EP0621407A1 - Valve assembly - Google Patents

Valve assembly Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP0621407A1
EP0621407A1 EP94103404A EP94103404A EP0621407A1 EP 0621407 A1 EP0621407 A1 EP 0621407A1 EP 94103404 A EP94103404 A EP 94103404A EP 94103404 A EP94103404 A EP 94103404A EP 0621407 A1 EP0621407 A1 EP 0621407A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
fluid
distributor
adapter part
valve station
station according
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP94103404A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0621407B1 (en
Inventor
Kurt Stoll
Thomas Lederer
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Festo SE and Co KG
Original Assignee
Festo SE and Co KG
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Festo SE and Co KG filed Critical Festo SE and Co KG
Publication of EP0621407A1 publication Critical patent/EP0621407A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0621407B1 publication Critical patent/EP0621407B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F15—FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS; HYDRAULICS OR PNEUMATICS IN GENERAL
    • F15B—SYSTEMS ACTING BY MEANS OF FLUIDS IN GENERAL; FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS, e.g. SERVOMOTORS; DETAILS OF FLUID-PRESSURE SYSTEMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F15B13/00—Details of servomotor systems ; Valves for servomotor systems
    • F15B13/02—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors
    • F15B13/06—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with two or more servomotors
    • F15B13/08—Assemblies of units, each for the control of a single servomotor only
    • F15B13/0803—Modular units
    • F15B13/0807—Manifolds
    • F15B13/0817—Multiblock manifolds
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F15—FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS; HYDRAULICS OR PNEUMATICS IN GENERAL
    • F15B—SYSTEMS ACTING BY MEANS OF FLUIDS IN GENERAL; FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS, e.g. SERVOMOTORS; DETAILS OF FLUID-PRESSURE SYSTEMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F15B13/00—Details of servomotor systems ; Valves for servomotor systems
    • F15B13/02—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors
    • F15B13/06—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with two or more servomotors
    • F15B13/08—Assemblies of units, each for the control of a single servomotor only
    • F15B13/0803—Modular units
    • F15B13/0832—Modular valves
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F15—FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS; HYDRAULICS OR PNEUMATICS IN GENERAL
    • F15B—SYSTEMS ACTING BY MEANS OF FLUIDS IN GENERAL; FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS, e.g. SERVOMOTORS; DETAILS OF FLUID-PRESSURE SYSTEMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F15B13/00—Details of servomotor systems ; Valves for servomotor systems
    • F15B13/02—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors
    • F15B13/06—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with two or more servomotors
    • F15B13/08—Assemblies of units, each for the control of a single servomotor only
    • F15B13/0803—Modular units
    • F15B13/0846—Electrical details
    • F15B13/085—Electrical controllers
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F15—FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS; HYDRAULICS OR PNEUMATICS IN GENERAL
    • F15B—SYSTEMS ACTING BY MEANS OF FLUIDS IN GENERAL; FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS, e.g. SERVOMOTORS; DETAILS OF FLUID-PRESSURE SYSTEMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F15B13/00—Details of servomotor systems ; Valves for servomotor systems
    • F15B13/02—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors
    • F15B13/06—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with two or more servomotors
    • F15B13/08—Assemblies of units, each for the control of a single servomotor only
    • F15B13/0803—Modular units
    • F15B13/0846—Electrical details
    • F15B13/0867—Data bus systems
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F15—FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS; HYDRAULICS OR PNEUMATICS IN GENERAL
    • F15B—SYSTEMS ACTING BY MEANS OF FLUIDS IN GENERAL; FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS, e.g. SERVOMOTORS; DETAILS OF FLUID-PRESSURE SYSTEMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F15B13/00—Details of servomotor systems ; Valves for servomotor systems
    • F15B13/02—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors
    • F15B13/06—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with two or more servomotors
    • F15B13/08—Assemblies of units, each for the control of a single servomotor only
    • F15B13/0803—Modular units
    • F15B13/0871—Channels for fluid
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F15—FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS; HYDRAULICS OR PNEUMATICS IN GENERAL
    • F15B—SYSTEMS ACTING BY MEANS OF FLUIDS IN GENERAL; FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS, e.g. SERVOMOTORS; DETAILS OF FLUID-PRESSURE SYSTEMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F15B13/00—Details of servomotor systems ; Valves for servomotor systems
    • F15B13/02—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors
    • F15B13/06—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with two or more servomotors
    • F15B13/08—Assemblies of units, each for the control of a single servomotor only
    • F15B13/0803—Modular units
    • F15B13/0875—Channels for electrical components, e.g. for cables or sensors
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F15—FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS; HYDRAULICS OR PNEUMATICS IN GENERAL
    • F15B—SYSTEMS ACTING BY MEANS OF FLUIDS IN GENERAL; FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS, e.g. SERVOMOTORS; DETAILS OF FLUID-PRESSURE SYSTEMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F15B13/00—Details of servomotor systems ; Valves for servomotor systems
    • F15B13/02—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors
    • F15B13/06—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with two or more servomotors
    • F15B13/08—Assemblies of units, each for the control of a single servomotor only
    • F15B13/0803—Modular units
    • F15B13/0878—Assembly of modular units
    • F15B13/0885—Assembly of modular units using valves combined with other components
    • F15B13/0892—Valves combined with fluid components
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F15—FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS; HYDRAULICS OR PNEUMATICS IN GENERAL
    • F15B—SYSTEMS ACTING BY MEANS OF FLUIDS IN GENERAL; FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS, e.g. SERVOMOTORS; DETAILS OF FLUID-PRESSURE SYSTEMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F15B13/00—Details of servomotor systems ; Valves for servomotor systems
    • F15B13/02—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors
    • F15B13/06—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with two or more servomotors
    • F15B13/08—Assemblies of units, each for the control of a single servomotor only
    • F15B13/0803—Modular units
    • F15B13/0878—Assembly of modular units
    • F15B13/0896—Assembly of modular units using different types or sizes of valves

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a valve station for use in connection with the control of fluid-actuated devices, for example working cylinders, with a fluid distributor which can be equipped with valves and which has internal fluid channels which communicate with the existing valves.
  • Valve stations of this type are also referred to as valve terminals and are derived, for example, from German utility model G 92 11 109. They contain a fluid distributor, which is generally plate-like, and is equipped with valves which can be actuated by means of electrical actuation signals. The actuation signals are supplied by a control unit, which can be arranged remotely from the valve station or better integrated into the valve station. Starting from the valve station, fluid-operated devices to be controlled are started up by means of pressure medium lines, which communicate with the valves. With the help of the valve station, for example, a machine control can be carried out from a central location, the centralization of the installation effort considerably reduced.
  • the previous valve stations can only be equipped with a very specific basic valve type, for which the fluid distributor is designed.
  • the respective basic type is usually a multi-way valve of a certain size and with certain channel cross-sections, which can only be subject to deviations with regard to the assigned valve drives, for example by only having one or two solenoid valves for actuation. If devices that have different pressure and / or volume requirements are to be controlled as part of an overall system, then several valve stations must be provided, each of which is equipped with valves of one of the required basic types. The result is a relatively high amount of tubing and wiring, and a relatively large amount of space, since each valve station must be equipped with its own distributor unit, which sends the necessary actuation signals to the valve drives.
  • valve station at least contains two non-identical fluid distributors arranged one after the other in a mounting direction, which differ structurally from one another at least by different designs of their mutually facing mounting sides, and which are provided for equipping valves with basic types that differ from one another, wherein between two successive non-identical fluid distributors there is an internal fluid channel connecting them and, if necessary, internal Fluid distributor interconnecting adapter part is provided.
  • valve station In this way it is possible to equip a single valve station with valves of different basic types at the same time.
  • fluid-actuated devices can thus be controlled which differ from one another in terms of their actuation parameters.
  • the tubing and wiring effort is considerably reduced, since there is no need to link two separate valve stations and practically several valve stations are combined in a common valve station.
  • An essential feature of the valve station is at least one adapter part which is designed in such a way that different types of fluid distributors can be installed on, in particular, opposite connection sides, each of which is designed in such a way that it is suitable for fitting with valves of a certain basic type, which are assigned to the one fluid distributor Differentiate basic valve types from those assigned to the other fluid distributor are.
  • connection side of the adapter part facing a respective fluid distributor is expediently matched to the design of the assigned mounting side, so that on the one hand the connection function is ensured and on the other hand a fluid and / or electrical connection of the fluid channels and / or any electrical conductors present on both sides if required enables.
  • the adapter part can have at least one connection opening for feeding in pressure medium, which communicates with a feed channel running inside the adapter part. Depending on the configuration of the adapter part, this in turn can communicate with a feed distribution channel in one or in both attached fluid distributors, in order to provide the supply of working fluid in this way, which is then assigned to the connected fluid-actuated devices by means of the valves. If the feed channel only communicates with one fluid distributor, said fluid distributor can be assigned, for example, a different pressure level than the other fluid distributor installed, which receives the working medium via another connection opening, which is located, for example, on a further subsequent adapter. In this way you can divide the valve station into individual sections, different pressure conditions prevailing in the area of individual fluid distributors. This is particularly advantageous if the assigned valves differ from one another in terms of their pressure capacity.
  • connection opening of the adapter part If a further connection opening is already present, an additional pressure medium feed can take place via the connection opening of the adapter part in order to take into account a high air requirement.
  • the adapter part expediently contains a continuous first electrical conductor arrangement which extends between its two connection sides facing the connection sides of the fluid distributors and which communicates with second electrical conductor arrangements in the region of the fluid distributors, which lead to the valve drives of the valves.
  • the first electrical conductor arrangement can in this case be firmly connected to the second electrical conductor arrangements, but it is advisable to provide an electrical coupling in the region of the mounting location of the fluid distributors, in particular in the form of a plug connection device.
  • a working cylinder 1 is indicated as a representative of any fluid-actuated device that can be controlled by means of the valve station 2.
  • a plurality of fluid-operated devices which can be part of a machine or system, will be connected to the valve station 2 at the same time.
  • Compressed air is provided as the actuating fluid of the exemplary embodiment.
  • the valve station 2 is an inherently rigid, uniformly manageable object. It is characterized by a modular structure, so that it can be easily adapted to the operating conditions. The valve station 2 can be expanded or retrofitted at any time.
  • the valve station 2 initially contains two fluid distributors 3, 4, which are arranged in a linear direction 5 in the exemplary embodiment are arranged sequentially.
  • Each fluid distributor 3, 4 is equipped with at least one and in particular a plurality of valves 6, 7, which are multi-way valves, the longitudinal axis of which, in particular, runs at right angles to the mounting direction 5.
  • the valves 6, 7 are actuated by means of electrical actuation signals and each have at least one valve drive 8, 9, which contains at least one electromagnet and can in this respect be formed by an electrically actuated solenoid valve.
  • the electrical actuation signals are supplied by a distributor unit 13, which is part of the valve station 2.
  • This distributor unit 13 is assigned a control unit 14 which, in the exemplary embodiment, is integrated into the distributor unit 13 or forms it.
  • control unit 14 It ensures that the individual valve drives 8, 9 receive their actuation signals in a certain sequence, which is stored in a control program that is located in the control unit 14.
  • the control program can expediently be changed if necessary, which is why an interface 15 is provided on the control unit 14 which enables the connection of a computer (PC).
  • Further interfaces 16 are the input and output of a field bus, via which communication can take place with further valve stations.
  • the distribution unit 13 can also be a fieldbus communication unit without its own control program, which communicates via the interfaces 16 with a remote control unit from which the control signals originate. Furthermore
  • the distribution unit 13 can be a simple 1: 1 signal distributor which communicates with a control unit (not shown in more detail) via a number of electrical lines selected as a function of the number of valve drives 8, 9, the plurality of conductors advantageously being combined in a multipole cable , which is why in this case one can also speak of a multipole valve station (not shown).
  • each fluid distributor 3, 4 runs at least one feed distribution channel 17, 17 ', which runs in particular in the direction of installation 5, and into which pressure medium can be fed via at least one connection opening 21, 21', which as working fluid for actuating the working cylinder 1 or one otherwise connected fluid-operated device is used.
  • the feed takes place, for example, via pressure medium lines 22 connected to the connection openings 21, 21 ′, which lead to a pressure medium source.
  • Each fluid distributor 3, 4 also contains supply channels 23, which start from the associated feed distribution channel 17, 17 'and open out at the valve assembly surface 24, 24' of the fluid distributor 3, 4. Vent channels 25 also open there, which communicate with a vent manifold 26, 26 'which also runs inside the assigned fluid distributor 3, 4. This is used to vent the connected fluid-actuated devices Facilities.
  • each fluid distributor 3, 4 contains consumer channels 27, which on the one hand also open at the assigned assembly surface 24, 24 'and on the other hand open to a connection surface 29, where pressure medium lines 28 can be connected, which lead to the fluid-actuated devices, here to the working cylinder 1 .
  • the channel openings on the assembly surfaces 24 are combined into groups which open out at individual assembly locations 31 marked with dash-dotted lines in FIG.
  • valve drives 8, 9 receive their actuation signals via second electrical conductor arrangements 32, 32 ', which extend in particular in the mounting direction 5 and expediently likewise run inside the fluid distributors 3, 4. They are in electrical connection with the distribution unit 13.
  • second electrical conductor arrangements 32, 32 ' which extend in particular in the mounting direction 5 and expediently likewise run inside the fluid distributors 3, 4. They are in electrical connection with the distribution unit 13.
  • the electrical connection to the assigned second electrical conductor arrangement 32, 32 ' is expediently established at the same time by suitable electrical plug connections 33 being present.
  • valves 6, 7 which are present in the exemplary embodiment and each consist of a fluid distributor 3, 4 and thus equipped Composing distributor assemblies 34, 34 'are not identical and differ in their construction. Both the fluid distributors 3, 4 and the valves 6, 7 are structurally different. The differences in the fluid distributor structure result from the different valves 6, 7, which differ from one another in their basic type. The differences in the exemplary embodiment lie, on the one hand, in different arrangement patterns of the valve channel outlets, which necessitates a different arrangement of the groups of channel outlets within a respective assembly location 31.
  • valves 7 of one distributor assembly 34 ′ are larger in volume than the valves 6 of the other distributor assembly 34, which requires valve channels with a larger cross section and also requires larger cross sections on the part of the supply channels 23.
  • a respective valve drive 9 of the larger valves 7 contains two electromagnets at the same time, so that a different connection scheme to the second electrical conductors 32 ′ is required than that for the smaller valves 6 of the first distributor assembly 34.
  • valve station 2 forms a self-supporting, functional unit. This is particularly due to the fact that between the non-identical fluid distributors 3, 4 of the two distributor assemblies 34, 34 ' an adapter part 35 is inserted, which contributes both to the mechanical connection and to the fluidic and electrical connection of the two distributor assemblies 34, 34 '.
  • the adapter part 35 of the exemplary embodiment is designed as an adapter block, which has a cuboid outer contour. Two of its opposite sides are connection sides 36, 36 ', against which a respectively assigned fluid distributor 3, 4 bears with the facing end face, hereinafter referred to as attachment side 37, 37'.
  • the mechanical connection is made via suitable connecting elements, which are not shown in more detail and which are in particular screws.
  • an adapter channel 38 is designed as a feed channel 39, which communicates in this way with the feed distribution channels 17, 17 'of the two fluid distributors 3, 4.
  • Another adapter channel 38 forms a ventilation channel 40 which is connected to the ventilation collecting channels 26, 26 '.
  • the arrangement is such that the outer cross-sectional contour of the adapter part 35 essentially corresponds to that of the subsequent larger fluid distributor 4, so that the associated connection and attachment sides 36 ', 37' overlap.
  • the cross-sectional area of the fluid distributor 3 on the other side is smaller, so that the connecting side 36 facing its mounting side 37 is only partially covered, the channel openings being of course located in the covered area.
  • the distribution unit 13 is preferably directly connected to one the distributor assemblies 34 attached, in the present case to the smaller cross section.
  • the distributor unit 13 is expediently located on the attachment side 45 of the associated fluid distributor 3 opposite the adapter part 35 in the mounting direction 5.
  • the connection can be accomplished by means of screws or other connecting elements.
  • the distributor unit 13 can at the same time be a closure part for the feed distribution duct 17 and the venting collecting duct 26 running in the associated fluid distributor 3, a seal being able to be inserted if necessary.
  • the duct closure of the continuous fluid ducts of the other fluid distributor 4 opposite the adapter part 35 takes place, for example, by means of a cover-like closure part 47, which can be attached directly to the assigned mounting side 46. It can bring about a complete closure, but an embodiment is also possible in which it has connection openings which communicate with the covered channels and to which pressure medium lines, silencers or the like can be connected (not shown).
  • the end part 47 is not located directly on the attachment side 46, rather a further adapter part 48 is interposed, the continuous adapter channels 49 of which communicate at one end with the fluid channels of the fluid distributor 4 and are closed at the other end by the end part 47.
  • connection opening 21 of the adapter part 35 arranged between two non-identical fluid distributors 3, 4 communicates with its feed channel 39 and is thus simultaneously connected to the feed distributor channels 17, 17 'of both fluid distributors 3, 4.
  • both distributor assemblies 34, 34 'with pressure medium via a central connection opening 21.
  • increased air consumption can occur which, under certain circumstances, cannot be adequately covered via the central connection opening 21.
  • This further connection opening 21 ' communicates via one of the adapter channels 49 with the mouth of the feed distribution channel 17' opposite the first adapter part.
  • the second adapter part 48 is preferably an adapter part which is mirror-inverted with respect to the first adapter part 35, so that it opens up the possibility of mounting a further distributor assembly, not shown in more detail, which corresponds in terms of its basic structure to that of the first distributor module 34 .
  • the second adapter part 48 can moreover have a design and channel routing which enables the connection of a distributor assembly which is not identical to any of the existing ones. It can be seen that with the help of several adapter parts valve stations can be assembled, which can be any number different Contains distribution boards.
  • the resulting modular structure also gives you the option of assigning one or more distributor assemblies 34, 34 'to their own adapter part 35, 48, which is assigned to the relevant distributor assembly 34, 34' with regard to at least one function.
  • a corresponding embodiment is indicated by dash-dotted lines in FIG. 2, the feed channel 39 being closed off from the fluid distributor 4 facing the further adapter part 48 by means of an end wall 52.
  • the latter can be an integral part of the adapter part 34, but a separate detachable design is recommended, for example in the manner of a screw plug, so that one has the option of closing or releasing the fluid passage as required.
  • the valve station 2 in individual Subdivide sections and work with different pressure levels or fluid quantities.
  • the venting channel 40 of the adapter part 35 can be a continuous channel, and it is expedient to connect all the venting collecting channels 26, 26 ′ of the valve station 2 in series without interruption. If necessary, several such ventilation duct strands can of course be present.
  • the adapter parts 35 are particularly suitable for providing at least one ventilation opening 53, which communicates with the assigned ventilation duct 25 and, in particular, enables an exhaust air silencer 54 to be connected directly.
  • the electrical connection between the already mentioned second electrical conductor arrangements 32, 32 ' is expediently also carried out via a respective adapter part 35 arranged between two distributor assemblies 34, 34'.
  • the adapter part 35 has a first electrical conductor arrangement 55 which is continuous in the mounting direction 5 and opens out on both connection sides 36, 36 'and which is in electrical connection with the two second electrical conductor arrangement 32 in the connection region to the respective fluid distributor 3, 4 , 32 'stands.
  • electrical plug-in connection devices which, in particular, interlock automatically when a fluid distributor 3, 4 and the adapter part 35 are fitted together in the mounting direction 5.
  • the first electrical conductor arrangement 55 expediently runs in a through-cavity of the adapter part 35, which is not shown in detail. In addition to such an integrated embodiment, it would of course also be conceivable to accommodate the first electrical conductor arrangement 55 on the outside of the adapter part 35 and, for example, in a separate housing.
  • a respective adapter part 35 automatically provides mounting options for further components of the valve stations 2.
  • the adapter part 35 can be equipped with a regulator 56, with which the pilot pressure can be set, the actuators of the valves 6, 7 for Switching the same applied.
  • the controller 56 can communicate on the one hand with the feed channel 39 via pilot channels 57 running inside the adapter part 35 and on the other hand with pilot channels (not shown in more detail) in the fluid distributors 3, 4, which lead to the valves 6, 7.
  • a structure of the valve station 2, in which a respective fluid distributor is located, is particularly user-friendly 3, 4 is composed of a plurality of distributor modules 58 which are successively attached to one another in the direction of installation 5.
  • Each of these distributor modules 58 is preferably suitable for equipping with at least one valve 6, 7, wherein in the exemplary embodiment there is a possibility of equipping for two valves 6, 7 in each case.
  • the distributor modules 58 expediently have a block-like structure with a cuboidal outer contour in particular.
  • fluid distributors 3, 4, of practically any length result.
  • the user of the valve station 2 has the possibility of building the same according to the modular principle as required and in doing so can arbitrarily link distributor modules 58 of different types using suitable adapter parts 35, 48.
  • a respective distributor module 58 expediently contains, in the direction of installation 5, continuous sections of the respective feed distributor duct 17, 17 'and ventilation collecting duct 26, 26' and the associated second electrical conductor arrangement 32, 32 '. These sections complement each other automatically when they are put together to form a continuous strand, it being possible to provide seals for the fluid channels and electrical plug connection means for the conductor arrangements in the area of the connection points.
  • the arrangement is expediently such that the placement surfaces 24, 24 'of the fluid distributors 3, 4 point towards one another in the same direction, the adapter partial surfaces 59 containing the ventilation openings 53 also expediently are aligned accordingly.

Abstract

A valve assembly is proposed which can be used in connection with the control of fluid-actuated devices (1). It contains at least two fluid distributors (3, 4) which are arranged to follow one another in a mounting direction (5) and are of different construction from one another at least due to the different configurations of their mounting sides (37, 37') facing one another. They serve to fit valves (6, 7) of different basic type. An adapter part (35) is provided between two dissimilar fluid distributors (3, 4) of this type which follow one another. The adapter part (35) connects these fluid distributors (3, 4) and if need be interlinks internal fluid passages (17, 17'; 26, 26'). In this way, valve assemblies (2) can be constructed which contain various types of valves (6, 7). <IMAGE>

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Ventilstation zur Verwendung im Zusammenhang mit der Steuerung fluidbetätigbarer Einrichtungen, beispielsweise von Arbeitszylindern, mit einem Fluidverteiler, der mit Ventilen bestückbar ist,und der über interne Fluidkanäle verfügt, die mit den vorhandenen Ventilen kommunizieren.The invention relates to a valve station for use in connection with the control of fluid-actuated devices, for example working cylinders, with a fluid distributor which can be equipped with valves and which has internal fluid channels which communicate with the existing valves.

Ventilstationen dieser Art werden auch als Ventilinseln bezeichnet und gehen beispielsweise aus dem deutschen Gebrauchsmuster G 92 11 109 hervor. Sie enthalten einen in der Regel plattenähnlichen Fluidverteiler, der mit Ventilen bestückt ist, die mittels elektrischer Betätigungssignale betätigt werden können. Die Betätigungssignale liefert eine Steuereinheit, die entfernt von der Ventilstation angeordnet sein kann oder besser in die Ventilstation integriert ist. Ausgehend von der Ventilstation werden anzusteuernde fluidbetätigbare Einrichtungen mittels Druckmittelleitungen angefahren, die mit den Ventilen kommunizieren. Mit Hilfe der Ventilstation läßt sich also von zentraler Stelle aus beispielsweise eine Maschinensteuerung vornehmen, wobei die Zentralisierung den Installationsaufwand beträchtlich verringert.Valve stations of this type are also referred to as valve terminals and are derived, for example, from German utility model G 92 11 109. They contain a fluid distributor, which is generally plate-like, and is equipped with valves which can be actuated by means of electrical actuation signals. The actuation signals are supplied by a control unit, which can be arranged remotely from the valve station or better integrated into the valve station. Starting from the valve station, fluid-operated devices to be controlled are started up by means of pressure medium lines, which communicate with the valves. With the help of the valve station, for example, a machine control can be carried out from a central location, the centralization of the installation effort considerably reduced.

Die bisherigen Ventilstationen sind jeweils nur mit einem ganz bestimmten Ventilgrundtyp bestückbar, hinsichtlich dessen der Fluidverteiler konstruktiv ausgelegt ist. Der jeweilige Grundtyp ist regelmäßig ein Mehrwegeventil bestimmter Baugröße und mit bestimmten Kanalquerschnitten, das lediglich hinsichtlich der zugeordneten Ventilantriebe Abweichungen unterliegen kann, indem zum Beispiel nur eines oder zwei Magnetventile zur Betätigung vorhanden sind. Sind im Rahmen einer Gesamtanlage Einrichtungen anzusteuern, die über einen unterschiedlichen Druck- und/oder Volumenbedarf verfügen, so muß man mehrere Ventilstationen vorsehen, die jeweils mit Ventilen eines der benötigten Grundtypen ausgestattet sind. Die Folge ist ein relativ hoher Verschlauchungs- und Verdrahtungsaufwand, desweiteren ein relativ hoher Platzbedarf, da jede Ventilstation mit einer eigenen Verteilereinheit ausgestattet werden muß, die den Ventilantrieben die notwendigen Betätigungssignale zukommen läßt.The previous valve stations can only be equipped with a very specific basic valve type, for which the fluid distributor is designed. The respective basic type is usually a multi-way valve of a certain size and with certain channel cross-sections, which can only be subject to deviations with regard to the assigned valve drives, for example by only having one or two solenoid valves for actuation. If devices that have different pressure and / or volume requirements are to be controlled as part of an overall system, then several valve stations must be provided, each of which is equipped with valves of one of the required basic types. The result is a relatively high amount of tubing and wiring, and a relatively large amount of space, since each valve station must be equipped with its own distributor unit, which sends the necessary actuation signals to the valve drives.

Es ist die Aufgabe der Erfindung, eine Ventilstation der eingangs genannten Art zu schaffen, die bei reduziertem Verschlauchungs- und Verdrahtungsaufwand einen flexibleren Einsatz ermöglicht.It is the object of the invention to create a valve station of the type mentioned at the outset, which enables more flexible use with reduced tubing and wiring effort.

Diese Aufgabe wird dadurch gelöst, daß die Ventilstation mindestens zwei in einer Anbaurichtung aufeinanderfolgend angeordnete, sich zumindest durch unterschiedliche Ausgestaltungen ihrer einander zugewandten Anbauseiten konstruktiv voneinander unterscheidende nichtidentische Fluidverteiler enthält, die zur Bestückung mit Ventilen sich von einander unterscheidenden Grundtyps vorgesehen sind, wobei zwischen zwei aufeinanderfolgenden nichtidentischen Fluidverteilern ein diese verbindendes und erforderlichenfalls interne Fluidkanäle beider Fluidverteiler miteinander verknüpfendes Adapterteil vorgesehen ist.This object is achieved in that the valve station at least contains two non-identical fluid distributors arranged one after the other in a mounting direction, which differ structurally from one another at least by different designs of their mutually facing mounting sides, and which are provided for equipping valves with basic types that differ from one another, wherein between two successive non-identical fluid distributors there is an internal fluid channel connecting them and, if necessary, internal Fluid distributor interconnecting adapter part is provided.

Auf diese Weise ist es möglich, eine einzige Ventilstation gleichzeitig mit Ventilen unterschiedlichen Grundtyps zu bestücken. Ausgehend von einer Ventilstation können somit fluidbetätigbare Einrichtungen angesteuert werden, die sich hinsichtlich ihrer Betätigungsparameter voneinander unterscheiden. Der Verschlauchungs- und Verdrahtungsaufwand ist erheblich reduziert, da sich eine Verknüpfung zweier separater Ventilstationen erübrigt und praktisch mehrere Ventilstationen in einer gemeinsamen Ventilstation vereinigt sind. Wesentliches Merkmal der Ventilstation ist mindestens ein Adapterteil, das so ausgebildet ist, daß sich auf insbesondere entgegengesetzten Verbindungsseiten verschiedenartige Fluidverteiler anbauen lassen, die jeweils so ausgestaltet sind, daß sie sich zur Bestückung mit Ventilen eines bestimmten Grundtypes eignen, wobei sich die dem einen Fluidverteiler zugeordneten Ventilgrundtypen von denjenigen konstruktiv unterscheiden, die dem anderen Fluidverteiler zugeordnet sind. Die einem jeweiligen Fluidverteiler zugewandte Verbindungsseite des Adapterteils ist zweckmäßigerweise auf die Ausgestaltung der zugeordneten Anbauseite abgestimmt, so daß zum einen die Verbindungsfunktion gewährleistet ist und zum anderen bei Bedarf eine fluidische und/oder elektrische Verknüpfung der auf beiden Seiten vorhandenen Fluidkanäle und/oder eventuellen elektrischen Leitern ermöglicht.In this way it is possible to equip a single valve station with valves of different basic types at the same time. Starting from a valve station, fluid-actuated devices can thus be controlled which differ from one another in terms of their actuation parameters. The tubing and wiring effort is considerably reduced, since there is no need to link two separate valve stations and practically several valve stations are combined in a common valve station. An essential feature of the valve station is at least one adapter part which is designed in such a way that different types of fluid distributors can be installed on, in particular, opposite connection sides, each of which is designed in such a way that it is suitable for fitting with valves of a certain basic type, which are assigned to the one fluid distributor Differentiate basic valve types from those assigned to the other fluid distributor are. The connection side of the adapter part facing a respective fluid distributor is expediently matched to the design of the assigned mounting side, so that on the one hand the connection function is ensured and on the other hand a fluid and / or electrical connection of the fluid channels and / or any electrical conductors present on both sides if required enables.

Vorteilhafte Weiterbildungen der Erfindung sind in den Unteransprüchen aufgeführt.Advantageous developments of the invention are listed in the subclaims.

Das Adapterteil kann mindestens eine Anschlußöffnung zur Einspeisung von Druckmittel aufweisen, die mit einem im Innern des Adapterteils verlaufenden Speisekanal kommuniziert. Dieser kann seinerseits, je nach Ausgestaltung des Adapterteils, mit einem Speise-Verteilerkanal in einem oder in beiden angebauten Fluidverteilern kommunizieren, um auf diese Weise die Versorgung mit Arbeitsfluid zu bewerkstelligen, das angeschlossenen fluidbetätigbaren Einrichtungen unter Vermittlung der Ventile bedarfsgemäß zugeteilt wird. Wenn der Speisekanal lediglich mit dem einen Fluidverteiler kommuniziert, kann besagtem Fluidverteiler beispielsweise ein anderes Druckniveau zugeteilt werden als dem anderen angebauten Fluidverteiler, der das Arbeitsmedium über eine andere Anschlußöffnung erhält, die sich beispielsweise an einem weiteren nachfolgenden Adapter befindet. Man kann auf diese Weise die Ventilstation in einzelne Sektionen unterteilen, wobei im Bereich einzelner Fluidverteiler unterschiedliche Druckverhältnisse herrschen. Dies ist vor allem dann von Vorteil, wenn sich die zugeordneten Ventile hinsichtlich der Druckbelastbarkeit voneinander unterscheiden.The adapter part can have at least one connection opening for feeding in pressure medium, which communicates with a feed channel running inside the adapter part. Depending on the configuration of the adapter part, this in turn can communicate with a feed distribution channel in one or in both attached fluid distributors, in order to provide the supply of working fluid in this way, which is then assigned to the connected fluid-actuated devices by means of the valves. If the feed channel only communicates with one fluid distributor, said fluid distributor can be assigned, for example, a different pressure level than the other fluid distributor installed, which receives the working medium via another connection opening, which is located, for example, on a further subsequent adapter. In this way you can divide the valve station into individual sections, different pressure conditions prevailing in the area of individual fluid distributors. This is particularly advantageous if the assigned valves differ from one another in terms of their pressure capacity.

Ist bereits eine weitere Anschlußöffnung vorhanden, so kann über die Anschlußöffnung des Adapterteils eine zusätzliche Druckmitteleinspeisung stattfinden, um einem hohen Luftbedarf Rechnung zu tragen.If a further connection opening is already present, an additional pressure medium feed can take place via the connection opening of the adapter part in order to take into account a high air requirement.

Das Adapterteil enthält zweckmäßigerweise eine sich zwischen seinen beiden, den Anschlußseiten der Fluidverteiler zugewandten Verbindungsseiten erstreckende durchgehende erste elektrische Leiteranordnung, die mit zweiten elektrischen Leiteranordnungen im Bereich der Fluidverteiler kommuniziert, welche zu den Ventilantrieben der Ventile führen. Die erste elektrische Leiteranordnung kann hierbei fest mit den zweiten elektrischen Leiteranordnungen verbunden sein, es empfiehlt sich jedoch, im Bereich der Anbaustelle der Fluidverteiler eine elektrische Kupplung vorzusehen, insbesondere in Gestalt einer Steckverbindungseinrichtung.The adapter part expediently contains a continuous first electrical conductor arrangement which extends between its two connection sides facing the connection sides of the fluid distributors and which communicates with second electrical conductor arrangements in the region of the fluid distributors, which lead to the valve drives of the valves. The first electrical conductor arrangement can in this case be firmly connected to the second electrical conductor arrangements, but it is advisable to provide an electrical coupling in the region of the mounting location of the fluid distributors, in particular in the form of a plug connection device.

Nachfolgend wird die Erfindung anhand der beiliegenden Zeichnung näher erläutert. In dieser zeigen:

Figur 1
eine erste Bauform der erfindungsgemäßen Ventilstation in Seitenansicht in vereinfachter Darstellung, und
Figur 2
eine Draufsicht auf die Ventilstation gemäß Figur 1 in Blickrichtung gemäß Pfeil II, wobei ein Adapter teilweise aufgebrochen ist und bei einem Fluidverteiler einige Ventile nicht dargestellt wurden, um die Übersichtlichkeit zu verbessern.
The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawing. In this show:
Figure 1
a first design of the valve station according to the invention in a side view in a simplified representation, and
Figure 2
a plan view of the valve station of Figure 1 in the direction of arrow II, an adapter is partially broken and some valves have not been shown in a fluid manifold to improve clarity.

In Figur 2 ist ein Arbeitszylinder 1 als Repräsentant jeder beliebigen fluidbetätigbaren Einrichtung angedeutet, die unter Vermittlung der Ventilstation 2 ansteuerbar ist. In der Regel werden an die Ventilstation 2 gleichzeitig mehrere fluidbetätigbare Einrichtungen angeschlossen sein, die Bestandteil einer Maschine oder Anlage sein können. Als Betätigungsfluid des Ausführungsbeispiels ist Druckluft vorgesehen.In Figure 2, a working cylinder 1 is indicated as a representative of any fluid-actuated device that can be controlled by means of the valve station 2. As a rule, a plurality of fluid-operated devices, which can be part of a machine or system, will be connected to the valve station 2 at the same time. Compressed air is provided as the actuating fluid of the exemplary embodiment.

Die Ventilstation 2 ist ein in sich starrer, einheitlich handhabbarer Gegenstand. Sie zeichnet sich durch einen modularen Aufbau aus, so daß eine problemlose Anpassung an die Einsatzbedingungen möglich ist. Die Ventilstation 2 kann jederzeit erweitert oder umgerüstet werden.The valve station 2 is an inherently rigid, uniformly manageable object. It is characterized by a modular structure, so that it can be easily adapted to the operating conditions. The valve station 2 can be expanded or retrofitted at any time.

Die Ventilstation 2 enthält zunächst zwei Fluidverteiler 3, 4, die in einer beim Ausführungsbeispiel linearen Anbaurichtung 5 aufeinanderfolgend angeordnet sind. Jeder Fluidverteiler 3, 4 ist mit mindestens einem und insbesondere mehreren Ventilen 6, 7 bestückt, bei denen es sich um Mehrwegeventile handelt, deren Längsachse insbesondere rechtwinkelig zur Anbaurichtung 5 verläuft. Die Ventile 6, 7 werden mittels elektrischer Betätigungssignale betätigt und verfügen jeweils über mindestens einen Ventilantrieb 8, 9, der mindestens einen Elektromagneten enthält und insoweit von einem elektrisch betätigbaren Magnetventil gebildet sein kann. Die elektrischen Betätigungssignale liefert eine Verteilereinheit 13, die Bestandteil der Ventilstation 2 ist. Dieser Verteilereinheit 13 ist eine Steuereinheit 14 zugeordnet, die beim Ausführungsbeispiel in die Verteilereinheit 13 integriert ist bzw. diese bildet. Sie sorgt dafür, daß die einzelnen Ventilantriebe 8, 9 ihre Betätigungssignale in einer bestimmten Abfolge erhalten, die in einem Steuerprogramm abgespeichert ist, das sich in der Steuereinheit 14 befindet. Das Steuerprogramm läßt sich bei Bedarf zweckmäßigerweise ändern, weshalb an der Steuereinheit 14 eine Schnittstelle 15 vorgesehen ist, die den Anschluß eines Computers (PC) ermöglicht. Weitere Schnittstellen 16 sind Ein- und Ausgang eines Feldbusses, über den mit weiteren Ventilstationen kommuniziert werden kann.The valve station 2 initially contains two fluid distributors 3, 4, which are arranged in a linear direction 5 in the exemplary embodiment are arranged sequentially. Each fluid distributor 3, 4 is equipped with at least one and in particular a plurality of valves 6, 7, which are multi-way valves, the longitudinal axis of which, in particular, runs at right angles to the mounting direction 5. The valves 6, 7 are actuated by means of electrical actuation signals and each have at least one valve drive 8, 9, which contains at least one electromagnet and can in this respect be formed by an electrically actuated solenoid valve. The electrical actuation signals are supplied by a distributor unit 13, which is part of the valve station 2. This distributor unit 13 is assigned a control unit 14 which, in the exemplary embodiment, is integrated into the distributor unit 13 or forms it. It ensures that the individual valve drives 8, 9 receive their actuation signals in a certain sequence, which is stored in a control program that is located in the control unit 14. The control program can expediently be changed if necessary, which is why an interface 15 is provided on the control unit 14 which enables the connection of a computer (PC). Further interfaces 16 are the input and output of a field bus, via which communication can take place with further valve stations.

Die Verteilereinheit 13 kann auch eine Feldbus-Kommunikationseinheit ohne eigenes Steuerprogramm sein, die über die Schnittstellen 16 mit einer abseits angeordneten Steuereinheit kommuniziert, von der die Steuersignale stammen. Darüberhinaus kann die Verteilereinheit 13 ein einfacher 1:1 Signalverteiler sein, der über eine in Abhängigkeit von der Anzahl der vorhandenen Ventilantriebe 8, 9 gewählte Anzahl von elektrischen Leitungen mit einer nicht näher dargestellten Steuereinheit kommuniziert, wobei man die Vielzahl von Leitern zweckmäßigerweise in einem Multipolkabel zusammenfaßt, weshalb man in diesem Falle auch von einer Multipol-Ventilstation sprechen kann (nicht dargestellt).The distribution unit 13 can also be a fieldbus communication unit without its own control program, which communicates via the interfaces 16 with a remote control unit from which the control signals originate. Furthermore The distribution unit 13 can be a simple 1: 1 signal distributor which communicates with a control unit (not shown in more detail) via a number of electrical lines selected as a function of the number of valve drives 8, 9, the plurality of conductors advantageously being combined in a multipole cable , which is why in this case one can also speak of a multipole valve station (not shown).

In jedem Fluidverteiler 3, 4 verläuft mindestens ein Speise-Verteilerkanal 17, 17', der insbesondere in Anbaurichtung 5 verläuft, und in den über mindestens eine Anschlußöffnung 21, 21' Druckmittel eingespeist werden kann, das als Arbeitsfluid zur Betätigung des Arbeitszylinders 1 oder einer anderweitig angeschlossenen fluidbetätigbaren Einrichtung dient. Die Einspeisung erfolgt zum Beispiel über an die Anschlußöffnungen 21, 21' angeschlossene Druckmittelleitungen 22, die zu einer Druckmittelquelle führen.In each fluid distributor 3, 4 runs at least one feed distribution channel 17, 17 ', which runs in particular in the direction of installation 5, and into which pressure medium can be fed via at least one connection opening 21, 21', which as working fluid for actuating the working cylinder 1 or one otherwise connected fluid-operated device is used. The feed takes place, for example, via pressure medium lines 22 connected to the connection openings 21, 21 ′, which lead to a pressure medium source.

Jeder Fluidverteiler 3, 4 enthält desweiteren Versorgungskanäle 23, die vom zugeordneten Speise-Verteilerkanal 17, 17' ausgehen und an der Ventil-Bestückungsfläche 24, 24' des Fluidverteilers 3, 4 ausmünden. Dort münden ferner Entlüftungskanäle 25, die mit einem ebenfalls im Innern des zugeordneten Fluidverteilers 3, 4 verlaufenden Entlüftungs-Sammelkanal 26, 26' kommunizieren. Über diesen erfolgt die Entlüftung der angeschlossenen fluidbetätigbaren Einrichtungen. Letztlich enthält jeder Fluidverteiler 3, 4 Verbraucherkanäle 27, die einerseits ebenfalls an der zugeordneten Bestückungsfläche 24, 24' münden und andererseits zu einer Anschlußfläche 29 ausmünden, wo Druckmittelleitungen 28 angeschlossen werden können, die zu den fluidbetätigbaren Einrichtungen, hier zu dem Arbeitszylinder 1, führen.Each fluid distributor 3, 4 also contains supply channels 23, which start from the associated feed distribution channel 17, 17 'and open out at the valve assembly surface 24, 24' of the fluid distributor 3, 4. Vent channels 25 also open there, which communicate with a vent manifold 26, 26 'which also runs inside the assigned fluid distributor 3, 4. This is used to vent the connected fluid-actuated devices Facilities. Ultimately, each fluid distributor 3, 4 contains consumer channels 27, which on the one hand also open at the assigned assembly surface 24, 24 'and on the other hand open to a connection surface 29, where pressure medium lines 28 can be connected, which lead to the fluid-actuated devices, here to the working cylinder 1 .

Die Kanalmündungen an den Bestückungsflächen 24 sind zu Gruppen zusammengefaßt, die an einzelnen, in Figur 2 strichpunktiert markierten Bestückungsplätzen 31 ausmünden, an die die Ventile 6, 7 gemeinsam mit ihren Ventilantrieben 8, 9 derart ansetzbar sind, daß die Ventilkanäle mit den Kanalmündungen kommunizieren.The channel openings on the assembly surfaces 24 are combined into groups which open out at individual assembly locations 31 marked with dash-dotted lines in FIG.

Ihre Betätigungssignale erhalten die Ventilantriebe 8, 9 über zweite elektrische Leiteranordnungen 32, 32', die sich insbesondere in Anbaurichtung 5 erstrecken und zweckmäßigerweise ebenfalls im Innern der Fluidverteiler 3, 4 verlaufen. Sie stehen mit der Verteilereinheit 13 in elektrischer Verbindung. Beim Ansetzen eines Ventils 6, 7 an die Bestückungsfläche 24 wird zweckmäßigerweise gleichzeitig die elektrische Verbindung zur zugeordneten zweiten elektrischen Leiteranordnung 32, 32' hergestellt, indem geeignete elektrische Steckverbindungen 33 vorhanden sind.The valve drives 8, 9 receive their actuation signals via second electrical conductor arrangements 32, 32 ', which extend in particular in the mounting direction 5 and expediently likewise run inside the fluid distributors 3, 4. They are in electrical connection with the distribution unit 13. When a valve 6, 7 is attached to the assembly surface 24, the electrical connection to the assigned second electrical conductor arrangement 32, 32 'is expediently established at the same time by suitable electrical plug connections 33 being present.

Die beiden beim Ausführungsbeispiel vorhandenen, sich jeweils aus einem Fluidverteiler 3, 4 und damit bestückten Ventilen 6, 7 zusammensetzenden Verteilerbaugruppen 34, 34' sind nicht identisch und unterscheiden sich bezüglich ihres Aufbaus. Sowohl die Fluidverteiler 3, 4 als auch die Ventile 6, 7 sind konstruktiv verschieden. Dabei resultieren die Unterschiede im Fluidverteileraufbau aus den unterschiedlichen Ventilen 6, 7, die sich vom Grundtyp voneinander unterscheiden. Die Unterschiede beim Ausführungsbeispiel liegen zum einen in abweichenden Anordnungsmustern der Ventilkanal-Mündungen, was eine unterschiedliche Anordnung der Gruppen von Kanalmündungen innerhalb eines jeweiligen Bestückungsplatzes 31 erforderlich macht. Darüberhinaus sind die Ventile 7 der einen Verteilerbaugruppe 34' großvolumiger als die Ventile 6 der anderen Verteilerbaugruppe 34, was Ventilkanäle mit größerem Querschnitt bedingt und auch seitens der Versorgungskanäle 23 größere Querschnitte erfordert. Ein weiterer Unterschied besteht beim Ausführungsbeispiel darin, daß ein jeweiliger Ventilantrieb 9 der größeren Ventile 7 gleichzeitig zwei Elektromagnete enthält, so daß ein anderes Verbindungsschema zu den zweiten elektrischen Leitern 32' erforderlich wird, als dasjenige bei den kleineren Ventilen 6 der ersten Verteilerbaugruppe 34.The two valves 6, 7 which are present in the exemplary embodiment and each consist of a fluid distributor 3, 4 and thus equipped Composing distributor assemblies 34, 34 'are not identical and differ in their construction. Both the fluid distributors 3, 4 and the valves 6, 7 are structurally different. The differences in the fluid distributor structure result from the different valves 6, 7, which differ from one another in their basic type. The differences in the exemplary embodiment lie, on the one hand, in different arrangement patterns of the valve channel outlets, which necessitates a different arrangement of the groups of channel outlets within a respective assembly location 31. In addition, the valves 7 of one distributor assembly 34 ′ are larger in volume than the valves 6 of the other distributor assembly 34, which requires valve channels with a larger cross section and also requires larger cross sections on the part of the supply channels 23. Another difference in the exemplary embodiment is that a respective valve drive 9 of the larger valves 7 contains two electromagnets at the same time, so that a different connection scheme to the second electrical conductors 32 ′ is required than that for the smaller valves 6 of the first distributor assembly 34.

Trotz dieser unterschiedlichen Ausgestaltung der Verteilerbaugruppen 34, 34' bildet die Ventilstation 2 eine insbesondere selbsttragende zusammenhängende Funktionseinheit. Dies ist insbesondere darauf zurückzuführen, daß zwischen den nichtidentischen Fluidverteilern 3, 4 der beiden Verteilerbaugruppen 34, 34' ein Adapterteil 35 zwischengefügt ist, das sowohl zur mechanischen Verbindung als auch zur fluidischen und elektrischen Verknüpfung der beiden Verteilerbaugruppen 34, 34' beiträgt.Despite this different design of the distributor assemblies 34, 34 ', the valve station 2 forms a self-supporting, functional unit. This is particularly due to the fact that between the non-identical fluid distributors 3, 4 of the two distributor assemblies 34, 34 ' an adapter part 35 is inserted, which contributes both to the mechanical connection and to the fluidic and electrical connection of the two distributor assemblies 34, 34 '.

Das Adapterteil 35 des Ausführungsbeispiels ist als Adapterblock ausgebildet, der eine quaderförmige Außenkontur besitzt. Zwei seiner einander entgegengesetzten Seiten sind Verbindungsseiten 36, 36', an denen ein jeweils zugeordneter Fluidverteiler 3, 4 mit der zugewandten, nachfolgend als Anbauseite 37, 37' bezeichneten Stirnseite anliegt. Die mechanische Verbindung erfolgt über geeignete Verbindungselemente, die nicht näher dargestellt sind und bei denen es sich insbesondere um Schrauben handelt.The adapter part 35 of the exemplary embodiment is designed as an adapter block, which has a cuboid outer contour. Two of its opposite sides are connection sides 36, 36 ', against which a respectively assigned fluid distributor 3, 4 bears with the facing end face, hereinafter referred to as attachment side 37, 37'. The mechanical connection is made via suitable connecting elements, which are not shown in more detail and which are in particular screws.

Im Innern des Adapterteils 5 verlaufen in Anbaurichtung 5 durchgehende Adapterkanäle 38, die an den Verbindungsseiten 36, 36' so ausmünden, daß ihre Mündungen mit den an den Anbauseiten 37, 37' vorgesehenen Mündungen fluidverteilerseitiger Fluidkanäle fluchten. Beim Ausführungsbeispiel ist ein Adapterkanal 38 als Speisekanal 39 ausgebildet, der auf diese Weise mit den Speise-Verteilerkanälen 17, 17' der beiden Fluidverteiler 3, 4 kommuniziert. Ein weiterer Adapterkanal 38 bildet einen Entlüftungskanal 40, der mit den Entlüftungs-Sammelkanälen 26, 26' verbunden ist. Die Führung der Adapterkanäle 38 ist grundsätzlich beliebig, man wird die Auslegung jedoch zweckmäßigerweise so treffen, daß eine minimale Adapterkanallänge benötigt wird. Feste Vorgaben sind die Anordnungsmuster der Mündungen der Adapterkanäle 38 an den Verbindungsseiten 36, 36', die vom Anordnungsmuster der Kanalmündungen an den Anbauseiten 37, 37' der Fluidverteiler 3, 4 bestimmt werden. Nachdem beim Ausführungsbeispiel die Kanalmündungen im Bereich des mit größeren Ventilen 7 bestückten Fluidverteilers 4 mit größerem Querabstand zueinander angeordnet sind als diejenigen des anderen Fluidverteilers 3, ergibt sich folgerichtig im Bereich der beiden Verbindungsseiten 36, 36' eine entsprechend unterschiedliche Beabstandung der Kanalmündungen der Adapterkanäle 38, woraus wiederum resultiert, daß mindestens einer der in Anbaurichtung 5 durchgehenden Adapterkanäle 38 wenigstens einen Kanalabschnitt 41 aufweist, der eine rechtwinkelig zur Anbaurichtung 5 verlaufende Erstreckungskomponente aufweist.In the interior of the adapter part 5, there are 5 continuous adapter channels 38 in the direction of installation, which open out on the connecting sides 36, 36 'in such a way that their mouths are aligned with the openings on the fluid distribution-side fluid channels provided on the mounting sides 37, 37'. In the exemplary embodiment, an adapter channel 38 is designed as a feed channel 39, which communicates in this way with the feed distribution channels 17, 17 'of the two fluid distributors 3, 4. Another adapter channel 38 forms a ventilation channel 40 which is connected to the ventilation collecting channels 26, 26 '. The guidance of the adapter channels 38 is fundamentally arbitrary, but the design will expediently be made in such a way that a minimal adapter channel length is required. Fixed specifications are the arrangement pattern of the mouths of the adapter channels 38 on the connection sides 36, 36 ', which are determined by the arrangement pattern of the channel mouths on the attachment sides 37, 37' of the fluid distributors 3, 4. Since, in the exemplary embodiment, the channel openings in the area of the fluid distributor 4 equipped with larger valves 7 are arranged with a greater transverse distance from one another than those of the other fluid distributor 3, consequently there is a correspondingly different spacing of the channel openings of the adapter channels 38 in the area of the two connection sides 36, 36 '. which in turn results in that at least one of the adapter channels 38 passing through in the direction of installation 5 has at least one channel section 41 which has an extension component running at right angles to the direction of installation 5.

Beim Ausführungsbeispiel ist die Anordnung so getroffen, daß die äußere Querschnittskontur des Adapterteils 35 im wesentlichen derjenigen des anschließenden größeren Fluidverteilers 4 entspricht, so daß sich die zugeordneten Verbindungs- und Anbauseiten 36', 37' decken. Demgegenüber ist die Querschnittsfläche des jenseitigen Fluidverteilers 3 geringer, so daß die dessen Anbauseite 37 zugewandte Verbindungsseite 36 nur teilweise überdeckt ist, wobei sich die Kanalmündungen selbstverständlich in dem überdeckten Bereich befinden.In the exemplary embodiment, the arrangement is such that the outer cross-sectional contour of the adapter part 35 essentially corresponds to that of the subsequent larger fluid distributor 4, so that the associated connection and attachment sides 36 ', 37' overlap. In contrast, the cross-sectional area of the fluid distributor 3 on the other side is smaller, so that the connecting side 36 facing its mounting side 37 is only partially covered, the channel openings being of course located in the covered area.

Die Verteilereinheit 13 ist vorzugsweise unmittelbar an eine der Verteilerbaugruppen 34 angebaut, im vorliegenden Fall an diejenige kleineren Querschnitts. Die Verteilereinheit 13 sitzt zweckmäßigerweise an der dem Adapterteil 35 in Anbaurichtung 5 entgegengesetzten Anbauseite 45 des zugeordneten Fluidverteilers 3. Auch hier kann die Verbindung über Schrauben oder sonstige Verbindungselemente bewerkstelligt werden. Die Verteilereinheit 13 kann gleichzeitig ein Verschlußteil für den im zugeordneten Fluidverteiler 3 verlaufenden Speise-Verteilerkanal 17 und Entlüftungssammelkanal 26 sein, wobei sich bei Bedarf eine Dichtung zwischenfügen läßt.The distribution unit 13 is preferably directly connected to one the distributor assemblies 34 attached, in the present case to the smaller cross section. The distributor unit 13 is expediently located on the attachment side 45 of the associated fluid distributor 3 opposite the adapter part 35 in the mounting direction 5. Here, too, the connection can be accomplished by means of screws or other connecting elements. The distributor unit 13 can at the same time be a closure part for the feed distribution duct 17 and the venting collecting duct 26 running in the associated fluid distributor 3, a seal being able to be inserted if necessary.

Der dem Adapterteil 35 entgegengesetzte Kanalabschluß der durchgehende Fluidkanäle des anderen Fluidverteilers 4 erfolgt beispielsweise mittels eines deckelähnlichen Abschlußteiles 47, das unmittelbar an die zugeordnete Anbauseite 46 angesetzt sein kann. Es kann einen vollständigen Abschluß bewirken, doch ist auch eine Ausgestaltung möglich, bei der es über mit den abgedeckten Kanälen kommunizierende Anschlußöffnungen verfügt, an welche Druckmittelleitungen, Schalldämpfer oder dergleichen angeschlossen werden können (nicht dargestellt). Beim Ausführungsbeispiel sitzt das Abschlußteil 47 jedoch nicht unmittelbar an der Anbauseite 46, vielmehr ist ein weiteres Adapterteil 48 zwischengeschaltet, dessen durchgehende Adapterkanäle 49 einenends mit den Fluidkanälen des Fluidverteilers 4 kommunizieren und anderenends durch das Abschlußteil 47 verschlossen sind.The duct closure of the continuous fluid ducts of the other fluid distributor 4 opposite the adapter part 35 takes place, for example, by means of a cover-like closure part 47, which can be attached directly to the assigned mounting side 46. It can bring about a complete closure, but an embodiment is also possible in which it has connection openings which communicate with the covered channels and to which pressure medium lines, silencers or the like can be connected (not shown). In the exemplary embodiment, however, the end part 47 is not located directly on the attachment side 46, rather a further adapter part 48 is interposed, the continuous adapter channels 49 of which communicate at one end with the fluid channels of the fluid distributor 4 and are closed at the other end by the end part 47.

Die bereits erwähnte Anschlußöffnung 21 des zwischen zwei nichtidentischen Fluidverteilern 3, 4 angeordneten Adapterteils 35 kommunziert mit dessen Speisekanal 39 und steht somit gleichzeitig mit den Speise-Verteilerkanälen 17, 17' beider Fluidverteiler 3, 4 in Verbindung. Auf diese Weise ist es möglich, beide Verteilerbaugruppen 34, 34' über eine zentrale Anschlußöffnung 21 mit Druckmittel zu versorgen. Vor allem bei besonders langen Ventilstationen 2 kann jedoch ein erhöhter Luftverbrauch auftreten, der unter Umständen über die zentrale Anschlußöffnung 21 nicht in ausreichendem Maße gedeckt werden kann. In diesem Falle besteht die Möglichkeit, über eine weitere Anschlußöffnung 21' am zweiten Adapterteil 48 zusätzlich Druckmittel einzuspeisen. Diese weitere Anschlußöffnung 21' kommuniziert über einen der Adapterkanäle 49 mit der dem ersten Adapterteil entgegengesetzten Mündung des Speise-Verteilerkanals 17'. Bevorzugt handelt es sich bei dem zweiten Adapterteil 48 um ein Adapterteil, das spiegelverkehrt bezüglich des ersten Adapterteils 35 ausgebildet ist, so daß es die Möglichkeit eröffnet, eine weitere, nicht näher dargestellte Verteilerbraugruppe anzubauen, die hinsichtlich ihres grundsätzlichen Aufbaus derjenigen der ersten Verteilerbaugruppe 34 entspricht. Das zweite Adapterteil 48 kann darüberhinaus eine Gestaltung und Kanalführung aufweisen, die den Anschluß einer Verteilerbaugruppe ermöglicht, die mit keiner der bereits vorhandenen identisch ist. Es ist ersichtlich, daß sich mit Hilfe mehrere Adapterteile Ventilstationen zusammensetzen lassen, die eine beliebige Anzahl unterschiedlicher Verteilerbaugruppen enthält.The already mentioned connection opening 21 of the adapter part 35 arranged between two non-identical fluid distributors 3, 4 communicates with its feed channel 39 and is thus simultaneously connected to the feed distributor channels 17, 17 'of both fluid distributors 3, 4. In this way it is possible to supply both distributor assemblies 34, 34 'with pressure medium via a central connection opening 21. Especially in the case of particularly long valve stations 2, however, increased air consumption can occur which, under certain circumstances, cannot be adequately covered via the central connection opening 21. In this case, there is the possibility of additionally feeding in pressure medium via a further connection opening 21 'on the second adapter part 48. This further connection opening 21 'communicates via one of the adapter channels 49 with the mouth of the feed distribution channel 17' opposite the first adapter part. The second adapter part 48 is preferably an adapter part which is mirror-inverted with respect to the first adapter part 35, so that it opens up the possibility of mounting a further distributor assembly, not shown in more detail, which corresponds in terms of its basic structure to that of the first distributor module 34 . The second adapter part 48 can moreover have a design and channel routing which enables the connection of a distributor assembly which is not identical to any of the existing ones. It can be seen that with the help of several adapter parts valve stations can be assembled, which can be any number different Contains distribution boards.

Durch den sich einstellenden modularen Aufbau hat man auch die Möglichkeit, einer oder mehreren Verteilerbaugruppen 34, 34' ein eigenes Adapterteil 35, 48 zuzuordnen, das hinsichtlich mindestens einer Funktion ausschließlich der betreffenden Verteilerbaugruppe 34, 34' zugeordnet ist. So besteht beispielsweise die Möglichkeit, über die Anschlußöffnung eines Adapterteils lediglich einen angebauten Fluidverteiler mit Druckmittel zu versorgen, während der andere Fluidverteiler diesbezüglich abgetrennt ist. Eine entsprechende Ausgestaltung ist in Figur 2 strichpunktiert angedeutet, wobei der Speisekanal 39 zu dem dem weiteren Adapterteil 48 zugewandten Fluidverteiler 4 hin mittels einer Abschlußwand 52 verschlossen ist. Letztere kann einstückiger Bestandteil des Adapterteils 34 sein, doch empfiehlt sich eine separte lösbare Ausbildung, beispielsweise nach Art eines Schraubstopfens, so daß man die Möglichkeit hat, den Fluiddurchgang bedarfsgemäß zu verschließen oder freizugeben. Ist der Durchgang abgeschlossen, so wird lediglich die eine Verteilerbaugruppe 34 über das Adapterteil 35 mit Druckmittel versorgt. Die Druckmittelversorgung der angrenzenden Verteilerbaugruppe 34' erfolgt in diesem Falle zweckmäßigerweise über die Anschlußöffnung 21' des zweiten Adapterteils 48, über eine Anschlußöffnung eines Abschlußteils 47 oder über ein nachgeordnetes weiteres Adapterteil bei verlängerter Ventilstation 2. Man hat auf diese Weise die Möglichkeit, die Ventilstation 2 in einzelne Sektionen zu unterteilen und mit unterschiedlichen Druckniveaus oder Fluidmengen zu arbeiten.The resulting modular structure also gives you the option of assigning one or more distributor assemblies 34, 34 'to their own adapter part 35, 48, which is assigned to the relevant distributor assembly 34, 34' with regard to at least one function. For example, it is possible to supply only an attached fluid distributor with pressure medium via the connection opening of an adapter part, while the other fluid distributor is separated in this regard. A corresponding embodiment is indicated by dash-dotted lines in FIG. 2, the feed channel 39 being closed off from the fluid distributor 4 facing the further adapter part 48 by means of an end wall 52. The latter can be an integral part of the adapter part 34, but a separate detachable design is recommended, for example in the manner of a screw plug, so that one has the option of closing or releasing the fluid passage as required. Once the passage has been completed, only the one distributor assembly 34 is supplied with pressure medium via the adapter part 35. In this case, the pressure medium supply to the adjoining distributor assembly 34 'expediently takes place via the connection opening 21' of the second adapter part 48, via a connection opening of a end part 47 or via a further downstream adapter part when the valve station 2 is extended. In this way, the valve station 2 in individual Subdivide sections and work with different pressure levels or fluid quantities.

Bei dem Entlüftungskanal 40 des Adapterteils 35 kann es sich um einen durchgehenden Kanal handeln, und es ist zweckmäßig, sämtliche Entlüftungs-Sammelkanäle 26, 26' der Ventilstation 2 ununterbrochen in Reihe zu schalten. Bei Bedarf können natürlich mehrere derartiger Entlüftungskanal-Stränge vorhanden sein. Die Adapterteile 35 eignen sich jedoch besonders dafür, mindestens eine Entlüftungsöffnung 53 vorzusehen, die mit dem zugeordneten Entlüftungskanal 25 kommuniziert und den insbesondere unmittelbaren Anschluß eines Abluft-Schalldämpfers 54 ermöglicht. Möglich wäre natürlich auch, an die entsprechende Entlüftungsöffnung 53 eine Druckmittelleitung anzuschließen, um eine gefaßte Abfuhr der Abluft vornehmen zu können.The venting channel 40 of the adapter part 35 can be a continuous channel, and it is expedient to connect all the venting collecting channels 26, 26 ′ of the valve station 2 in series without interruption. If necessary, several such ventilation duct strands can of course be present. However, the adapter parts 35 are particularly suitable for providing at least one ventilation opening 53, which communicates with the assigned ventilation duct 25 and, in particular, enables an exhaust air silencer 54 to be connected directly. Of course, it would also be possible to connect a pressure medium line to the corresponding vent opening 53 in order to be able to carry out a ducted discharge of the exhaust air.

Zweckmäßigerweise erfolgt über ein jeweiliges zwischen zwei Verteilerbaugruppen 34, 34' angeordnetes Adapterteil 35 auch die elektrische Verbindung zwischen den bereits erwähnten zweiten elektrischen Leiteranordnungen 32, 32'. Beim Ausführungsbeispiel ist dies dadurch verwirklicht, daß das Adapterteil 35 eine in Anbaurichtung 5 durchgehende und an beiden Verbindungsseiten 36, 36' ausmündende erste elektrische Leiteranordnung 55 aufweist, die im Verbindungsbereich zum jeweiligen Fluidverteiler 3, 4 in elektrischer Verbindung mit den beiden zweiten elektrischen Leiteranordnung 32, 32' steht. Im Bereich der betreffenden Verbindungsstellen sind zweckmäßigerweise nicht näher dargestellte elektrische Steckverbindungseinrichtungen vorgesehen, die insbesondere automatisch ineinandergreifen, wenn man einen Fluidverteiler 3, 4 und das Adapterteil 35 in Anbaurichtung 5 aneinandersetzt.The electrical connection between the already mentioned second electrical conductor arrangements 32, 32 'is expediently also carried out via a respective adapter part 35 arranged between two distributor assemblies 34, 34'. In the exemplary embodiment, this is achieved in that the adapter part 35 has a first electrical conductor arrangement 55 which is continuous in the mounting direction 5 and opens out on both connection sides 36, 36 'and which is in electrical connection with the two second electrical conductor arrangement 32 in the connection region to the respective fluid distributor 3, 4 , 32 'stands. In the field of The relevant connection points are expediently provided, not shown in detail, electrical plug-in connection devices which, in particular, interlock automatically when a fluid distributor 3, 4 and the adapter part 35 are fitted together in the mounting direction 5.

Die erste elektrische Leiteranordnung 55 verläuft zweckmäßigerweise in einem nicht näher dargestellten kanalähnlichen durchgehenden Hohlraum des Adapterteils 35. Neben einer derartigen integrierten Ausführungsform wäre es natürlich auch denkbar, die erste elektrische Leiteranordnung 55 außen am Adapterteil 35 und zum Beispiel in einem getrennten Gehäuse unterzubringen.The first electrical conductor arrangement 55 expediently runs in a through-cavity of the adapter part 35, which is not shown in detail. In addition to such an integrated embodiment, it would of course also be conceivable to accommodate the first electrical conductor arrangement 55 on the outside of the adapter part 35 and, for example, in a separate housing.

Durch ein jeweiliges Adapterteil 35 ergeben sich automatisch Anbaumöglichkeiten für weitere Bestandteile der Ventilstationen 2. In Figur 1 ist gezeigt, daß das Adapterteil 35 mit einem Regler 56 bestückt werden kann, mit dem sich der Vorsteuerdruck einstellen läßt, der Betätigungsorgane der Ventile 6, 7 zum Umschalten derselben beaufschlagt. Der Regler 56 kann über im Innern des Adapterteils 35 verlaufende Vorsteuerkanäle 57 einerseits mit dem Speisekanal 39 kommunizieren und andererseits mit nicht näher dargestellten Vorsteuerkanälen in den Fluidverteilern 3, 4, die zu den Ventilen 6, 7 führen.A respective adapter part 35 automatically provides mounting options for further components of the valve stations 2. In FIG. 1 it is shown that the adapter part 35 can be equipped with a regulator 56, with which the pilot pressure can be set, the actuators of the valves 6, 7 for Switching the same applied. The controller 56 can communicate on the one hand with the feed channel 39 via pilot channels 57 running inside the adapter part 35 and on the other hand with pilot channels (not shown in more detail) in the fluid distributors 3, 4, which lead to the valves 6, 7.

Als besonders anwenderfreundlich zeichnet sich ein Aufbau der Ventilstation 2 aus, bei der sich ein jeweiliger Fluidverteiler 3, 4 aus mehreren in Anbaurichtung 5 aufeinanderfolgend aneinandergesetzten Verteilermodulen 58 zusammensetzt. Jedes dieser Verteilermodule 58 ist vorzugsweise zur Bestückung mit mindestens einem Ventil 6, 7 geeignet, wobei beim Ausführungsbeispiel eine Bestückungsmöglichkeit für jeweils zwei Ventile 6, 7 gegeben ist. Die Verteilermodule 58 haben zweckmäßigerweise einen blockähnlichen Aufbau mit insbesondere quaderförmiger Außenkontur. Entsprechend der verwendeten Anzahl von Verteilermodulen 58 ergeben sich Fluidverteiler 3, 4, praktisch beliebiger Länge. Der Anwender der Ventilstation 2 hat die Möglichkeit, selbige nach dem Baukastenprinzip bedarfsgemäß aufzubauen und dabei Verteilermodule 58 unterschiedlicher Art unter Verwendung geeigneter Adapterteile 35, 48 beliebig miteinander zu verknüpfen. Ein jeweiliges Verteilermodul 58 enthält zweckmäßigerweise in Anbaurichtung 5 durchgehende Abschnitte des jeweiligen Speise-Verteilerkanals 17, 17' und Entlüftungs-Sammelkanals 26, 26' sowie der zugeordneten zweiten elektrischen Leiteranordnung 32, 32'. Diese Abschnitte ergänzen sich beim Aneinandersetzen automatisch zu einem fortlaufenden Strang, wobei man im Bereich der Verbindungsstellen Dichtungen für die Fluidkanäle und elektrische Steckverbindungsmittel für die Leiteranordnungen vorsehen kann.A structure of the valve station 2, in which a respective fluid distributor is located, is particularly user-friendly 3, 4 is composed of a plurality of distributor modules 58 which are successively attached to one another in the direction of installation 5. Each of these distributor modules 58 is preferably suitable for equipping with at least one valve 6, 7, wherein in the exemplary embodiment there is a possibility of equipping for two valves 6, 7 in each case. The distributor modules 58 expediently have a block-like structure with a cuboidal outer contour in particular. Depending on the number of distributor modules 58 used, fluid distributors 3, 4, of practically any length, result. The user of the valve station 2 has the possibility of building the same according to the modular principle as required and in doing so can arbitrarily link distributor modules 58 of different types using suitable adapter parts 35, 48. A respective distributor module 58 expediently contains, in the direction of installation 5, continuous sections of the respective feed distributor duct 17, 17 'and ventilation collecting duct 26, 26' and the associated second electrical conductor arrangement 32, 32 '. These sections complement each other automatically when they are put together to form a continuous strand, it being possible to provide seals for the fluid channels and electrical plug connection means for the conductor arrangements in the area of the connection points.

Die Anordnung ist zweckmäßigerweise so getroffen, daß die Bestückungsflächen 24, 24' der Fluidverteiler 3, 4 untereinander in die gleiche Richtung weisen, wobei auch die die Entlüftungsöffnungen 53 enthaltenden Adapterteilflächen 59 zweckmäßigerweise entsprechend ausgerichtet sind. Die den Anschluß von Verbrauchern ermöglichenden Mündungen der Verbraucherkanäle 27 wie auch die Anschlußöffnungen 21, 21' münden untereinander zweckmäßigerweise ebenfalls in die gleiche Richtung, wobei vorgesehen sein kann, daß die entsprechenden Anschlußflächen 29 rechtwinkelig zu den Bestückungsflächen 24, 24' verlaufen.The arrangement is expediently such that the placement surfaces 24, 24 'of the fluid distributors 3, 4 point towards one another in the same direction, the adapter partial surfaces 59 containing the ventilation openings 53 also expediently are aligned accordingly. The mouths of the consumer channels 27 which enable the connection of consumers, as well as the connection openings 21, 21 ', also advantageously lead to one another in the same direction, it being possible for the corresponding connection surfaces 29 to run at right angles to the assembly surfaces 24, 24'.

Claims (14)

Ventilstation zur Verwendung im Zusammenhang mit der Steuerung fluidbetätigbarer Einrichtungen, beispielsweise von Arbeitszylindern, mit einem Fluidverteiler, der mit Ventilen bestückbar ist, und der über interne Fluidkanäle verfügt, die mit den vorhandenen Ventilen kommunizieren, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Ventilstation (2) mindestens zwei in einer Anbaurichtung (5) aufeinanderfolgend angeordnete, sich zumindest durch unterschiedliche Ausgestaltungen ihrer einander zugewandten Anbauseiten (37, 37') konstruktiv voneinander unterscheidende nichtidentische Fluidverteiler (3, 4) enthält, die zur Bestückung mit Ventilen (6, 7) sich von einander unterscheidenden Grundtyps vorgesehen sind, wobei zwischen zwei aufeinanderfolgenden nichtidentischen Fluidverteilern ein diese verbindendes und erforderlichenfalls interne Fluidkanäle (17, 17'; 26, 26') beider Fluidverteiler (3, 4) miteinander verknüpfendes Adapterteil (35) vorgesehen ist.Valve station for use in connection with the control of fluid-operated devices, for example working cylinders, with a fluid distributor which can be equipped with valves and which has internal fluid channels which communicate with the existing valves, characterized in that the valve station (2) has at least two Contains non-identical fluid distributors (3, 4) which are arranged in succession in a mounting direction (5) and which differ structurally from one another at least by different designs of their mutually facing mounting sides (37, 37 ') and which differ from one another for fitting with valves (6, 7) Basic types are provided, with an adapter part (35) linking two fluid distributors (3, 4) linking one another and, if necessary, internal fluid channels (17, 17 '; 26, 26') connecting two fluid distributors (3, 4) between two successive non-identical fluid distributors. Ventilstation nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Adapterteil (35) mindestens einen Anschlußöffnung (21) zur Einspeisung von Druckmittel aufweist, die mit einem Speisekanal (38, 39) im Innern des Adapterteils (35) kommuniziert, der zu einer oder zu beiden den Anbauseiten (37, 37') der angrenzenden Fluidverteiler (3, 4) zugewandten Verbindungsseiten (36, 36')des Adapterteils (35) hin so ausmündet, daß er einer Mündung eines als Speise-Verteilerkanals (17, 17') fungierenden Fluidkanals des jeweils zugeordneten Fluidverteilers (3, 4) gegenüberliegt.Valve station according to claim 1, characterized in that the adapter part (35) has at least one connection opening (21) for feeding in pressure medium, which communicates with a feed channel (38, 39) inside the adapter part (35), which communicates with one or both the attachment sides (37, 37 ') of the adjoining fluid distributors (3, 4) facing connection sides (36, 36') of the adapter part (35) open out in such a way that it opens into a mouth of a fluid duct which acts as a feed distributor duct (17, 17 ') of the respectively assigned fluid distributor (3, 4) is opposite. Ventilstation nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß über eine Anschlußöffnung (21) des Adapterteils (35) lediglich ein angebauter Fluidverteiler (3) oder gleichzeitig beide angebauten Fluidverteiler (3, 4) mit Druckmittel versorgbar sind.Valve station according to Claim 2, characterized in that only one attached fluid distributor (3) or at the same time both attached fluid distributors (3, 4) can be supplied with pressure medium via a connection opening (21) of the adapter part (35). Ventilstation nach Anspruch 2 oder 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß ein Adapterteil (35) eine Einspeisung von Druckmittel zusätzlich zu einer an anderer Stelle (21') ebenfalls erfolgten Druckmitteleinspeisung ermöglicht.Valve station according to Claim 2 or 3, characterized in that an adapter part (35) enables pressure medium to be fed in in addition to a pressure medium which has also been fed in at another point (21 '). Ventilstation nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Adapterteil (36) über mindestens eine Entlüftungsöffnung (53) verfügt, die mit mindestens einem Entlüftungskanal (40) im Innern des Adapterteils (35) kommuniziert, der zu einer oder zu beiden, einer Anbauseite des angrenzenden Fluidverteilers (3, 4) zugewandten Verbindungsseiten (36, 36') des Adapterteils (35) hin so ausmündet, daß er einer Mündung eines als Entlüftungs-Sammelkanal (26, 26') fungierenden Fluidkanals des jeweils zugeordneten Fluidverteilers (3, 4) gegenüberliegt.Valve station according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the adapter part (36) has at least one ventilation opening (53) which communicates with at least one ventilation channel (40) inside the adapter part (35), which communicates with one or both , a mounting side of the adjacent fluid distributor (3, 4) facing connection sides (36, 36 ') of the adapter part (35) towards it opens out in such a way that it faces an opening of a fluid channel of the respectively assigned fluid distributor (3, 4) which acts as a ventilation collecting channel (26, 26 '). Ventilstation nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 5, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Adapterteil (35) eine sich zwischen seinen beiden den Anbauseiten (37, 37') der angrenzenden Fluidverteiler (3, 4) zugewandten Verbindungsseiten (36, 36') erstreckende durchgehende erste elektrische Leiteranordnung (55) aufweist, die mit zweiten elektrischen Leiteranordnungen (32, 32') kommuniziert, die zur Übertragung elektrischer Betätigungssignale für die Ventile dienen und in oder neben den beiden Fluidverteilern (3, 4) verlaufen.Valve station according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the adapter part (35) has a continuous first connecting side (36, 36 ') extending between its two connection sides (37, 37') facing the adjacent fluid distributors (3, 4) has electrical conductor arrangement (55), which communicates with second electrical conductor arrangements (32, 32 '), which are used to transmit electrical actuation signals for the valves and run in or next to the two fluid distributors (3, 4). Ventilstation nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 5, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß sie eine Verteilereinheit (13) aufweist, von der aus die vorhandenen Ventile (6, 7) ihre elektrischen Betätigungssignale erhalten und an die einer der beiden nichtelektrischen Fluidverteiler (3, 4) mit seiner dem Adapterteil (35) entgegengesetzten Anbauseite (45) angebaut ist.Valve station according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it has a distributor unit (13) from which the existing valves (6, 7) receive their electrical actuation signals and to which one of the two non-electrical fluid distributors (3, 4) its mounting side (45) opposite the adapter part (35) is attached. Ventilstation nach Anspruch 7 in Verbindung mit Anspruch 6, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Verteilereinheit (13) mit den elektrischen Leiteranordnungen (32, 32', 55) kommuniziert.Valve station according to claim 7 in conjunction with claim 6, characterized in that the distributor unit (13) communicates with the electrical conductor arrangements (32, 32 ', 55). Ventilstation nach Anspruch 7 oder 8, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Verteilereinheit (13) eine insbesondere programmierbare Steuereinheit (14) enthält oder als solche ausgebildet ist.Valve station according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that that the distributor unit (13) contains a programmable control unit (14) or is designed as such. Ventilstation nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 9, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Adapterteil (35) mit einem Regler (56) bestückbar ist, der eingespeistes Druckmittel druckmäßig so aufbereitet, daß es zur fluidischen Ventilbetätigung verwendbar ist.Valve station according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the adapter part (35) can be equipped with a regulator (56) which processes the pressure medium fed in so that it can be used for fluidic valve actuation. Ventilstation nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 10, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß ein Adapterteil (35) endseitig (46) an der Fluidverteiler-Anordnung vorgesehen ist, wobei lediglich eine Verbindungsseite (36) einem Fluidverteiler (4) zugewandt ist und an der anderen Verbindungsseite ein insbesondere deckelähnliches Abschlußteil (47) angebaut ist.Valve station according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that an adapter part (35) is provided at the end (46) of the fluid distributor arrangement, only one connecting side (36) facing a fluid distributor (4) and one on the other connecting side in particular cover-like end part (47) is attached. Ventilstation nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 11, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß mehrere Adapterteile (35) vorhanden sind, die jeweils zwischen nichtidentischen Fluidverteilern (3, 4) sitzt.Valve station according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that several adapter parts (35) are provided, each of which sits between non-identical fluid distributors (3, 4). Ventilstation nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 12, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die vorhandenen Adapterteile (35, 48) und die angebauten Fluidverteiler (3, 4) eine selbsttragende Einheit bilden.Valve station according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the existing adapter parts (35, 48) and the attached fluid distributors (3, 4) form a self-supporting unit. Ventilstation nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 13, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß mindestens ein Fluidverteiler (3, 4) aus mehreren in Anbaurichtung (5) aneinandersetzbaren Verteilermodulen (58) besteht, die jeweils mit mindestens einem Ventil (6, 7) bestückbar sind.Valve station according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that at least one fluid distributor (3, 4) consists of a plurality of distributor modules (58) which can be attached in the mounting direction (5) and which can each be equipped with at least one valve (6, 7).
EP94103404A 1993-04-20 1994-03-07 Valve assembly Expired - Lifetime EP0621407B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE4312730 1993-04-20
DE4312730A DE4312730A1 (en) 1993-04-20 1993-04-20 Valve station

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0621407A1 true EP0621407A1 (en) 1994-10-26
EP0621407B1 EP0621407B1 (en) 1997-07-09

Family

ID=6485815

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP94103404A Expired - Lifetime EP0621407B1 (en) 1993-04-20 1994-03-07 Valve assembly

Country Status (5)

Country Link
EP (1) EP0621407B1 (en)
JP (1) JPH06307402A (en)
AT (1) ATE155211T1 (en)
DE (2) DE4312730A1 (en)
HU (1) HU217251B (en)

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0952359A1 (en) * 1998-04-20 1999-10-27 Bürkert Werke GmbH & Co. Modular electro-fluidic building block system
EP2068006A3 (en) * 2007-11-28 2010-11-03 Robert Bosch GmbH Valve assembly comprising multiple stacked multi-way valve plates

Families Citing this family (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE19646444B4 (en) * 1996-11-11 2007-06-21 Bosch Rexroth Aktiengesellschaft Electrohydraulic system
DE19827883A1 (en) * 1998-06-23 2000-01-05 Lorch Ges & Co Gmbh J Unit for a compressed air system
DE19916839C1 (en) * 1999-04-14 2000-10-12 Festo Ag & Co Pre-control valve device for modular fluid control valve unit has standard pre-control module combined with adaption part matched to main fluid control valve type
US6260583B1 (en) * 2000-05-24 2001-07-17 Illinois Tool Works Inc. Segmented stackable head design
DE502007007008D1 (en) 2007-05-12 2011-06-01 Festo Ag & Co Kg MODULAR VALVE ASSEMBLY FOR DIFFERENT FLOW CATEGORIES
DE112008003945B4 (en) * 2008-07-31 2012-08-09 Ckd Corporation Fluid control equipment unit
DE102010032990B4 (en) 2010-07-31 2012-10-18 Festo Ag & Co. Kg Fluid manifold assembly
DE102012007799A1 (en) * 2012-04-20 2013-10-24 Robert Bosch Gmbh Valve arrangement i.e. valve-connection plate-system, for controlling e.g. pressurized agent cylinders for pneumatic and/or fluidic system, has valve units provided different from each other by distance of control edge from inner edge

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3513876A (en) * 1968-04-09 1970-05-26 Akro Tec Inc Valve manifold module and system
DE2216382A1 (en) * 1971-03-31 1972-10-12 International Basic Economy Corp., New York, N.Y. (V.St A.) Integrated hydraulic distributor arrangement
DE3300101A1 (en) * 1982-04-28 1984-07-12 Festo-Maschinenfabrik Gottlieb Stoll, 7300 Esslingen Valve bank
DE9211109U1 (en) * 1992-08-19 1992-10-29 Festo Kg, 7300 Esslingen, De
DE9310438U1 (en) * 1993-07-13 1993-09-16 Festo Kg Valve station

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3513876A (en) * 1968-04-09 1970-05-26 Akro Tec Inc Valve manifold module and system
DE2216382A1 (en) * 1971-03-31 1972-10-12 International Basic Economy Corp., New York, N.Y. (V.St A.) Integrated hydraulic distributor arrangement
DE3300101A1 (en) * 1982-04-28 1984-07-12 Festo-Maschinenfabrik Gottlieb Stoll, 7300 Esslingen Valve bank
DE9211109U1 (en) * 1992-08-19 1992-10-29 Festo Kg, 7300 Esslingen, De
DE9310438U1 (en) * 1993-07-13 1993-09-16 Festo Kg Valve station

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0952359A1 (en) * 1998-04-20 1999-10-27 Bürkert Werke GmbH & Co. Modular electro-fluidic building block system
WO1999054632A1 (en) * 1998-04-20 1999-10-28 Bürkert Werke GmbH & Co. Electrofluidic modular system
US6173731B1 (en) 1998-04-20 2001-01-16 Burkert Werke Gmbh & Co. Electrofluidic modular system
EP2068006A3 (en) * 2007-11-28 2010-11-03 Robert Bosch GmbH Valve assembly comprising multiple stacked multi-way valve plates

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
HUT68864A (en) 1995-08-28
DE4312730A1 (en) 1994-10-27
EP0621407B1 (en) 1997-07-09
HU9401134D0 (en) 1994-07-28
HU217251B (en) 1999-12-28
JPH06307402A (en) 1994-11-01
DE59403277D1 (en) 1997-08-14
ATE155211T1 (en) 1997-07-15

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
DE4004834C2 (en) Valve assembly
EP1013940B1 (en) Valve arrangement
EP0608245B1 (en) Electro-pneumatic control device
DE60301746T2 (en) Pneumatic valve group with easy installation and easy maintenance
DE3525857C2 (en)
EP0803653B1 (en) Pneumatic commandassembly
EP0968372B1 (en) Valve arrangement
EP0621407B1 (en) Valve assembly
WO1996019027A1 (en) Control device, in particular for actuating valves
DE3427589C2 (en)
EP0708890A1 (en) Valve station
EP0629783B1 (en) Combined control of pneumatic and hydraulic valves
EP3296602B1 (en) Fluid distribution apparatus
DE102015221259A1 (en) Valve module and valve arrangement
DE102018200680A1 (en) Pressure monitoring device and valve assembly equipped therewith
DE10153545B4 (en) Fluid force locking system and method for locking fluid force signals
DE10203792B4 (en) Pneumatic valve unit with a parallel electrical wiring
DE10213397B4 (en) valve assembly
EP0624831B1 (en) Controlsystem to be used in cooperation with fluid actuated systems
EP1284371B1 (en) Matrix assembly of valves
AT405464B (en) Pneumatic actuating arrangement
EP1251283A2 (en) Fluid power control unit
DE202005021299U1 (en) Electrofluid control unit
EP2653732A2 (en) Valve assembly comprising at least two valve units with different nominal flow rates
DE102007015107A1 (en) Long-building valve unit for e.g. pneumatic system, has feeding plates spaced apart from each other and arranged between manifold valves, where each plate is equipped with attachment unit for attaching to support construction

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT DE FR GB SE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 19940923

GRAG Despatch of communication of intention to grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS AGRA

GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 19961211

GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT DE FR GB SE

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 155211

Country of ref document: AT

Date of ref document: 19970715

Kind code of ref document: T

GBT Gb: translation of ep patent filed (gb section 77(6)(a)/1977)

Effective date: 19970709

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 59403277

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 19970814

RAP2 Party data changed (patent owner data changed or rights of a patent transferred)

Owner name: FESTO AG & CO

ET Fr: translation filed
PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed
REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: IF02

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Payment date: 20080331

Year of fee payment: 15

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20090307

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20110401

Year of fee payment: 18

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20111215

Year of fee payment: 19

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SE

Payment date: 20120319

Year of fee payment: 19

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20120222

Year of fee payment: 19

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST

Effective date: 20121130

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20120402

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: SE

Ref legal event code: EUG

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20130308

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20130307

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R119

Ref document number: 59403277

Country of ref document: DE

Effective date: 20131001

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20131001

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20130307