EP2242933B1 - Soft start device for compressed air systems and method for operating a soft start device - Google Patents

Soft start device for compressed air systems and method for operating a soft start device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2242933B1
EP2242933B1 EP20080715786 EP08715786A EP2242933B1 EP 2242933 B1 EP2242933 B1 EP 2242933B1 EP 20080715786 EP20080715786 EP 20080715786 EP 08715786 A EP08715786 A EP 08715786A EP 2242933 B1 EP2242933 B1 EP 2242933B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
directional valve
outlet
valve
directional
switching
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Application number
EP20080715786
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2242933A1 (en
Inventor
Peter Christiani
Günter Gebauer
Bodo Neef
Markus Kleske
Udo Walden
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Festo SE and Co KG
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Festo SE and Co KG
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Publication of EP2242933A1 publication Critical patent/EP2242933A1/en
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    • 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
    • F15B11/00—Servomotor systems without provision for follow-up action; Circuits therefor
    • F15B11/06—Servomotor systems without provision for follow-up action; Circuits therefor involving features specific to the use of a compressible medium, e.g. air, steam
    • F15B11/068—Servomotor systems without provision for follow-up action; Circuits therefor involving features specific to the use of a compressible medium, e.g. air, steam with valves for gradually putting pneumatic systems under pressure
    • 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
    • F15B19/00—Testing; Calibrating; Fault detection or monitoring; Simulation or modelling of fluid-pressure systems or apparatus not otherwise provided for
    • F15B19/005—Fault detection or monitoring
    • 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
    • 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
    • F15B2211/00—Circuits for servomotor systems
    • F15B2211/30—Directional control
    • F15B2211/305—Directional control characterised by the type of valves
    • F15B2211/30525—Directional control valves, e.g. 4/3-directional control valve
    • 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
    • F15B2211/00—Circuits for servomotor systems
    • F15B2211/30—Directional control
    • F15B2211/32—Directional control characterised by the type of actuation
    • F15B2211/329—Directional control characterised by the type of actuation actuated by fluid pressure
    • 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
    • F15B2211/00—Circuits for servomotor systems
    • F15B2211/40—Flow control
    • F15B2211/405—Flow control characterised by the type of flow control means or valve
    • F15B2211/40507—Flow control characterised by the type of flow control means or valve with constant throttles or orifices
    • 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
    • F15B2211/00—Circuits for servomotor systems
    • F15B2211/40—Flow control
    • F15B2211/405—Flow control characterised by the type of flow control means or valve
    • F15B2211/40515—Flow control characterised by the type of flow control means or valve with variable throttles or orifices
    • 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
    • F15B2211/00—Circuits for servomotor systems
    • F15B2211/40—Flow control
    • F15B2211/415—Flow control characterised by the connections of the flow control means in the circuit
    • F15B2211/41572—Flow control characterised by the connections of the flow control means in the circuit being connected to a pressure source and an output member
    • 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
    • F15B2211/00—Circuits for servomotor systems
    • F15B2211/40—Flow control
    • F15B2211/42—Flow control characterised by the type of actuation
    • F15B2211/428—Flow control characterised by the type of actuation actuated by fluid pressure
    • 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
    • F15B2211/00—Circuits for servomotor systems
    • F15B2211/40—Flow control
    • F15B2211/455—Control of flow in the feed line, i.e. meter-in control
    • 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
    • F15B2211/00—Circuits for servomotor systems
    • F15B2211/60—Circuit components or control therefor
    • F15B2211/63—Electronic controllers
    • F15B2211/6303—Electronic controllers using input signals
    • F15B2211/634—Electronic controllers using input signals representing a state of a valve
    • 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
    • F15B2211/00—Circuits for servomotor systems
    • F15B2211/60—Circuit components or control therefor
    • F15B2211/635—Circuits providing pilot pressure to pilot pressure-controlled fluid circuit elements
    • F15B2211/6355—Circuits providing pilot pressure to pilot pressure-controlled fluid circuit elements having valve means
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T137/00—Fluid handling
    • Y10T137/0318—Processes
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T137/00—Fluid handling
    • Y10T137/8376—Combined
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T137/00—Fluid handling
    • Y10T137/8593—Systems
    • Y10T137/86493—Multi-way valve unit
    • Y10T137/86574—Supply and exhaust
    • Y10T137/86582—Pilot-actuated
    • Y10T137/86614—Electric
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T137/00—Fluid handling
    • Y10T137/8593—Systems
    • Y10T137/86928—Sequentially progressive opening or closing of plural valves
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T137/00—Fluid handling
    • Y10T137/8593—Systems
    • Y10T137/87265—Dividing into parallel flow paths with recombining
    • Y10T137/87322—With multi way valve having serial valve in at least one branch
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T137/00—Fluid handling
    • Y10T137/8593—Systems
    • Y10T137/87917—Flow path with serial valves and/or closures

Definitions

  • Soft-start devices are used in compressed-air systems to supply compressed-air-sensitive functional units, such as maintenance devices, etc., with compressed air, the pressure gradually increasing from a relatively low secondary pressure to the primary or operating pressure.
  • Pressure shock prone functional units are, for example, filter units or double-acting pneumatic cylinders.
  • double-acting pneumatic cylinders it may happen that the piston is in a "neutral" state of the cylinder in a central position, so that, if the full pressure shock acting on the piston, this could suddenly drive into one of the end positions, causing damage to the Piston or could lead to the end stop of the cylinder.
  • a subordinate functional unit is actuated unintentionally by the unwanted piston movement, which in turn can lead to dangerous situations. Dangerous movements can also lead to personal injury. This is prevented by the soft start, so that the piston moves relatively slowly to its end position.
  • a soft start device is for example in the in EP 0 758 063 B1 discloses, in which a start valve is described in the form of a poppet valve, wherein the valve is vented via a quick exhaust.
  • the start valve has a Housing in which a single, extending from the inlet to the outlet flow path is formed, wherein in the flow path acting as a throttle seat valve is arranged.
  • a soft-start device of the type mentioned above, which offers a "one-fault-safety" is in the EP 1 645 755 A2 disclosed.
  • the secondary outlet can still be vented in case of malfunction of one of the valves.
  • this soft start device meets the requirements of standard EN 954-1, category 3.
  • the object of the invention is therefore to provide a soft start device or a method for operating a soft start device of the type mentioned above, with or with the prior to the initiation of the startup process, a diagnostic mode is feasible.
  • First and third directional control valves are thus connected in parallel, wherein the first directional control valve controls the sixth directional control valve and the third directional control valve actuates the fourth directional control valve.
  • the diagnostic mode ensures that there is no malfunction of one of the valves during the soft start process.
  • the non-actively switchable directional valves by adjusting springs and additionally by Pressurized with compressed air, held in its nc position to achieve pre-pressure independence.
  • the throttle device prefferably has an adjustable throttle valve and, in addition, a fixed throttle in the form of a throttle bypass which bypasses the adjustable throttle. This prevents the flow path is completely shut off when fully closing the throttle valve.
  • a sensor device with a plurality of sensors for determining the current switching states of the valves, in particular the non-actively switchable directional control valves.
  • the sensors can be designed, for example, as a reed switch. However, other sensor types can also be used.
  • a coupled to the switching means of the first and third directional control valve is provided. Characterized a signal transmission from the sensors to the control device and in dependence of an evaluation result of the control device to the switching means is possible.
  • the invention further comprises a method for operating a soft start device having the features of independent claim 11.
  • first and third directional control valves are connected in parallel, whereby the sixth directional control valve can be pressurized independently of the fourth directional control valve.
  • the sixth directional control valve can be pressurized independently of the fourth directional control valve.
  • there is first a switching of the first directional control valve with the result that the control side of the sixth directional valve is subjected to compressed air.
  • the switching state of the sixth-way valve is then by means of the sensor checked. If a shift has taken place, the link between the primary inlet, the first directional control valve and the sixth directional control valve is faultless and, next, a diagnosis of the other leg containing the third and the fourth directional control valve can be carried out. In this case, the first directional valve is again in its nc position.
  • a signal transmission corresponding to the result for the switching state inquiry takes place from the relevant sensor to the control device, with activation or no activation of the switching means associated with the first and third directional valve taking place as a function of the result. So if no error is detected, the soft start process can be initiated automatically. However, if an error is detected in one of the strands, the initiation of the softstart process is omitted.
  • the Fig. 1 to 11 show a preferred embodiment of the soft start device 11 according to the invention.
  • the components of the valve circuit can be accommodated together here in a valve unit.
  • There is a primary inlet P1 is provided, is supplied to the compressed air under primary pressure.
  • the primary inlet P1 is connected via a main flow path 12 to a secondary outlet P2, on which in turn compressed air is discharged under secondary pressure to the consumers.
  • valve circuit is constructed as follows:
  • a fifth directional valve WV5 of the type 2/2-nc is provided, its inlet E5 with the primary inlet P1 and its outlet A5 with the inlet E4 of a fourth directional valve WV4 of the type 3/2-nc and in parallel with the outlet of a throttle device 13 is connected, wherein the fifth directional control valve WV5 is the control side coupled to the output of the throttle device 13 and in addition to an outlet A6 of a sixth directional valve WV6 type 4/2-nc, if the sixth directional valve WV6 is in its functional position described below.
  • the fifth directional control valve WV5 is held in its NC position by means of a control spring 14 and additionally by means of compressed air injection by means of coupling to the primary inlet P1. Furthermore, the fifth directional control valve WV5 is assigned a sensor for determining its current switching state.
  • a first directional valve WV1 is arranged, whose inlet E1 is connected to the primary inlet P1 and whose outlet A1 is connected to the control side S6 of a sixth directional valve WV6, wherein the first directional valve WV1 can be vented via a venting outlet R1 and via switching means arranged on the control side 16 is active switchable. Furthermore, the first directional control valve WV1 is held in its nc position via a setting spring 14.
  • a third directional valve WV3 is arranged, whose inlet E3 is coupled to the primary inlet P1 and whose outlet A3 is coupled to the control side S4 of a fourth directional valve WV4 of the type 3/2-nc, the third directional valve WV3 via a venting outlet R3 can be vented and via switching means arranged switching means 16 is actively switched.
  • the fourth directional valve WV4 controlled by means of the third directional valve WV3 is connected via its outlet A4 to the secondary outlet P2 and parallel to an inlet E6 of a sixth directional valve WV6, wherein the fourth directional valve WV4 can be vented via a venting outlet R4.
  • the fourth directional control valve WV4 is held in its nc position via a control spring 14 and additionally by means of pressurized air via coupling to the outlet of the throttle device 13 and parallel to it via coupling to the output A5 of the fifth directional valve WV5.
  • a sensor 15 is provided for determining the current switching state of the fourth directional valve WV4.
  • the sixth directional valve WV6 controlled by the first directional control valve WV1 is switchable between a normal position and a functional position, with a first inlet E6 in the normal position with the secondary outlet P2 and is connected in parallel to the outlet A4 of the fourth directional valve WV4, while the associated first vent outlet R6 is open to the atmosphere.
  • a second inlet E6 * is further coupled to the control side S5 of the fifth directional valve WV5, while a corresponding second venting outlet R6 * is open to the atmosphere.
  • Fig. 1 is a switching position shown in which all 3/2 or 2/2-way valves are in their nc position, and the sixth directional control valve WV6 type 4/2-nc in its normal position.
  • This position could also be referred to as a rest position before the soft start process.
  • compressed air having primary pressure originating at the primary inlet P1 is in contact with the inlet E1 of the closed first directional valve WV1, parallel to it at the inlet E5 of the closed fifth directional valve WV5, and parallel thereto at the inlet E3 of the third directional valve WV3.
  • compressed air for supporting the adjusting spring 14 reaches the counter-control side of the fifth directional valve WV5.
  • compressed air flows into the bypass 17 and arrives there to the throttle device 13 and from there to the inlet E4 of the closed fourth directional valve WV4, to the outlet A5 of the closed fifth directional valve WV5 and to the control side S5 of the fifth directional valve WV5.
  • a throttle device 13 is here an adjustable throttle valve provided and additional a fixed throttle in the form of an adjustable throttle immediate throttle bypass. This prevents the flow path completely closed when the throttle valve is closed is. Rather, a quantity of compressed air via the throttle bypass, which has a relatively small cross section, can always reach the associated ports of the fourth and fifth directional valve WV4 and WV5.
  • the compressed air with primary pressure is still at the counter-control side of the fourth directional valve WV4 and thus supports the actuating force of the spring 14th
  • Fig. 2 shows a test mode in which initially only the first directional valve WV1 has switched to its open position, so that compressed air and the primary pressure to the control side S6 of the sixth directional valve WV6 passes.
  • a switching state inquiry of this sixth directional valve WV6 is carried out by means of the sensor 15 assigned to the sixth directional valve WV6.
  • the sensor 15 thus detects the switching state of the sixth directional valve WV6 and transmits with this corresponding signals to a control device 20.
  • Fig. 3 also shows the test mode, in which, after it has been determined that the strand primary outlet, first Directional valve WV1 and sixth directional control valve WV6 has no error, the third directional valve WV3 is switched to the open position.
  • the third directional valve WV3 is switched to its open position, so that compressed air and the primary pressure reaches the control side S4 of the fourth directional valve WV4.
  • a switching state query of the fourth directional valve WV4 is carried out by means of the associated sensor 15.
  • the signals corresponding to this switching state are in turn transmitted to the control device 20.
  • Fig. 4 shows, as mentioned, a switching position when initiating the soft start process.
  • the first directional control valve WV1 and the third directional control valve WV3 have switched to their open position in accordance with regulations.
  • the locked state of the fourth directional valve WV4 before the input E4 compressed air under primary pressure, but this, between the output of the throttle device 13 and the input E4 of the fourth directional valve WV4 initially trapped compressed air discharged at the opening of the fourth directional valve WV4 and arrives Primary outlet P2. Compressed air under primary pressure, however, can not flow immediately because the throttle device 13 is interposed, which throttles the upcoming compressed air under primary pressure to Sekunkärtik.
  • compressed air with secondary pressure reaches the fourth directional valve WV4 and there to the primary outlet P2.
  • compressed air flows under secondary pressure to the inlet E6 of the sixth directional valve WV6 and arrives there via the outlet A6 to the control side S5 of the fifth directional valve WV5.
  • the pressure at the secondary outlet P2 now rises again gradually until, after a certain ratio between secondary and primary pressure, a switching of the fifth directional valve WV5 into its open position is initiated.
  • the ratio between secondary and primary pressure may be, for example, in the range of> 0 to 1, in particular 0.4 to 0.6. It is particularly preferred to switch to the open position if the secondary pressure P2 is equal to approximately 0.5 ⁇ primary pressure P1.
  • Fig. 5 shows the switch position after the soft start process.
  • Fig. 6 shows a standard venting switch position for venting the secondary outlet P2.
  • the first and third directional valve WV1 and WV3 have switched back to their nc position in accordance with the regulations, so that the compressed air present at the control side S4 of the fourth directional valve WV4 is discharged via the Vent outlet R3 escapes while the compressed air present at the control side S6 of the sixth directional valve WV6 escapes via the vent outlet R1.
  • the fourth directional control valve WV4 has switched back to an nc position, while the sixth directional control valve WV6 has returned to its normal position.
  • Compressed air coming from the secondary outlet P2 can now escape via the vent outlet R4 of the fourth directional valve WV4 and additionally via the vent outlet R6 of the sixth directional valve WV6.
  • the vent outlets R4 and R6 to a common, open to the atmosphere central vent outlet 18 are summarized.
  • the central vent outlet 18 may also be associated with a muffler 19 for sound attenuation of the rotating compressed air.
  • the default bleed switch position will be set, i. Compressed air from the secondary outlet P2 escapes via the vent outlets R4 and R6 of the fourth and sixth directional valves WV4 and WV6.
  • Fig. 7 shows a venting switching position in which the first directional valve WV1 has a malfunction, that is, has not switched back to its nc position.
  • the passage E1-A1 remains open and compressed air is still at the control side S6 of the sixth directional valve WV6, so that this remains in its functional position.
  • the vent outlet R6 of the sixth directional valve WV6 is thus blocked.
  • venting is still possible because the third directional valve WV3 has switched back to its nc position in accordance with regulations so that compressed air present on the control side S4 of the fourth directional valve WV4 can escape via the vent outlet R3, whereby the fourth directional valve WV4 moves into its nc position back on.
  • Fig. 8 showed a venting switch position, in which the third directional valve WV3 has a malfunction, that is, has not switched back to its nc position.
  • the passage E3-A3 remains open and compressed air is still at the control side S4 of the fourth directional valve WV4, so that this remains in its open position.
  • the vent outlet R4 of the fourth directional valve WV4 is thus blocked.
  • venting is still possible because the first directional control valve WV1 has switched back to its nc position so that at the control side S6 of the sixth directional control valve WV6 upcoming compressed air can escape through the vent outlet R1, whereby the sixth directional valve WV6 switches back to its normal position.
  • Figure 9 shows a venting switch position, in which the fifth directional valve WV5 has a malfunction, that is, has not returned to its nc position.
  • the main flow path 12 remains open via E5-A5, so that compressed air originating from the primary inlet P1 can flow in.
  • venting is still possible because the two-way valves WV1 and WV3 have switched back to their nc positions, whereby both the control side S4 of the fourth directional valve WV4 and the control side S6 of the sixth directional valve WV6 vented be so that fourth and sixth directional valve WV4 and WV6 have switched back to their nc position or normal position. This in turn makes it possible to vent the compressed air coming from the secondary outlet P2 via the vent outlets R4 and R6.
  • Fig. 10 shows a venting switch position in which the fourth directional valve WV4 has a malfunction, that is, has not switched back to its nc position.
  • the vent outlet R4 is thus blocked. Bleeding is still possible because first and third directional valve WV1 and WV3 have switched back to their nc positions in accordance with the regulations, whereby in particular the control side S6 of the sixth directional valve WV6 is vented, so that this switches back to its normal position, so that at the control side S5 of the fifth directional valve WV5 is vented via the connections E6 * and R6 *, so that the fifth directional valve WV5 also switches back to its nc position. Compressed air coming from the secondary outlet P2 can now escape via the vent outlet R6.
  • Fig. 11 finally shows a venting switching position in which the sixth directional valve WV6 has a malfunction, that has not returned to its normal position.
  • the vent outlet R6 is blocked.
  • First and third directional valve WV1 and WV3, however, have switched back to their nc position in accordance with regulations, so that the control side S4 of the fourth directional valve WV4 is vented, as a result of which it switches back into its nc position, so that the compressed air originating from the secondary outlet P2 escapes via the venting outlet R4 can.
  • the control side S5 is vented via the ports A6-E6 and the vent outlet R4, so that the fifth-way valve WV5 switches back to its nc position.

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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)
  • Multiple-Way Valves (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Softstartvorrichtung für Druckluftsysteme sowie ein Verfahren zum Betreiben einer Softstartvorrichtung. Die Softstartvorrichtung,

  • mit einem Primäreinlass, an dem Druckluft unter Primärdruck zuführbar ist,
  • wobei der Primäreinlass mit einem, mit wenigstens einem Verbraucher koppelbaren Sekundärauslass über eine Ventilschaltung verbunden ist, an dem Druckluft unter Sekundärdruck abführbar ist, wobei der Sekundärdruck kleiner oder gleich dem Primärdruck ist,
  • wobei zwischen Primäreinlass und Sekundärauslass ein Hauptventil vom Typ 2/2-nc (normally closed) eingeschaltet ist, das mittels eines Bypasses umgehbar ist, wobei im Bypass eine Drosseleinrichtung eingeschaltet ist,
  • wobei Hauptventil und Drosseleinrichtung zusammen mit weiteren Wegeventilen der Ventilschaltung derart miteinander verschaltet sind, dass bei einem Softstartvorgang, bei zunächst gesperrtem Hauptventil, Druckluft mit gegenüber dem Primärdruck geringerem, allmählich ansteigendem Sekundärdruck am Sekundärauslass anliegt, bis ab einem bestimmten Verhältnis zwischen Sekundär- und Primärdruck ein Schaltvorgang des Hauptventils in seine Offenstellung stattfindet, so dass dann Druckluft mit Primärdruck zum Sekundärauslass gelangt, und
  • die Ventilschaltung in eine derartige Standard-Entlüftungsschaltstellung versetzbar ist, dass der Sekundärauslass entlüftet wird.
The invention relates to a soft start device for compressed air systems and to a method for operating a soft start device. The softstart device,
  • with a primary inlet to which compressed air can be supplied under primary pressure,
  • the primary inlet being connected to a secondary outlet which can be coupled to at least one consumer via a valve circuit, at which compressed air can be discharged under secondary pressure, the secondary pressure being less than or equal to the primary pressure,
  • wherein between the primary inlet and secondary outlet a main valve of the type 2/2-nc (normally closed) is switched on, which is bypassed by means of a bypass, wherein in the bypass throttle means is turned on,
  • wherein the main valve and throttle device are interconnected together with further directional valves of the valve circuit such that at a soft start, initially locked main valve, compressed air with respect to the primary pressure less, gradually increasing secondary pressure at the secondary outlet is applied, up to a certain Ratio between secondary and primary pressure, a switching operation of the main valve takes place in its open position, so that then compressed air with primary pressure reaches the secondary outlet, and
  • the valve circuit is displaceable in such a standard venting switch position that the secondary outlet is vented.

Softstartvorrichtungen werden in Druckluftsystemen dazu verwendet, druckstoßempfindliche Funktionseinheiten, wie beispielsweise Wartungsgeräte etc., mit Druckluft zu versorgen, wobei der Druck allmählich von einem relativ niedrigen Sekundärdruck auf den Primär- bzw. Betriebsdruck ansteigt. Dadurch werden Druckstöße mit hohem, schädlichem Primärdruck vermieden. Druckstoßanfälligen Funktionseinheiten sind beispielsweise Filtereinheiten oder doppeltwirkende Pneumatikzylinder. Im Falle von doppeltwirkenden Pneumatikzylindern kann es vorkommen, dass sich der Kolben im "drucklosen" Zustand des Zylinders in einer Mittelstellung befindet, so dass, würde der volle Druckstoß auf den Kolben wirken, dieser schlagartig in eine der Endstellungen fahren könnte, was zu Beschädigungen am Kolben oder am Endanschlag des Zylinders führen könnte. Gegebenenfalls wird durch die ungewollte Kolbenbewegung eine nachgeordnete Funktionseinheit unbeabsichtigt betätigt, was wiederum zu Gefahrensituationen führen kann. Gefahrbringende Bewegungen können vor allem auch zu Personenschäden führen. Dies wird durch den Softstart verhindert, so dass der Kolben relativ langsam in seine Endlage fährt.Soft-start devices are used in compressed-air systems to supply compressed-air-sensitive functional units, such as maintenance devices, etc., with compressed air, the pressure gradually increasing from a relatively low secondary pressure to the primary or operating pressure. As a result, pressure surges are avoided with high, harmful primary pressure. Pressure shock prone functional units are, for example, filter units or double-acting pneumatic cylinders. In the case of double-acting pneumatic cylinders, it may happen that the piston is in a "neutral" state of the cylinder in a central position, so that, if the full pressure shock acting on the piston, this could suddenly drive into one of the end positions, causing damage to the Piston or could lead to the end stop of the cylinder. Optionally, a subordinate functional unit is actuated unintentionally by the unwanted piston movement, which in turn can lead to dangerous situations. Dangerous movements can also lead to personal injury. This is prevented by the soft start, so that the piston moves relatively slowly to its end position.

Eine Softstartvorrichtung ist beispielsweise in der in der EP 0 758 063 B1 offenbart, in der ein Startventil in Form eines Sitzventils beschrieben ist, wobei das Ventil über eine Schnellentlüftung entlüftet wird. Das Startventil besitzt ein Gehäuse, in dem ein einziger, vom Einlass bis zum Auslass verlaufender Strömungsweg ausgebildet ist, wobei im Strömungsweg das als Drossel wirkende Sitzventil angeordnet ist.A soft start device is for example in the in EP 0 758 063 B1 discloses, in which a start valve is described in the form of a poppet valve, wherein the valve is vented via a quick exhaust. The start valve has a Housing in which a single, extending from the inlet to the outlet flow path is formed, wherein in the flow path acting as a throttle seat valve is arranged.

In Druckluftsystemen müssen bestimmte Sicherheitsaspekte beachtet werden. Diese sind beispielsweise in der Norm EN 954-1 und in der Folge-Norm DIN EN ISO 13849-1 kategorisiert. Um die Kategorie 3 der Norm EN 954-1 zu erfüllen, ist gefordert, dass die Druckluftvorrichtung eine sogenannte "Ein-Fehler-Sicherheit" bei sicherheitsrelevanten Funktionen aufweist. Das bedeutet, dass trotz eines einzelnen Fehlers im System eine Entlüftung möglich sein muss.In compressed air systems, certain safety aspects must be taken into account. These are categorized, for example, in the standard EN 954-1 and in the subsequent standard DIN EN ISO 13849-1. In order to comply with category 3 of the standard EN 954-1, it is required that the compressed air device has a so-called "one-fault-safety" for safety-relevant functions. This means that, despite a single fault in the system, bleeding must be possible.

Eine Softstartvorrichtung der eingangs erwähnten Art, die eine "Ein-Fehler-Sicherheit" bietet, ist in der EP 1 645 755 A2 offenbart. Der Sekundärauslass kann hierbei bei Fehlfunktion eines der Ventile trotzdem entlüftet werden. Damit genügt diese Softstartvorrichtung den Erfordernissen der Norm EN 954-1, Kategorie 3.A soft-start device of the type mentioned above, which offers a "one-fault-safety" is in the EP 1 645 755 A2 disclosed. The secondary outlet can still be vented in case of malfunction of one of the valves. Thus, this soft start device meets the requirements of standard EN 954-1, category 3.

Allerdings ist in der Folge-Norm DIN ISO 19849 für Kategorie 3 und insbesondere für Kategorie 4 eine höhere Testgüte gefordert, insbesondere dass vor dem Softstartvorgang ein Test- bzw. Diagnosemodus der Ventile durchführbar ist, um Fehler beim Einleiten des Softstartvorgangs auszuschließen.However, the subsequent standard DIN ISO 19849 for category 3 and in particular for category 4 requires a higher test quality, in particular that a test or diagnostic mode of the valves can be carried out before the soft start procedure in order to rule out errors when initiating the soft start process.

Aufgabe der Erfindung ist es daher, eine Softstartvorrichtung bzw. ein Verfahren zum Betreiben einer Softstartvorrichtung der eingangs erwähnten Art zu schaffen, mit der bzw. mit dem vor Einleitung des Startvorgangs ein Diagnosemodus durchführbar ist.The object of the invention is therefore to provide a soft start device or a method for operating a soft start device of the type mentioned above, with or with the prior to the initiation of the startup process, a diagnostic mode is feasible.

Diese Aufgabe wird durch eine Softstartvorrichtung mit den Merkmalen des unabhängigen Anspruchs 1 gelöst. Weiterbildungen der Erfindung sind in den Unteransprüchen dargestellt.This object is achieved by a soft start device having the features of independent claim 1. Further developments of the invention are shown in the subclaims.

Die erfindungsgemäße Softstartvorrichtung zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass

  • der Einlass des als fünftes Wegeventil vom Typ 2/2-nc ausgebildeten Hauptventils mit dem Primäreinlass und der Auslass mit dem Einlass eines vierten Wegeventils vom Typ 3/2-nc und parallel dazu mit dem Ausgang der Drosseleinrichtung verbunden sind, wobei das fünfte Wegeventil steuerseitig mit dem Ausgang der Drosseleinrichtung und zusätzlich mit einem Auslass eines sechsten Wegeventils vom Typ 4/2-nc gekoppelt ist,
  • der Einlass des ersten Wegeventils vom Typ 3/2-nc mit dem Primäreinlass und der Auslass mit der Steuerseite des sechsten Wegeventils verbunden sind, wobei das erste Wegeventil über einen Entlüftungsabgang entlüftbar und über steuerseitig angeordnete Schaltmittel aktiv schaltbar ist,
  • der Einlass des dritten Wegeventils vom Typ 3/2-nc mit dem Primäreinlass und der Auslass des dritten Wegeventils mit der Steuerseite eines vierten Wegeventils vom Typ 3/2-nc gekoppelt ist, wobei das dritte Wegeventil über einen Entlüftungsabgang entlüftbar und über steuerseitig angeordnete Schaltmittel aktiv schaltbar ist,
  • der Auslass des vierten Wegeventils mit dem Sekundärauslass und parallel dazu mit einem Einlass des sechsten Wegeventils verbunden ist, wobei das vierte Wegeventil über einen Entlüftungsabgang entlüftbar ist, und
  • das sechste Wegeventil zwischen einer Normalstellung und einer Funktionsstellung schaltbar ist, wobei in Normalstellung ein erster Einlass mit dem Sekundärauslass und parallel dazu mit dem Auslass des vierten Wegeventils verbunden ist, während der dazugehörige erste Entlüftungsabgang zur Atmosphäre hin offen ist, und ein zweiter Einlass mit der Steuerseite des fünften Wegeventils gekoppelt ist, während ein dazugehöriger zweiter Entlüftungsabgang zur Atmosphäre hin offen ist, und wobei in Funktionsstellung der Einlass mit dem Auslass des vierten Wegeventils und parallel dazu mit dem Sekundärauslass verbunden ist und der dazugehörige Auslass mit der Steuerseite des fünften Wegeventils gekoppelt ist.
The soft start device according to the invention is characterized in that
  • the inlet of the main valve designed as a fifth directional control valve of the type 2/2-nc is connected to the primary inlet and the outlet is connected to the inlet of a fourth directional valve of the type 3/2-nc and parallel thereto to the outlet of the throttle device, the fifth directional control valve is coupled to the output of the throttle device and in addition to an outlet of a sixth directional control valve of the type 4/2-nc,
  • the inlet of the first directional control valve of type 3/2-nc is connected to the primary inlet and the outlet is connected to the control side of the sixth directional valve, wherein the first directional control valve can be vented via a venting outlet and can be actively switched via control means arranged on the control side,
  • the inlet of the third directional valve of type 3/2-nc is coupled to the primary inlet and the outlet of the third directional valve is connected to the control side of a fourth directional valve of type 3/2-nc, the third directional valve being ventable via a venting outlet and via switching means arranged on the control side is actively switchable,
  • the outlet of the fourth directional valve is connected to the secondary outlet and parallel thereto to an inlet of the sixth directional valve, the fourth directional valve being ventable via a venting outlet, and
  • the sixth directional control valve is switchable between a normal position and a functional position, wherein in normal position, a first inlet to the secondary outlet and parallel to the outlet of the fourth directional valve is connected, while the associated first vent outlet is open to the atmosphere, and a second inlet with the Control side of the fifth-way valve is coupled while an associated second vent outlet to the atmosphere is open, and wherein in the operating position of the inlet with the outlet of the fourth directional valve and is connected in parallel with the secondary outlet and the associated outlet is coupled to the control side of the fifth-way valve ,

Erstes und drittes Wegeventil sind also parallel geschaltet, wobei das erste Wegeventil das sechste Wegeventil und das dritte Wegeventil das vierte Wegeventil ansteuert. Dadurch ist es möglich, einen Test- bzw. Diagnosemodus zu fahren, bei dem unabhängig voneinander die Schaltzustände des vierten und sechsten Wegeventils überprüft werden. Da viertes und sechstes Wegeventil nicht aktiv schaltbar sind, ist es von Vorteil, dass die Schaltzustände dieser Ventile vor dem Einleiten des Softstartvorgangs überprüft werden können. Insbesondere nach langen Stillstandzeiten könnte sich bei diesen Ventilen beispielsweise ein sogenannter "Slip-Stick"-Effekt ausbilden, wodurch diese Ventile trotz Druckluftbeaufschlagung an deren Steuerseite nicht wie vorgesehen in ihre Offen- bzw. Funktionsstellung schalten. Es kann also bereits vor dem Startvorgang eine Fehlersuche eingeleitet werden. Durch den Diagnosemodus ist sichergestellt, dass auch beim Softstartvorgang keine Fehlfunktion eines der Ventile vorliegt.First and third directional control valves are thus connected in parallel, wherein the first directional control valve controls the sixth directional control valve and the third directional control valve actuates the fourth directional control valve. This makes it possible to drive a test or diagnostic mode in which the switching states of the fourth and sixth directional control valves are checked independently of one another. Since fourth and sixth directional control valves can not be actively switched, it is advantageous that the switching states of these valves can be checked before initiating the softstart process. In particular, after long periods of inactivity, these valves could form, for example, a so-called "slip-stick" effect, as a result of which these valves do not switch into their open or functional position as intended despite compressed air being applied to their control side. So it can be initiated before the startup process troubleshooting. The diagnostic mode ensures that there is no malfunction of one of the valves during the soft start process.

In besonders bevorzugter Weise werden die nicht aktiv schaltbaren Wegeventile durch Stellfedern und zusätzlich durch Druckbeaufschlagung mit Druckluft, in ihre nc-Stellung gehalten, um eine Vordruckunabhängigkeit zu erreichen. Alternativ wäre es auch möglich, die betreffenden Wegeventile ohne zusätzliche Druckbeaufschlagung in ihrer nc-Stellung zu halten und beispielsweise eine Stellfeder mit dementsprechend größerer Federkraft einzusetzen.In a particularly preferred manner, the non-actively switchable directional valves by adjusting springs and additionally by Pressurized with compressed air, held in its nc position to achieve pre-pressure independence. Alternatively, it would also be possible to keep the relevant directional valves in their nc position without additional pressurization and to use, for example, a spring with correspondingly greater spring force.

Es ist möglich, dass die Drosseleinrichtung ein einstellbares Drosselventil und zusätzlich eine Festdrossel in Form eines die einstellbare Drossel umgehenden Drossel-Bypasses aufweist. Dadurch wird verhindert, dass der Strömungsweg bei vollständigem Schließen des Drosselventils total abgesperrt wird.It is possible for the throttle device to have an adjustable throttle valve and, in addition, a fixed throttle in the form of a throttle bypass which bypasses the adjustable throttle. This prevents the flow path is completely shut off when fully closing the throttle valve.

In besonders bevorzugter Weise ist eine Sensoreinrichtung mit mehreren Sensoren zur Feststellung der aktuellen Schaltzustände der Ventile, insbesondere der nicht aktiv schaltbaren Wegeventile, vorgesehen. Die Sensoren können beispielsweise als Reed-Schalter ausgebildet sein. Es sind jedoch auch andere Sensor-Arten einsetzbar. Zweckmäßigerweise ist eine mit den Schaltmitteln des ersten und dritten Wegeventils gekoppelte Steuereinrichtung vorgesehen. Dadurch ist eine Signalübermittlung von den Sensoren an die Steuereinrichtung und in Abhängigkeit eines Auswerteergebnisses von der Steuereinrichtung an die Schaltmittel möglich.In a particularly preferred manner, a sensor device with a plurality of sensors for determining the current switching states of the valves, in particular the non-actively switchable directional control valves, is provided. The sensors can be designed, for example, as a reed switch. However, other sensor types can also be used. Conveniently, a coupled to the switching means of the first and third directional control valve is provided. Characterized a signal transmission from the sensors to the control device and in dependence of an evaluation result of the control device to the switching means is possible.

Die Erfindung umfasst ferner noch ein Verfahren zum Betreiben einer Softstartvorrichtung mit den Merkmalen des unabhängigen Anspruchs 11.The invention further comprises a method for operating a soft start device having the features of independent claim 11.

Das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren, mit dem ein Test- bzw. Diagnosemodus gefahren werden kann, weist folgende Verfahrensschritte auf:

  • Schalten des ersten Wegeventils in seine Offenstellung, wodurch die Steuerseite des sechsten Wegeventils mit Druckluft beaufschlagt wird,
  • Bestimmung des Schaltzustandes des sechsten Wegeventils mittels des zugeordneten Sensors,
  • Feststellen des Ergebnisses der Schaltzustandsabfrage, wobei bei einem festgestellten Schaltvorgang des sechsten Wegeventils ein Schaltvorgang des dritten Wegeventils oder der Softstartvorgang eingeleitet wird,
  • Schalten des dritten Wegeventils in seine Offenstellung nach oder alternativ vor dem Schalten des ersten Wegeventils, wobei das erste Wegeventil beim Schalten des dritten Wegeventils in seiner nc-Stellung ist, wobei durch das Schalten des dritten Wegeventils die Steuerseite des vierten Wegeventils mit Druckluft beaufschlagt wird,
  • Bestimmung des Schaltzustandes des vierten Wegeventils mittels des zugeordneten Sensors,
  • Feststellen des Ergebnisses der Schaltzustandsabfrage, wobei bei einem festgestellten Schaltvorgang des vierten Wegeventils ein Schaltvorgang des ersten Wegeventils oder der Softstartvorgang eingeleitet wird.
The method according to the invention, with which a test or diagnostic mode can be run, has the following method steps:
  • Switching the first directional valve in its open position, whereby the control side of the sixth directional valve is pressurized with compressed air,
  • Determination of the switching state of the sixth directional valve by means of the associated sensor,
  • Determining the result of the switching state query, wherein in a detected switching operation of the sixth-way valve, a switching operation of the third-way valve or the soft-start process is initiated,
  • Switching the third directional control valve to its open position or, alternatively, before switching the first directional control valve, wherein the first directional control valve is in its nc position when the third directional control valve is switched, compressed air is supplied to the control side of the fourth directional control valve by switching of the third directional control valve,
  • Determination of the switching state of the fourth directional valve by means of the associated sensor,
  • Determining the result of the switching state query, wherein in a detected switching operation of the fourth directional valve, a switching operation of the first-way valve or the soft start process is initiated.

Wie bereits erwähnt, sind erstes und drittes Wegeventil parallel geschaltet, wodurch sich das sechste Wegeventil unabhängig vom vierten Wegeventil mit Druck beaufschlagen lässt. Zweckmäßigerweise erfolgt zunächst ein Schalten des ersten Wegeventils mit der Folge, dass die Steuerseite des sechsten Wegeventils mit Druckluft beaufschlagt wird. Der Schaltzustand des sechsten Wegeventils wird dann mittels des Sensors überprüft. Hat ein Schaltvorgang stattgefunden, so ist der Strang zwischen Primäreinlass, erstem Wegeventil und sechstem Wegeventil fehlerlos und als nächstes kann eine Diagnose des anderen Strangs, der das dritte und das vierte Wegeventil beinhaltet, durchgeführt. Dabei befindet sich das erste Wegeventil wieder in seiner nc-Stellung. Wird auch bei Schaltung des dritten Wegeventils ein Schaltvorgang des vierten Wegeventils detektiert, so ist auch dieser Strang fehlerlos. Dadurch kann dann der Softstartvorgang eingeleitet werden. Es ist natürlich auch möglich, zunächst das dritte Wegeventil und den Strang drittes Wegeventil mit viertem Wegeventil und danach das erste Wegeventil und den Strang erstes Wegeventil mit sechstem Wegeventil zu testen.As already mentioned, first and third directional control valves are connected in parallel, whereby the sixth directional control valve can be pressurized independently of the fourth directional control valve. Appropriately, there is first a switching of the first directional control valve, with the result that the control side of the sixth directional valve is subjected to compressed air. The switching state of the sixth-way valve is then by means of the sensor checked. If a shift has taken place, the link between the primary inlet, the first directional control valve and the sixth directional control valve is faultless and, next, a diagnosis of the other leg containing the third and the fourth directional control valve can be carried out. In this case, the first directional valve is again in its nc position. If a switching operation of the fourth directional valve is detected even when the third directional control valve is switched on, then this sequence is also faultless. As a result, the soft start process can then be initiated. Of course, it is also possible first to test the third directional control valve and the third directional control valve with the fourth directional control valve and then the first directional control valve and the first directional control valve with the sixth directional control valve.

Bei einer Weiterbildung der Erfindung findet eine mit dem Ergebnis zur Schaltzustandsabfrage korrespondierende Signalübermittlung vom betreffenden Sensor an die Steuereinrichtung statt, wobei in Abhängigkeit des Ergebnisses eine Aktivierung oder keine Aktivierung der dem ersten und dritten Wegeventil zugeordneten Schaltmittel stattfindet. Wird also kein Fehler festgestellt, so kann automatisch der Softstartvorgang eingeleitet werden. Wird jedoch in einem der Stränge ein Fehler festgestellt, so unterbleibt die Einleitung des Softstartvorgangs.In a further development of the invention, a signal transmission corresponding to the result for the switching state inquiry takes place from the relevant sensor to the control device, with activation or no activation of the switching means associated with the first and third directional valve taking place as a function of the result. So if no error is detected, the soft start process can be initiated automatically. However, if an error is detected in one of the strands, the initiation of the softstart process is omitted.

Ein bevorzugtes Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung ist in der Zeichnung dargestellt und wird im Folgenden näher erläutert. Die Zeichnung zeigt:

Fig. 1
eine Ventilschaltung samt druckluftbeaufschlagter Stränge (fette Linien) eines bevorzugten Ausführungsbeispiel der erfindungsgemäßen Softstartvorrichtung in Ruhestellung vor dem Softstartvorgang,
Fig. 2
die Ventilschaltung gemäß Fig. 1 im Diagnosemodus bei geschaltetem ersten Wegeventil,
Fig. 3
die Ventilschaltung gemäß Fig. 1 im Diagnosemodus bei geschaltetem dritten Wegeventil, während das erste Wegeventil in seiner nc-Stellung ist,
Fig. 4
die Ventilschaltung gemäß Fig. 1 bei geschaltetem ersten und dritten Wegeventil, wobei hier der Softstartvorgang einleitet ist,
Fig. 5
die Ventilschaltung gemäß Fig. 1 nach dem Softstartvorgang,
Fig. 6
die Ventilschaltung gemäß Fig. 1 beim Entlüftungsvorgang in Standard-Entlüftungsschaltstellung,
Fig. 7
die Ventilschaltung gemäß Fig. 1 beim Entlüftungsvorgang, wobei das erste Wegeventil eine Fehlfunktion hat,
Fig. 8
die Ventilschaltung gemäß Fig. 1 beim Entlüftungsvorgang, wobei das dritte Wegeventil eine Fehlfunktion hat,
Fig. 9
die Ventilschaltung gemäß Fig. 1 beim Entlüftungsvorgang, wobei das fünfte Wegeventil eine Fehlfunktion hat,
Fig. 10
die Ventilschaltung gemäß Fig. 1 beim Entlüftungsvorgang, wobei das vierte Wegeventil eine Fehlfunktion hat, und
Fig. 11
die Ventilschaltung gemäß Fig. 1 beim Entlüftungsvorgang, wobei das sechste Wegeventil eine Fehlfunktion hat.
A preferred embodiment of the invention is illustrated in the drawing and will be explained in more detail below. The drawing shows:
Fig. 1
a valve circuit including pressurized strands (bold lines) of a preferred embodiment of the soft start device according to the invention in the rest position before the soft start process,
Fig. 2
the valve circuit according to Fig. 1 in the diagnostic mode when the first directional control valve is switched,
Fig. 3
the valve circuit according to Fig. 1 in the diagnostic mode when the third directional control valve is switched while the first directional control valve is in its nc position,
Fig. 4
the valve circuit according to Fig. 1 when the first and third directional control valves are switched, in which case the soft start procedure is initiated,
Fig. 5
the valve circuit according to Fig. 1 after the softstart process,
Fig. 6
the valve circuit according to Fig. 1 during the venting process in standard venting switching position,
Fig. 7
the valve circuit according to Fig. 1 in the venting process, the first directional control valve malfunctioning,
Fig. 8
the valve circuit according to Fig. 1 during the venting process, the third directional control valve malfunctioning,
Fig. 9
the valve circuit according to Fig. 1 during the venting process, the fifth directional control valve malfunctioning,
Fig. 10
the valve circuit according to Fig. 1 the venting process, the fourth directional valve has a malfunction, and
Fig. 11
the valve circuit according to Fig. 1 during the venting process, the sixth directional valve has a malfunction.

Die Fig. 1 bis 11 zeigen ein bevorzugtes Ausführungsbeispiel der erfindungsgemäßen Softstartvorrichtung 11. Die Komponenten der Ventilschaltung können hier gemeinsam in einer Ventileinheit untergebracht werden. Es ist ein Primäreinlass P1 vorgesehen, an dem Druckluft unter Primärdruck zugeführt wird. Der Primäreinlass P1 ist über einen Hauptströmungsweg 12 mit einem Sekundärauslass P2 verbunden, an dem seinerseits Druckluft unter Sekundärdruck zu den Verbrauchern abgeführt wird.The Fig. 1 to 11 show a preferred embodiment of the soft start device 11 according to the invention. The components of the valve circuit can be accommodated together here in a valve unit. There is a primary inlet P1 is provided, is supplied to the compressed air under primary pressure. The primary inlet P1 is connected via a main flow path 12 to a secondary outlet P2, on which in turn compressed air is discharged under secondary pressure to the consumers.

Wie beispielsweise in Fig. 1 dargestellt, ist die Ventilschaltung gemäß dem bevorzugten Ausführungsbeispiel folgendermaßen aufgebaut:Such as in Fig. 1 1, the valve circuit according to the preferred embodiment is constructed as follows:

Es ist ein fünftes Wegeventil WV5 vom Typ 2/2-nc vorgesehen, dessen Einlass E5 mit dem Primäreinlass P1 und dessen Auslass A5 mit dem Einlass E4 eines vierten Wegeventils WV4 vom Typ 3/2-nc und parallel dazu mit dem Ausgangs einer Drosseleinrichtung 13 verbunden ist, wobei das fünfte Wegeventil WV5 steuerseitig mit dem Ausgang der Drosseleinrichtung 13 und zusätzlich mit einem Auslass A6 eines sechsten Wegeventils WV6 vom Typ 4/2-nc gekoppelt ist, falls sich das sechste Wegeventil WV6 in seiner nachfolgend beschriebenen Funktionsstellung befindet. Das fünfte Wegeventil WV5 ist über eine Stellfeder 14 und zusätzlich mittels Druckluftbeaufschlagung per Kopplung mit dem Primäreinlass P1 in seiner nc-Stellung gehalten. Ferner ist dem fünften Wegeventil WV5 ein Sensor zur Feststellung seines aktuellen Schaltzustandes zugeordnet.A fifth directional valve WV5 of the type 2/2-nc is provided, its inlet E5 with the primary inlet P1 and its outlet A5 with the inlet E4 of a fourth directional valve WV4 of the type 3/2-nc and in parallel with the outlet of a throttle device 13 is connected, wherein the fifth directional control valve WV5 is the control side coupled to the output of the throttle device 13 and in addition to an outlet A6 of a sixth directional valve WV6 type 4/2-nc, if the sixth directional valve WV6 is in its functional position described below. The fifth directional control valve WV5 is held in its NC position by means of a control spring 14 and additionally by means of compressed air injection by means of coupling to the primary inlet P1. Furthermore, the fifth directional control valve WV5 is assigned a sensor for determining its current switching state.

In Parallelschaltung zum fünften Wegeventil WV5 ist ein erstes Wegeventil WV1 angeordnet, dessen Einlass E1 mit dem Primäreinlass P1 und dessen Auslass A1 mit der Steuerseite S6 eines sechsten Wegeventils WV6 verbunden ist, wobei das erste Wegeventil WV1 über einen Entlüftungsabgang R1 entlüftbar und über steuerseitig angeordnete Schaltmittel 16 aktiv schaltbar ist. Ferner wird das erste Wegeventil WV1 über eine Stellfeder 14 in seiner nc-Stellung gehalten.In parallel connection to the fifth directional valve WV5, a first directional valve WV1 is arranged, whose inlet E1 is connected to the primary inlet P1 and whose outlet A1 is connected to the control side S6 of a sixth directional valve WV6, wherein the first directional valve WV1 can be vented via a venting outlet R1 and via switching means arranged on the control side 16 is active switchable. Furthermore, the first directional control valve WV1 is held in its nc position via a setting spring 14.

Parallel zum ersten Wegeventil WV1 ist ein drittes Wegeventil WV3 angeordnet, dessen Einlass E3 mit dem Primäreinlass P1 und dessen Auslass A3 mit der Steuerseite S4 eines vierten Wegeventils WV4 vom Typ 3/2-nc gekoppelt ist, wobei das dritte Wegeventil WV3 über einen Entlüftungsabgang R3 entlüftbar und über steuerseitig angeordnete Schaltmittel 16 aktiv schaltbar ist.Parallel to the first directional valve WV1, a third directional valve WV3 is arranged, whose inlet E3 is coupled to the primary inlet P1 and whose outlet A3 is coupled to the control side S4 of a fourth directional valve WV4 of the type 3/2-nc, the third directional valve WV3 via a venting outlet R3 can be vented and via switching means arranged switching means 16 is actively switched.

Das mittels des dritten Wegeventils WV3 angesteuerte vierte Wegeventil WV4 ist über seinen Auslass A4 mit dem Sekundärauslass P2 und parallel dazu mit einem Einlass E6 eines sechsten Wegeventils WV6 verbunden, wobei das vierte Wegeventil WV4 über einen Entlüftungsabgang R4 entlüftbar ist. Das vierte Wegeventil WV4 wird über eine Stellfeder 14 und zusätzlich mittels Druckluftbeaufschlagung per Kopplung mit dem Ausgang der Drosseleinrichtung 13 und parallel dazu per Kopplung mit dem Ausgang A5 des fünften Wegeventils WV5 in seiner nc-Stellung gehalten. Zusätzlich ist noch ein Sensor 15 zur Feststellung des aktuellen Schaltzustandes des vierten Wegeventils WV4 vorgesehen.The fourth directional valve WV4 controlled by means of the third directional valve WV3 is connected via its outlet A4 to the secondary outlet P2 and parallel to an inlet E6 of a sixth directional valve WV6, wherein the fourth directional valve WV4 can be vented via a venting outlet R4. The fourth directional control valve WV4 is held in its nc position via a control spring 14 and additionally by means of pressurized air via coupling to the outlet of the throttle device 13 and parallel to it via coupling to the output A5 of the fifth directional valve WV5. In addition, a sensor 15 is provided for determining the current switching state of the fourth directional valve WV4.

Das mittels des ersten Wegeventils WV1 angesteuerte sechste Wegeventil WV6 schließlich ist zwischen einer Normalstellung und einer Funktionsstellung schaltbar, wobei in Normalstellung ein erster Einlass E6 mit dem Sekundärauslass P2 und parallel dazu mit dem Auslass A4 des vierten Wegeventils WV4 verbunden ist, während der dazu gehörige erste Entlüftungsabgang R6 zur Atmosphäre hin offen ist. In Normalstellung des sechsten Wegeventils WV6 ist ferner ein zweiter Einlass E6* mit der Steuerseite S5 des fünften Wegeventils WV5 gekoppelt, während ein dazu gehöriger zweiter Entlüftungsabgang R6* zur Atmosphäre hin offen ist. In der Funktionsstellung des sechsten Wegeventils WV6 hingegen ist dessen Einlass E6 mit dem Auslass A4 des vierten Wegeventils WV4 und parallel dazu mit dem Sekundärauslass P2 verbunden, während der dazu gehörige Auslass A6 mit der Steuerseite S5 des fünften Wegeventils WV5 gekoppelt ist.Finally, the sixth directional valve WV6 controlled by the first directional control valve WV1 is switchable between a normal position and a functional position, with a first inlet E6 in the normal position with the secondary outlet P2 and is connected in parallel to the outlet A4 of the fourth directional valve WV4, while the associated first vent outlet R6 is open to the atmosphere. In the normal position of the sixth directional valve WV6, a second inlet E6 * is further coupled to the control side S5 of the fifth directional valve WV5, while a corresponding second venting outlet R6 * is open to the atmosphere. By contrast, in the functional position of the sixth directional valve WV6, its inlet E6 is connected to the outlet A4 of the fourth directional valve WV4 and parallel to the secondary outlet P2, while the associated outlet A6 is coupled to the control side S5 of the fifth directional valve WV5.

In Fig. 1 ist eine Schaltstellung dargestellt, bei der alle 3/2- bzw. 2/2-Wegeventile in ihre nc-Stellung sind, sowie das sechste Wegeventil WV6 vom Typ 4/2-nc in seiner Normalstellung ist. Diese Stellung könnte auch als Ruhestellung vor dem Softstartvorgang bezeichnet werden. Dabei steht vom Primäreinlass P1 stammende Druckluft mit Primärdruck am Einlass E1 des geschlossenen ersten Wegeventils WV1, parallel dazu am Eingang E5 des geschlossenen fünften Wegeventils WV5, und parallel dazu am Einlass E3 des dritten Wegeventils WV3 an. Parallel dazu gelangt Druckluft zur Unterstützung der Stellfeder 14 auf die Gegensteuerseite des fünften Wegeventils WV5. Schließlich strömt Druckluft in den Bypass 17 und gelangt dort zur Drosseleinrichtung 13 und von dort zum Einlass E4 des geschlossenen vierten Wegeventils WV4, zum Auslass A5 des geschlossenen fünften Wegeventils WV5 und zur Steuerseite S5 des fünften Wegeventils WV5. Als Drosseleinrichtung 13 ist hier ein einstellbares Drosselventil vorgesehen und zusätzliche ein Festdrossel in Form eines die einstellbare Drossel umgehende Drossel-Bypasses. Dadurch wird verhindert, dass bei geschlossenem Drosselventil der Strömungsweg vollständig verschlossen ist. Vielmehr kann stets eine Druckluftmenge über den Drossel-Bypass, der eine relativ geringen Querschnitt besitzt, zu den zugeordneten Anschlüssen des vierten und fünften Wegeventils WV4 und WV5 gelangen. Schließlich steht die Druckluft mit Primärdruck noch an der Gegensteuerseite des vierten Wegeventils WV4 an und unterstützt damit die Stellkraft der Stellfeder 14.In Fig. 1 is a switching position shown in which all 3/2 or 2/2-way valves are in their nc position, and the sixth directional control valve WV6 type 4/2-nc in its normal position. This position could also be referred to as a rest position before the soft start process. In this case, compressed air having primary pressure originating at the primary inlet P1 is in contact with the inlet E1 of the closed first directional valve WV1, parallel to it at the inlet E5 of the closed fifth directional valve WV5, and parallel thereto at the inlet E3 of the third directional valve WV3. In parallel with this, compressed air for supporting the adjusting spring 14 reaches the counter-control side of the fifth directional valve WV5. Finally, compressed air flows into the bypass 17 and arrives there to the throttle device 13 and from there to the inlet E4 of the closed fourth directional valve WV4, to the outlet A5 of the closed fifth directional valve WV5 and to the control side S5 of the fifth directional valve WV5. As a throttle device 13 is here an adjustable throttle valve provided and additional a fixed throttle in the form of an adjustable throttle immediate throttle bypass. This prevents the flow path completely closed when the throttle valve is closed is. Rather, a quantity of compressed air via the throttle bypass, which has a relatively small cross section, can always reach the associated ports of the fourth and fifth directional valve WV4 and WV5. Finally, the compressed air with primary pressure is still at the counter-control side of the fourth directional valve WV4 and thus supports the actuating force of the spring 14th

Fig. 2 zeigt einen Testmodus, bei dem zunächst nur das erste Wegeventil WV1 in seine Offenstellung geschaltet hat, so dass Druckluft und der Primärdruck zur Steuerseite S6 des sechsten Wegeventils WV6 gelangt. Im Test- bzw. Diagnosemodus wird mittels des dem sechsten Wegeventils WV6 zugeordneten Sensors 15 eine Schaltzustandsabfrage dieses sechsten Wegeventils WV6 durchgeführt. Der Sensor 15 detektiert also den Schaltzustand des sechsten Wegeventils WV6 und übermittelt mit diesem korrespondierende Signale an eine Steuereinrichtung 20. Hat das sechste Wegeventil WV6 in seine Funktionsstellung geschaltet, wie in Fig. 2 dargestellt, so kann ausgeschlossen werden, dass das sechste Wegeventil WV6 eine Fehlfunktion hat. Dies könnte beispielsweise bei längeren Stillstandzeiten, beispielsweise durch vorerwähnten "Slip-Stick"-Effekt, der Fall sein. Bei einem Schaltvorgang des sechsten Wegeventils WV6 ist also der Strang Primäreinlass P1, erstes Wegeventil WV1 und sechstes Wegeventil WV6 fehlerfrei. Über die Steuereinrichtung 20 wird nunmehr das erste Wegeventil WV1 zurück in seine nc-Stellung geschaltet. Wird hingegen detektiert, dass das sechste Wegeventil WV6 nicht vorschriftsmäßig in seine Funktionsstellung geschaltet hat, so erfolgt hier ein Abbruch, d.h. eine Fortführung des Vorgangs ist solange nicht mehr möglich, bis der Fehler behoben ist. Fig. 2 shows a test mode in which initially only the first directional valve WV1 has switched to its open position, so that compressed air and the primary pressure to the control side S6 of the sixth directional valve WV6 passes. In the test or diagnostic mode, a switching state inquiry of this sixth directional valve WV6 is carried out by means of the sensor 15 assigned to the sixth directional valve WV6. The sensor 15 thus detects the switching state of the sixth directional valve WV6 and transmits with this corresponding signals to a control device 20. Has the sixth directional control valve WV6 switched to its functional position, as in Fig. 2 shown, it can be ruled out that the sixth directional valve WV6 has a malfunction. This could be the case, for example, during longer downtimes, for example due to the aforementioned "slip-stick" effect. During a switching operation of the sixth directional valve WV6, therefore, the line primary inlet P1, the first directional valve WV1 and the sixth directional valve WV6 are free of errors. The first directional valve WV1 is now switched back into its nc position via the control device 20. If, on the other hand, it is detected that the sixth directional control valve WV6 has not switched to its functional position in accordance with the regulations, an abort occurs here, ie a continuation of the process is no longer possible until the fault has been rectified.

Fig. 3 zeigt ebenfalls den Testmodus, bei dem, zeitlich nachdem festgestellt wurde, dass der Strang Primärauslass, erstes Wegeventil WV1 und sechstes Wegeventil WV6 keinen Fehler hat, das dritte Wegeventil WV3 in die Offenstellung geschaltet wird. Das dritte Wegeventil WV3 wird in seine Offenstellung geschaltet, so dass Druckluft und der Primärdruck zur Steuerseite S4 des vierten Wegeventils WV4 gelangt. Auch hier wird eine Schaltzustandsabfrage des vierten Wegeventils WV4 mittels des zugeordneten Sensors 15 durchgeführt. Die mit diesem Schaltzustand korrespondierenden Signale werden wiederum an die Steuereinrichtung 20 übermittelt. Hat das vierte Wegeventil WV4 vorschriftsmäßig in seine in Fig. 3 dargestellte Offenstellung geschaltet, so ist der Strang Primäreinlass P1, drittes Wegeventil WV3 und viertes Wegeventil WV4 fehlerfrei. Wird hingegen detektiert, dass das vierte Wegeventil WV4 nicht vorschriftsmäßig in die Offenstellung geschaltet hat, so erfolgt auch hier ein Abbruch, d.h. der Vorgang wird abgebrochen, bis der Fehler behoben ist. Für den Fall, dass das vierte Wegeventil WV4 vorschriftsmäßig in die Offenstellung geschaltet und der Sensor 15 die hierzu korrespondierenden Signale über den festgestellten Schaltzustand an die Steuereinrichtung 20 übermittelt hat, steuert die Steuereinrichtung 20 die dem ersten Wegeventil WV1 zugeordneten Schaltmittel 16 an, wodurch automatisch der in Fig. 4 dargestellte Softstartvorgang eingeleitet wird. Fig. 3 also shows the test mode, in which, after it has been determined that the strand primary outlet, first Directional valve WV1 and sixth directional control valve WV6 has no error, the third directional valve WV3 is switched to the open position. The third directional valve WV3 is switched to its open position, so that compressed air and the primary pressure reaches the control side S4 of the fourth directional valve WV4. Here, too, a switching state query of the fourth directional valve WV4 is carried out by means of the associated sensor 15. The signals corresponding to this switching state are in turn transmitted to the control device 20. Has the fourth directional valve WV4 in accordance with its in Fig. 3 shown open position, so the strand primary inlet P1, third directional valve WV3 and fourth directional valve WV4 error-free. If, on the other hand, it is detected that the fourth directional control valve WV4 has not switched to the open position in accordance with the regulations, an abort also occurs here, ie the process is aborted until the fault has been rectified. In the event that the fourth directional control valve WV4 has switched to the open position in accordance with the regulations and the sensor 15 has transmitted the signals corresponding thereto via the detected switching state to the control device 20, the control device 20 activates the switching means 16 assigned to the first directional control valve WV1, whereby the automatic in Fig. 4 shown soft start process is initiated.

Fig. 4 zeigt, wie erwähnt, eine Schaltstellung beim Einleiten des Softstartvorgangs. Dabei haben das erste Wegeventil WV1 und das dritte Wegeventil WV3 vorschriftsmäßig in ihre Offenstellung geschaltet. Zwar hat sich im gesperrten Zustand des vierten Wegeventils WV4 vor dessen Eingang E4 Druckluft unter Primärdruck angestaut, jedoch wird diese, zwischen dem Ausgang der Drosseleinrichtung 13 und dem Eingang E4 des vierten Wegeventils WV4 zunächst eingesperrte Druckluftmenge bei Öffnen des vierten Wegeventils WV4 abgeführt und gelangt zum Primärauslass P2. Druckluft unter Primärdruck kann jedoch nicht sofort nachströmen, da die Drosseleinrichtung 13 zwischengeschaltet ist, die die anstehende Druckluft unter Primärdruck auf Sekunkärdruck drosselt. Es gelangt also Druckluft mit Sekundärdruck zum vierten Wegeventil WV4 und dort zum Primärauslass P2. Gleichzeitig strömt Druckluft unter Sekundärdruck zum Einlass E6 des sechsten Wegeventils WV6 und gelangt dort über den Auslass A6 zur Steuerseite S5 des fünften Wegeventils WV5. Gleichzeitig gibt es eine direkte Verbindung vom Ausgang der Drosseleinrichtung 13 zur Steuerseite S5 des fünften Wegeventils WV5, so dass das fünfte Wegeventil WV5 also doppelt mit Druckluft und der Sekundärdruck steuerseitig beaufschlagt wird. Der Druck am Sekundärauslass P2 steigt nunmehr wieder allmählich an, bis ab einem gewissen Verhältnis zwischen Sekundär- und Primärdruck ein Schalten des fünften Wegeventils WV5 in seine Offenstellung veranlasst wird. Das Verhältnis zwischen Sekundär- und Primärdruck kann beispielsweise im Bereich von >0 bis 1, insbesondere 0,4 bis 0,6 liegen. Besonders bevorzugt wird in Offenstellung geschaltet, falls der Sekundärdruck P2 gleich ca. 0,5 · Primärdruck P1 beträgt. Fig. 4 shows, as mentioned, a switching position when initiating the soft start process. In this case, the first directional control valve WV1 and the third directional control valve WV3 have switched to their open position in accordance with regulations. Although in the locked state of the fourth directional valve WV4 before the input E4 compressed air under primary pressure, but this, between the output of the throttle device 13 and the input E4 of the fourth directional valve WV4 initially trapped compressed air discharged at the opening of the fourth directional valve WV4 and arrives Primary outlet P2. Compressed air under primary pressure, however, can not flow immediately because the throttle device 13 is interposed, which throttles the upcoming compressed air under primary pressure to Sekunkärdruck. Thus, compressed air with secondary pressure reaches the fourth directional valve WV4 and there to the primary outlet P2. At the same time, compressed air flows under secondary pressure to the inlet E6 of the sixth directional valve WV6 and arrives there via the outlet A6 to the control side S5 of the fifth directional valve WV5. At the same time, there is a direct connection from the outlet of the throttle device 13 to the control side S5 of the fifth directional valve WV5, so that the fifth directional control valve WV5 is therefore charged twice with compressed air and the secondary pressure on the control side. The pressure at the secondary outlet P2 now rises again gradually until, after a certain ratio between secondary and primary pressure, a switching of the fifth directional valve WV5 into its open position is initiated. The ratio between secondary and primary pressure may be, for example, in the range of> 0 to 1, in particular 0.4 to 0.6. It is particularly preferred to switch to the open position if the secondary pressure P2 is equal to approximately 0.5 · primary pressure P1.

Fig. 5 zeigt die Schaltstellung nach dem Softstartvorgang. Durch den anstehenden Druck auf der Steuerseite S5 des fünften Wegeventils WV5 hat dieses geöffnet, so dass Druckluft direkt vom Primäreinlass P1 über den Hauptströmungsweg 12, das vierte Wegeventil WV4 passierend, zum Sekundärauslass P2 und von dort zu den Verbrauchern gelangt. Fig. 5 shows the switch position after the soft start process. By the upcoming pressure on the control side S5 of the fifth directional valve WV5 this has opened, so that compressed air passes directly from the primary inlet P1 via the main flow path 12, the fourth directional valve WV4 passing to the secondary outlet P2 and from there to the consumers.

Fig. 6 zeigt eine Standard-Entlüftungsschaltstellung zum Entlüften des Sekundärauslasses P2. Dabei haben erstes und drittes Wegeventil WV1 und WV3 vorschriftsmäßig in ihre nc-Stellung zurückgeschaltet, so dass die an der Steuerseite S4 des vierten Wegeventils WV4 anstehende Druckluft über den Entlüftungsabgang R3 entweicht, während die an der Steuerseite S6 des sechsten Wegeventils WV6 anstehende Druckluft über den Entlüftungsabgang R1 entweicht. Dadurch hat das vierte Wegeventil WV4 eine nc-Stellung zurückgeschaltet, während das sechste Wegeventil WV6 in seine Normalstellung zurückgeschaltet hat. Vom Sekundärauslass P2 stammende Druckluft kann nunmehr über den Entlüftungsabgang R4 des vierten Wegeventils WV4 und zusätzlich über den Entlüftungsabgang R6 des sechsten Wegeventils WV6 entweichen. Bevorzugterweise sind die Entlüftungsabgänge R4 und R6 zu einem gemeinsamen, zur Atmosphäre hin offenen Zentralentlüftungsabgang 18 zusammengefasst. Dem Zentralentlüftungsabgang 18 kann zudem noch ein Schalldämpfer 19 zur Schalldämpfung der ausdrehenden Druckluft zugeordnet sein. Fig. 6 shows a standard venting switch position for venting the secondary outlet P2. In this case, the first and third directional valve WV1 and WV3 have switched back to their nc position in accordance with the regulations, so that the compressed air present at the control side S4 of the fourth directional valve WV4 is discharged via the Vent outlet R3 escapes while the compressed air present at the control side S6 of the sixth directional valve WV6 escapes via the vent outlet R1. As a result, the fourth directional control valve WV4 has switched back to an nc position, while the sixth directional control valve WV6 has returned to its normal position. Compressed air coming from the secondary outlet P2 can now escape via the vent outlet R4 of the fourth directional valve WV4 and additionally via the vent outlet R6 of the sixth directional valve WV6. Preferably, the vent outlets R4 and R6 to a common, open to the atmosphere central vent outlet 18 are summarized. The central vent outlet 18 may also be associated with a muffler 19 for sound attenuation of the rotating compressed air.

Wird der Softstartvorgang abgebrochen und soll entlüftet werden, wird sich die Standard-Entlüftungsschaltstellung einstellen, d.h. vom Sekundärauslass P2 stammende Druckluft entweicht über die Entlüftungsabgänge R4 und R6 des vierten bzw. sechsten Wegeventils WV4 bzw. WV6.If the soft start operation is aborted and is to be vented, the default bleed switch position will be set, i. Compressed air from the secondary outlet P2 escapes via the vent outlets R4 and R6 of the fourth and sixth directional valves WV4 and WV6.

Fig. 7 zeigt eine Entlüftungsschaltstellung, bei der das erste Wegeventil WV1 eine Fehlfunktion hat, d.h. nicht in seine nc-Stellung zurückgeschaltet hat. Dadurch bleibt der Durchgang E1-A1 offen und Druckluft steht nach wie vor an der Steuerseite S6 des sechsten Wegeventils WV6 an, so dass dieses in seiner Funktionsstellung verbleibt. Der Entlüftungsabgang R6 des sechsten Wegeventils WV6 ist somit gesperrt. Ein Entlüften ist jedoch trotzdem möglich, da das dritte Wegeventil WV3 vorschriftsmäßig in seine nc-Stellung zurückgeschaltet hat, so dass an der Steuerseite S4 des vierten Wegeventils WV4 anstehende Druckluft über den Entlüftungsabgang R3 entweichen kann, wodurch das vierte Wegeventil WV4 in seine nc-Stellung zurückschaltet. Vom Sekundärauslass P2 stammende Druckluft kann nunmehr in den Entlüftungsabgang R4 entweichen. Zudem wird die Steuerseite S5 des fünften Wegeventils WV5 über die Anschlüsse A6-E6 und den Entlüftungsabgang R4 entlüftet, so dass das fünfte Wegeventil WV5 in seine nc-Stellung zurückschaltet. Fig. 7 shows a venting switching position in which the first directional valve WV1 has a malfunction, that is, has not switched back to its nc position. As a result, the passage E1-A1 remains open and compressed air is still at the control side S6 of the sixth directional valve WV6, so that this remains in its functional position. The vent outlet R6 of the sixth directional valve WV6 is thus blocked. However, venting is still possible because the third directional valve WV3 has switched back to its nc position in accordance with regulations so that compressed air present on the control side S4 of the fourth directional valve WV4 can escape via the vent outlet R3, whereby the fourth directional valve WV4 moves into its nc position back on. From secondary outlet P2 Compressed air can now escape into the vent outlet R4. In addition, the control side S5 of the fifth-way valve WV5 is vented via the ports A6-E6 and the vent outlet R4, so that the fifth-way valve WV5 returns to its NC position.

Fig. 8 zeigte eine Entlüftungsschaltstellung, bei der das dritte Wegeventil WV3 eine Fehlfunktion hat, d.h. nicht in seine nc-Stellung zurückgeschaltet hat. Dadurch bleibt der Durchgang E3-A3 offen und Druckluft steht nach wie vor an der Steuerseite S4 des vierten Wegeventils WV4 an, so dass dieses in seiner Offenstellung verbleibt. Der Entlüftungsabgang R4 des vierten Wegeventils WV4 ist somit gesperrt. Ein Entlüften ist jedoch trotzdem möglich, da das erste Wegeventil WV1 vorschriftsmäßig in seine nc-Stellung zurückgeschaltet hat, so dass an der Steuerseite S6 des sechsten Wegeventils WV6 anstehende Druckluft über den Entlüftungsabgang R1 entweichen kann, wodurch das sechste Wegeventil WV6 in seine Normalstellung zurückschaltet. Vom Sekundärauslass P2 stammende Druckluft kann nunmehr über den Entlüftungsabgang R6 entweichen. Zudem wird die Steuerseite S5 des fünften Wegeventils WV5 über die Anschlüsse A6-E6 zur Atmosphäre hin entlüftet, so dass das fünfte Wegeventil WV5 in seine nc-Stellung zurückschaltet. Fig. 8 showed a venting switch position, in which the third directional valve WV3 has a malfunction, that is, has not switched back to its nc position. As a result, the passage E3-A3 remains open and compressed air is still at the control side S4 of the fourth directional valve WV4, so that this remains in its open position. The vent outlet R4 of the fourth directional valve WV4 is thus blocked. However, venting is still possible because the first directional control valve WV1 has switched back to its nc position so that at the control side S6 of the sixth directional control valve WV6 upcoming compressed air can escape through the vent outlet R1, whereby the sixth directional valve WV6 switches back to its normal position. Compressed air coming from the secondary outlet P2 can now escape via the vent outlet R6. In addition, the control side S5 of the fifth directional valve WV5 is vented to the atmosphere via the ports A6-E6, so that the fifth directional control valve WV5 returns to its nc position.

Fig.9 zeigt eine Entlüftungsschaltstellung, bei der das fünfte Wegeventil WV5 eine Fehlfunktion hat, d.h. nicht in seine nc-Stellung zurückgeschaltet hat. Dadurch bleibt der Hauptströmungsweg 12 über E5-A5 offen, so dass vom Primäreinlass P1 stammende Druckluft nachströmen kann. Ein Entlüften ist jedoch trotzdem möglich, da die beiden Wegeventile WV1 und WV3 in ihre nc-Stellungen zurückgeschaltet haben, wodurch sowohl die Steuerseite S4 des vierten Wegeventils WV4 als auch die Steuerseite S6 des sechsten Wegeventils WV6 entlüftet werden, so dass viertes und sechstes Wegeventil WV4 und WV6 in ihre nc-Stellung bzw. Normalstellung zurückgeschaltet haben. Dadurch ist wiederum ein Entlüften der vom Sekundärauslass P2 stammende Druckluft über die Entlüftungsabgänge R4 und R6 möglich. Figure 9 shows a venting switch position, in which the fifth directional valve WV5 has a malfunction, that is, has not returned to its nc position. As a result, the main flow path 12 remains open via E5-A5, so that compressed air originating from the primary inlet P1 can flow in. However, venting is still possible because the two-way valves WV1 and WV3 have switched back to their nc positions, whereby both the control side S4 of the fourth directional valve WV4 and the control side S6 of the sixth directional valve WV6 vented be so that fourth and sixth directional valve WV4 and WV6 have switched back to their nc position or normal position. This in turn makes it possible to vent the compressed air coming from the secondary outlet P2 via the vent outlets R4 and R6.

Fig. 10 zeigt eine Entlüftungsschaltstellung, bei der das vierte Wegeventil WV4 eine Fehlfunktion hat, d.h. nicht in seine nc-Stellung zurückgeschaltet hat. Der Entlüftungsabgang R4 ist somit gesperrt. Ein Entlüften ist dennoch möglich, da erstes und drittes Wegeventil WV1 und WV3 vorschriftsmäßig in ihre nc-Stellungen zurückgeschaltet haben, wodurch insbesondere die Steuerseite S6 des sechsten Wegeventils WV6 entlüftet wird, so dass dieses in seine Normalstellung zurückschaltet, so dass an der Steuerseite S5 des fünften Wegeventils WV5 anliegende Druckluft über die Anschlüsse E6* und R6* entlüftet wird, so dass das fünfte Wegeventil WV5 ebenfalls in seine nc-Stellung zurückschaltet. Vom Sekundärauslass P2 stammende Druckluft kann nunmehr über den Entlüftungsabgang R6 entweichen. Fig. 10 shows a venting switch position in which the fourth directional valve WV4 has a malfunction, that is, has not switched back to its nc position. The vent outlet R4 is thus blocked. Bleeding is still possible because first and third directional valve WV1 and WV3 have switched back to their nc positions in accordance with the regulations, whereby in particular the control side S6 of the sixth directional valve WV6 is vented, so that this switches back to its normal position, so that at the control side S5 of the fifth directional valve WV5 is vented via the connections E6 * and R6 *, so that the fifth directional valve WV5 also switches back to its nc position. Compressed air coming from the secondary outlet P2 can now escape via the vent outlet R6.

Fig. 11 zeigt schließlich eine Entlüftungsschaltstellung, bei der das sechste Wegeventil WV6 eine Fehlfunktion hat, d.h. nicht in seine Normalstellung zurückgeschaltet hat. Dadurch ist der Entlüftungsabgang R6 gesperrt. Erstes und drittes Wegeventil WV1 und WV3 haben jedoch vorschriftsmäßig in ihre nc-Stellung zurückgeschaltet, so dass die Steuerseite S4 des vierten Wegeventils WV4 entlüftet wird, wodurch dieses in seine nc-Stellung zurückschaltet, so das vom Sekundärauslass P2 stammende Druckluft über den Entlüftungsabgang R4 entweichen kann. Zusätzlich wird die Steuerseite S5 über die Anschlüsse A6-E6 und den Entlüftungsabgang R4 entlüftet, so dass das fünfte Wegeventil WV5 in seine nc-Stellung zurückschaltet. Fig. 11 finally shows a venting switching position in which the sixth directional valve WV6 has a malfunction, that has not returned to its normal position. As a result, the vent outlet R6 is blocked. First and third directional valve WV1 and WV3, however, have switched back to their nc position in accordance with regulations, so that the control side S4 of the fourth directional valve WV4 is vented, as a result of which it switches back into its nc position, so that the compressed air originating from the secondary outlet P2 escapes via the venting outlet R4 can. In addition, the control side S5 is vented via the ports A6-E6 and the vent outlet R4, so that the fifth-way valve WV5 switches back to its nc position.

Claims (11)

  1. Soft-start device for compressed air systems
    - with a primary inlet (P1) at which compressed air may be fed in under primary pressure
    - wherein the primary inlet (P1) is connected via a valve circuit to at least one secondary outlet (P2) connectable to loads, at which compressed air may be carried away under secondary pressure, wherein the secondary pressure is less than or equal to the primary pressure,
    - wherein there is interposed between primary inlet (P1) and secondary outlet (P2) a main valve (WV5) of type 2/2-nc (normally closed), which may be avoided by means of a bypass (17), wherein a restrictor device (13) is connected into the bypass (17),
    - wherein main valve (WV5) and restrictor device (13) together with further directional valves (WV1, WV3, WV4, WV6) of the valve circuit are so connected to one another that, during a starting process, with the main valve (WV5) initially blocked, compressed air with a gradually rising secondary pressure, lower than the primary pressure, is present at the secondary outlet (P2) until, from a certain ratio between secondary and primary pressure, a switching process of the main valve (WV5) into its open position takes place, so that compressed air with primary pressure then reaches the secondary outlet (P2) and
    - the valve circuit may be shifted into a standard venting control position such that the secondary outlet (P2) is vented,
    characterised in that
    - the inlet (E5) of the main valve in the form of the fifth directional valve (WV1) of type 2/2-nc is connected to the primary inlet (P1) and the outlet (A5) to the inlet (E4) of a fourth directional valve (WV4) of type 3/2-nc and in parallel with this to the outlet of the restrictor device (13), wherein the fifth directional valve (WV5) is connected on the control side to the outlet of the restrictor device (13) and in addition to an outlet (A6) of a sixth directional valve (WV6) of type 4/2-nc,
    - the inlet (E1) of the first directional valve (WV1) of type 3/2-nc is connected to the primary inlet (P1) and the outlet (A1) to the control side (S6) of the sixth directional valve (WV6), wherein the first directional valve (WV1) may be vented through a vent outlet (R1) and may be activated by switching means (16) provided on the control side,
    - the inlet (E3) of the third directional valve (WV3) of type 3/2-nc is connected to the primary inlet (P1) and the outlet (A3) of the third directional valve (WV3) to the control side (S4) of a fourth directional valve (WV4) of type 3/2-nc, wherein the third directional valve (WV3) may be vented through a vent outlet (R3) and may be activated by switching means (16) provided on the control side,
    - the outlet (A4) of the fourth directional valve (WV4) is connected to the secondary outlet (P2) and in parallel to this to an inlet (E6) of the sixth directional valve (WV6), wherein the fourth directional valve (WV4) may be vented through a vent outlet (R4), and
    - the sixth directional valve (WV6) may be switched between a normal position and a functional position, wherein in the normal position a first inlet (E6) is connected to the secondary outlet (P2) and in parallel to the outlet (A4) of the fourth directional valve (WV4), while the associated first vent outlet (R6) is open to the atmosphere and a second inlet (E6*) is connected to the control side (S5) of the fifth directional valve (WV5), while an associated second vent outlet (R6*) is open to the atmosphere, and wherein in the functional position the inlet (E6) is connected to the outlet (A4) of the fourth directional valve (WV4) and in parallel to the secondary outlet (P2), and the associated outlet (A6) is connected to the control side (S5) of the fifth directional valve (WV5).
  2. Soft-start device according to claim 1, characterised in that the vent outlets (R4, R6) of the fourth and sixth directional valves are combined to form a common central vent outlet (18), open to the atmosphere.
  3. Soft-start device according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the central vent outlet (18) is assigned a silencer (19) for damping the noise of the outgoing compressed air.
  4. Soft-start device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the fifth directional valve (WV5) is held in its "nc" position by a positioning spring (14) and additionally by compressed air pressurisation through coupling to the primary inlet (P1), and that the fourth directional valve (WV4) is held in its "nc" position by a positioning spring (14) and additionally by compressed air pressurisation through coupling to the outlet (A5) of the fifth directional valve and in parallel to the outlet of the restrictor device, and that the sixth directional valve (WV6) is held in its normal position by a positioning spring (14) and additionally by compressed air pressurisation through coupling to the secondary outlet (P2) and in parallel to the outlet (A4) of the fourth directional valve (WV4).
  5. Soft-start device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the restrictor device (13) has an adjustable restrictor valve and in addition a fixed restrictor in the form of a restrictor bypass which bypasses the adjustable restrictor.
  6. Soft-start device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the ratio between secondary and primary pressure, from which a switching process of the main valve (WV5) into the open position takes place, lies in the range between >0 and 1, typically 0.4 to 0.6.
  7. Soft-start device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that a sensor device with several sensors (15) is provided to determine the current switching status of the directional valves, in particular the inactive switchable directional valves.
  8. Soft-start device according to claim 7, characterised in that the sensors are in the form of reed switches,
  9. Soft-start device according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that a control unit (20) connected to the switching means of the first and third directional valves (WV1, WV3) is provided.
  10. Method of operating a soft-start device according to any of claims 1 to 9, with the following steps:
    - switching of the first directional valve (WV1) into its open position, by which means the control side (S6) of the sixth directional valve (WV6) is pressurised by compressed air,
    - determining the switching status of the sixth directional valve (WV6) by means of the assigned sensor (15),
    - determining the result of the switching status inquiry wherein, in the case of an established switching process of the sixth directional valve (WV6), a switching process of the third directional valve (WV3) or the soft-start process are initiated,
    - switching of the third directional valve (WV3) into its open position after or alternatively before switching of the first directional valve (WV1), wherein on switching of the third directional valve (WV3) the first directional valve (WV1) is in its "nc" position, wherein through the switching of the third directional valve (WV3) the control side (S4) of the fourth directional valve (WV4) is pressurised with compressed air,
    - determination of the switching status of the fourth directional valve (WV4) by means of the assigned sensor (15),
    - determining the result of the switching status inquiry wherein, in the case of an established switching process of the fourth directional valve (WV4), a switching process of the first directional valve (WV1) or the soft-start process are initiated.
  11. Method according to claim 10, characterised in that a signal transmission corresponding to the result of the switching status inquiry is made from the relevant sensor (15) to the control unit (20) and, depending on the switching status result, activation or no activation of the switching means (16) assigned to the first and third directional valves (WV1, WV3) takes place.
EP20080715786 2008-02-15 2008-02-15 Soft start device for compressed air systems and method for operating a soft start device Active EP2242933B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/EP2008/001164 WO2009100734A1 (en) 2008-02-15 2008-02-15 Soft start device for compressed air systems and method for operating a soft start device

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2242933A1 EP2242933A1 (en) 2010-10-27
EP2242933B1 true EP2242933B1 (en) 2013-01-09

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EP20080715786 Active EP2242933B1 (en) 2008-02-15 2008-02-15 Soft start device for compressed air systems and method for operating a soft start device

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US (1) US8567442B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2242933B1 (en)
CA (1) CA2715222C (en)
WO (1) WO2009100734A1 (en)

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US9372485B2 (en) * 2011-11-02 2016-06-21 Smc Kabushiki Kaisha Flow rate control device
BR112015021879A2 (en) * 2013-03-15 2017-07-18 Ross Operating Valve Co Reliable control pneumatic power isolation valve with soft start function
DE102014006357B3 (en) * 2014-04-30 2015-06-25 Festo Ag & Co. Kg Compressed air system with safety function and method for operating such a compressed air system
WO2020025766A1 (en) * 2018-08-01 2020-02-06 Norgren Ag Safety air supply unit

Family Cites Families (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPS62118059A (en) * 1985-11-15 1987-05-29 Showa Seiki Kogyo Kk Starting device comprising air motor for internal combustion engine
US5038813A (en) * 1990-05-21 1991-08-13 Rossow David E Pneumatic starter device
US5067519A (en) * 1990-11-26 1991-11-26 Ross Operating Valve Company Safety valve for fluid systems
JPH086727B2 (en) * 1991-04-09 1996-01-29 エスエムシー株式会社 Slow start valve
US5337788A (en) * 1993-10-22 1994-08-16 Robertshaw Controls Company Pneumatic valve with slow start and quick exhaust
US5669422A (en) * 1995-04-07 1997-09-23 Ckd Corporation Slow start valve
AT404065B (en) 1995-08-04 1998-08-25 Hygrama Ag START VALVE FOR PNEUMATIC PLANTS
ITMI20032562A1 (en) * 2003-12-22 2005-06-23 Metal Work Spa PROGRESSIVE STARTING GROUP FOR PNEUMATIC SYSTEMS
DE202004015468U1 (en) 2004-10-06 2005-01-05 Festo Ag & Co.Kg Soft start device for compressed air systems
EP1930638B1 (en) * 2006-12-05 2011-01-05 FESTO AG & Co. KG Softstart valve device

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP2242933A1 (en) 2010-10-27
CA2715222A1 (en) 2009-08-20
US8567442B2 (en) 2013-10-29
US20110277843A1 (en) 2011-11-17
WO2009100734A1 (en) 2009-08-20
CA2715222C (en) 2014-09-30

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