EP1041325B1 - Valve assembly - Google Patents

Valve assembly Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1041325B1
EP1041325B1 EP00105632A EP00105632A EP1041325B1 EP 1041325 B1 EP1041325 B1 EP 1041325B1 EP 00105632 A EP00105632 A EP 00105632A EP 00105632 A EP00105632 A EP 00105632A EP 1041325 B1 EP1041325 B1 EP 1041325B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
valve
valve unit
pressure
unit according
pressure sensor
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.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP00105632A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1041325A3 (en
EP1041325A2 (en
Inventor
Kurt Dr. Stoll
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 EP1041325A2 publication Critical patent/EP1041325A2/en
Publication of EP1041325A3 publication Critical patent/EP1041325A3/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1041325B1 publication Critical patent/EP1041325B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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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
    • 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
    • F15B13/0839—Stacked plate type 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
    • F15B13/0857—Electrical connecting means, e.g. plugs, sockets
    • 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
    • F15B13/086—Sensing means, e.g. pressure 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
    • F15B13/0846—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
    • F15B13/0878—Assembly of modular units
    • F15B13/0882—Assembly of modular units using identical modular elements
    • 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
    • F15B20/00—Safety arrangements for fluid actuator systems; Applications of safety devices in fluid actuator systems; Emergency measures for fluid actuator systems
    • F15B20/008—Valve failure

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a valve unit with several battery-like summarized control valves that consist of one common feed channel running through the valve unit be fed a fluid pressure medium, the valve unit with the medium pressure in the common feed channel detecting pressure sensor is equipped.
  • valve unit known from DE 197 11 227 A1 several plate-like valve modules equipped with control valves, which are combined into a battery-like unit are, with all control valves with a common Communicate feed channel through which to be controlled fluidic pressure medium is supplied.
  • the control valves can be as needed drive to the print medium in a predetermined manner connected consumers, for example fluid-operated drives, forward.
  • valve unit known from DE 1918948 U
  • the type mentioned at the beginning is a pressure gauge on the feed channel connected, from which the set pressure can be read leaves. This is supposed to be reliable and, in particular, precise Work be possible.
  • the pressure sensor "on board" the valve unit speaks to the medium pressure prevailing in the common dining channel and enables monitoring of the currently pending Medium pressure. In this way, a for a possible malfunction of connected consumers responsible pressure drop on the supply side in the valve unit recognize quickly, so that targeted countermeasures are taken can be. Because the pressure sensor is an immediate component the valve unit, the assembly effort for the Pressure sensor can be reduced to a medium and it is for example possible to have a valve unit with a to equip such a pressure sensor, which is for the operator the valve unit its installation compared to a Pressure sensorless design not or only slightly more complex makes.
  • the shut-off valve assigned to the valve unit depends on the control signals of the pressure sensor can be operated and, like the pressure sensor, is an immediate component the valve unit.
  • valve unit can done in a much more variable way, for example by in the event of a malfunction caused by the pressure sensor is detected by corresponding actuation of the shut-off valve the pressure medium supply to the valve unit is prevented and the valve unit is practically different from the others Components of a system is switched off. Furthermore, in Connection to the shut-off valve is a controlled feed of the pressure medium in the common feed channel during commissioning the valve unit, so that the medium pressure builds up gradually and not suddenly and thus an uncontrolled initial operating behavior of connected Consumer can be prevented. Especially in this Context, it is advantageous if the shut-off valve as a continuous valve and in particular as a proportional valve is executed, which allows a variable fluid control.
  • a pressure switch is expediently used as a pressure sensor, which produces a switching signal when the medium pressure reached a predetermined switching pressure value in the feed channel. For example, at a given pressure drop Switching off the machine assigned to the valve unit caused to damage individual components avoid. It is advantageous if the switching pressure value of the pressure switch according to the operating conditions can be variably specified.
  • the valve unit is preferably with a communication center equipped, on the one hand, with the control valves is connected and to another via a bus external control device can be connected.
  • This communication center can be a simple multi-pin connector to be without electronic intelligence. Is more advantageous usually the Use of a communication center containing a fieldbus station, what a communication with a serial Fieldbus allowed, for example in so-called ASI technology (Actuator Sensor Interface).
  • the communication center also have control electronics, which has its own control program for the control valves the valve unit, one of which External control device connected in the fieldbus essential only the coordination of several connected Valve units takes over.
  • the pressure sensor to the communication center is connected, for example via integrated signal conductors running in the valve unit, so that the Sensor signals, depending on the design of the communication center, processed by this and / or to an external control device can be forwarded.
  • the pressure sensor is conveniently in the Integrated valve unit.
  • the more firmly connected over a plurality can have plate-like valve modules also the pressure sensor in a plate-like module Valve unit can be provided with which the valve unit according to needs and customer requirements, also retrospectively, equip.
  • valve unit contains a plurality layered and preferably block or plate-shaped valve modules 2. They are not through Fasteners shown in more detail, for example tie rods, detachable to an overall preferably block-like Unit summarized, which is also called a valve manifold could designate.
  • Each valve module contains one that is only indicated schematically Control valve 3 with one or more, preferably electrically operated valve actuators 4 is equipped. By appropriate actuation of the valve drives 4 can the switching position of the respectively assigned control valve 3 variable.
  • One of the two outer valve modules 2 is in the embodiment another plate-like module 5 connected upstream, that correspond externally to the valve modules 2 can and forms a module block 6 together with these.
  • the module block 6 is in the longitudinal direction, that is to say in the alignment direction of the individual modules, from a feed channel 7 enforced in the area of the rear valve module 2, 2 'are closed in a fluid-tight manner by suitable closure means 8 is.
  • a connection device 12 assigned via the one, for example hose-like fluid line 13 detachably connected which leads to a pressure source P. From the latter becomes a fluid pressure medium in the feed channel 7 fed, which is particularly compressed air is.
  • the feed channel 7 is assigned to all control valves 3 together, by making all the control valves 3 together this feed channel 7 fed with the fluid pressure medium become.
  • the modular structure of the valve unit 1 has as a result that the common feed channel 7 into individual immediately successive sections of length divided is, each one of the modules 2, 5 of the module block 6 enforce. In the transition area of these lengths between adjacent modules 2, 5 are not sealing means shown in detail provided a Prevent fluid leakage in the area of the joining planes.
  • Each valve module 2 is with one or more, in the embodiment equipped with two working channels 14, 15, which each communicate at one end with the control valve 3 and elsewhere on the outer surface of the subject Open valve module 2, where there are consumers Have leading fluid lines detachably connected.
  • the latter can also be connected to the module block 6 attached one-piece or segmented distributor plate respectively.
  • module block 6 is still at least one and in the embodiment of two ventilation channels 16 penetrates, which run parallel to the feed channel 7 and comparable to all control valves 3 in common are assigned by in the respective valve module 2 communicate with the control valve 3.
  • Each control valve 3 contains one only schematically in Fig. 3 indicated movable valve spool 17, the current one Position the switching position of the control valve concerned 3 specifies and its movement or positioning by the electrically operated and for example by Solenoid or piezo drives formed valve drives 4 can be specified.
  • a 4/3 valve function realizable with the relevant Control valve 3 via the feed channel 7 supplied pressure medium optionally in one of the two working channels 14, 15 conducts, while simultaneously the other working channel is connected to a ventilation duct 16 and whereby a middle position is still feasible in the both working channels 14, 15 pressurized at the same time or are vented. It is understood that through Modification of one or more control valves 3 also others Valve functions can be realized.
  • the valve unit 1 is also with a medium pressure in the common feed channel 7 detecting pressure sensor 18 equipped. He is in the embodiment in the valve unit integrates and sits appropriately in the plate-like module 5, which is the front of the Module block 6 represents and via which the feed of the pressure medium in the common feed channel 7 takes place.
  • the pressure sensor 18 is capable of depending on the medium pressure prevailing in the common feed channel 7 output electrical sensor signals in the embodiment via one in the valve unit 1 and thereby preferably integrated in the module block 5 sensor signal conductor arrangement 22 a communication center 23 of the Valve unit 1 are supplied. This is about one Fieldbus 24 to an external electronic control device 25 connectable, with this fieldbus 24 also further valve units or others for the control task relevant facilities can be linked.
  • the fieldbus 24 of the exemplary embodiment is designed that the data transmission takes place in a serial manner, whereby expediently a two-wire bus is used and wherein the communication center 23 with a fieldbus station 26 is equipped by the external Control device 25 coming serial signals in parallel Converts signals through an actuation signal wire assembly 27 of the valve unit 1 correctly to the valve drives 4 of the individual control valves 3 be passed on.
  • the control device 25 can be supplied with sensor signals are, in particular also with sensor signals of the Pressure sensor 18.
  • the communication center 23 can also have a a preferably variably programmable control program Provided control electronics for the control valves 3 feature.
  • connection device 28 with the Fieldbus 24 communicates like the actuation signal conductor arrangement 27.
  • the communication center 23 could for Sensor signal conductor arrangement 22 has its own connection device have, moreover, this connection device also externally from the communication center 23 can be provided on the valve unit 1. Also an immediate one direct connection of the pressure sensor 18 with the external control device 25 would be possible.
  • the communication center 23 essentially from a multi-pin connector unit, the does not have its own electronics and has a 1: 1 connection between the individual control valves 3 leading conductors of the actuation signal conductor arrangement 27 and a corresponding number from to an external one Control device provides 25 leading bus conductors.
  • the Sensor signals of the pressure sensor 18 can here with a own conductor arrangement via the communication center be led away.
  • the pressure sensor 18 With a corresponding design of the pressure sensor 18 continuous monitoring of the in common Feed channel 7 prevailing medium pressure possible. Most of time it will be enough, however, only for a very specific one Pressure value of the fed pressure medium a sensor signal output, for example if the medium pressure is below drops a predetermined value. This is why the pressure sensor 18 of the embodiment as a pressure switch 32 executed of an electrical switching signal causes when the medium pressure in the central feed channel 7 reaches a predetermined switching pressure value. So that here an adjustment to the operational conditions is possible, the pressure switch 32 is expedient designed so that the switching pressure value is variable can be set, so you can specify variably, at what pressure value the switching signal is generated, which as Sensor signal to the communication center 23 or to the external control device 25 is forwarded.
  • the arrangement is particularly convenient when the Valve unit 1 with an expediently integrated into it Shut-off valve 33 is equipped, which the common feed channel 7 is assigned and that depending from the sensor signals of the pressure sensor 18 and the Pressure switch 32 can be operated.
  • This shut-off valve 33 sits in the feed area in the embodiment 34 of the feed channel 7, that is in the area of the front End of the feed channel 7, from where that of the Pressure source P coming pressure medium in the feed channel 7 is fed.
  • the shut-off valve 33 controls the feed channel 7 in such a way that there is the fluid passage in the feed area 34 can either release or prevent. With others Words it depends on the switch position of the shut-off valve 33 possible, the connection between the common feed channel 7 and the fluid line 13 interrupt or release. In connection with the Pressure switch 32 allows this to be shut off, for example of the feed channel 7 from the pressure medium supply, if the medium pressure in the feed channel 7 below a certain Threshold falls. This enables the valve unit to be disconnected 1 from the fluid supply in the event of a fault, without other, applied to the same pressure source P. Valve units or other devices in their mode of operation be affected.
  • shut-off valve 33 in continuous valve technology and in particular in proportional valve technology is executed so that the Flow cross section can be variably specified.
  • the shut-off valve 33 is equipped with a valve drive 35, the expedient of its actuation signals via the communication center 23 with which he receives another actuation signal conductor arrangement 36 in connection stands.
  • the pressure sensor 18 can be at any point on the pressure side communicate with the feed channel 7. It is part of it a plate-like module 5, the same can in principle inserted anywhere between adjacent valve modules 2 become.
  • the valve unit 1 is with a Shut-off valve 33 equipped in the feed area 34 should be positioned, it lends itself to both the shut-off valve 33 and the pressure sensor 18 as in Embodiment in a common plate-like To accommodate module 5. This way the number of the required modules reduced.
  • valve modules 2 each form in unit both at least part of the valve housing the control valves 3 and the associated Length section of the feed channel 7 and any existing Ventilation channels 16 containing flow housing. But it would also be possible for the individual Subdivide valve modules 2 so that it Flow housing and the valve housing by separate, detachable firmly connected components. Also a jointly assigned to all control valves 3, Undivided flow housing available in length be in which the feed channel 7 and the ventilation channels 16 extend and that with the individual control valves is equipped.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Analytical Chemistry (AREA)
  • Indication Of The Valve Opening Or Closing Status (AREA)
  • Polarising Elements (AREA)
  • Massaging Devices (AREA)
  • Details Of Valves (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Ventileinheit, mit mehreren batterieartig zusammengefassten Steuerventilen, die aus einem gemeinsamen, die Ventileinheit durchziehenden Speisekanal mit einem fluidischen Druckmedium gespeist werden, wobei die Ventileinheit mit einem den Mediumdruck in dem gemeinsamen Speisekanal erfassenden Drucksensor ausgestattet ist.The invention relates to a valve unit with several battery-like summarized control valves that consist of one common feed channel running through the valve unit be fed a fluid pressure medium, the valve unit with the medium pressure in the common feed channel detecting pressure sensor is equipped.

Eine aus der DE 197 11 227 A1 bekannte Ventileinheit enthält mehrere mit Steuerventilen ausgestattete plattenartige Ventilmodule, die zu einer batterieartigen Baueinheit zusammengefasst sind, wobei sämtliche Steuerventile mit einem gemeinsamen Speisekanal kommunizieren, über den das zu steuernde fluidische Druckmedium zugeführt wird. Durch eine elektronische Steuereinrichtung lassen sich die Steuerventile nach Bedarf ansteuern, um das Druckmedium in vorbestimmter Weise an angeschlossene Verbraucher, beispielsweise fluidbetätigte Antriebe, weiterzuleiten.Contains a valve unit known from DE 197 11 227 A1 several plate-like valve modules equipped with control valves, which are combined into a battery-like unit are, with all control valves with a common Communicate feed channel through which to be controlled fluidic pressure medium is supplied. Through an electronic Control device, the control valves can be as needed drive to the print medium in a predetermined manner connected consumers, for example fluid-operated drives, forward.

Treten im Betrieb der Antriebe Störungen oder Unregelmäßigkeiten auf, ist es relativ schwierig, die Ursache zu ermitteln. Die Suche nach der Fehlerquelle nimmt sehr viel Zeit in Anspruch und führt zu unerwünschten Stillstandszeiten der mit der Ventileinheit ausgestatteten Maschine, was deren Betriebskosten in die Höhe treibt.Malfunctions or irregularities occur in the operation of the drives on, it is relatively difficult to determine the cause. The search for the source of the error takes a lot of time Claim and leads to undesirable downtime with the valve unit equipped machine, what its operating costs drives up.

Bei einer aus der DE 1918948 U bekannten Ventileinheit der eingangs genannten Art ist an den Speisekanal ein Druckmesser angeschlossen, an dem sich der eingestellte Druck ablesen lässt. Dadurch soll ein betriebssicheres und insbesondere exaktes Arbeiten möglich sein.In a valve unit known from DE 1918948 U The type mentioned at the beginning is a pressure gauge on the feed channel connected, from which the set pressure can be read leaves. This is supposed to be reliable and, in particular, precise Work be possible.

Es ist die Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung, Maßnahmen zu schaffen, die einen variableren Betrieb der Ventileinheit ermöglichen.It is the object of the present invention to take measures create that allow more variable operation of the valve unit.

Zur Lösung dieser Aufgabe sind die Merkmale des kennzeichnenden Teils des Patentanspruches 1 vorgesehen.To solve this problem, the characteristics of the characteristic Part of claim 1 provided.

Der "an Bord" der Ventileinheit befindliche Drucksensor spricht auf den im gemeinsamen Speisekanal herrschenden Mediumdruck an und ermöglicht eine Überwachung des momentan anstehenden Mediumdruckes. Auf diese Weise lässt sich ein für eine eventuelle Betriebsstörung angeschlossener Verbraucher verantwortlicher zuführseitiger Druckabfall in der Ventileinheit rasch erkennen, so dass gezielte Gegenmaßnahmen ergriffen werden können. Da der Drucksensor unmittelbarer Bestandteil der Ventileinheit ist, kann der Montageaufwand für den Drucksensor auf ein Medium reduziert werden, und es ist beispielsweise möglich, eine Ventileinheit ab Werk mit einem derartigen Drucksensor auszustatten, was für den Betreiber der Ventileinheit deren Installation im Vergleich zu einer drucksensorlosen Bauform nicht oder nur unwesentlich aufwendiger macht. Das der Ventileinheit zugeordnete Absperrventil ist in Abhängigkeit von den Steuersignalen des Drucksensors betätigbar und wie der Drucksensor ein unmittelbarer Bestandteil der Ventileinheit. Der Betrieb der Ventileinheit kann auf diese Weise wesentlich variabler erfolgen, indem beispielsweise bei einer Betriebsstörung, die durch den Drucksensor erfasst wird, durch entsprechende Betätigung des Absperrventils die Druckmittelzufuhr zur Ventileinheit unterbunden und die Ventileinheit somit praktisch von den übrigen Bestandteilen einer Anlage abgeschaltet wird. Ferner kann in Verbindung mit dem Absperrventil eine gesteuerte Einspeisung des Druckmediums in den gemeinsamen Speisekanal bei der Inbetriebnahme der Ventileinheit vorgenommen werden, so dass sich der Mediumdruck allmählich und nicht schlagartig aufbaut und somit ein unkontrolliertes anfängliches Betriebsverhalten angeschlossener Verbraucher unterbindbar ist. Vor allem in diesem Zusammenhang ist es von Vorteil, wenn das Absperrventil als Stetigventil und dabei insbesondere als Proportionalventil ausgeführt ist, das eine variable Fluidsteuerung ermöglicht.The pressure sensor "on board" the valve unit speaks to the medium pressure prevailing in the common dining channel and enables monitoring of the currently pending Medium pressure. In this way, a for a possible malfunction of connected consumers responsible pressure drop on the supply side in the valve unit recognize quickly, so that targeted countermeasures are taken can be. Because the pressure sensor is an immediate component the valve unit, the assembly effort for the Pressure sensor can be reduced to a medium and it is for example possible to have a valve unit with a to equip such a pressure sensor, which is for the operator the valve unit its installation compared to a Pressure sensorless design not or only slightly more complex makes. The shut-off valve assigned to the valve unit depends on the control signals of the pressure sensor can be operated and, like the pressure sensor, is an immediate component the valve unit. The operation of the valve unit can done in a much more variable way, for example by in the event of a malfunction caused by the pressure sensor is detected by corresponding actuation of the shut-off valve the pressure medium supply to the valve unit is prevented and the valve unit is practically different from the others Components of a system is switched off. Furthermore, in Connection to the shut-off valve is a controlled feed of the pressure medium in the common feed channel during commissioning the valve unit, so that the medium pressure builds up gradually and not suddenly and thus an uncontrolled initial operating behavior of connected Consumer can be prevented. Especially in this Context, it is advantageous if the shut-off valve as a continuous valve and in particular as a proportional valve is executed, which allows a variable fluid control.

Vorteilhafte Weiterbildungen der Erfindung gehen aus den Unteransprüchen hervor.Advantageous developments of the invention emerge from the subclaims out.

Wenn es nicht erforderlich ist, die momentanen Druckwerte im Speisekanal zu erfassen und es insbesondere ausreicht, bei einem vorbestimmten Druckwert ein Signal zu erhalten, kommt als Drucksensor zweckmäßigerweise ein Druckschalter zum Einsatz, der ein Schaltsignal hervorruft, wenn der Mediumdruck im Speisekanal einen vorbestimmten Schaltdruckwert erreicht. So kann beispielsweise bei einem vorgegebenen Druckabfall ein Abschalten der der Ventileinheit zugeordneten Maschine hervorgerufen werden, um Beschädigungen einzelner Komponenten zu vermeiden. Dabei ist es von Vorteil, wenn sich der Schaltdruckwert des Druckschalters den Betriebsgegebenheiten entsprechend variabel vorgeben lässt.If it is not necessary, the current pressure values in the To record the feed channel and it is particularly sufficient for to receive a signal at a predetermined pressure value a pressure switch is expediently used as a pressure sensor, which produces a switching signal when the medium pressure reached a predetermined switching pressure value in the feed channel. For example, at a given pressure drop Switching off the machine assigned to the valve unit caused to damage individual components avoid. It is advantageous if the switching pressure value of the pressure switch according to the operating conditions can be variably specified.

Die Ventileinheit ist vorzugsweise mit einer Kommunikationszentrale ausgestattet, die zum einen mit den Steuerventilen in Verbindung steht und zum anderen über einen Bus mit einer externen Steuereinrichtung verbunden werden kann. Diese Kommunikationszentrale kann eine einfache Multipolsteckverbindung ohne elektronische Intelligenz sein. Vorteilhafter ist in der Regel jedoch der Einsatz einer eine Feldbusstation enthaltenden Kommnikationszentrale, was eine Kommunikation mit einem seriellen Feldbus gestattet, beispielsweise in sogenannter ASI-Technik (Actuator-Sensor-Interface). Dabei kann die Kommunikationszentrale auch über eine Ansteuerelektronik verfügen, die über ein eigenes Steuerprogramm für die Steuerventile der Ventileinheit verfügt, wobei eine über den Feldbus angeschlossene externe Steuereinrichtung im wesentlichen nur die Koordination mehrerer angeschlossener Ventileinheiten übernimmt. In all diesen Fällen ist es von Vorteil, wenn der Drucksensor an die Kommunikationszentrale angeschlossen ist, beispielsweise über integriert in der Ventileinheit verlaufende Signalleiter, so daß die Sensorsignale, je nach Bauform der Kommunikationszentrale, von dieser verarbeitet und/oder an eine externe Steuereinrichtung weitergeleitet werden können.The valve unit is preferably with a communication center equipped, on the one hand, with the control valves is connected and to another via a bus external control device can be connected. This communication center can be a simple multi-pin connector to be without electronic intelligence. Is more advantageous usually the Use of a communication center containing a fieldbus station, what a communication with a serial Fieldbus allowed, for example in so-called ASI technology (Actuator Sensor Interface). The communication center also have control electronics, which has its own control program for the control valves the valve unit, one of which External control device connected in the fieldbus essential only the coordination of several connected Valve units takes over. In all of these cases, it is from Advantage if the pressure sensor to the communication center is connected, for example via integrated signal conductors running in the valve unit, so that the Sensor signals, depending on the design of the communication center, processed by this and / or to an external control device can be forwarded.

Gleichwohl besteht aber auch die Möglichkeit, den Drucksensor direkt mit einer externen Steuereinrichtung zu koppeln, insbesondere über einen separaten Feldbusanschluß.Nevertheless, there is also the possibility of the pressure sensor directly with an external control device couple, especially via a separate fieldbus connection.

Um eine besonders kompakte Bauweise der Ventileinheit zu erzielen, ist der Drucksensor zweckmäßigerweise in die Ventileinheit integriert. Insbesondere bei solchen Ventileinheiten, die über eine Mehrzahl fest miteinander verbundender plattenähnlicher Ventilmodule verfügen, kann auch der Drucksensor in einem plattenartigen Modul der Ventileinheit vorgesehen sein, mit dem sich die Ventileinheit nach Bedarf und Kundenwunsch, auch nachträglich, ausstatten läßt.To make the valve unit particularly compact achieve, the pressure sensor is conveniently in the Integrated valve unit. Especially with such valve units, the more firmly connected over a plurality can have plate-like valve modules also the pressure sensor in a plate-like module Valve unit can be provided with which the valve unit according to needs and customer requirements, also retrospectively, equip.

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

Fig. 1
eine schematische Seitenansicht einer bevorzugten Bauform der erfindungsgemäßen Ventileinheit,
Fig. 2
einen schematischen Querschnitt durch die Ventileinheit aus Fig. 1 gemäß Schnittlinie II-II und
Fig. 3
einen schematischen Querschnitt durch die Ventileinheit aus Fig. 1 gemäß Schnittlinie III-III.
The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawing. In this show:
Fig. 1
2 shows a schematic side view of a preferred design of the valve unit according to the invention,
Fig. 2
a schematic cross section through the valve unit of FIG. 1 according to section line II-II and
Fig. 3
a schematic cross section through the valve unit of FIG. 1 according to section line III-III.

Die in der Zeichnung abgebildete und allgemein mit Bezugsziffer 1 bezeichnete Ventileinheit enthält eine Mehrzahl schichtartig aneinandergesetzter und vorzugsweise blockoder plattenförmiger Ventilmodule 2. Sie sind durch nicht näher gezeigte Befestigungsmittel, beispielsweise Zuganker, lösbar zu einer insgesamt vorzugsweise klotzähnlichen Baueinheit zusammengefaßt, die man auch als Ventilbatterie bezeichnen könnte. The one shown in the drawing and generally with reference number 1 designated valve unit contains a plurality layered and preferably block or plate-shaped valve modules 2. They are not through Fasteners shown in more detail, for example tie rods, detachable to an overall preferably block-like Unit summarized, which is also called a valve manifold could designate.

Jedes Ventilmodul enthält ein nur schematisch angedeutetes Steuerventil 3, das mit einem oder mehreren, vorzugsweise elektrisch betätigten Ventilantrieben 4 ausgestattet ist. Durch entsprechende Betätigung der Ventilantriebe 4 läßt sich die Schaltstellung des jeweils zugeordneten Steuerventils 3 variabel vorgeben.Each valve module contains one that is only indicated schematically Control valve 3 with one or more, preferably electrically operated valve actuators 4 is equipped. By appropriate actuation of the valve drives 4 can the switching position of the respectively assigned control valve 3 variable.

Einem der beiden äußeren Ventilmodule 2 ist beim Ausführungsbeispiel ein weiteres plattenartiges Modul 5 vorgeschaltet, das äußerlich den Ventilmodulen 2 entsprechen kann und zusammen mit diesen einen Modulblock 6 bildet.One of the two outer valve modules 2 is in the embodiment another plate-like module 5 connected upstream, that correspond externally to the valve modules 2 can and forms a module block 6 together with these.

Der Modulblock 6 ist in Längsrichtung, also in Aufreihrichtung der einzelnen Module, von einem Speisekanal 7 durchsetzt, der im Bereich des rückseitigen Ventilmoduls 2, 2' durch geeignete Verschlußmittel 8 fluiddicht verschlossen ist. Am vorderen Ende ist ihm eine Anschlußvorrichtung 12 zugeordnet, über die eine beispielsweise schlauchartig ausgeführte Fluidleitung 13 lösbar angeschlossen ist, die zu einer Druckquelle P führt. Aus letzterer wird in den Speisekanal 7 ein fluidisches Druckmedium eingespeist, bei dem es sich insbesondere um Druckluft handelt.The module block 6 is in the longitudinal direction, that is to say in the alignment direction of the individual modules, from a feed channel 7 enforced in the area of the rear valve module 2, 2 'are closed in a fluid-tight manner by suitable closure means 8 is. At the front end there is a connection device 12 assigned via the one, for example hose-like fluid line 13 detachably connected which leads to a pressure source P. From the latter becomes a fluid pressure medium in the feed channel 7 fed, which is particularly compressed air is.

Der Speisekanal 7 ist allen Steuerventilen 3 gemeinsam zugeordnet, indem sämtliche Steuerventile 3 gemeinsam aus diesem Speisekanal 7 mit dem fluidischen Druckmedium gespeist werden. Der modulare Aufbau der Ventileinheit 1 hat zur Folge, daß der gemeinsame Speisekanal 7 in einzelne, unmittelbar aufeinanderfolgende Längenabschnitte unterteilt ist, die jeweils eines der Module 2, 5 des Modulblockes 6 durchsetzen. Im übergangsbereich dieser Längenabschnitte zwischen benachbarten Modulen 2, 5 sind nicht näher dargestellte Abdichtmittel vorgesehen, die einen Fluidaustritt im Bereich der Fügeebenen verhindern.The feed channel 7 is assigned to all control valves 3 together, by making all the control valves 3 together this feed channel 7 fed with the fluid pressure medium become. The modular structure of the valve unit 1 has as a result that the common feed channel 7 into individual immediately successive sections of length divided is, each one of the modules 2, 5 of the module block 6 enforce. In the transition area of these lengths between adjacent modules 2, 5 are not sealing means shown in detail provided a Prevent fluid leakage in the area of the joining planes.

Jedes Ventilmodul 2 ist mit einem oder mehreren, beim Ausführungsbeispiel mit zwei Arbeitskanälen 14, 15 ausgestattet, die jeweils einenends mit dem Steuerventil 3 kommunizieren und andernends an der Außenfläche des betreffenden Ventilmoduls 2 ausmünden, wo sich zu Verbrauchern führende Fluidleitungen lösbar anschließen lassen. Letzteres kann auch unter Zwischenschaltung einer an den Modulblock 6 angesetzten einstückigen oder segmentierten Verteilerplatte erfolgen.Each valve module 2 is with one or more, in the embodiment equipped with two working channels 14, 15, which each communicate at one end with the control valve 3 and elsewhere on the outer surface of the subject Open valve module 2, where there are consumers Have leading fluid lines detachably connected. The latter can also be connected to the module block 6 attached one-piece or segmented distributor plate respectively.

Schließlich wird der Modulblock 6 noch von mindestens einem und beim Ausführungsbeispiel von zwei Entlüftungskanälen 16 durchsetzt, die parallel zum Speisekanal 7 verlaufen und vergleichbar diesem allen Steuerventilen 3 gemeinsam zugeordnet sind, indem sie im jeweiligen Ventilmodul 2 mit dem Steuerventil 3 kommunizieren. Sie können vergleichbar der Fluidleitung 13 mit einer die Abluft gefaßt abtransportierenden Fluidleitung verbunden werden, wobei man sie aber in der Regel mit einem im Bereich des vorderen oder des hinteren Moduls 5, 2' angesetzten Schalldämpfer ausstatten wird (nicht dargestellt).Finally, the module block 6 is still at least one and in the embodiment of two ventilation channels 16 penetrates, which run parallel to the feed channel 7 and comparable to all control valves 3 in common are assigned by in the respective valve module 2 communicate with the control valve 3. You can comparable to the fluid line 13 with the exhaust air transporting fluid line are connected, but usually with one in the range of front or rear module 5, 2 'attached Muffler is equipped (not shown).

Jedes Steuerventil 3 enthält einen nur schematisch in Fig. 3 angedeuteten beweglichen Ventilschieber 17, dessen aktuelle Position die Schaltstellung des betreffenden Steuerventils 3 vorgibt und dessen Bewegung bzw. Positionierung durch die elektrisch betätigten und beispielsweise von Magnet- oder Piezoantrieben gebildeten Ventilantriebe 4 vorgegeben werden kann. Somit ist beispielsweise eine 4/3-Ventilfunktion realisierbar, wobei das betreffende Steuerventil 3 über den Speisekanal 7 zugeführtes Druckmedium wahlweise in einen der beiden Arbeitskanäle 14, 15 leitet, während gleichzeitig der jeweils andere Arbeitskanal mit einem Entlüftungskanal 16 verbunden ist und wobei noch eine Mittelstellung realisierbar ist, bei der beide Arbeitskanäle 14, 15 gleichzeitig mit Druck beaufschlagt oder entlüftet sind. Es versteht sich, daß durch Abwandlung eines oder mehrerer Steuerventile 3 auch andere Ventilfunktionen realisiert werden können.Each control valve 3 contains one only schematically in Fig. 3 indicated movable valve spool 17, the current one Position the switching position of the control valve concerned 3 specifies and its movement or positioning by the electrically operated and for example by Solenoid or piezo drives formed valve drives 4 can be specified. Thus, for example, is a 4/3 valve function realizable, with the relevant Control valve 3 via the feed channel 7 supplied pressure medium optionally in one of the two working channels 14, 15 conducts, while simultaneously the other working channel is connected to a ventilation duct 16 and whereby a middle position is still feasible in the both working channels 14, 15 pressurized at the same time or are vented. It is understood that through Modification of one or more control valves 3 also others Valve functions can be realized.

Die Ventileinheit 1 ist des weiteren mit einem den Mediumdruck in dem gemeinsamen Speisekanal 7 erfassenden Drucksensor 18 ausgestattet. Er ist beim Ausführungsbeispiel in die Ventileinheit integriert und sitzt zweckmäßigerweise in dem plattenartigen Modul 5, das die Vorderseite des Modulblockes 6 repräsentiert und über das die Einspeisung des Druckmediums in den gemeinsamen Speisekanal 7 stattfindet.The valve unit 1 is also with a medium pressure in the common feed channel 7 detecting pressure sensor 18 equipped. He is in the embodiment in the valve unit integrates and sits appropriately in the plate-like module 5, which is the front of the Module block 6 represents and via which the feed of the pressure medium in the common feed channel 7 takes place.

Der Drucksensor 18 ist in der Lage, in Abhängigkeit von dem im gemeinsamen Speisekanal 7 herrschenden Mediumdruck elektrische Sensorsignale auszugeben, die beim Ausführungsbeispiel über eine in die Ventileinheit 1 und dabei vorzugsweise in den Modulblock 5 integrierte Sensorsignal-Leiteranordnung 22 einer Kommunikationszentrale 23 der Ventileinheit 1 zugeführt werden. Diese ist über einen Feldbus 24 an eine externe elektronische Steuereinrichtung 25 anschließbar, wobei über diesen Feldbus 24 auch noch weitere Ventileinheiten oder sonstige für die Steuerungsaufgabe relevante Einrichtungen verknüpft sein können.The pressure sensor 18 is capable of depending on the medium pressure prevailing in the common feed channel 7 output electrical sensor signals in the embodiment via one in the valve unit 1 and thereby preferably integrated in the module block 5 sensor signal conductor arrangement 22 a communication center 23 of the Valve unit 1 are supplied. This is about one Fieldbus 24 to an external electronic control device 25 connectable, with this fieldbus 24 also further valve units or others for the control task relevant facilities can be linked.

Der Feldbus 24 des Ausführungsbeispiels ist so ausgelegt, daß die Datenübertragung in serieller Weise erfolgt, wobei zweckmäßigerweise ein Zwei-Draht-Bus zur Anwendung gelangt und wobei die Kommunikationszentrale 23 mit einer Feldbusstation 26 ausgestattet ist, die die von der externen Steuereinrichtung 25 kommenden seriellen Signale in parallele Signale umwandelt, die über eine Betätigungssignal-Leiteranordnung 27 der Ventileinheit 1 zuordnungsrichtig an die Ventilantriebe 4 der einzelnen Steuerventile 3 weitergegeben werden. In entsprechend umgekehrter Weise kann die Steuereinrichtung 25 mit Sensorsignalen versorgt werden, und zwar insbesondere auch mit Sensorsignalen des Drucksensors 18.The fieldbus 24 of the exemplary embodiment is designed that the data transmission takes place in a serial manner, whereby expediently a two-wire bus is used and wherein the communication center 23 with a fieldbus station 26 is equipped by the external Control device 25 coming serial signals in parallel Converts signals through an actuation signal wire assembly 27 of the valve unit 1 correctly to the valve drives 4 of the individual control valves 3 be passed on. In the opposite way the control device 25 can be supplied with sensor signals are, in particular also with sensor signals of the Pressure sensor 18.

Die Kommunikationszentrale 23 kann auch über eine mit einem vorzugsweise variabel programmierbaren Steuerprogramm versehene Ansteuerelektronik für die Steuerventile 3 verfügen. In diesem Falle könnte die Aufgabe der externen Steuereinrichtung 25 auf eine Koordination mehrerer Teilnehmer des Feldbusses beschränkt werden, während der interne Betriebsablauf einer jeweiligen Ventileinheit 1 durch die Ansteuerelektronik vorgegeben wird.The communication center 23 can also have a a preferably variably programmable control program Provided control electronics for the control valves 3 feature. In this case, the task of external Control device 25 on a coordination of several participants fieldbus while the internal Operating sequence of a respective valve unit 1 is specified by the control electronics.

Es ist nicht notwendigerweise erforderlich, daß der Drucksensor 18 über die gleiche Anschlußeinrichtung 28 mit dem Feldbus 24 kommuniziert wie die Betätigungssignal-Leiteranordnung 27. Die Kommunikationszentrale 23 könnte für die Sensorsignal-Leiteranordnung 22 eine eigene Anschlußeinrichtung aufweisen, darüber hinaus könnte diese Anschlußeinrichtung auch extern von der Kommunikationszentrale 23 an der Ventileinheit 1 vorgesehen werden. Auch eine unmittelbare direkte Verbindung des Drucksensors 18 mit der externen Steuereinrichtung 25 wäre möglich. It is not necessary that the pressure sensor 18 via the same connection device 28 with the Fieldbus 24 communicates like the actuation signal conductor arrangement 27. The communication center 23 could for Sensor signal conductor arrangement 22 has its own connection device have, moreover, this connection device also externally from the communication center 23 can be provided on the valve unit 1. Also an immediate one direct connection of the pressure sensor 18 with the external control device 25 would be possible.

Bei einer weiteren, nicht näher dargestellten Ausführungsvariante besteht die Kommunikationszentrale 23 im wesentlichen aus einer Multipolsteckverbindungseinheit, die keine eigene Elektronik aufweist und die eine 1:1-Verbindung zwischen den zu den einzelnen Steuerventilen 3 führenden Leitern der Betätigungssignal-Leiteranordnung 27 und einer entsprechenden Anzahl von zu einer externen Steuereinrichtung 25 führenden Busleitern vorsieht. Die Sensorsignale des Drucksensors 18 können hier mit einer eigenen Leiteranordnung über die Kommunikationszentrale hinweggeführt werden.In a further embodiment variant, not shown in detail there is the communication center 23 essentially from a multi-pin connector unit, the does not have its own electronics and has a 1: 1 connection between the individual control valves 3 leading conductors of the actuation signal conductor arrangement 27 and a corresponding number from to an external one Control device provides 25 leading bus conductors. The Sensor signals of the pressure sensor 18 can here with a own conductor arrangement via the communication center be led away.

Bei entsprechender Ausgestaltung des Drucksensors 18 ist eine kontinuierliche Überwachung des im gemeinsamen Speisekanal 7 herrschenden Mediumdruckes möglich. Meist wird es jedoch ausreichen , nur bei einem ganz bestimmten Druckwert des eingespeisten Druckmediums ein Sensorsignal auszugeben, beispielsweise wenn der Mediumdruck unter einen vorbestimmten Wert abfällt. Aus diesem Grunde ist der Drucksensor 18 des Ausführungsbeispiels als Druckschalter 32 ausgeführt, der ein elektrisches Schaltsignal hervorruft, wenn der Mediumdruck in dem zentralen Speisekanal 7 einen vorbestimmten Schaltdruckwert erreicht. Damit hier eine Anpassung an die betrieblichen Gegebenheiten möglich ist, ist der Druckschalter 32 zweckmäßigerweise so ausgebildet, daß sich der Schaltdruckwert variabel einstellen läßt, man also variabel vorgeben kann, bei welchem Druckwert das Schaltsignal erzeugt wird, das als Sensorsignal an die Kommunikationszentrale 23 bzw. an die externe Steuereinrichtung 25 weitergeleitet wird.With a corresponding design of the pressure sensor 18 continuous monitoring of the in common Feed channel 7 prevailing medium pressure possible. Most of time it will be enough, however, only for a very specific one Pressure value of the fed pressure medium a sensor signal output, for example if the medium pressure is below drops a predetermined value. This is why the pressure sensor 18 of the embodiment as a pressure switch 32 executed of an electrical switching signal causes when the medium pressure in the central feed channel 7 reaches a predetermined switching pressure value. So that here an adjustment to the operational conditions is possible, the pressure switch 32 is expedient designed so that the switching pressure value is variable can be set, so you can specify variably, at what pressure value the switching signal is generated, which as Sensor signal to the communication center 23 or to the external control device 25 is forwarded.

Es besteht somit die Möglichkeit, den Druck im Speisekanal 7 zu überwachen und bei Abweichungen von einem Sollwert bzw. Sollwertbereich bestimmte Maßnahmen zu treffen, beispielsweise ein Alarmsignal auszulösen oder die Ventileinheit 1 und/oder die mit ihr ausgestattete Maschine stillzulegen.There is thus the possibility of reducing the pressure in the feed channel 7 monitor and in the event of deviations from a setpoint to take certain measures, for example trigger an alarm signal or the valve unit 1 and / or the machine equipped with it shut down.

Besonders komfortabel ist die Anordnung dann, wenn die Ventileinheit 1 mit einem zweckmäßigerweise in sie integrierten Absperrventil 33 ausgestattet ist, welches dem gemeinsamen Speisekanal 7 zugeordnet ist und das in Abhängigkeit von den Sensorsignalen des Drucksensors 18 bzw. des Druckschalters 32 betätigt werden kann. Dieses Absperrventil 33 sitzt beim Ausführungsbeispiel im Einspeisungsbereich 34 des Speisekanals 7, also im Bereich des vorderen Endes des Speisekanals 7, von wo aus das von der Druckquelle P kommende Druckmedium in den Speisekanal 7 zugeführt wird.The arrangement is particularly convenient when the Valve unit 1 with an expediently integrated into it Shut-off valve 33 is equipped, which the common feed channel 7 is assigned and that depending from the sensor signals of the pressure sensor 18 and the Pressure switch 32 can be operated. This shut-off valve 33 sits in the feed area in the embodiment 34 of the feed channel 7, that is in the area of the front End of the feed channel 7, from where that of the Pressure source P coming pressure medium in the feed channel 7 is fed.

Das Absperrventil 33 beherrscht den Speisekanal 7 derart, daß es in dem Einspeisungsbereich 34 den Fluiddurchgang wahlweise freigeben oder unterbinden kann. Mit anderen Worten ist es also in Abhängigkeit von der Schaltstellung des Absperrventils 33 möglich, die Verbindung zwischen dem gemeinsamen Speisekanal 7 und der Fluidleitung 13 zu unterbrechen oder freizugeben. In Verbindung mit dem Druckschalter 32 gestattet dies beispielsweise ein Absperren des Speisekanals 7 von der Druckmittelzufuhr, wenn der Mediumdruck im Speisekanal 7 unter eine bestimmte Schwelle fällt. Dies ermöglicht ein Abtrennen der Ventileinheit 1 von der Fluidversorgung im Falle einer Störung, ohne daß andere, an der gleichen Druckquelle P anliegende Ventileinheiten oder sonstige Einrichtungen in ihrer Betriebsweise beeinträchtigt werden.The shut-off valve 33 controls the feed channel 7 in such a way that there is the fluid passage in the feed area 34 can either release or prevent. With others Words it depends on the switch position of the shut-off valve 33 possible, the connection between the common feed channel 7 and the fluid line 13 interrupt or release. In connection with the Pressure switch 32 allows this to be shut off, for example of the feed channel 7 from the pressure medium supply, if the medium pressure in the feed channel 7 below a certain Threshold falls. This enables the valve unit to be disconnected 1 from the fluid supply in the event of a fault, without other, applied to the same pressure source P. Valve units or other devices in their mode of operation be affected.

Ferner besteht die Möglichkeit, den Druckaufbau im Speisekanal 7 bei der Inbetriebnahme der Ventileinheit 1 gesteuert vorzunehmen, so daß sich ein langsamer Druckaufbau einstellt, der unerwünschte Betätigungen der an die Steuerventile 3 angeschlossenen Verbraucher verhindert. In diesem Fall ist es von Vorteil, wenn das Absperrventil 33 in Stetigventiltechnik und dabei insbesondere in Proportionalventiltechnik ausgeführt ist, so daß sich der Strömungsquerschnitt stufenlos variabel vorgeben läßt.There is also the possibility of increasing the pressure in the feed channel 7 controlled when commissioning valve unit 1 make so that there is a slow build-up of pressure sets the undesired actuations of the to the Control valves 3 connected consumers prevented. In In this case, it is advantageous if the shut-off valve 33 in continuous valve technology and in particular in proportional valve technology is executed so that the Flow cross section can be variably specified.

Das Absperrventil 33 ist mit einem Ventilantrieb 35 ausgestattet, der seine Betätigungssignale zweckmäßigerweise über die Kommunikationszentrale 23 erhält, mit der er über eine weitere Betätigungssignal-Leiteranordnung 36 in Verbindung steht.The shut-off valve 33 is equipped with a valve drive 35, the expedient of its actuation signals via the communication center 23 with which he receives another actuation signal conductor arrangement 36 in connection stands.

Der Drucksensor 18 kann druckseitig an beliebiger Stelle mit dem Speisekanal 7 kommunizieren. Ist er Bestandteil eines plattenartigen Moduls 5, kann selbiges im Prinzip an beliebiger Stelle zwischen benachbarte Ventilmodule 2 eingefügt werden. Ist die Ventileinheit 1 jedoch mit einem Absperrventil 33 ausgestattet, das im Einspeisungsbereich 34 positioniert werden sollte, bietet es sich an, sowohl das Absperrventil 33 als auch den Drucksensor 18 wie beim Ausführungsbeispiel in einem gemeinsamen plattenartigen Modul 5 unterzubringen. Auf diese Weise wird die Anzahl der erforderlichen Module reduziert.The pressure sensor 18 can be at any point on the pressure side communicate with the feed channel 7. It is part of it a plate-like module 5, the same can in principle inserted anywhere between adjacent valve modules 2 become. However, the valve unit 1 is with a Shut-off valve 33 equipped in the feed area 34 should be positioned, it lends itself to both the shut-off valve 33 and the pressure sensor 18 as in Embodiment in a common plate-like To accommodate module 5. This way the number of the required modules reduced.

Sowohl der Drucksensor 18 als auch das Absperrventil 33 könnten alternativ auch in einem der Ventilmodule 2 untergebracht werden.Both the pressure sensor 18 and the shut-off valve 33 could alternatively be accommodated in one of the valve modules 2 become.

Beim Ausführungsbeispiel bilden die Ventilmodule 2 jeweils in Baueinheit sowohl zumindest einen Teil des Ventilgehäuses der Steuerventile 3 als auch das den zugeordneten Längenabschnitt des Speisekanals 7 und der eventuell vorhandenen Entlüftungskanäle 16 enthaltende Strömungsgehäuse. Es wäre aber gleichfalls möglich, die einzelnen Ventilmodule 2 so zu unterteilen, daß es sich beim Strömungsgehäuse und beim Ventilgehäuse um getrennte, lösbar fest miteinander verbundene Bauteile handelt. Auch könnte ein allen Steuerventilen 3 gemeinsam zugeordnetes, längenmäßig ununterteiltes Strömungsgehäuse vorhanden sein, in dem sich der Speisekanal 7 und die Entlüftungskanäle 16 erstrecken und das mit den einzelnen Steuerventilen bestückt ist.In the exemplary embodiment, the valve modules 2 each form in unit both at least part of the valve housing the control valves 3 and the associated Length section of the feed channel 7 and any existing Ventilation channels 16 containing flow housing. But it would also be possible for the individual Subdivide valve modules 2 so that it Flow housing and the valve housing by separate, detachable firmly connected components. Also a jointly assigned to all control valves 3, Undivided flow housing available in length be in which the feed channel 7 and the ventilation channels 16 extend and that with the individual control valves is equipped.

Claims (15)

  1. Valve unit, with several control valves (3) assembled together in battery fashion and fed with a fluidic pressure medium from a common feed passage (7) which passes through the valve unit (1), wherein the valve unit (1) is equipped with a pressure sensor (18) which senses the pressure of the medium in the common feed passage (7), characterised in that the common feed passage (7) is assigned a shutoff valve (33) actuable depending on the sensor signals from the pressure sensor (18), and which is part of the valve unit (1) and is constructed using infinite-position valve technology.
  2. Valve unit according to claim 1, characterised in that the pressure sensor (18) is in the form of a pressure switch (32) which generates a switching signal when the pressure of the medium in the common feed passage (7) has reached a predetermined switching pressure value.
  3. Valve unit according to claim 2, characterised in that the switching pressure value of the pressure switch (23) is variably adjustable.
  4. Valve unit according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the shutoff valve (33) is integrated with the valve unit (1).
  5. Valve unit according to any of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the shutoff valve (33) is constructed using proportional valve technology.
  6. Valve unit according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that it is equipped with a central communications unit (23) connected on the one hand with the control valves (3), and on the other hand connectable via a bus (24) to an external control unit (25).
  7. Valve unit according to claim 6, characterised in that the central communications unit (23) is comprised of a multipole plug connector unit.
  8. Valve unit according to claim 6, characterised in that the central communications unit (23) contains a field bus station (26) permitting communication with a serial field bus (24).
  9. Valve unit according to any of claims 6 to 8, characterised in that central communications unit (23) contains control electronics, provided with a control program, for the control valves (3).
  10. Valve unit according to any of claims 6 to 9, characterised in that the pressure sensor (18) is connected to the central communications unit (23), preferably via a sensor signal conductor assembly (22) integrated with the valve unit (1).
  11. Valve unit according to any of claims 1 to 10, characterised in that the pressure sensor (18) may be connected to an external control unit (25).
  12. Valve unit according to any of claims 1 to 11, characterised in that the pressure sensor (18) is integrated in the valve unit (1).
  13. Valve unit according to claim base 12, characterised in that the pressure sensor (18) is integrated in a plate-like module (5) of the valve unit (1).
  14. Valve unit according to claim 13, characterised in that the pressure sensor (18) and the shutoff valve (33) are provided in a common plate-like module (5) of the valve unit (1).
  15. Valve unit according to any of claims 1 to 14, characterised in that the valve unit (1) has a multiplicity of valve modules (2) firmly joined together, each containing a control valve (3) and with a length section of the common feed passage (7) passing through them.
EP00105632A 1999-03-31 2000-03-16 Valve assembly Expired - Lifetime EP1041325B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE29905865U 1999-03-31
DE29905865U DE29905865U1 (en) 1999-03-31 1999-03-31 Valve unit

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1041325A2 EP1041325A2 (en) 2000-10-04
EP1041325A3 EP1041325A3 (en) 2002-07-24
EP1041325B1 true EP1041325B1 (en) 2004-05-12

Family

ID=8071648

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP00105632A Expired - Lifetime EP1041325B1 (en) 1999-03-31 2000-03-16 Valve assembly

Country Status (2)

Country Link
EP (1) EP1041325B1 (en)
DE (2) DE29905865U1 (en)

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102005005612A1 (en) * 2005-02-08 2006-08-17 Festo Ag & Co. Valve arrangement comprises multiple valve units together with main valve and pilot valve that feeds the valve arrangement with control fluid
DE102006010844A1 (en) * 2006-03-09 2007-09-13 Festo Ag & Co. Valve battery with safety valve
DE102015001537A1 (en) 2015-02-06 2016-08-11 Festo Ag & Co. Kg valve battery
WO2016124280A1 (en) 2015-02-06 2016-08-11 Festo Ag & Co. Kg Valve battery

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AU771667B2 (en) * 1999-11-02 2004-04-01 Fisher & Paykel Appliances Limited A gas valve
DE20006295U1 (en) * 2000-04-06 2000-07-20 Festo AG & Co, 73734 Esslingen Valve arrangement
DE20107330U1 (en) * 2001-04-20 2001-07-19 FESTO AG & Co., 73734 Esslingen Fluid control unit
DE20219497U1 (en) 2002-12-17 2003-03-06 FESTO AG & Co., 73734 Esslingen Fluid control unit
DE10311475B4 (en) * 2003-03-15 2006-04-13 Festo Ag & Co. Module for a valve battery
CN1299013C (en) * 2003-08-13 2007-02-07 龚步才 Hydraulic system integrated with hydranlic blocks
WO2010129669A1 (en) * 2009-05-08 2010-11-11 Siemens Industry, Inc. Compressible fluid control system valve positioner isolation apparatus and method
JP5717073B2 (en) * 2012-05-09 2015-05-13 Smc株式会社 Solenoid valve system
DE102013016652B4 (en) 2013-10-08 2022-01-27 Festo Se & Co. Kg Valve battery with safety valve
KR102105737B1 (en) * 2013-11-22 2020-06-01 페스토 에스이 운트 코. 카게 Valve arrangement and fluidic system
CN104033439A (en) * 2014-06-12 2014-09-10 浙江大学 Valve-body-free rotary change valve device

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DE4111893A1 (en) * 1991-04-09 1992-10-15 Mannesmann Ag VALVE BASE PLATE, IN PARTICULAR FOR GASEOUS MEDIA
EP0606048A1 (en) * 1993-01-06 1994-07-13 IMI Norgren AG Fluid valve assembly
DE4312698A1 (en) * 1993-04-20 1994-10-27 Festo Kg Control device for use in connection with fluid-operated devices
EP0688957A1 (en) * 1994-05-24 1995-12-27 WOCO Franz-Josef Wolf & Co. Pneumatic bus

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AT350866B (en) * 1975-10-09 1979-06-25 Hoerbiger Ventilwerke Ag UNIT BLOCK OF PNEUMATIC OR HYDRAULIC EQUIPMENT
CH666943A5 (en) * 1983-04-29 1988-08-31 Festo Maschf Stoll G VALVE BANK.
EP0728970B2 (en) * 1991-09-10 2008-04-16 SMC Kabushiki Kaisha Fluid pressure device
DE4312757A1 (en) * 1993-04-20 1994-10-27 Festo Kg Electronic control device for a modular valve station
EP0803653B1 (en) * 1996-04-26 2000-08-02 Hygrama Ag Pneumatic commandassembly
DE19711227C2 (en) 1997-03-18 2000-11-30 Festo Ag & Co Valve arrangement

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE4111893A1 (en) * 1991-04-09 1992-10-15 Mannesmann Ag VALVE BASE PLATE, IN PARTICULAR FOR GASEOUS MEDIA
EP0606048A1 (en) * 1993-01-06 1994-07-13 IMI Norgren AG Fluid valve assembly
DE4312698A1 (en) * 1993-04-20 1994-10-27 Festo Kg Control device for use in connection with fluid-operated devices
EP0688957A1 (en) * 1994-05-24 1995-12-27 WOCO Franz-Josef Wolf & Co. Pneumatic bus

Cited By (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102005005612A1 (en) * 2005-02-08 2006-08-17 Festo Ag & Co. Valve arrangement comprises multiple valve units together with main valve and pilot valve that feeds the valve arrangement with control fluid
DE102005005612B4 (en) * 2005-02-08 2009-07-09 Festo Ag & Co. Kg valve assembly
DE102006010844A1 (en) * 2006-03-09 2007-09-13 Festo Ag & Co. Valve battery with safety valve
DE102015001537A1 (en) 2015-02-06 2016-08-11 Festo Ag & Co. Kg valve battery
WO2016124280A1 (en) 2015-02-06 2016-08-11 Festo Ag & Co. Kg Valve battery
DE102015001539A1 (en) 2015-02-06 2016-08-11 Festo Ag & Co. Kg valve battery
DE102015001539B4 (en) 2015-02-06 2022-03-17 Festo Se & Co. Kg valve battery
DE102015001537B4 (en) 2015-02-06 2022-03-24 Festo Se & Co. Kg valve battery

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE50006373D1 (en) 2004-06-17
EP1041325A3 (en) 2002-07-24
DE29905865U1 (en) 1999-06-17
EP1041325A2 (en) 2000-10-04

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