DE102022127994A1 - Sterilization device for a control valve and control valve with the sterilization device - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention is based on a sterilization device (30a; 30b; 30c; 30d) for a control valve (10a; 10b; 10c; 10d), with a housing (32a; 32b; 32c; 32d) which is provided for receiving a valve rod (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d) of the control valve (10a; 10b; 10c; 10d), and with a sterilization unit (34a; 34b; 34c; 34d) for sterilizing a volume (36a; 36b; 36c; 36d) at least partially enclosed by the housing (32a; 32b; 32c; 32d), in particular at least one inner surface (38a; 38b; 38c; 38d) of the housing (32a; 32b; 32c; 32d), at least one surface (40a; 40b; 40c; 40d) of the valve rod (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d) and/or a medium arranged between the housing (32a; 32b; 32c; 32d) and the valve rod (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d).It is proposed that the sterilization unit (34a; 34b; 34c; 34d) comprises at least one UV light source (46a; 46b; 46c; 46d).

Description

State of the art

In process plants, for example in the food and pharmaceutical industries, high demands are often placed on the cleanliness of the equipment in order to prevent unwanted contamination or interactions of the process media. Control valves for such process plants must therefore include special measures at possible contact points of the process medium with an external environment in order to prevent the process medium from escaping, substances and bacteria from penetrating the process medium and the formation of germs, etc. This is particularly relevant on the guide of a valve rod of the control valves, as the valve rod moves back and forth between an area filled with the process medium and an external space of the control valve. In order to prevent the formation of bacteria or germs on the valve rod, it is advantageous to sterilize surfaces in this area.

In the prior art, a so-called steam barrier is used between a drive of such a control valve and a valve housing that carries the process medium. A steam barrier for control valves comprises an inlet opening and an outlet opening, whereby steam, usually water vapor, is passed past the valve rod to sterilize the valve rod. This requires a supply line and a drain line for the steam. In addition, additional seals are required along the valve rod to prevent the steam from accidentally escaping along the valve rod, in particular into the area surrounding the control valve and/or into the valve housing. Such structures around the steam barrier are expensive, cumbersome, since additional steam must be fed to the control valve and then discharged again, and require additional installation space around the control valve.

UV radiation is also suitable for sterilizing surfaces and media, particularly in the UVc range of the electromagnetic spectrum. In recent years, light sources designed as LEDs have been developed for sterilizing surfaces and media, which generate UV radiation in the UVc range in particular. These UVc LEDs are suitable for sterilizing surfaces and media under certain conditions, and are compact and energy efficient.

Based on the prior art, the object of the invention described here is to provide a sterilization device for control valves with improved properties with regard to space requirements, manufacturing costs, and requirements for a supply system of the respective process plant.

Advantages of the invention

The invention is based on a sterilization device for a control valve, with a housing which is provided for receiving a valve rod of the control valve, and with a sterilization unit for sterilizing a volume at least partially enclosed by the housing and/or surfaces delimiting the volume, in particular at least one inner surface of the housing, at least one surface of the valve rod and/or a medium arranged between the housing and the valve rod.

It is proposed that the sterilization unit comprises at least one UV light source. In particular, a "UV light source" is to be understood as a device that is intended in at least one operating state to generate radiation with a wavelength in the UV range of the electromagnetic spectrum (100 nm to 400 nm; hereinafter also referred to as UV radiation), and is preferably suitable for sterilizing surfaces and/or media, in particular a/the process medium. It is conceivable that the UV light source is intended to at least partially generate radiation whose wavelength is in the near infrared range of the electromagnetic spectrum (780 nm to 1400 nm). In particular, the at least one UV light source is designed as a sterilization element of the sterilization unit. It is conceivable that the sterilization unit comprises only one UV light source or more than one UV light source, in particular even if only one UV light source is mentioned hereinafter. The UV light source is preferably provided to emit UV radiation into the volume and/or onto the surfaces delimiting the volume, in particular onto the at least one inner surface of the housing, onto the at least one surface of the valve rod and/or into the medium arranged between the housing and the valve rod, in order to sterilize the volume at least partially enclosed by the housing and/or the surfaces delimiting the volume, in particular onto the at least one inner surface of the housing, onto the at least one surface of the valve rod and/or into the medium arranged between the housing and the valve rod. The sterilization unit, in particular the UV light source, is particularly preferably provided to sterilize the at least one surface of the valve rod and/or the medium arranged between the housing and the valve rod, preferably in order to free it from bacteria, germs and/or viruses. This can advantageously prevent contamination of the process medium guided through the control valve when the valve rod moves into a valve housing of the control valve, which in particular contains the process medium. The sterilization unit is preferably provided to sterilize the surface of the valve rod that comes into contact with the process medium, in particular when the control valve is operated, wherein contamination of the surface of the valve rod during movement of the valve rod can be prevented in particular by sterilizing the inner surface of the housing and the medium arranged in the volume.

Preferably, the housing of the sterilization device encloses the volume at least substantially completely when viewed perpendicular to a central axis of the housing. It is conceivable that the housing forms a passage for arranging and/or supplying the sterilization unit, in particular the UV light source, and in particular extends to the volume. The volume at least partially enclosed by the housing preferably extends along the central axis of the housing from one end to another end of the housing opposite the end, in particular substantially completely over a maximum extension of the housing aligned parallel to the central axis. Preferably, the housing is open at the end and the other end. Preferably, it is or will be covered by another housing part connected to the housing. It is conceivable that the housing is formed in one piece with a housing component, in particular a valve structure, of the control valve or is formed as a separate structural unit and is intended, for example, to be connected to the valve structure and the valve housing. The housing is in particular intended to accommodate the valve rod along the central axis of the housing, with the valve rod in particular extending on or along the central axis through the housing. Preferably, a part of the valve rod is arranged in/on the volume in an assembled state of the sterilization device or limits the volume via the surface of the valve rod. In particular, the volume at least partially enclosed by the housing is limited by the at least one inner surface of the housing and two openings in the housing, in particular arranged at the end and the other end of the housing. Preferably, the volume extends, in particular in an assembled state of the sterilization device, within the housing from the surface of the valve rod to the at least one inner surface of the housing.

The sterilization device is preferably conceivable for use with various designs of control valves, in particular independently of an operating mode and/or a type of movement of the valve rod. The valve rod is preferably connected to a valve member of the control valve. The valve rod is preferably provided to move the valve member when the control valve is operated. The sterilization device, in particular the UV light source, is preferably arranged at a distance from a volume of the control valve that carries the process medium. The sterilization device, in particular the UV light source, is preferably arranged at least largely between the valve housing and a drive of the control valve. In particular, the sterilization device is also suitable for use with a control valve designed as a safety fitting.

By designing the sterilization device according to the invention, an advantageously compact design can be achieved, particularly in comparison to a sterilization device with steam. An advantageously compact and cost-effective supply for operating the control valve can be achieved, particularly since additional means such as steam for sterilization and thus in particular the supply devices for this can be dispensed with. In addition, sealing means along the valve rod can advantageously be dispensed with, which are required, for example, for sealing off steam in a steam barrier for sterilization.

It is further proposed that the at least one UV light source is designed as a UV LED, in particular a UVc LED. This enables a particularly advantageous compact design. An advantageously low energy requirement of the sterilization unit can be achieved. By using UVc radiation, an advantageously rapid and efficient sterilization of the volume and/or of the surfaces delimiting the volume can be enabled. The UV light source is particularly preferably intended to generate UV radiation in the UVc range of the electromagnetic spectrum, in particular with a wavelength between 100 nm and 280 nm, preferably between 200 nm and 270 nm and particularly preferably between 250 nm and 260 nm. The UV light source designed as a UV LED preferably has a maximum longitudinal or transverse extension of at most 2 cm, preferably at most 1 cm, particularly preferably at most 0.7 cm and very particularly preferably at most 0.5 cm. It is conceivable that several UV light sources of the sterilization unit are combined to form one component, whereby in particular the UV light sources have a substantially identical output direction or are aligned differently to each other to ensure high illumination of the volume or surfaces.

Alternatively, it is conceivable that the UV light source is designed as a different type of light source, in particular one different from an LED, for example as a fluorescent lamp or the like.

It is further proposed that the UV light source is provided to be operated in a pulsed manner in at least one operating state. This can enable an advantageously effective and energy- and time-efficient sterilization of the volume and/or of the surfaces delimiting the volume. In comparison to continuous illumination, pulsed operation of the UV light source can achieve an advantageously rapid sterilization of the volume and/or of the surfaces delimiting the volume with the same energy requirement. The UV light source is preferably provided to emit radiation for sterilization at periodic or changing time intervals. The UV light source is preferably provided to emit radiation in pulses. In particular, the UV light source is provided to emit radiation, in particular UV radiation, with a pulse duration of at most 100 ms, preferably at most 10 ms and particularly preferably at most 1 ms. Preferably, a frequency of the UV light source, in particular of the pulses of the UV light source, is at least 0.5 Hz, preferably at least 1 Hz and particularly preferably at least 2 Hz. The UV light source has a power consumption of between 40 W and 800 W, preferably between 40 W and 600 W and particularly preferably between 40 W and 200 W. For example, the pulsed UV light source is designed as a volume filled with xenon gas, wherein an electrical pulse is provided for generating the UV radiation. However, other designs of the UV light source are also conceivable. Preferably, the sterilization unit is provided to activate the at least one UV light source depending on at least one movement parameter of the control valve, in particular the valve rod. Preferably, the sterilization unit, in particular the UV light source, is provided to adapt the pulse duration and/or the frequency of the UV light source depending on the movement parameter. A "movement parameter" of the control valve/valve rod is to be understood in particular as a parameter that describes a movement of the control valve/valve rod, in particular when setting a valve position. For example, the at least one movement parameter is designed as a, in particular maximum or average, stroke length or angle of rotation of the valve rod, as a, in particular maximum or average, stroke or rotation frequency of the valve rod, as an activation frequency of a drive unit of the control valve or the like.

It is also proposed that the at least one UV light source is arranged on an inner surface of the housing, in particular facing the valve rod in an assembled state. This can enable an advantageously high illumination of the volume and/or the surfaces delimiting the volume while at the same time achieving high energy efficiency. In particular, the UV light source is arranged in such a way that a main radiation direction of the UV light source points from the inner surface of the housing in the direction of the central axis of the housing or in the direction of the valve rod. A "main radiation direction" of a light source, in particular the UV light source, is to be understood in particular as a direction that extends from the light source along an axis through the light source, on which a maximum of an intensity distribution of radiation generated by the light source is arranged. The UV light source is preferably arranged in such a way that the main radiation direction of the UV light source intersects the volume, preferably an area around the central axis of the housing, which is intended to accommodate the valve rod. The UV light source is particularly preferably arranged such that the main radiation direction of the UV light source intersects the central axis of the housing. The UV light source is preferably arranged such that the main radiation direction of the UV light source is aligned at least substantially parallel to a plane extending perpendicular to the central axis of the housing. The control valve preferably comprises at least one sealing element which is intended to seal a passage formed along the valve rod for a process medium from the valve housing, wherein the UV light source is arranged parallel to the central axis of the housing at a distance of at most 5 cm, preferably at most 3 cm and particularly preferably at most 2 cm, from the sealing element. The inner surface of the housing, on which in particular the UV light source is arranged, is preferably formed substantially parallel to the central axis of the housing when viewed in a sectional plane comprising the central axis of the housing.

It is further proposed that the at least one UV light source is integrated into an inner wall of the housing, in particular one facing the valve rod in an assembled state. An advantageous arrangement of the UV light source can be achieved with a simultaneously advantageously compact design of the housing. Preferably, the inner wall of the housing limits the volume at least partially enclosed by the housing. Preferably, the inner wall of the housing is at least substantially hollow cylindrical. Preferably, the inner wall of the housing has the inner surface of the housing, which is in particular at least substantially cylindrical in shape around the central axis of the housing. In particular, the inner surface of the housing extends in a sectional plane encompassing the central axis of the housing substantially parallel to the central axis of the housing. The inner wall of the housing preferably has at least one recess, which extends in particular from the inner surface of the housing away from the central axis of the housing. In particular, in an embodiment in which the UV light source is arranged at least partially or completely within the recess, the UV light source is arranged on a further inner surface of the housing, which at least partially delimits the recess. In particular, the further inner surface is designed to be offset radially outwards, in particular away from the central axis, from the inner surface of the housing, which in particular forms an inner contour of the housing.

It is further proposed that the sterilization device comprises a window element which is designed to be permeable to UV radiation from the at least one UV light source, the window element being intended to separate the at least one UV light source from the volume at least partially enclosed by the housing. An advantageously protected integration of the UV light source into the housing can be made possible. Unwanted deposits on the UV light source or an area surrounding the UV light source and a disrupted guidance of the valve rod in the housing can be advantageously prevented. An advantageously undisturbed function of the control valve can be achieved with simultaneous sterilization of the volume and/or of the surfaces delimiting the volume, in particular when the valve rod moves along an actuating axis of the control valve. The window element is preferably designed to be at least largely permeable to the radiation generated by the UV light source for sterilization, in particular with a wavelength between 100 nm and 280 nm, preferably between 200 nm and 270 nm and particularly preferably between 250 nm and 260 nm. Preferably, the window element is designed to be substantially completely permeable to the radiation generated by the UV light source for sterilization, whereby in particular at least more than 90%, preferably more than 95% and particularly preferably more than 97% of the radiation can penetrate the window element. Preferably, the window element is arranged between the volume at least partially enclosed by the housing and the UV light source. Preferably, the window element is arranged at least largely, in particular substantially completely, within the recess. Particularly preferably, the window element completely covers the recess when viewed from the central axis of the housing. Preferably, the window element is provided to separate the UV light source from the volume in a fluid-tight and/or pressure-tight manner.

It is also proposed that the at least one UV light source is provided to be arranged on the valve rod, preferably integrated into the valve rod. An advantageously high modularity of the sterilization device can be made possible, preferably for use with control valves already in operation, in particular without modifications to housing parts of the control valve. An advantageously compact design of the housing can be achieved. The UV light source is preferably arranged along a main extension axis of the valve rod or along the central axis of the housing completely within a substantially round, in particular circular, outer contour of the valve rod. The valve rod preferably forms a recess for receiving the UV light source. In particular, the sterilization unit comprises a window element which is provided to enclose the UV light source in the recess formed by the valve rod. The UV light source is preferably arranged on an outer side of the valve rod facing the housing. In particular, the UV light source is arranged such that the main radiation direction of the UV light source points away from the central axis of the housing, preferably in the direction of the housing, particularly preferably radially to the central axis of the housing.

It is further proposed that the housing has a scattering coating arranged on at least one inner surface, in particular facing the valve rod in an assembled state, which is intended to reflect UV radiation from the at least one UV light source within the housing. Advantageously good illumination of the volume and/or the surfaces delimiting the volume can be achieved. In particular with a small number of UV light sources. By using an advantageously small number of UV light sources required to sufficiently illuminate the volume and/or the surfaces delimiting the volume, an advantageously cost-effective and compact design of the sterilization device can be achieved. An advantageously high energy efficiency of the sterilization device can be enabled. The scattering coating is preferably designed as a thin layer which is applied to a surface, in particular a surface or the inner surface of the housing. The scattering coating is preferably provided or arranged in such a way that the UV radiation from the UV light source is distributed within the volume, particularly preferably over a large part of the surface of the valve rod, by reflection on the scattering coating. Preferably, at least a large part of the inner surfaces delimiting the volume, in particular at least the inner surface of the housing, is covered with the scattering coating. Alternatively, it is conceivable that only partial surfaces of the inner surface(s) of the housing facing the UV light source have the scattering coating, in particular in order to reflect the UV radiation on surfaces of the valve rod facing away from the UV light source. Preferably, the partial surfaces of the inner surface(s) of the housing each have a normal which forms an angle of at least 90° with the main radiation direction of the UV light source.

It is also proposed that the sterilization device comprises a supply unit for electrically supplying the sterilization unit, in particular the at least one UV light source, wherein the housing delimits at least one passage for connecting the at least one UV light source to the supply unit, wherein the passage is designed separately from the volume at least partially enclosed by the housing. By designing the UV light source as an LED, an advantageously simple, compact and cost-effective supply unit can be made possible. A closed design of the volume can advantageously be achieved. This can enable an advantageously high level of cleanliness for operation of the control valve. The passage preferably extends from an outside of the housing facing away from the central axis or the valve rod, in particular through an entire thickness of the housing, to the volume or an inside of the housing facing the central axis or the valve rod. In an embodiment of the sterilization device in which the UV light source is arranged in the recess, the passage preferably extends from the outside of the housing facing away from the central axis or the valve rod into the recess. Preferably, the housing and/or the supply unit comprise at least one sealing means for a fluid- and/or pressure-tight seal of the passage from the volume or the recess to the outside of the volume. For example, the sealing means is/are designed as a sealing compound, as a sealing ring or the like. Preferably, the supply unit comprises at least one line element, such as a cable or the like, for electrically contacting the UV light source. Preferably, the passage is designed to be separated from the volume via the sealing means and/or via the window element. Preferably, the supply unit comprises an electrical energy storage device, such as a rechargeable battery, a battery or the like, or a connection to an electrical network, which is/are particularly intended to be connected to the UV light source via the line element. In an embodiment of the sterilization unit with more than one UV light source, it is conceivable that the housing delimits more than one passage, in particular at least one passage for each UV light source, wherein in particular the supply unit is intended to supply the UV light sources through one of the passages. This advantageously makes it possible to dispense with the arrangement of line elements within the volume. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the supply unit is designed to supply the UV light sources through one or two feedthroughs in the housing, with more than one UV light source being supplied through a single feedthrough.

It is further proposed that the sterilization device comprises a supply unit for electrically supplying the sterilization unit, in particular the at least one UV light source, wherein the supply unit is provided for a wireless connection to the sterilization unit, in particular the at least one UV light source. Modification of the housing by means of bushings or the like can advantageously be omitted. This can enable an advantageously high level of modularity of the sterilization device, preferably for use with control valves already in operation, in particular without modifications to housing parts of the control valve. In particular, the wireless connection between the supply unit and the sterilization unit can also be referred to as a contactless connection. The wireless connection of the supply unit and the sterilization unit is preferably realized by an inductive coupling. However, other types of wireless connection between the supply unit and the sterilization unit are also conceivable, such as via a capacitive coupling or via electromagnetic waves, in particular via light or radio signals. Preferably, the supply unit comprises a connecting element arranged on the sterilization unit, in particular the UV light source, or directly connected to the sterilization unit, in particular the UV light source, and a further connecting element which is arranged separately from the sterilization unit, in particular the UV light source, or from the connecting element. Preferably, the connecting element and the further connecting element are provided to transmit energy to one another, preferably at least from the further connecting element to the connecting element. Before Preferably, the connecting element is arranged on an inner side or the inner wall of the housing, in particular integrated into the inner wall. In particular, the connecting element is arranged within the recess. In particular, it is conceivable that the connecting element is arranged within the volume. The further connecting element is preferably arranged on the outer side of the housing. Preferably, at least one wall of the housing, in particular viewed radially to the central axis of the housing, is arranged between the connecting element and the further connecting element. It is conceivable that the supply unit comprises a plurality of connecting elements and/or further connecting elements, in particular for supplying several UV light sources. Alternatively, it is conceivable that several UV light sources are connected to a connecting element of the supply unit for electrical supply. For example, the connecting element and the further connecting element are each designed as a coil. However, depending on the type of connection, other designs of the connecting elements are also conceivable, for example as emitters and receivers or as capacitor plates. Preferably, the supply unit comprises shielding means for electrically shielding the connecting elements, in particular the connecting element and/or the further connecting element, from the housing. For example, the shielding means are designed as a potting compound, as a sleeve, in particular a plastic or rubber sleeve, or the like. In particular, the shielding means are intended to prevent electrical contact between the respective connecting means(s) and the housing.

It is further proposed that the sterilization unit comprises a plurality of UV light sources and that the housing has at least one central axis, wherein in particular the housing is provided to accommodate the valve rod at least substantially parallel to the central axis, wherein the plurality of UV light sources, in particular viewed along the central axis, are arranged distributed around the central axis. An advantageously good illumination of the volume and/or the surfaces delimiting the volume can be achieved. Preferably, the plurality of UV light sources are arranged at least substantially evenly distributed around the central axis of the housing, viewed along the central axis of the housing. Preferably, the UV light sources of the plurality of UV light sources are arranged in a single plane extending perpendicular to the central axis. However, it is also conceivable that the UV light sources of the plurality of UV light sources are arranged in several planes.

In addition, a control valve for a process plant, in particular with high cleanliness requirements, for example in the food and/or pharmaceutical industry, with a sterilization device according to the invention is proposed. The control valve comprises at least one valve housing, at least one valve rod and at least one valve structure, wherein the valve structure at least substantially completely encloses the valve rod together with the valve housing in some areas. In particular, the control valve according to the invention corresponds to the control valve described above. In particular, the valve structure and the valve housing essentially completely enclose the valve rod in an area of the sterilization device and/or in an area from the sterilization device to a valve cone of the control valve.

By designing the control valve according to the invention, an advantageously high level of compactness can be achieved. An advantageously compact and cost-effective supply for operating the control valve can be achieved, particularly since additional means such as steam for sterilization can be dispensed with.

The valve housing preferably forms at least one inlet opening, at least one outlet opening and at least one throttle point, which are provided in particular for guiding process medium. The control valve preferably comprises an actuator which is coupled to the valve rod, in particular via a one-piece design or a force-locking and/or positive connection. The control valve is in particular provided to close the throttle point in at least one operating state, in particular via interaction with a valve seat of the control valve. The control valve can be designed as a lift valve, wherein the actuator is designed to be at least partially translationally movable along an axis, in particular the central axis, or as a rotary valve, wherein the actuator is designed to be at least partially rotationally movable about an axis. The valve housing preferably comprises a cover through which the valve rod extends into the valve housing. The valve rod preferably protrudes at least partially, in particular through the cover of the valve housing, from the valve housing, in particular from a volume enclosed by the valve housing which comprises the throttle point. Preferably, the valve structure is arranged outside the valve housing, in particular on the cover of the valve housing. The valve structure comprises in particular a guide for the valve rod. In particular, the valve structure forms interfaces for fastening a/the drive of the control valve, a position controller of the control valve and/or other components of the control valve. Preferably, In an assembled state, a part of the valve rod extending from a space delimited by the valve housing and intended for guiding the process medium extends at least partially through the housing of the sterilization device, in particular along the central axis of the housing. Preferably, the sterilization device, in particular the sterilization unit, is arranged at least substantially completely outside the space delimited by the valve housing and intended for guiding the process medium.

It is also proposed that the housing of the sterilization device is designed as part of the valve structure or the valve housing. The sterilization device is preferably arranged or designed between the valve structure and the valve housing or as part of the valve structure or the valve housing. In particular, at least the housing of the sterilization device is designed as one piece with the valve structure or the valve housing. It is conceivable that the valve structure comprises the cover for the valve housing or is designed as one piece with the cover of the valve housing. In particular, it is conceivable that the housing of the sterilization device is designed as part of the cover of the valve housing, in particular is designed as one piece with the cover of the valve housing. In particular, the cover of the valve housing is intended to close the space delimited by the valve housing and intended for guiding the process medium.

It is further proposed that the sterilization unit, preferably the at least one UV light source, in particular viewed perpendicular to a main extension axis of the valve rod, is arranged outside the valve housing. An advantageously protected arrangement of the UV light source can be achieved, for example from vibrations on the valve housing. This can enable an advantageously long service life of the sterilization unit. In particular, the valve rod is designed and/or arranged such that the center axis of the housing encompasses the main extension axis of the valve rod or is at least arranged substantially parallel to the main extension axis of the valve rod.

It is also proposed that the valve structure comprises at least one sealing element which is intended to seal a passage formed along the valve rod for a process medium from the valve housing, wherein the sterilization device, in particular the sterilization unit, is arranged on a side of the sealing element facing away from the valve housing when viewed along the valve rod. An advantageously compact design can be made possible, in particular by arranging the sterilization unit and/or the supply unit of the sterilization device above the valve housing. The sealing element is preferably intended to seal the space delimited by the valve housing and intended for guiding the process medium to the outside, in particular in the direction of the drive. For example, the sealing element is designed as a sealing ring or as part of a sealing packing or a stuffing box. The sealing element is preferably arranged on the valve rod. The sealing element is preferably arranged between an inner wall of the cover and/or the valve structure and the valve rod, in particular enclosing the valve rod when viewed perpendicular to the main extension axis of the valve rod. In particular, the sterilization device, in particular the sterilization unit, is arranged behind the sealing element when viewed from the throttle point or the valve member along the valve rod or the main extension axis of the valve rod. The sterilization unit, in particular the UV light source, is preferably arranged in a close area of the sealing element. In particular, the close area of the sealing element extends perpendicular to the central axis of the housing or to the main extension axis of the valve rod up to a minimum distance of at most 5 cm, preferably at most 3 cm and particularly preferably at most 2 cm, from the sealing element.

It is further proposed that the valve rod has a scattering coating that is provided for reflecting UV radiation from the at least one UV light source of the sterilization unit. Advantageously good illumination of the volume and/or the surfaces delimiting the volume can be achieved. In particular with a small number of UV light sources. An advantageously low number of UV light sources required for sufficient illumination of the volume and/or the surfaces delimiting the volume can achieve an advantageously cost-effective and compact design of the sterilization device. An advantageously high energy efficiency of the sterilization device can be made possible. The scattering coating is preferably designed as a thin layer that is applied to a surface, in particular the surface of the valve rod. The scattering coating is preferably provided or arranged in such a way that the UV radiation from the UV light source is distributed within the volume, particularly preferably over a large part of the inner surface of the housing, by reflection on the scattering coating. Preferably, the valve rod is in a region of the sterilization unit, in particular in a region of the valve rod enclosed by the housing, over at least a large part of a circumference of the valve rod, in particular over the entire circumference of the valve rod, covered with the scattering coating. Alternatively, it is conceivable that only surfaces of the valve rod facing the UV light source(s) have the scattering coating, in particular in order to reflect the UV radiation onto inner surfaces of the housing that are at a sharp angle to the UV light source.

It is further proposed that the control valve comprises a pneumatic line, in particular for operating a drive and/or a position controller of the control valve, wherein the sterilization device comprises a supply unit which is provided for converting energy from a flow in the pneumatic line to operate the sterilization unit, in particular the at least one UV light source. An additional supply line to the control valve can advantageously be omitted, in particular since the energy for operating the sterilization unit can be taken from the compressed air required to drive the actuator or the valve rod of the control valve via the supply unit. This enables an advantageously cost-effective integration of the control valve in process systems. In particular, the pneumatic line is provided for supplying the control valve, in particular the drive and/or the position controller of the control valve, with compressed air. The pneumatic line is preferably designed as a supply air or exhaust air line. The supply unit is preferably provided for providing electrical energy for operating the sterilization unit, in particular the at least one UV light source. For example, the supply unit comprises at least one movable, in particular magnetized, excitation element, which is intended to be moved by the air within the pneumatic line. In particular, an electric current can be generated by the movement of the excitation element, for example via induction.

Alternatively, it is conceivable that the supply unit is provided to convert energy from the process medium, in particular guided within the valve housing, to operate the sterilization unit, in particular the at least one UV light source. In particular, it is conceivable that the supply unit is provided to convert kinetic or thermal energy of the process medium into energy to operate the sterilization unit, in particular the at least one UV light source. Preferably, the supply unit is provided to provide electrical energy to operate the sterilization unit, in particular the at least one UV light source.

The sterilization device according to the invention and/or the control valve according to the invention should not be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the sterilization device according to the invention and/or the control valve according to the invention can have a number of individual elements, components and units that differs from the number stated herein in order to fulfill a function described herein. In addition, in the value ranges stated in this disclosure, values within the stated limits should also be considered disclosed and can be used as desired.

drawings

Further advantages emerge from the following description of the drawings. The drawings show four embodiments of the invention. The drawings, the description and the claims contain numerous features in combination. The person skilled in the art will also expediently consider the features individually and combine them into further useful combinations.

• 1.: eine schematische Schnittansicht eines erfindungsgemäßen Stellventils für eine Prozessanlage mit einer erfindungsgemäßen Sterilisierungsvorrichtung,
• 2.: eine schematische Schnittansicht einer alternativen Ausgestaltung eines erfindungsgemäßen Stellventils für eine Prozessanlage mit einer erfindungsgemäßen Sterilisierungsvorrichtung, wobei eine Sterilisierungseinheit der Sterilisierungsvorrichtung kabellos versorgt wird,
• 3.: eine schematische Draufsicht einer weiteren alternativen Ausgestaltung einer erfindungsgemäßen Sterilisierungsvorrichtung mit einer Mehrzahl an UV-Lichtquellen und
• 4.: eine schematische Schnittansicht einer anderen weiteren alternativen Ausgestaltung eines erfindungsgemäßen Stellventils für eine Prozessanlage mit einer erfindungsgemäßen Sterilisierungsvorrichtung, wobei eine Sterilisierungseinheit der Sterilisierungsvorrichtung in einer Ventilstange des Stellventils angeordnet ist.

Show it:

• 1 .: a schematic sectional view of a control valve according to the invention for a process plant with a sterilization device according to the invention,
• 2 .: a schematic sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a control valve according to the invention for a process plant with a sterilization device according to the invention, wherein a sterilization unit of the sterilization device is supplied wirelessly,
• 3 .: a schematic plan view of another alternative embodiment of a sterilization device according to the invention with a plurality of UV light sources and
• 4 .: a schematic sectional view of another further alternative embodiment of a control valve according to the invention for a process plant with a sterilization device according to the invention, wherein a sterilization unit of the sterilization device is arranged in a valve rod of the control valve.

Description of the embodiments

In 1 a control valve 10a for a process plant is shown. The control valve 10a is designed as a lift valve. However, other designs of the control valve 10a are also conceivable. The control valve 10a comprises a valve housing 12a, a Valve rod 14a and a valve structure 16a, wherein the valve structure 16a at least substantially completely encloses the valve rod 14a together with the valve housing 12a in some areas. The control valve 10a comprises an actuator 18a and a drive (not shown in figures), which is provided in particular for driving a movement of the actuator 18a via the valve rod 14a. The control valve 10a comprises a valve seat 20a for interacting with a valve cone of the actuator 18a. The valve seat 20a is formed integrally with the valve housing 12a. However, designs of the control valve 10a with a removable valve seat 20a are also conceivable. The valve rod 14a has a main extension axis 22a, wherein the valve rod 14a can be moved along the main extension axis 22a to close or open the control valve 10a. The valve structure 16a forms a cover for the valve housing 12a. However, it is also conceivable for the valve housing 12a to have a cover, wherein the valve structure 16a can be fastened to the cover. The valve structure 16a is fastened to the valve housing 12a via fastening means 24a. The fastening means 24a is designed here as a clamp, although other designs are also conceivable. The valve housing 12a is preferably designed in one piece, in particular made from a cast or from a single blank. The control valve 10a, in particular the valve structure 16a, comprises a sealing element 26a which is intended to seal a passage formed along the valve rod 14a for the process medium from the valve housing 12a. The sealing element 26a is designed as a sealing disk which covers or seals an opening in the valve housing 12a formed around the valve rod 14a in the direction of the valve structure 16a. The sealing element 26a delimits a passage for the valve rod 14a or the actuator 18a. The sealing element 26a is fixed to the valve housing 12a via the cover. However, other designs of the valve housing 12a, the valve structure 16a and the sealing element 26a are also conceivable. The valve structure 16a forms interfaces for the drive and a position controller of the control valve 10a (not shown in figures). The valve rod 14a comprises a connection interface 28a, which is arranged in particular at an end of the valve rod 14a formed along the main extension axis 22a of the valve rod 14a, for a positive and/or non-positive connection of the valve rod 14a to a lifting element of the drive. The valve structure 16a encloses the valve rod 14a around the main extension axis 22a of the valve rod 14a at least in a region of the cover or in a close region of the sealing element 26a, preferably at least substantially completely.

The control valve 10a comprises a sterilization device 30a. The sterilization device 30a comprises a housing 32a, which is provided for receiving the valve rod 14a of the control valve 10a, and a sterilization unit 34a for sterilizing a volume 36a at least partially enclosed by the housing 32a, in particular at least one inner surface 38a of the housing 32a, at least one surface 40a of the valve rod 14a and/or a medium arranged between the housing 32a and the valve rod 14a, in particular a process medium. The housing 32a has a central axis 42a, wherein the housing 32a extends around the central axis 42a over at least one inner wall 44a of the housing 32a, which in particular forms the inner surface 38a. The housing 32a is formed in one piece with the valve structure 16a, preferably a component of the valve structure 16a, which in particular forms the cover. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the sterilization device 30a, in particular the housing 32a, is formed separately from the valve structure 16a or in one piece with the valve housing 12a. For example, it is conceivable that the housing 32a is arranged, in particular fastened, between the valve structure 16a and the valve housing 12a. It is conceivable that the housing 32a of the sterilization device 30a forms the cover for the valve housing 12a.

The sterilization unit 34a comprises a UV light source 46a. The UV light source 46a is designed as a UVc LED. The UV light source 46a is arranged on a further inner surface 47a of the housing 32a, which in particular faces the valve rod 14a in an assembled state. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the UV light source 46a is arranged on the inner surface 38a of the housing 32a. The UV light source 46a is integrated into the inner wall 44a of the housing 32a, which in particular faces the valve rod 14a in an assembled state. The UV light source 46a is preferably provided to emit UVc radiation into the volume 36a, in particular onto the inner surface 38a of the housing 32a, onto the surface 40a of the valve rod 14a and/or into the medium arranged between the housing 32a and the valve rod 14a, for sterilizing the volume 36a at least partially enclosed by the housing 32a and/or surfaces delimiting the volume 36a, in particular onto the inner surface 38a of the housing 32a, onto the surface 40a of the valve rod 14a and/or into the medium arranged between the housing 32a and the valve rod 14a.

Preferably, the housing 32a of the sterilization device 30a encloses the volume 36a at least substantially completely when viewed perpendicular to a central axis 42a of the housing 32a. dig. The housing 32a of the sterilization device 30a is formed as part of the valve structure 16a. The valve structure 16a can have openings 48a in a region spaced apart from the volume 36a. In 1 Openings 48a are shown in the area of the connection interface 28a of the valve rod 14a. For example, a position sensor of the position controller is connected to the valve rod 14a through such an opening 48a. The housing 32a forms a passage 50a for arranging and supplying the sterilization unit 34a, in particular the UV light source 46a, which extends from an outside of the housing 32a to an inside of the housing 32a that delimits the volume 36a and/or faces the valve rod 14a. The volume 36a at least partially enclosed by the housing 32a preferably extends along the central axis 42a of the housing 32a from one end of the housing 32a, which is arranged on the valve housing 12a, to another end of the housing 32a opposite the end, which in particular faces the drive and/or the connection interface 28a. The volume 36a, which is at least partially enclosed by the housing 32a, extends essentially completely over a maximum extension of the housing 32a that is aligned parallel to the central axis 42a. The housing 32a is open at one end and the other end, with the volume 36a adjoining a space delimiting the sealing element 26a or being fluidically connected to it. The housing 32a is provided to accommodate the valve rod 14a along the central axis 42a of the housing 32a, with the valve rod 14a in particular extending on or along the central axis 42a through the housing 32a. The valve rod 14a delimits the volume 36a in an assembled state of the control valve 10a via the surface 40a of the valve rod 14a (see also 3 ). The volume 36a extends within the housing 32a from the surface 40a of the valve rod 14a to the inner surface 38a of the housing 32a.

Alternatively, it is conceivable that the UV light source 46a is intended to be arranged on the valve rod 14a, preferably integrated into the valve rod 14a. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the sterilization unit 34a comprises a plurality of UV light sources 46a (see 3 ).

The UV light source 46a is intended to generate UV radiation in the UVc range of the electromagnetic spectrum, in particular with a wavelength between 100 nm and 280 nm, preferably between 200 nm and 270 nm and particularly preferably between 250 nm and 260 nm. The UV light source 46a has a maximum longitudinal extension of at most 1 cm, preferably at most 0.7 cm and particularly preferably at most 0.5 cm. Particularly preferably, the UV light source 46a is designed and/or arranged such that a power of the UVc radiation emitted within the volume 36a and/or onto the surfaces delimiting the volume 36a is sufficient to sterilize the volume 36a, in particular the inner surface 38a of the housing 32a, the surface 40a of the valve rod 14a and/or the medium arranged between the housing 32a and the valve rod 14a, preferably within a maximum of 1 min, preferably a maximum of 30 s and particularly preferably a maximum of 10 s.

The UV light source 46a is arranged such that a main radiation direction 54a of the UV light source 46a points from the inner surface 38a of the housing 32a in the direction of the central axis 42a of the housing 32a or in the direction of the valve rod 14a (see also 3 ). The UV light source 46a is arranged such that the main radiation direction 54a of the UV light source 46a intersects the volume 36a, preferably an area around the central axis 42a of the housing 32a, which is provided for receiving the valve rod 14a. The UV light source 46a is arranged such that the main radiation direction 54a of the UV light source 46a intersects the central axis 42a of the housing 32a. The main radiation direction 54a of the UV light source 46a is aligned at least substantially parallel to a plane extending perpendicular to the central axis 42a of the housing 32a. The UV light source 46a is arranged parallel to the central axis 42a of the housing 32a at a minimum distance 56a of at most 5 cm, preferably at most 3 cm and particularly preferably at most 2 cm, from the sealing element 26a, in particular within a close range of the sealing element 26a. The inner wall 44a of the housing 32a is at least substantially hollow-cylindrical (see also 3 ). However, other configurations of the housing 32a are also conceivable, for example with a substantially elliptical, rectangular or square inner contour of the housing 32a. Preferably, the inner wall 44a of the housing 32a has the further inner surface 47a of the housing 32a, which is in particular at least substantially cylindrical in shape around the central axis 42a of the housing 32a. The inner wall 44a of the housing 32a has a recess 58a which extends from the inner surface 38a of the housing 32a away from the central axis 42a of the housing 32a. The recess 58a is formed as part of the feedthrough 50a in a dismantled state of the housing 32a. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the recess 58a is formed at a distance from the feedthrough 50a. The further inner surface 47a of the housing 32a, on which the UV light source 46a is arranged, the recess 58a is at least partially delimited. Preferably, the further inner surface 47a of the housing 32a, on which the UV light source 46a is arranged, is aligned at least substantially parallel to the central axis 42a of the housing 32a when viewed perpendicular to the central axis 42a of the housing 32a. In particular, the further inner surface 47a of the housing 32a, on which the UV light source 46a is arranged, is substantially flat.

The sterilization device 30a comprises a window element 60a which is designed to be permeable to the UVc radiation of the UV light source 46a. The window element 60a is intended to separate the UV light source 46a from the volume 36a which is at least partially enclosed by the housing 32a. The window element 60a is designed to be largely, in particular at least substantially completely, permeable to the UVc radiation generated by the UV light source 46a for sterilization, in particular with a wavelength between 100 nm and 280 nm, preferably between 200 nm and 270 nm and particularly preferably between 250 nm and 260 nm. The window element 60a is arranged between the volume 36a which is at least partially enclosed by the housing 32a and the UV light source 46a. The window element 60a is arranged substantially completely within the recess 58a. The window element 60a completely covers the recess 58a when viewed from the central axis 42a of the housing 32a. The window element 60a is preferably provided to separate the UV light source 46a from the volume 36a in a fluid-tight and/or pressure-tight manner. The UV light source 46a is arranged directly on the window element 60a. The window element 60a has an outer surface facing the central axis 42a or the valve rod 14a. The window element 60a is preferably designed and/or arranged such that the outer surface of the window element 60a is flush with the inner surface 38a of the housing 32a. It is conceivable that the UV light source 46a is arranged on an inner surface of the window element 60a facing away from the outer surface of the window element 60a, which is designed in particular in the direction of the passage 50a. Alternatively, embodiments of the sterilization device 30a without window element 60a are also conceivable (cf. 2 and 3 ), wherein the UV light source 46a, for example, directly defines the volume 36a and/or is arranged on the inner surface 38a of the housing 32a, wherein in particular the housing 32a is designed without recesses on the inside.

The housing 32a of the sterilization device 30a has a scattering coating 64a arranged on the inner surface 38a of the housing 32a, which in particular faces the valve rod 14a in an assembled state, which is intended to reflect UVc radiation from the UV light source 46a within the housing 32a. The scattering coating 64a is applied as a thin layer to the inner surface 38a of the housing 32a. In addition, the valve rod 14a has a scattering coating on an outer surface arranged in the region of the housing 32a. The scattering coating(s) 64a are intended or arranged in such a way that the UVc radiation from the UV light source 46a is distributed by reflection on the scattering coating 64a within the volume 36a, particularly preferably over a large part of the surface 40a or the outer surface of the valve rod 14a. Preferably, at least a large part of the inner surfaces delimiting the volume 36a, in particular at least the inner surface 38a, of the housing 32a, is coated with the scatter coating 64a.

Alternatively, it is conceivable that only partial surfaces of the inner surface(s) 38a of the housing 32a facing the UV light source 46a and/or outer surfaces of the valve rod 14a facing the UV light source 46a have the scattering coating 64a.

The sterilization device 30a comprises a supply unit 66a for electrically supplying the sterilization unit 34a, in particular the UV light source 46a. The feedthrough 50a is provided for connecting the UV light source 46a to the supply unit 66a, wherein the feedthrough 50a is formed separately from the volume 36a at least partially enclosed by the housing 32a, in particular via the window element 60a. The feedthrough 50a extends from an outside of the housing 32a facing away from the central axis 42a or the valve rod 14a, in particular through the inner wall 44a of the housing 32a, to the volume 36a or the inside of the housing 32a facing the central axis 42a or the valve rod 14a. The passage 50a preferably extends from the outside of the housing 32a facing away from the central axis 42a or the valve rod 14a into the recess 58a. The housing 32a comprises a sealing means 68a for a fluid- and/or pressure-tight seal of the passage 50a or the recess 58a from the recess 58a or the volume 36a to the outside of the housing 32a. The sealing means 68a is designed as a sealing ring. Other designs of the sealing means 68a are also conceivable, for example as a sealing compound or the like. The supply unit 66a comprises a line element 70a, which is designed as a cable, for electrically contacting the UV light source 46a. The supply unit 66a is preferably connected to an electrical network. It is also conceivable that the supply supply unit 66a comprises an electrical energy storage device, such as an accumulator, a battery or the like.

It is conceivable that the sterilization unit 34a comprises more than one UV light source 46a (see 3 ). In an embodiment of the sterilization unit 34a with more than one UV light source 46a, it is conceivable that the housing 32a delimits more than one passage 50a, in particular one passage 50a for each UV light source 46a, wherein in particular the supply unit 66a is provided to supply the UV light sources 46a each via a line element 70a through one of the passages 50a. This advantageously makes it possible to dispense with an arrangement of line elements 70a within the volume 46a. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the supply unit 66a is provided to supply the UV light sources 46a through one or two passages 50a in the housing 32a, wherein in particular more than one UV light source 46a is supplied through a single passage 50a.

Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the supply unit 66a is provided for a wireless connection to the sterilization unit 34a, in particular the UV light source 46a (see 2 ). It is conceivable that the supply unit 66a is provided to convert energy from a flow in a pneumatic line of the control valve 10a to operate the sterilization unit 34a, in particular the UV light source 46a (see 2 ).

The sterilization unit 34a, in particular the UV light source 46a, is arranged outside the valve housing 12a, viewed perpendicular to the main extension axis 22a of the valve rod 14a. The sterilization device 30a is arranged on a side of the sealing element 26a facing away from the valve housing 12a, viewed along the valve rod 14a. It is also conceivable that the sterilization unit 34a, in particular the UV light source 46a, is arranged at least partially or completely inside the valve housing 12a. However, the sterilization unit 34a, in particular the UV light source 46a, is preferably arranged at a distance from an interior space 72a of the valve housing 12a, which is provided for guiding the process medium through the control valve 10a.

Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the UV light source 46a is intended to be operated in a pulsed manner in at least one operating state. In particular, the pulsed UV light source 46a is designed differently from an LED, for example as a quartz tube with xenon gas, which can be controlled by means of an electrical pulse.

In the 2 to 4 Further embodiments of the invention are shown. The following descriptions and the drawings are essentially limited to the differences between the embodiments, whereby with regard to identically designated components, in particular with regard to components with the same reference numerals, reference is also generally made to the drawings and/or the description of the embodiment, in particular the 1 , can be referred to. To distinguish the embodiments, the letter a is added to the reference numerals of the embodiment in the 1 In the examples of the 2 to 4 the letter a is replaced by the letters b to c.

In 2 a control valve 10b with an alternative design of a sterilization device 30b is shown. The control valve 10b is intended for a process plant, in particular with high cleanliness requirements, for example in the food and/or pharmaceutical industry. The control valve 10b comprises the sterilization device 30b, a valve housing 12b, a valve rod 14b and a valve structure 16b, wherein the valve structure 16b at least substantially completely encloses the valve rod 14b together with the valve housing 12b in some areas. The sterilization device 30b comprises a housing 32b, which is provided for receiving the valve rod 14b of the control valve 10b, and a sterilization unit 30b for sterilizing a volume 36b at least partially enclosed by the housing 32b and/or surfaces delimiting the volume 36b, in particular an inner surface 38b of the housing 32b, a surface 40b of the valve rod 14b and/or a medium arranged between the housing 32b and the valve rod 14b. The sterilization unit 30b comprises a UV light source 46b designed as a UVc LED. The 2 Sterilization device 30b shown or the one shown in the 2 The control valve 10b shown has an at least substantially analogous design to that described in the description of the 1 described sterilization device 30a or the device described in the description of 1 described control valve 10a, so that with regard to a design of the control valve 10a 2 illustrated sterilization device 30b or control valve 10b at least essentially to the description of the 1 In contrast to the one in 1 The sterilization device 30a shown comprises the 2 The sterilization device 30b shown has a supply unit 66b for electrically supplying the sterilization unit 34b, in particular the UV light source 46b, wherein the supply unit 66b is provided for a wireless connection to the sterilization unit 34b, in particular the UV light source 46b.

The wireless connection of the supply unit 66b and the sterilization unit 34b is realized by an inductive coupling. However, other types of wireless connection between the supply unit 66b and the sterilization unit 34b are also conceivable, such as via a capacitive coupling or via electromagnetic waves, in particular via light or radio signals. The supply unit 66b comprises a connecting element 74b arranged on the UV light source 46b and electrically connected to the UV light source 46b and a further connecting element 76b. The further connecting element 76b is arranged separately from the sterilization unit 34b, in particular the UV light source 46b, or from the connecting element 74b. The connecting element 74b and the further connecting element 76b are each designed as a coil and are intended to transmit energy to one another, preferably at least from the further connecting element 76b to the connecting element 74b. In particular, the connecting element 74b and the further connecting element 76b are designed to be inductively coupled for the transmission of electrical energy. The connecting element 74b is arranged on an inner side or an inner wall 44b of the housing 32b. The connecting element 74b is integrated into the inner wall 44b together with the UV light source 46b. The connecting element 74b is arranged together with the UV light source 46b within a recess 58b delimited by the housing 32b. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the connecting element 74b is arranged at least partially or completely within the volume 36b. The further connecting element 76b is arranged on an outer side of the housing 32b. Preferably, a wall 78b of the housing 32b, in particular viewed radially to the central axis 42b of the housing 32b, is arranged between the connecting element 74b and the further connecting element 76b. Preferably, the supply unit 66b comprises shielding means for electrically shielding the connecting elements 74b, 76b, in particular the connecting element 74b and/or the further connecting element 76b, to the housing 32b (indicated in figures).

It is conceivable that the supply unit 66b comprises a plurality of connecting elements 74b and/or further connecting elements 76b (see 3 ), in particular to supply a plurality of UV light sources 46b. Alternatively, it is conceivable that a plurality of UV light sources 46b are connected to a connecting element 74b of the supply unit 66b to form an electrical supply. Other designs of the connecting elements 74b, 76b are also conceivable, for example as emitters and receivers or as capacitor plates, in particular depending on the type of connection. The supply unit 66b is preferably provided to transmit electrical energy from an electrical network to the further connecting element 76b and via electromagnetic induction from the further connecting element 76b to the connecting element 74b which supplies the UV light source 46b. The housing 32b is preferably designed to be free of recesses on the wall 78b, in particular with the exception of a central passage for the valve rod 14b.

It is conceivable that the supply unit 66b is provided, preferably instead of a connection to the electrical network, to convert energy from a flow in a pneumatic line 80b of the control valve 10b to operate the sterilization unit 34b, in particular the UV light source 46b (in 2 shown indicated). The pneumatic line 80b is preferably provided for operating a drive and/or a position controller of the control valve 10b. In particular, the pneumatic line 80b is provided for supplying the control valve 10b, in particular the drive and/or the position controller of the control valve 10b, with compressed air. The pneumatic line 80b is preferably designed as a supply air or exhaust air line. The supply unit 66b is provided to provide electrical energy for operating the sterilization unit 34b, in particular the UV light source 46b. For example, the supply unit 66b comprises at least one movable, in particular magnetized, excitation element (not shown in figures), which is provided to be moved by the air within the pneumatic line 80b. In particular, an electrical current can be generated by the movement of the excitation element, for example via induction. However, other configurations of the supply unit 66b, in particular of the excitation element, are also conceivable. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the supply unit 66b is provided to convert energy from the process medium, in particular guided within the valve housing 12b, to operate the sterilization unit 34b, in particular the UV light source 46b (not shown in figures). In particular, it is conceivable that the supply unit 66b is provided to convert kinetic or thermal energy of the process medium into energy to operate the sterilization unit 34b, in particular the UV light source 46b. For example, the supply unit 66b comprises a flow-driven excitation element, such as a rotor, a turbine or the like or a heat exchanger with a turbine or an excitation element made of a thermoelectric material. Preferably, the supply unit 66b, in particular the excitation element, is at least partially within the valve housing 12b and/or a line element connected to the valve housing 12b, which for guiding process medium. Preferably, the supply unit 66b, in particular the excitation element, is arranged at least partially within a space through which process medium is to flow, preferably the valve housing 12b.

In contrast to the 1 The sterilization device 30a shown in FIG. 1 has the housing 32b of the 2 The sterilization device 30b shown does not have a window element. The UV light source 46b is arranged within the recess 58b, wherein the recess 58b is connected to the volume 36b or adjoins the volume 36b. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the UV light source 46b is arranged partially or completely directly in the volume 36b, wherein the UV light source 46b is arranged partially or completely within a contour of an inner wall 44b of the housing 32b. The UV light source 46b is preferably arranged directly or via the connecting element 74b or the shielding means for electrically shielding the connecting element 74b from the housing 32b on a further inner surface 47b of the housing 32b.

In 3 a control valve 10c with a further alternative embodiment of a sterilization device 30c is shown. The control valve 10c is intended for a process plant, in particular with high cleanliness requirements, for example in the food and/or pharmaceutical industry. The control valve 10c comprises the sterilization device 30c, a valve housing 12c, a valve rod 14c and a valve structure 16c, wherein the valve structure 16c at least substantially completely encloses the valve rod 14c together with the valve housing 32c in some areas. The sterilization device 30c comprises a housing 32c, which is provided for receiving the valve rod 14c of the control valve 10c, and a sterilization unit 34c for sterilizing a volume 36c at least partially enclosed by the housing 32c and/or surfaces delimiting the volume 36c, in particular an inner surface 38c of the housing 32c, a surface 40c of the valve rod 14c and/or a medium arranged between the housing 32c and the valve rod 14c. The 3 Sterilization device 30c shown or the one shown in the 3 The control valve 10c shown have an at least substantially analogous design to that described in the description of the 2 described sterilization device 30b or the device described in the description of 2 described control valve 10b, so that with regard to a design of the control valve 10b 3 illustrated sterilization device 30c or control valve 10c at least essentially to the description of the 2 In contrast to the one in 2 The sterilization device 30b shown comprises the sterilization unit 34c of the 3 shown sterilization device 30c has a plurality of UV light sources 46c, in particular four UV light sources 46c. The housing 32c has a central axis 42c and is intended to accommodate the valve rod 14c at least substantially parallel to the central axis 42c. The plurality of UV light sources 46c are arranged distributed around the central axis 42c, viewed along the central axis 42c. The UV light sources 46c are each designed as a UVc LED. In the 3 For example, four UV light sources 46c are shown. Alternatively, embodiments of the sterilization unit 34c with only three or more than four UV light sources 46c are also conceivable. The sterilization device 30c comprises a supply unit 66c, which comprises four connecting elements 74c and four further connecting elements 76c for a wireless supply of the UV light sources 46c. It is also conceivable that the UV light sources 46c are supplied via a different number of connecting elements 74c or further connecting elements 76c, wherein, for example, all UV light sources 46c are supplied via only one connecting element 74c and one further connecting element 76c of the supply unit 66c. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the supply unit 66c comprises a number of further connecting elements 76c that is smaller than a number of connecting elements 74c, wherein in particular more than one connecting element 74c is coupled to a single further connecting element 76c for energy transmission.

In 4 a control valve 10d with an alternative design of a sterilization device 30d is shown. The control valve 10d comprises the sterilization device 30d, a valve housing 12d, a valve rod 14d and a valve structure 16d, wherein the valve structure 16d at least substantially completely encloses the valve rod 14d together with the valve housing 12d in some areas. The sterilization device 30d comprises a housing 32d, which is provided for receiving the valve rod 14d of the control valve 10d, and a sterilization unit 30d for sterilizing a volume 36d at least partially enclosed by the housing 32d and/or surfaces delimiting the volume 36d, in particular an inner surface 38d of the housing 32d, a surface 40d of the valve rod 14d and/or a medium arranged between the housing 32d and the valve rod 14d. The sterilization unit 30d comprises two UV light sources 46d designed as UVc LEDs. The 4 Sterilization device 30d shown or the one shown in the 4 The control valve 10d shown have an at least substantially analogous design to that described in the description of the 1 described sterilization device 30a or the one in the description of 1 described control valve 10a, so that with regard to a design of the control valve 10a 4 illustrated sterilization device 30d or control valve 10d at least essentially to the description of the 1 In contrast to the one in 1 The sterilization device 30a shown comprises the sterilization unit 34d of the 4 The sterilization device 30d shown has two UV light sources 46d, which are arranged in particular evenly distributed around a central axis 42d of the housing 32d or a main extension axis 22d of the valve rod 14d. The UV light sources 46d are integrated into the valve rod 14d. The valve rod 14d delimits an inner channel 84d for a passage of a line element 70d of a supply unit 66d of the sterilization device 30d, which extends at a distance from the surface 40d of the valve rod 14d to the UV light sources 46d. The supply unit 66d is in particular intended to supply the UV light sources 46d with electrical energy through the inner channel 84d. The sterilization device 30d comprises two window elements 60d, each of which has an outer surface that is flush with the surface 40d of the valve rod 14d. The UV light sources 46d are arranged on a side of the window elements 60d facing away from the outer surfaces of the window elements 60d and are designed to be separated from the volume 36d in a fluid-tight and/or pressure-tight manner, in particular via the window elements 60d and, for example, sealing means. The UV light sources 46d are arranged along the main extension axis 22d of the valve rod 14d or, as viewed along the central axis 42d, within an outer contour of the valve rod 14d. The valve rod 14d forms recesses 86d, with the UV light sources 46d and the window elements 60d being arranged completely in the recesses 86d of the valve rod 14d. As an alternative to the supply unit 66d with the line elements 70d, it is conceivable that the supply unit 66d is provided to supply the UV light sources 46d with electrical energy wirelessly, for example analogously to the 2 and 3 shown embodiments of the sterilization device 30b, 30c.

In general, preferably in a configuration with several UV light sources 46a, 46b, 46c, 46d, it is alternatively conceivable that the control valve 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d or the sterilization device 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d is designed without a scattering coating 64a, 64b, 64c, 64d.

Reference symbols

10

Control valve

12

Valve housing

14

Valve rod

16

Valve structure

18

Actuator

20

Valve seat

22

Main extension axis

24

Fasteners

26

Sealing element

28

Connection interface

30

Sterilization device

32

Housing

34

Sterilization unit

36

volume

38

Inner surface

40

surface

42

Central axis

44

Interior wall

46

UV light source

47

Inner surface

48

opening

50

execution

54

Main radiation direction

56

Distance

58

Recess

60

Window element

64

Scatter coating

66

Supply unit

68

Sealant

70

Pipe element

72

inner space

74

Connecting element

76

Connecting element

78

Wall

80

Pneumatic line

84

Inner channel

86

Recess

Claims (17)

Sterilization device for a control valve (10a; 10b; 10c; 10d), with a housing (32a; 32b; 32c; 32d) which is provided for receiving a valve rod (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d) of the control valve (10a; 10b; 10c; 10d), and with a sterilization unit (34a; 34b; 34c; 34d) for sterilizing a valve rod (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d) which is at least partially Housing (32a; 32b; 32c; 32d) enclosed volume (36a; 36b; 36c; 36d) and/or surfaces delimiting the volume (36a; 36b; 36c; 36d), in particular at least one inner surface (38a; 38b; 38c; 38d) of the housing (32a; 32b; 32c; 32d), at least one surface (40a; 40b; 40c; 40d) of the valve rod (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d) and/or a medium arranged between the housing (32a; 32b; 32c; 32d) and the valve rod (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d), characterized in that the sterilization unit (34a; 34b; 34c; 34d) comprises at least one UV light source (46a; 46b; 46c; 46d). Sterilization device according to Claim 1 , characterized in that the at least one UV light source (46a; 46b; 46c; 46d) is designed as a UV-LED, in particular as a UVc-LED. Sterilization device according to Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the at least one UV light source (46a; 46b; 46c) is intended to be operated in a pulsed manner in at least one operating state. Sterilization device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one UV light source (46a; 46b; 46c) is arranged on an inner surface (38a, 47a; 38b, 47b; 38c, 47c) of the housing (32a; 32b; 32c), in particular in an assembled state facing the valve rod (14a; 14b; 14c). Sterilization device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one UV light source (46a; 46b; 46c) is integrated into an inner wall (44a; 44b; 44c) of the housing (32a; 32b; 32c), in particular in an assembled state facing the valve rod (14a; 14b; 14c). Sterilization device according to Claim 5 , characterized by a window element (60a; 60d) which is designed to be permeable to UV radiation from the at least one UV light source (46a; 46d), wherein the window element (60a; 60d) is provided to separate the at least one UV light source (46a; 46d) from the volume (36a; 36d) at least partially enclosed by the housing (32a; 32d). Sterilization device according to one of the Claims 1 until 3 , characterized in that the at least one UV light source (46d) is intended to be arranged on the valve rod (14d), preferably integrated into the valve rod (14d). Sterilization device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing (32a; 32b; 32c; 32d) has a scattering coating (64a; 64b; 64c; 64d) arranged on at least one inner surface (38a; 38b; 38c; 38d) of the housing (32a; 32b; 32c; 32d), in particular in an assembled state facing the valve rod (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d), which is provided for reflecting UV radiation from the at least one UV light source (46a; 46b; 46c; 46d) within the housing (32a; 32b; 32c; 32d). Sterilization device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a supply unit (66a) for an electrical supply of the sterilization unit (34a), in particular the at least one UV light source (46a), wherein the housing (32a) delimits at least one passage (50a) for a connection of the at least one UV light source (46a) to the supply unit (66a), wherein the passage (50a), in particular in an assembled state of the sterilization device (30a), is formed separately from the volume (36a) at least partially enclosed by the housing (32a). Sterilization device according to one of the Claims 1 until 8th , characterized by a supply unit (66b; 66c) for electrically supplying the sterilization unit (34b; 34c), in particular the at least one UV light source (46b; 46c), wherein the supply unit (66b; 66c) is provided for a wireless connection to the sterilization unit (34b; 34c), in particular the at least one UV light source (46b; 46c). Sterilization device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sterilization unit (34c; 34d) comprises a plurality of UV light sources (46c; 46d) and the housing (32c; 32d) has at least one central axis (42c; 42d), wherein in particular the housing (32c; 32d) is provided to accommodate the valve rod (14c; 14d) at least substantially parallel to the central axis (42c; 42d), wherein the plurality of UV light sources (46c; 46d), in particular viewed along the central axis (42c; 42d), are arranged distributed around the central axis (42c; 42d). Control valve for a process plant, in particular with high cleanliness requirements, for example in the food and/or pharmaceutical industry, with at least one sterilization device (30a; 30b; 30c; 30d) according to one of the preceding claims, with at least one valve housing (12a; 12b; 12c; 12d), with at least one valve rod (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d) and with at least one valve structure (16a; 16b; 16c; 16d), wherein the valve structure (16a; 16b; 16c; 16d) at least substantially completely encloses the valve rod (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d) together with the valve housing (12a; 12b; 12c; 12d) in some regions. Control valve according to Claim 12 , characterized in that the housing (32a; 32b; 32c; 32d) of the sterilization device (30a; 30b; 30c; 30d) is formed as part of the valve structure (16a; 16b; 16c; 16d) Control valve according to Claim 12 or 13 , characterized in that the sterilization unit (34a; 34b; 34c; 34d), preferably the at least one UV light source (46a; 46b; 46c; 46d), in particular viewed perpendicular to a main extension axis (22a; 22b; 22c; 22d) of the valve rod (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d), is arranged outside the valve housing (12a; 12b; 12c; 12d). Control valve according to one of the Claims 12 until 14 , characterized in that the valve structure (16a; 16b; 16c; 16d) comprises at least one sealing element (26a; 26b; 26c; 26d) which is intended to seal a passage formed along the valve rod (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d) for a process medium from the valve housing (12a; 12b; 12c; 12d), wherein the sterilization device (30a; 30b; 30c; 30d) is arranged on a side of the sealing element (26a; 26b; 26c; 26d) facing away from the valve housing (12a; 12b; 12c; 12d), viewed along the valve rod (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d). Control valve according to one of the Claims 12 until 15 , characterized in that the valve rod (14a; 14b; 14c) has a scattering coating (64a; 64b; 64c) which is provided for reflecting UV radiation from the at least one UV light source (46a; 46b; 46c) of the sterilization unit (34a; 34b; 34c). Control valve according to one of the Claims 12 until 16 , characterized by a pneumatic line (80b), in particular for operating a drive and/or a position controller of the control valve (10b; 10c), wherein the sterilization device (30b; 30c) comprises a supply unit (66b; 66c) which is provided to convert energy from a flow in the pneumatic line (80b) to operate the sterilization unit (34b; 34c), in particular the at least one UV light source (46b; 46c).

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