EP3620663A1 - Vacuum device - Google Patents

Abstract

Vacuum device, in particular vacuum pump, vacuum measuring device, vacuum analysis device, leak detector, vacuum valve, drive device and / or user device, with a module configuration consisting of at least one function module and with a central unit for detecting the module configuration, the central unit being set up to have at least one depending on a detected module configuration trigger predefined action.

Description

The present invention relates to a vacuum device, in particular a vacuum pump, a vacuum measuring device, a vacuum analysis device, a leak detector, a vacuum valve, a drive device and / or a user device.

Depending on their configuration, modular vacuum devices can provide a relatively large number of functionalities. In particular, a large number of different functionalities can be implemented by selecting different modular configurations. At the same time, due to the large number of configurations or functionalities, the operating effort and thus also the requirement profile for the respective operator of such devices increases. Inadequately trained operators can create the risk of incorrect operation.

Against this background, the object of the present invention is to provide a vacuum device which, with a high degree of versatility, simultaneously ensures a reduced operating effort or a reduced risk of incorrect operation.

This object has been achieved by a vacuum device with the features of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims and are discussed below.

A vacuum device in question can be, in particular, a vacuum pump, a vacuum measuring device, a vacuum analysis device Act leak detector, a vacuum valve and / or a vacuum chamber device. A vacuum pump can advantageously be designed as a turbomolecular pump. Likewise, a vacuum pump can be a backing pump, in particular for a vacuum pump arrangement which also has a turbomolecular pump. Finally, in the sense of the present invention, the term “vacuum device” is also intended to extend to pumps which are only designed to deliver incompressible fluids. The invention thus also relates to pumps which do not necessarily have to be designed to generate a vacuum.

Furthermore, a vacuum device in question can also be a drive device and / or a user device. Such a drive and / or user device can be designed for use with a further vacuum device, in particular for use with a vacuum pump, a vacuum measuring device, a vacuum analyzer, a leak detector, a vacuum valve and / or a vacuum chamber device. A user device mentioned above can in particular be a display and / or operating device. The user device can thus be designed to display vacuum device-specific contents and / or can be configured to operate another vacuum device connected to the user device on the user side.

A vacuum device according to the invention is equipped with a module configuration consisting of at least one functional module and with a central unit for recording the module configuration. According to the invention, the central unit is set up to trigger at least one predefined action as a function of a detected module configuration.

By triggering the at least one predefined action, operator relief can advantageously be achieved. It can also be the case with the pre-defined action is a security-specific measure, so that improved operational security can also be achieved.

The at least one predefined action can advantageously be triggered automatically or automatically. In particular, the predefined action can be triggered completely or partially automatically or automatically. For example, in the case of a partially automatic or automatic triggering, the predefined action can only be completed after confirmation by the user.

According to a preferred embodiment, a plurality of function modules are provided. As a result, the flexibility of use can be improved or the number of functionalities to be provided can be increased.

Further preferably, the central unit and / or the functional module can be expandable by at least one further functional module designed as an expansion module, preferably by a plurality of functional modules designed as expansion modules. The modular configurability can be achieved in this way with particularly little effort. The module configuration can thus relate to the compilation of the central unit and the existing expansion modules.

The module configuration can preferably be determinable by arranging or omitting a function module designed as an expansion module, in particular by the type of the expansion module and / or by the number of expansion modules. This can ensure further improved flexibility of use. In addition to the type and number of expansion modules, their position can also serve to determine a module configuration or be relevant for the detection of a typical application. For example, it can make a difference whether a particular module is lightweight accessible on the front of a rack device - and therefore frequent manual access can be assumed - or is arranged on the back of a built-in rack device, which suggests a one-time installation.

It can also be advantageous if the module configuration can be determined by establishing a data connection between the central unit and the at least one function module, in particular by the type of the function module and / or by the number of function modules. By establishing a data connection, the central unit can access information about the respectively connected functional module and the identification of the module configuration can be simplified.

Further preferably, at least one functional module can be designed as a vacuum device, in particular as a vacuum pump, vacuum measuring device, vacuum analysis device, leak detector, vacuum valve, drive device and / or user device. Accordingly, several vacuum devices, for example several vacuum pumps and / or a connected drive device and / or a connected user device, can form a module configuration. The possibilities of configurability are further increased in this way.

It is also possible for at least one functional module to be designed as a sub-module of a vacuum device, in particular as a sub-module of a vacuum pump, a vacuum measuring device, a vacuum analysis device, a leak detector, a vacuum valve, a drive device and / or a user device. Configurability can therefore already take place at the level of an individual vacuum device, which further improves the possibilities of configurability.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the module configuration can be input, in particular it can be input by the user and / or by the manufacturer. It is preferably possible that the central unit is designed for entering the module configuration and / or that the central unit is designed for user and / or manufacturer interaction. Such inputability can be accomplished with little effort.

It is also possible that a detection device connected to the central unit is provided for entering the module configuration. The module configuration can thus be entered independently of the central unit.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, the module configuration can be recognized automatically and / or automatically. The central unit can advantageously be designed for automatic and / or automatic detection of the module configuration. The operating effort and the risk of incorrect operation can be reduced as a result. In particular, the central unit can in this way recognize the prevailing module configuration without further input from a user and, if appropriate, also recognize the purpose of the vacuum device and / or the module configuration that can reasonably be expected. Such a detection can be used for further user support.

It is also possible that a recognition device connected to the central unit is provided for the automatic recognition of the module configuration. The detection can thus take place independently of the central unit.

It can also be advantageous if the central unit is set up to compare the module configuration with a target configuration and / or the central unit is set up to, depending on a comparison result between trigger a predefined action for the module configuration and a target configuration. The triggering of an action on the basis of such a comparison result can serve in particular to improve operational safety, in particular in the detection of safety-relevant deviations between the module configuration and a target configuration.

A target configuration can be stored in the central unit, for example. It is also possible for the central unit to be connected to a comparison device for comparing the module configuration with a target configuration. The target configuration can then, for example, also be stored in the comparison device. The comparison operation can consequently be carried out by the central unit or by a comparison device which may be present.

The predefined action can advantageously include preventing and / or releasing a device functionality. The central device can preferably be set up to completely or partially prevent and / or enable device functionalities depending on a comparison result between the module configuration and a target configuration.

Such blocking and / or releasing can be advantageous for several reasons. For example, it may not be permissible for a user to open a vacuum device or a function module for the purpose of conversion, since the correct function can then no longer be ensured by the manufacturer or the user who has not been trained accordingly, for example due to high voltages or temperatures in the vacuum device , is at risk.

Furthermore, the operation of a combination of function modules can be prevented, for example. This applies, for example, to a combination of functional modules that have an unintended operating state of the vacuum device or would cause a single function module, such as an excessive current consumption due to the given number or combination of function modules.

Likewise, the absence or non-existence of certain functions may be explicitly desired, for example the possibility of copying operating data onto a mobile data carrier, in particular copying onto a USB stick or an SD card. Such functionality may only be possible if a corresponding functional module is subsequently installed in the vacuum device. Due to such an installation, a device functionality can be prevented. Likewise, the lack of a correspondingly subsequently installed function module can release a device functionality.

The central unit can further preferably have a display and / or input device for displaying at least one functional view with at least one functional object. This can simplify user operation.

It can also be advantageous if at least one functional view of the central unit can be configured without programming, in particular through the at least one predefined action being programmable and / or can be configured automatically.

The term "program-free" is to be understood here to mean that any configurations can be made free of source code access or free of source code changes. A separate programming by adapting or reformulating source codes is therefore not necessary with a programmable configurability.

Advantageously, the flexibility of use can thus be improved by the programmable configuration of the at least one functional view. In particular, there is the possibility of using the vacuum device for a larger number of application conditions, without having to adapt the functional view by programming at source code level. The operating effort or the equipment expense for different operating conditions can be reduced in this way.

Compared to a pure selection of predefined functional views, the vacuum device, in particular a user device, or a preparation of the vacuum device for the respectively intended operating conditions can be carried out in a particularly simple manner through a programmable configuration. The vacuum device is therefore versatile. In particular, this extends the area of application and improves user-friendliness, since a restriction to predefined functional views, which can only be selected by the respective user, is no longer necessary.

According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one functional view can be configured by programming-free new generation. Depending on the application conditions, a desired or required functional view can thus be generated, a functional view to be generated being configurable according to the invention without programming. Accordingly, the new function view can be generated without access to or modification of the source code, which can be stored in a storage unit of the central unit. Compared to the mere selection of a view, the function view is generated in an original way when it is created.

It is also possible that the at least one functional view can be configured by programming-free adaptation of an existing functional view. It an already stored or predefined function view can therefore be configured or reconfigured by adaptation. For this purpose, for example, individual functional elements can be added and / or removed. The effort on the part of the user for setting up the user device for the desired operating conditions can be reduced in this way.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least one functional view can be completely and / or partially configurable by programming-free creation and / or can be configurable by programming-free adaptation of an existing functional view. Configurability accordingly relates to part of the function view or to the entire function view.

The possibility of programmable configuration of the entire function view enables particularly high flexibility of use. The possibility of partial configurability of the functional view can reduce the effort on the part of the user for setting up the user device for the respective intended use or prevent the removal of safety-relevant functional elements. In particular, parts of the functional view can be fixed or unchangeable, as a result of which, for example, help for a user or safety-relevant functional elements can always be kept wide.

The at least one functional object of the functional view can be an operating element for operating a functional module that is in data connection with the central unit. The functional object can accordingly be designed as an input field or as an input surface. Such an operating element can enable input by different methods, for example by pressing, releasing and / or wiping by a user. The function object can also be a graphic display Act any content, especially context-specific content. This can particularly preferably be device-specific contents of function modules which are in data connection with the central unit.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the functional view can be configurable without programming by generating, selecting, adapting, aligning and / or orienting a functional object and / or a plurality of functional objects. Likewise, the function view can be configured without programming by compiling a plurality of selectable function lenses. Function objects can be compiled from existing function objects.

For example, it is possible to compile individual function views from different predefined function views in a newly configured function view. In this way, for example, an overview of selected functional elements can be created in just one functional view. The requirement to switch between different functional views during operation can thereby be avoided or at least reduced. This applies in particular to case designs in which the user needs frequent access to functional elements of different preset functional views.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the type, position, shape, size, orientation, orientation and / or the type of representation of the at least one functional object can be selected and / or adapted without programming. The configuration flexibility of the at least one functional view can be further improved in this way.

The type of the respective functional object can be, for example, the form as a text display, graphic display, indicator, button, controller and / or graph. The position, shape or size of a functional object can, for example, be changed temporarily, in particular a temporary enlargement to a maximum representation can take place, as a result of which a special signal effect or particularly good legibility for a user can be achieved. The type of representation of a functional object can relate to a text form, a symbol form or orientations of text and symbol displays. The representation type can likewise comprise constant and / or dynamic representations. For example, foreground or background colors or color adaptations can be predefined depending on predefined conditions, such as, for example, parameter threshold values.

As already mentioned above, the at least one functional view of the central unit can be programmable and / or automatically configurable by the at least one predefined action. This applies to all of the options described above and / or below for configuring the at least one functional view.

It can also be advantageous if the display and / or input device is set up to display a plurality of function views and / or different function views. The different function views can be configured without any programming according to different requirements. It is also possible for at least one functional view and / or at least one functional object of a functional view to be predetermined or predefined.

The respective functional view or the respective functional object can be designed to be unchangeable or also reconfigurable. Through a constant training, for example, security-relevant representations remain permanently displayed, which can reduce the risk of incorrect operation or prevent the occurrence of dangerous situations. Reconfigurability can make it possible to adapt predefined views or functional objects according to user ideas.

The central unit can further preferably be set up for the automated configuration of the at least one functional view, in particular depending on a detected, preferably an entered or recognized, module configuration. Accordingly, a module configuration recorded in each case can automatically trigger a configuration of the function view. Such a configuration based on a detected module configuration can, in particular, be carried out free of user input, so that the outlay on setting up such a vacuum device can be further reduced.

It is also possible that the function view can be configured by the user according to preset specifications or also free of preset specifications without any programming. A configuration according to preset specifications or free of preset specifications can take place independently of the module configuration present in each case and / or independently of a stored target configuration. The customizability according to the ideas of the respective user can hereby be improved and thus the flexibility of use can be further increased.

In a further preferred manner, the at least one predefined action can relate to the creation of a new functional view and / or adaptation of an existing functional view, in particular a functional view shown and / or context-specific on the central unit. A context-specific functional view can be generated or adapted particularly preferably with regard to the present module configuration or with regard to a target configuration. If the configuration of a function view is dependent on a module configuration, it can be a context-specific view configuration.

For example, functional views, in particular in the form of operating levels, functional objects, in particular in the form of graphics and / or text objects, can be generated or adapted to the actions and information that can actually be carried out on the basis of a module configuration. For example, in the presence of a function module for data storage on internal or external data carriers, corresponding functions for configuring corresponding storage processes or for viewing the recordings present on corresponding data carriers can be displayed. If such functions are visible without the presence of a function module that is actually required for this purpose, a user could attempt in vain to carry out such actions. Accordingly, a concise or clear operating display can be guaranteed in this way.

In a further preferred manner, the central unit can be configured to configure a function view as a predefined action depending on a comparison result between the module configuration and a target configuration, in particular to trigger a new generation and / or adaptation of an existing function view as a predefined action. In this way, a security-specific display can be configured, which overall ensures a high degree of operational security.

It can also be advantageous if the central unit is set up to determine the installation position of at least one function module depending on a detected module configuration and to trigger the predefined action depending on the determined installation position. The at least one predefined action can be the alignment and / or orientation of a functional view and / or one Function object of a function view concern. Such a predefined action can also take place automatically or can be released by a user.

In this way, the familiarity of the module configuration and the general mechanical conditions of the at least one functional module can be used to react to different installation positions. For example, as a predefined action, the alignment of a functional view in the form of a display can take place with regard to different housing shapes and the resulting types of installation. In particular, the functional view can be correctly adjusted with regard to module components, such as a rack, top-hat rail or handheld, and / or a type of display, such as landscape or portrait displays.

A function module or a central unit for installation in a 19 "rack then, for example, only offers a specific orientation of the function view that corresponds to the intended installation position. This installation position can be prescribed or advantageous, for example, due to convection cooling. If such a device is upside down assembled, the orientation of the function view cannot be adjusted or prevented in this variant.

In contrast, module variants can be installed in different ways without such restrictions, for example due to the intentional departure directions of connection cables. In this case, the respective function module can offer the user the appropriate alignment of a function view and / or a function object, for example by self-recognition. A user-specific, in particular manual, selection can then be made. The current alignment can also be detectable by means of suitable sensors.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least one predefined action can be the creation and / or the adaptation of a functional view relate by which at least one function module or a plurality of function modules is represented and / or by which a module-specific operating instruction or a plurality of module-specific operating instructions is represented. This can be a realistic or a schematic representation.

For example, a front and / or back of a function module or a plurality of function modules can be mapped in an advantageous manner in order to be able to intuitively make at least one selection for further configuration. In this way, a user can be guided intuitively by means of a so-called "what-you-see-is-what-you-get" procedure for configuring the functions, assemblies and / or function modules desired by him.

Likewise, a corresponding representation can simplify the selection and / or the connection of further components and / or accessory modules. For this purpose, the user can be presented with the information required, for example plug connectors to be selected and / or configuration configurations, such as, for example, assigning individual pins, which are to be carried out for a specific function with an external device and / or for communication with further function modules.

In a further advantageous manner, the at least one predefined action can relate to the assignment of the detected module configuration to a device application. It can be a typical application for the module configuration detected. A corresponding device application can be defined by such an assignment. The determination can in particular take place automatically and / or automatically or after confirmation by the user. Furthermore, as another predefined action based on the specified device application an application-specific configuration of the function view can be triggered.

Depending on a defined device application, a required number and / or type of functional objects can preferably be put together in order to provide the user with the most likely required information.

For example, if there are connections and / or connection modules for turbomolecular pumps, Roots pumps, measuring tubes and / or valves, a pumping station can be identified and determined as a probable application. Corresponding function objects and / or information fields can be displayed.

Furthermore, if several connections and / or connection modules for measuring tubes are detected, a display function for measuring tubes can be identified and defined as a probable application. Corresponding function objects and / or information fields can be displayed.

Finally, when communication connections and / or communication modules for vacuum devices and / or function modules for industrial communication are detected, a data converter function can be identified and defined as a probable application. The respective vacuum device can be used in particular as a data converter for a plurality of pumps on a higher-level control and / or as a condition monitoring system (CMS). Corresponding function objects and / or information fields can be displayed.

According to a further preferred embodiment, on the central unit and / or on a functional module connected to the central unit, in particular an expansion module, an interface can be provided. The interface can be set up for the connection of different device types and / or function module types. It can be an interface for device-internal or device-external communication.

It is also possible to provide a plurality of interfaces which can be designed for the same device type and / or function module type or also for different device types and / or function module types. Two interfaces can be designed identically and / or differently. Different interfaces can be provided, in particular, for connecting different types of devices and / or types of function modules. Different device types and / or function module types can also be connected to the same interface.

Finally, a plurality of interfaces can be provided on the central unit, in particular directly on the central unit. Furthermore, at least one interface on the central unit and at least one further interface on a functional module connected to the central unit, in particular an expansion module, can be provided.

At least one interface of the central unit can be designed as a so-called default interface, via which an initial programming or configuration of the central unit can be carried out, in particular by connection to an external computer. In addition, the central unit can also have an interface or a plurality of interfaces for establishing a data connection with an external device, in particular an external vacuum device or an external vacuum device.

The at least one expansion module can advantageously be designed as an interface module for establishing a data connection with an internal function module and / or an external vacuum device. Multiple interfaces can be provided on one or more interface modules. It is also possible to provide a plurality of interface modules, each of which has an interface or a plurality of interfaces.

In a further preferred manner, at least one expansion module can be used as a module for the input, acquisition and / or output of digital and / or analog signals. Such a signal module can be used, for example, to measure environmental parameters and / or technical operating parameters, such as pressure in a medium to be conveyed.

In a further preferred manner, at least one expansion module can be designed as a module for communication with higher-level controls. Such a module is, for example, a so-called Ethernet module. Instead of an Ethernet module, any other type of suitable interface for process control can also be provided, for example DeviceNet, CANopen, Profibus, Ethernet with additional protocols and profiles, in particular EtherCAT, Profinet, Ethernet / IP, TCP / IP, UDP, MTTQ, OPC UA or the like. Through communication with higher-level controls, for example, function modules, vacuum devices and / or vacuum devices of an older design or a group of function modules, vacuum devices and / or vacuum devices can be controlled with a separate control. This is particularly advantageous if the vacuum devices cannot be addressed directly by the higher-level control system, but rather are connected directly to the user device via interfaces and / or expansion modules and the higher-level control system then via the user device has access to it. In this way a higher degree of compatibility can be created.

In a further preferred manner, at least one of the expansion modules can be designed as a module for controlling storage media, in particular fixed storage media and / or removable storage media. It is also possible that at least one of the expansion modules contains a memory device. Relevant operating data can be securely stored in this way or made available for further use, whereby an improved and safe operation of the vacuum device can be guaranteed.

According to a further preferred embodiment, at least one expansion module can be designed as a power supply module, in particular for supplying current and / or voltage to the central unit and / or a function module. Such a power supply module thus supplies the central unit and / or a functional module with current or voltage.

It is possible for a total of one power supply module or a plurality of power supply modules to be provided. If a single power supply module is arranged, it can be set up to supply the central unit with current or voltage. Furthermore, the power supply module can indirectly ensure a current or voltage supply of connected functional modules or external devices via the central unit. This applies in particular to the case of only a small current or voltage requirement of connected function modules.

A plurality of power supply modules can also be provided, each of the power supply modules supplying different units. One of the power supply modules can supply current and / or voltage to the central unit and another power supply module can supply power and / or voltage to a connected one Function module may be provided. Finally, there is also the possibility that at least one power supply module is arranged externally, for example as part of an external vacuum device. An external power supply module can in turn be arranged to supply current or voltage to the central unit and / or a function module.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the module configuration can be determined by establishing a data connection between the central unit and at least one function module, in particular by the type of the function module and / or by the number of the function module. The central unit can thus establish a data connection with a function module or a plurality of function modules. As soon as a corresponding data connection is established, a module configuration results from the entire arrangement. Such a module configuration can be selected and implemented depending on the respective technical requirements. The vacuum device according to the invention can be suitable for a particularly large number of different module configurations. This applies in particular in the case of a programmable configurability of the at least one functional view. In particular, the programming-free configuration of the at least one functional view can be carried out depending on the prevailing module configuration.

It can furthermore be advantageous if at least one functional object is linked to a data object of the central unit, a functional module and / or an external vacuum device which is connected to the central unit or is set up for the link. A functional object provided in the functional view can thus be generated on the basis of data from the central processing unit, a functional module and / or an external vacuum device, or can be permanently linked for ongoing updating. As a result, a user can have suitable access to data objects the central unit, a function module or a connected external vacuum device can be guaranteed.

In a further preferred manner, the functional view can be generated in a context-specific manner depending on a recognized pumping station configuration. The context-specific functional view can preferably have functional objects that are necessary or suitable for the identified pumping station configuration. A detected pumping station configuration can in particular be a pumping station with a turbomolecular pump and / or with a backing pump.

Context-specific generation of a functional view as a function of a recognized pumping station configuration can ensure the setup of a user device for a pumping station in a particularly simple manner. By connecting the respective function modules of the pumping station to the central unit, in particular to the central unit of a user device, the pumping station configuration can be recognized and, depending on the detection, a programming-free configuration of the functional view can be carried out. Providing required or suitable functional objects for the respective pumping station configuration in particular reduces the effort on the part of the user for the configuration of the central unit or the respective functional view.

In a further advantageous manner, the central unit can be set up to display a configuration view. The operating mode of the central unit itself can be adjustable via such a configuration view. Such a configuration view can accordingly be a temporary view that is used to set or configure the central unit. The configuration view can also be used to configure or generate a function view without programming.

Such a configuration view can preferably have a list of functional objects and / or of data objects, in particular of data objects of the central unit, of a functional module and / or of an external vacuum device which is connected to the central unit. It can also be data and device-independent data objects. Such data objects are accordingly independent of the design of the central unit, any functional modules provided and / or an external vacuum device connected to the central unit. Such independent data objects can be, for example, web content or help information.

Fig. 1

eine schematische Darstellung einer Vakuumvorrichtung gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung,

Fig. 2a-2b

schematische Darstellungen eines Benutzergeräts einer Vakuumvorrichtung gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung,

Fig. 3a-3c

schematische Darstellungen eines Benutzergeräts einer Vakuumvorrichtung gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung,

Fig. 4

eine schematische Darstellung eines Benutzergeräts einer Vakuumvorrichtung gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung,

Fig. 5a-5b

schematische Darstellungen eines Benutzergeräts einer Vakuumvorrichtung gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung,

Fig. 6a-6b

schematische Darstellungen eines Benutzergeräts einer Vakuumvorrichtung gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung,

Fig. 7a-7b

schematische Darstellungen eines Benutzergeräts einer Vakuumvorrichtung gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung.

The invention is described below by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawing. It shows:

Fig. 1

1 shows a schematic illustration of a vacuum device according to an embodiment of the present invention,

2a-2b

schematic representations of a user device of a vacuum device according to an embodiment of the present invention,

3a-3c

schematic representations of a user device of a vacuum device according to an embodiment of the present invention,

Fig. 4

1 shows a schematic illustration of a user device of a vacuum device according to an embodiment of the present invention,

5a-5b

schematic representations of a user device of a vacuum device according to an embodiment of the present invention,

6a-6b

schematic representations of a user device of a vacuum device according to an embodiment of the present invention,

Figures 7a-7b

schematic representations of a user device of a vacuum device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a vacuum device 10. The vacuum device 10 has a user device 12 and at least one function module 14. In the present example, a total of five function modules 14 are indicated schematically, although a different number of function modules 14 can also be provided.

The functional modules 14 can be, for example, vacuum pumps, in particular turbomolecular pumps, vacuum measuring devices, vacuum analysis devices, leak detection devices and / or vacuum valves. Likewise, a function module 14 can also be a vacuum chamber device.

A vacuum device 10 can have a plurality of identical function modules 14 or also different types of function modules 14. Finally, the user device 12 can also form a functional module. A vacuum device 10 with one or more function modules 14 and one or more user devices 12 is also possible.

A user device 12 according to the invention has a central unit 16 for user interaction with at least one functional module 14 and at least one interface 18 for establishing a data connection between the central unit 16 and a functional module 14. The interface 18 can be provided on the central unit 16, for example.

The user device 12 can also be equipped with at least one function module designed as an extension module 20, in particular with a plurality of extension modules 20. The extension modules 20 accordingly form sub-modules of the function module designed as a user device 12.

The expansion modules 20 serve to expand the functions of the central unit 16 and can be connected to the central unit 16 via a bus connection 22. For this purpose, the central unit 16 can be equipped with an internal interface 24. The bus connection 22 can in particular be a CAN bus. Other bus connections can also be provided, for example I2C, RS485 and / or LVDS.

The expansion modules 20 can provide different functionalities. For example, interface modules 26 can be provided, each of which is equipped with an interface 28 for establishing a data connection between the central unit 16 and a function module 14. The interface 28 can be provided in addition or as an alternative to the interface 18. Furthermore, a function module 30 can be provided for the input, detection and / or output of digital and / or analog signals. Finally, a function module 32 can be provided for communication with a higher-level controller 34. A higher-level controller 34 can in turn control an external vacuum device or a plurality of external vacuum devices. The higher-level controller 34 can also control further internal function modules, which are not shown in more detail here. Finally, a function module 36 for controlling storage media can also be provided. The function module 36 can be, for example, a function module with a USB interface.

The central unit 16 can finally be equipped with a so-called default interface 38, via which the central unit is preconfigured in the factory an initial configuration can be carried out by installing software. The default interface 38 can, however, also be implemented via the interface 18, so that, in the minimal configuration, only the interface 18 can be used for software updates and other accesses in the course of production. The interface 18 can thus be used as the default interface.

Furthermore, at least one expansion module can be designed as a power supply module 40. The power supply module 40 is used to supply the central unit 16 with current or voltage. In this case, the central unit 16 can also supply the current or voltage to the functional modules 14, in particular when these only have a low current or voltage requirement. In contrast, a further power supply module 42 can also be provided for the direct current and / or voltage supply of a function module or a plurality of function modules. However, a single power supply unit 40 or 42 can also supply the central unit 16, the extension modules 20, the function modules 14 connected to the central unit 16 and / or the extension modules 20 and a function module 14 connected directly to the user device 12. Finally, individual expansion modules 20 can also be supplied with current or voltage via the power supply module 40, indirectly via the central unit 16. For example, the function module 36 for controlling storage media can be supplied with current or voltage via the power supply module 40.

The central unit 16 can also have an internal storage device 44, on which operating software or other data can be stored. Such operating software can in particular be a computer program product.

The central unit 16 also has a display and / or input device 46 for displaying at least one functional view 48. The functional view 48 in turn has at least one functional object 50 or also a plurality of functional objects 50.

The functional elements 50 can be, for example, graphic displays for displaying any content or vacuum device-specific content. Likewise, the functional objects 50 can be input fields which ensure flexible operation of a vacuum device 14. The display and / or input device 46 can in particular be designed as a touch panel, so that graphic displays and input fields can be combined together in one representation.

The at least one functional view 48 can be configurable without programming. For this purpose, individual function objects 50 or more function objects 50 can be created, selected and / or adapted. It is also possible to suitably compile predefined function objects 50 in a function view 48 and thereby carry out a configuration. The functional objects 50 can, for example, be selected from a plurality of different predefined views and can be suitably combined in a newly configured view, as a result of which the user requirements can be implemented flexibly.

The programmable configurability ensures, in particular, adjustments or new creation of a function view free of access to a source code. No programming effort at source code level is required to adapt the respective function view 48.

The central unit 16 is set up according to the invention to detect a module configuration and, depending on the detected module configuration, one trigger predefined action. The module configuration can relate to the compilation of all function modules. Depending on such a detection, the respective functional view 48 can be configured or generated, for example. Such generation can take place with or without user input, in particular automatically.

Likewise, depending on such a detection of the module configuration, in particular a comparison result between a detected module configuration and a target configuration of function modules, a device function can be enabled or prevented.

Furthermore, it is possible that the central unit 16 is set up to automatically recognize a module configuration or to detect it by user input. A function view 48 can be configured or generated depending on such a detection. The acquisition of the respective system configuration can lead to the configuration of a function view 48 which contains the functional objects 50 which are useful for the system configuration in each case.

Finally, it is also possible for the functional view 48 to be configurable by the user free of presets or also through certain presets. On the user side, functional objects 50 can also be provided that represent or contain content that is independent of the operating device 12 or connected functional modules 14.

The modular design of the user device 12 and the resulting flexible possibility of designing different module configurations results in a high degree of flexibility in use. At the same time, the programmable configuration of the at least one functional view 48 makes it easy to adapt the user device 12 to different circumstances guaranteed. The installation and operability of a vacuum device 10 is thereby facilitated overall and the expenditure on equipment is reduced.

The 2a and 2b show a user device 12 of a vacuum device according to a further embodiment. It can be seen that the functional view 48 has an orientation. Even after a rotation of the user device 12, as in Fig. 2b shown, the orientation of the functional view 48 is retained. An adaptation of the orientation of the functional view 48 to the respective orientation of the user device 12 is prevented. Such prevention can take place depending on the module configuration detected, in particular as a predefined action.

The 3a, 3b and 3c show a user device 12 of a vacuum device according to a further embodiment. It can be seen that the functional view 48 has an orientation. After a rotation of the user device 12, as in Fig. 3b shown, the orientation of the functional view 48 is initially retained. As in Fig. 3c can be seen, the orientation of the functional view 48 can adapt to the changed orientation of the user device 12. Such adaptability can be enabled depending on the module configuration recorded, in particular as a predefined action. In this case, the orientation of the user device can be adapted, for example with regard to a cable routing desired by the user, which is shown in the 3a to 3c is indicated schematically.

The Fig. 4 shows a user device 12 of a vacuum device according to a further embodiment. It can be seen that the functional view 48 represents the user device 12 itself. The representation of the user device 12 itself on the functional view 48 of the user device 12 is used for the user-side selection of further functions. For example, the display of an interface module 26 of the user device 12 can be selected in order to provide further displays, Generate functions and / or configurations. The representation of the user device 12 itself on the functional view 48 of the user device 12 can in turn be carried out as a function of a detected module configuration, in particular as a predefined action.

The 5a and 5b show a user device 12 of a vacuum device according to a further embodiment. The Fig. 5a shows a front view and the Fig. 5b shows a rear view of the user device 12. It can be seen that the functional view 48 on the front of the user device 12 contains a representation of the rear of the user device 12. The representation of the rear side of the user device 12 on the functional view 48 of the user device 12 is used for the user selection of further functions. For example, the display of an interface module 26 on the rear of the user device 12 can be selected in order to generate further displays, functions and / or configurations. The representation of the rear side of the user device 12 on the functional view 48 of the user device 12 can in turn be carried out as a function of a detected module configuration, in particular as a predefined action.

The 6a and 6b show a user device 12 of a vacuum device according to a further embodiment. The Fig. 6a shows a front view and the Fig. 6b shows a rear view of the user device 12. The user device 12 has an interface module 26 on the front and two further interface modules 26 on the rear. The interface modules 26 can have connections and / or inputs for measuring tubes, for example. Based on the module configuration with the interface modules 26, a probable application of the user device 12 as a pressure measuring tube controller is recognized and / or determined by a central unit (not shown here). The generation and / or adaptation of a specific function view 48 can be assigned to this probable application as a predefined action. The one shown here Functional view 48 can in particular be specific for the application of a pressure measuring tube controller. The functional view 48 shown can preferably be generated automatically.

The 7a and 7b show a user device 12 of a vacuum device according to a further embodiment. The Fig. 7a shows a front view and the Fig. 7b shows a rear view of the user device 12. The user device 12 has on the front a function module 32 for communication with a higher-level controller or a function module for industrial communication. Numerous further interface modules 26 are provided on the back for connecting vacuum devices, in particular vacuum pumps. On the basis of the module configuration, a likely use of the user device 12 as a data converter for a content management system (CMS system) is recognized and / or determined by a central unit (not shown here). The generation and / or adaptation of a specific function view 48 can be assigned to this probable application as a predefined action. The functional view 48 shown here can in particular be specific for the application case of a data converter. The functional view 48 shown can preferably be generated automatically.

Claims (15)

Vacuum device (10), in particular vacuum pump, vacuum measuring device, vacuum analyzer, leak detector, vacuum valve, drive device and / or user device, with a module configuration consisting of at least one function module (12, 14) and with a central unit (16) for detecting the module configuration, the central unit (16) is set up to trigger at least one predefined action as a function of a detected module configuration. Vacuum device (10) according to claim 1,
characterized in that
a plurality of function modules is provided and / or that the central unit (16) and / or the at least one function module can be expanded by at least one function module designed as an expansion module (20), preferably by a plurality of expansion modules (20), and / or that the Module configuration can be determined by arranging or omitting a function module designed as an expansion module (20), in particular by the type of the expansion module (20) and / or by the number of expansion modules (20). Vacuum device (10) according to claim 1 or 2,
characterized in that
the module configuration can be entered, in particular can be entered by the user and / or by the manufacturer, and / or that the central unit (16) for Enter the module configuration and / or that the central unit (16) is designed for user and / or manufacturer interaction. Vacuum device (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that
the module configuration is automatically and / or automatically recognizable and / or that the central unit (16) is designed for automatic and / or automatic recognition of the module configuration, and / or that the module configuration can be recognized or defined by arranging or omitting a functional module designed as an expansion module, in particular by the type of the expansion module and / or by the number of expansion modules, and / or by the module configuration being recognizable or definable by the position of a functional module designed as an expansion module. Vacuum device (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that
the central unit (16) is set up to compare the module configuration with a target configuration and / or the central unit (16) is set up to trigger a predefined action as a function of a comparison result between the module configuration and a target configuration. Vacuum device (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that
the predefined action comprises preventing and / or releasing a device functionality and / or the central device (16) is set up to completely or partially prevent and / or release device functionalities depending on a comparison result between the module configuration and a target configuration. Vacuum device (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that
the central unit (16) has a display and / or input device (46) for displaying at least one functional view (48) with at least one functional object (50) and / or that at least one functional view (48) of the central unit (16) can be configured without programming, in particular by the at least one predefined action being programmable and / or configurable automatically. Vacuum device (10) according to claim 7,
characterized in that
the function view (48) is programmable by generating, selecting and / or adapting a function object (50) and / or a plurality of function objects (50) and / or by compiling a plurality of selectable function objects (50) and / or that the type, The position, shape, size, orientation, orientation and / or the type of representation of the at least one functional object (50) can be selected and / or adapted without programming. Vacuum device (10) according to claim 7 or 8,
characterized in that
the display and / or input device (46) is designed to display a plurality of functional views (48) and / or different functional views (48) and / or that at least one functional view (48) and / or at least one functional object (50) is one Functional view (48) is specified, in particular is designed to be unchangeable or reconfigurable. Vacuum device (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that
the central unit (16) is set up for the automated configuration of at least one functional view (48), in particular as a function of a recognized module configuration, and / or that the at least one predefined action relates to the configuration of at least one functional view (48). Vacuum device (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that
at least one functional view (48) of the central processing unit (16) can be configured by the user according to preset specifications or free of preset specifications, in particular independently of a module configuration or a target configuration. Vacuum device (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that
the at least one predefined action relates to the creation of a new functional view (48) and / or adaptation of an existing functional view (48), in particular a functional view (48) shown and / or context-specific on the central unit (16). Vacuum device (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that
the central unit (16) is set up to configure a function view (48) as a predefined action depending on a comparison result between the module configuration and a target configuration, in particular to trigger a new generation and / or adaptation of an existing function view (48) as a predefined action. Vacuum device (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that
the central unit (16) is set up to determine the installation position of at least one function module depending on a detected module configuration and to trigger the predefined action depending on the determined installation position and / or that the at least one predefined action determines the orientation and / or orientation of a function view (48 ) and / or a functional object of a functional view (48). Vacuum device (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that
the at least one predefined action relates to the creation and / or adaptation of a function view (48), by means of which at least one function module or a plurality of function modules and / or a module-specific operating instruction is displayed.

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