sensors shown ES1 to. The filter cover 10 as well as the filter device 20th become below using the 1 to 3 further described.

A first of the two control devices ST1 is configured to receive data from two data stores DS1 , DS2 read out and process. As in 3 recognizable is a first data memory DS1 Part of an external element 15th from the filter device 20th and thus from the filter cover 10 is structurally separated. To data from the first data store DS1 of the external element 15th read out is the first control device ST1 with a first receiver unit EPF1 connected to transmit signals. The first receiving unit EPF1 is for reading out the data with the first data memory DS1 of the external element 15th contactless connectable. In other words, the first control device ST1 by means of the first receiver unit EPF1 Data from the first data store DS1 of the external element 15th read out.

A second data store DS2 is part of the filter element 13th . From the second data store DS2 are data by the first control device ST1 readable. Furthermore, the second data memory is DS2 writable with data, in particular operating data. The first control device is concrete ST1 configured to store data, in particular operating data, on the second data memory DS2 save. The first control device ST1 is for this purpose with a second receiver unit EPF2 connected to transmit signals. The second receiver unit EPF2 is for writing and / or reading out the data with the second data memory DS2 of the filter element 13th contactless connectable. In other words, the first control device ST1 by means of the second receiver unit EPF2 Data on the second data store DS2 of the filter element 13th store and / or data from the second data memory DS2 read out.

It is also conceivable that the filter cover 10 according to the 1 to 3 having only a single receiver unit, by means of which the first control device ST1 Data from the first data store DS1 of the external element 15th reads out and by means of the first control device ST1 Data in the second data memory DS2 of the filter element 13th stores and / or data from the second data memory DS2 reads out.

The data storage DS1 , DS2 are each formed by an RFID tag. For reading out the data from the first data memory DS1 or the RFID tag is generated by the first receiver unit EPF1 an electromagnetic field in the vicinity of the RFID tag. The electromagnetic field activates the RFID tag so that data can be read from it. For writing to the second data memory DS2 with data and / or for reading out data from the second data memory DS2 or the RFID tag is generated by the second receiver unit EPF2 an electromagnetic field in the vicinity of the RFID tag. The electromagnetic field activates the RFID tag so that data can be transferred to it and / or data can be read out from it. The control of the receiver units EPF1 , EPF2 takes place in each case by the first control device ST1 .

The first data store DS1 of the external element 15th comprises identification data, in particular filter element-specific data, for recognizing a filter element 13th the filter device 20th that came from the first data store DS1 can only be read once. The filter element-specific data can include at least manufacturer information, a type designation, a serial number, and an initial dirt capacity of the filter element 13th and / or status information of the filter element 13th be.

The data is from the first data store DS1 For example, when the filter element is inserted for the first time 13th into the filter housing 12th read out to the filter element 13th to identify and / or on the basis of the data read out and a measured value curve over time from the sensor S1 the remaining service life of the filter element 13th to calculate. The filter element-specific data can be used to check whether the filter element used, for example, after an exchange 13th is suitable for the respective application. It can also be checked whether the filter element used is correct 13th is an original manufacturer filter element.

For those in the second data memory DS2 of the filter element 13th Stored operating data can be the date of commissioning, the type and duration of use, the fluid to be filtered or the like. Furthermore, the operating data can be based on the sensor signals of the sensor S1 determined measured values, in particular dynamic pressure values and / or differential pressure values, and / or a temperature of the fluid on the filter element 13th , include.

In an alternative variant, it is conceivable that only the second data memory DS2 is provided as the only data memory. In this case, all of the data described above can be used in both data memories DS1 , DS2 on the only data store DS2 stored and by the first control device ST1 be readable.

According to 3 is also a second of the two control devices ST2 configured to use sensor signals from the sensor S1 to receive, to process the received sensor signals into measured values and then to send the measured values to the first for further processing Control device ST1 send. The sensor S1 is with the second control device ST2 connected to transmit the sensor signals in a signal-transmitting manner.

The first control device ST1 is further configured based on the information provided by the second control device ST2 Measured values and those from the first data memory DS1 of the external element 15th read out data and / or from the second data memory DS2 of the filter element 13th read out data shows the remaining service life of the filter element 13th to calculate. The calculation of the remaining service life of the filter element 13th can be carried out continuously, in particular regularly.

Furthermore, the first control device ST1 configured for this, based on the remaining service life of the filter element 13th a maintenance prognosis and / or a recommendation for action for the filter element 13th to create. The first control device ST1 is also configured to output the maintenance forecast and / or the recommended action to the second control device ST2 and / or to an external control (not shown) EST1 , in particular to forward a machine control.

The second controller ST2 is also configured to receive the maintenance prognosis and / or the recommended action from the first control device ST1 to be received and for display to the display device 14th send. The second control device is for this purpose ST2 with the display device 14th connected to transmit signals, as in 3 shown.

As in 3 can be seen are the control devices ST1 , ST2 bidirectional signal-transmitting interconnected. During operation, the second control device can ST2 the measured values to the first control device ST1 hand off. Furthermore, during operation, the first control device ST1 the maintenance prognosis and / or the recommended action to be output to the second control device ST2 send.

According to 3 is the first control device ST1 for forwarding the maintenance forecast and / or a recommendation for action to the external control EST1 signal-transmitting connected or connectable. In other words, it is the first controller ST1 with the external control EST1 connected wirelessly and / or wired for signal transmission. To the external control EST1 will be discussed in more detail later.

The filter cover 10 further comprises a counter (not shown) that measures the respective measured value and / or the respective sensor signal of the sensor S1 assigns a measurement point in time for creating a time-dependent measurement value curve. In other words, the counter provides each measured value and / or each sensor signal from the sensor S1 with a time stamp so that the measured values can be created over time. The meter can be installed as a separate component in the filter cover 10 be arranged. The counter can be connected to the first control device ST1 and / or the second control device ST2 be connected to transmit signals. The counter can also be used in the first control device ST1 and / or in the second control device ST2 be integrated.

The first control device ST1 is also configured to use the measured values and the respective time stamp of the measured values to create a time-dependent measured value curve for calculating the remaining service life of the filter element 13th to create. By processing the sensor signals of the at least one sensor S1 The measured values created can be stored in the second data memory DS2 be cached. The sensor signals are stored by the second control device before they are temporarily stored ST2 processed into the further processable measured values. The first control device ST1 reads the temporarily stored measured values to create the time-dependent measured value curve from the second data memory DS2 out. With the help of an algorithm based on the from the first data memory DS1 read out data, in particular the filter element-specific data, and / or based on the data from the second data memory DS2 read out data and the temporal course of the measured values, the remaining service life of the filter element 13th calculated.

According to 3 the filter cover points 10 a transmitter unit SEE1 on. The transmitter unit SEE1 is formed by a radio module. The transmitter unit SEE1 is in the filter cover 10 arranged. The transmitter unit SEE1 is with the first control device ST1 connected to transmit signals for data transmission. The first control device ST1 is through the transmitter unit SEE1 with the external control EST1 wirelessly connectable. In other words, the first control device ST1 via the transmitter unit SEE1 for data transfer with the external control EST1 communicate wirelessly.

The transmitter unit SEE1 is configured to deal with one or more external sensors ES1 , in particular radio sensors, to connect to sensor signals of the respective external sensor ES1 for further processing to the first control device ST1 to be sent and / or to the external control for further processing EST1 to send. The transmitter unit can be used as a central gateway for external sensors ES1 be used. The other sensors ES1 can communicate with the transmitter unit SEE1 e.g. connect wirelessly via radio and deliver additional sensor signals from the hydraulic system. These additional sensor signals can be a tank level, a volume flow, a temperature outside the Filter device and / or include a leak. The first control device ST1 can be configured to use the additional sensor signals from the external sensor ES1 to be processed for further measured values and, for example, for output to the external control EST1 and / or the second control device ST2 forward.

Furthermore, the filter cover 10 at least one electrical connection, not shown, which is provided for power supply. The electrical connection also provides the first control device ST1 with the external control ES1 , in particular the external machine control for bidirectional data transmission connected to transmit signals. It is also conceivable that the bidirectional data transmission between the first control device ST1 and the external control ES1 only via the transmitter unit SEE1 he follows. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the bidirectional data transmission between the first control device ST1 and the external control ES1 only takes place in a wired manner via the electrical connection.

As in 2 The cover housing is easily recognizable 11 essentially two housing parts 36 , 37 on. A first housing part 36 forms the base body and a second housing part 37 a closure element. The first housing part 36 is with the second housing part 37 positively connected. The first part of the housing is concrete 36 with the second housing part 37 connected by a snap connection. The first housing part 36 and the second housing part 37 can also be non-positively and positively connected to one another.

The first housing part 36 is umbrella-shaped. The first housing part 36 has a snap nose on an outer edge 38 on, by means of which the first housing part 36 with the second housing part 37 connected is. The snap nose can be on the edge of the first housing part 36 be designed completely circumferentially or in sections. The second housing part 37 is essentially trough-shaped. The second housing part 37 also has an outer edge into which the snap-in lug of the first housing part 36 engages for a positive connection. The second housing part 37 has the male thread described above 38 through which the filter cover 10 into the filter housing 12th is screwed in.

The housing parts 36 , 37 limit an assembly space 39 . The second housing part 37 has a tub bottom 41 on, of a central assembly area 42 forms. In the central assembly area 42 is are the receiving units EPF1 , EPF2 arranged. Furthermore, the second housing part 37 two laterally arranged assembly areas 43 on, in each of which one of the two control devices ST1 , ST2 is arranged.

There are also in the bottom of the tub 41 two through channels 44 educated. The through channels 44 are each with a sensor channel 45 connected through which the hydraulic oil to a sensor S1 to be led. The first through canal 44 connects the sensor S1 with the upstream side 16 ' of the filter element 13th and the second through channel 44 with the downstream side 17 ' of the filter element 13th . The second through channel 44 is in the sectional view according to 1 and 2 not visible.

The sensor S1 according to 1 and 2 is forms a pressure sensor, in particular a differential pressure sensor. The sensor S1 is in the central assembly area 42 of the cover housing 11 arranged. It is also conceivable that the sensor S1 in the assembly room 39 of the filter cover 10 is arranged eccentrically or in a lateral area. The sensor S1 can be configured to create a back pressure on the filter element 13th to eat. Furthermore, the filter cover 10 have a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the fluids. The temperature sensor, like the pressure sensor, can be in the assembly area 42 of the cover housing 11 be arranged.

Through the through channels 44 is the inflow-side, in particular unfiltered, hydraulic oil before it flows through the filter element 13th and the downstream, in particular filtered, hydraulic oil after flowing through the filter element 13th to the sensor S1 guided. The sensor S1 measures the respective fluid pressures and records the resulting pressure difference. Through the sensor S1 thus becomes the pressure difference between the inflow side 16 ' and the downstream side 17 ' of the filter element 13th measured.

As in 2 The filter cover is clearly visible 10 a display device 14th on. Display device 14th includes a multiple LEDs 19th . The LEDs 19th are arranged in a ring. The LEDs 19th are in the assembly room 39 of the filter cover 10 arranged. The first housing part 36 of the cover housing 11 has a transparent section 46 through which the display device 14th or the LEDs 19th are visually recognizable. The LEDs 19th can through the transparent section 46 Outwardly display a maintenance prognosis and / or a recommendation for action. Specifically, the display device 14th a current state, in particular the remaining service life or the remaining service life, of the filter element 13th Show.

Based 3 a method for calculating the remaining service life of the filter element is described below 13th described. Through the inlet 16 the filter device 20th an unfiltered fluid flows, especially hydraulic oil, for filtration through the filter element 13th . The filtered fluid then flows through the outlet 17th the filter device 20th from. This represents a common mode of operation of the filter device 20th represent.

Through the sensor S1 becomes the differential pressure between the upstream side 16 ' and the downstream side 17 ' of the filter element 13th measured. It is possible that at least one further sensor is also provided, which measures the temperature of the fluid. The sensor signals of the sensor S1 are sent to the second control device ST2 sent for processing. The second controller ST2 receives the sensor signals sent by the sensor S1 and processes these into meaningful measured values. The second controller ST2 then sends the processed measured values to the first control device ST1 . The first control device ST1 processes the transmitted measured values further.

The first control device ST1 then calculates the remaining service life or the remaining service life of the filter element 13th . For this purpose, the first control device ST1 Data from a data store DS1 , DS2 or both data stores DS1 , DS2 read out. The data read out can be operating data and / or identification data, as described above. On the basis of the measured values, the first control device creates ST1 a time-dependent course of measured values, which draws conclusions about the degree of installation of the filter element 13th enables.

The first control device calculates on the basis of the measured values and the course of the measured values over time ST1 the remaining service life of the filter element using an algorithm 13th . Furthermore, the first control device creates ST1 based on the calculated service life of the filter element 13th a maintenance prognosis and / or a recommendation for action for the filter element 13th . The maintenance prognosis or the recommended action says, for example, when and whether the filter element will be used 13th is to change. As a result, needs-based maintenance of the filter element is advantageous 13th achieved and at the same time enables optimized warehouse planning.

The maintenance prognosis and / or the recommended action is then sent to the second control device ST2 forwarded. The second controller ST2 controls the display device 14th in such a way that the maintenance prognosis and / or the recommended action is displayed. In addition, the first control device sends ST1 the maintenance forecast and / or the recommended action wirelessly and / or wired to the external controller EST1 . The external control EST1 can forward the maintenance prognosis and / or the recommended action to a further, external display device in order to display them. It is also conceivable that the external control EST1 uses the maintenance forecast and / or the recommended action for further calculations or forecasting.

List of reference symbols

10

Filter cover

11

Cover housing

12th

Filter housing

13th

Filter element

14th

Display device

15th

external element

16

inlet

16 '

Upstream side

17th

Outlet

17 '

Downstream side

18th

Fluid space

19th

LED

20th

Filter device

21

first sealing element

22nd

first housing part

23

second housing part

24

second sealing element

25th

Filter layer

26th

first end disk

27

first axial end

28

second end plate

29

second axial end

31

third sealing element

32

Appendix

33

Anti-cavitation valve

34

Crossbar

35

vertical bar

36

first housing part

37

second housing part

38

Snap nose

39

Assembly room

41

Tub bottom

42

central assembly area

43

side mounting area

44

Through channels

45

Sensor channel

46

transparent section

ST1

first control device

ST2

second control device

EST1

External control

DS1

External element data store

DS2

Data memory of the filter element

S1

sensor

SEE1

Sending unit

ES1

external sensor

EPF1

first receiver unit

EPF2

second receiver unit

Claims (31)

Filter cover (10) for a hydraulic filter and / or for a hydraulic tank with a cover housing (11) which can be connected to a filter housing (12) and at least two control devices (ST1, ST2), a first control device (ST1) being configured for this purpose To read out and process data from at least one data memory (DS1, DS2), and wherein a second control device (ST2) is configured to receive sensor signals from at least one sensor (S1), to process the received sensor signals into measured values and then to process the measured values to send further processing to the first control device (ST1), wherein the first control device (ST1) is further configured to: - to calculate a remaining service life of a filter element (13) on the basis of the measured values and the data read out from the data memory (DS1, DS2); - To create a maintenance prognosis and / or a recommendation for action for the filter element (13) based on the remaining service life of the filter element (13); and to forward the maintenance prognosis and / or recommended action for output to the second control device (ST2) and / or to at least one external controller (EST1), in particular a machine controller. Filter cover Claim 1 , characterized in that at least one counter is provided which assigns the respective measured value and / or the respective sensor signal of the at least one sensor to a measurement time for creating a time-dependent measured value curve. Filter cover Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the first control device (ST1) and / or the second control device (ST2) is / are configured to use the measured values or the sensor signals of the at least one sensor (S1) to generate a time-dependent measured value curve for calculating the remaining service life of the Create filter element (13). Filter cover according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first control device (ST1) for forwarding the maintenance prognosis and / or a recommendation for action is connected or can be connected to the external control (EST1) in a signal-transmitting manner. Filter cover according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cover housing (11) has at least one display device (14), in particular an LED display device (19), for displaying the maintenance prognosis and / or the recommended action. Filter cover according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second control device (ST2) is configured to receive the maintenance prognosis and / or recommended action and to send it to the display device (14) for display. Filter cover according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the two control devices (ST1, ST2) are connected to one another in a bidirectional signal-transmitting manner. Filter cover according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second control device (ST2) is connected to the display device (14) in a signal-transmitting manner. Filter cover according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the two control devices (ST1, ST2) are arranged in and / or on the cover housing (11). Filter cover according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the data memory (DS2) is arranged in and / or on the cover housing (11). Filter cover according to one of the Claims 1 to 9 , characterized in that the data memory (DS1) is part of an external element which is structurally separated from the filter cover (10), the data from the data memory (DS1) being readable only once. Filter cover according to one of the Claims 1 to 9 , characterized in that the data memory (DS2) is part of the filter element (13), the data memory (DS2) being writable with data, in particular operating data, and / or data being readable from the data memory (DS2). Filter cover according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the data stored on the data memory (DS1, DS2) has at least one time curve of measured values and / or identification data, in particular filter element-specific data, and / or operating data for identification and / or for calculating the remaining Include service life of the filter element (13). Filter cover according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the data memory (DS1, DS2) is formed by an RFID tag. Filter cover according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one transmission unit (SEE1), in particular a radio module, is provided through which the first control device (ST1) communicates wirelessly with the external control (EST1). Filter cover Claim 15 , characterized in that the transmission unit (SEE1) is configured to connect to at least one external sensor (ES1), in particular a radio sensor, in order to send sensor signals from the external sensor (ES1) to the first control device (ST1) for further processing and / or to send to the external control (EST1) for further processing. Filter cover according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one sensor (S1) is arranged in the cover housing (11). Filter cover according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one sensor (S1) is signal-connected to the second control device (ST2) for the transmission of the sensor data. Filter cover according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one sensor (S1) is configured to detect at least one measured variable, in particular a temperature and / or a pressure, of a fluid on a filter element (13) and for further processing to the send second control device (ST2). Filter cover according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one sensor (S1) is formed by a temperature sensor or a pressure sensor, in particular a dynamic pressure sensor or a pressure difference sensor. Filter device (20) with a filter cover (10) after Claim 1 , at least one filter element (13) and a filter housing (12) which has at least one inlet (16) and at least one outlet (17) for a fluid, the filter cover (10) being detachably connected to the filter housing (12) and the The filter element (13) is arranged replaceably in the filter housing (12). Filter device after Claim 21 , characterized in that the filter element (13) has at least one data memory (DS2) which is wirelessly connected to the first control device (ST1) of the filter cover (10) for writing with data and / or for reading out data. Filter device after Claim 21 or 22nd , characterized in that the at least one sensor (S1) of the filter cover (10) is connected to a fluid space (18) in such a way that the sensor (S1) detects a state, in particular a temperature and / or a pressure, of the fluid. Filter system with a filter cover (10) Claim 1 and / or a filter device (20) Claim 21 , an external control (EST1) and at least one external sensor (ES1), wherein the filter cover (10) is connected or can be connected to the external control (EST1) for data transmission in a signal-transmitting manner. Filter system according to Claim 24 , characterized in that the external control (EST1) is connected in a signal-transmitting manner to an external display device in order to display a maintenance prognosis and / or a recommended action for a filter element (13). Filter system according to Claim 24 or 25th , characterized in that an external data memory (DS1) is provided, from which filter element-specific data can be read out through the filter cover (10). Filter system according to one of the Claims 24 to 26th , characterized in that the external sensor (ES1) is wirelessly connected to the filter cover (10) for the transmission of sensor signals. Method for calculating the remaining service life of a filter element (13), in which a filter device (20) comprises a filter cover (10), at least one filter element (13) and a filter housing (12) which has at least one inlet (16) and at least one outlet ( 17) for a fluid, wherein the filter cover (10) comprises at least two control devices (ST1, ST2), wherein a first control device (ST1) reads out and processes data from at least one data memory, and wherein a second control device (ST2) sensor signals at least one Sensor (S1) receives, processes the received sensor signals into measured values and then the measured values for further processing Sends processing to the first control device (ST1), the first control device (ST1): - calculating a remaining service life of a filter element (13) on the basis of the measured values and the data read out from the data memory (DS1, DS2); - based on the remaining service life of the filter element (13), a maintenance prognosis and / or a recommended action for the filter element (13) is created; and - forwards the maintenance prognosis and / or recommended action for output to the second control device (ST2) and / or to at least one external controller (EST1), in particular a machine controller. Procedure according to Claim 28 , characterized in that at least one counter is provided by means of which the respective measured value and / or the respective sensor signal of the at least one sensor is assigned a measurement time in order to create a time-dependent measured value curve. Procedure according to Claim 28 or 29 , characterized in that the first control device (ST1) and / or the second control device (ST2) creates a time-dependent measured value curve for calculating the remaining service life of the filter element (13) on the basis of the measured values or the sensor signals of the at least one sensor (S1) / create. Method according to one of the Claims 28 to 30th , characterized in that the second control device (ST2) and / or the external control (EST1) are each connected to at least one display device in order to display the maintenance prognosis and / or recommended action.

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