EP4680903A2 - Adjusting device for thermostatic expansion valves, maintenance system, measuring system and method - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to an adjusting device (1000) for adjusting a preload device (2020) of an expansion valve (2000) in an HVAC system (8000), comprising a drive (1010), an actuator (1020) which is rotatable about an axis (1021) by means of the drive (1010), a coupling device (1030) and a control device (1040), wherein the coupling device (1030) is designed to be detachably coupled to an adjusting connection (2010) of the expansion valve (2000), so that a tool tip (1022) of the actuator (1020) comes into operative connection with an adjusting element (2021) of the preload device (2020) and a torque generated by the drive (1010) or a rotation triggered by the drive (1010) can be transmitted via the actuator (1020) to the adjusting element (2021), and the control device (1040) is configured to actuate the drive (1010) in such a way that the actuator (1020) rotates through a defined rotational angle. The present invention also relates to a maintenance system (7000) for the maintenance and/or start-up of an HVAC system (8000) which can comprise an adjusting device (1000), to a measuring system (7000), and to a method for adjusting a preload device (2020) of an expansion valve (2000) in an HVAC system (8000).

Description

DESCRIPTION

TITLE OF THE INVENTION

Thermostatic expansion valve setting device, maintenance system, measuring system and procedure

TECHNICAL AREA

The present invention relates to the technical field of heating, cooling and ventilation technology (hereinafter abbreviated as "HVAC"). Systems in this technical field, such as air conditioning systems, heat pumps, cooling circuits, etc., are hereinafter referred to as "HVAC systems". HVAC systems have expansion valves, via which a coolant is expanded. An inlet connection of the expansion valve is connected to a condenser (sometimes also referred to as a condenser) of the HVAC system and receives the liquefied, supercooled coolant at high pressure. An outlet connection of the expansion valve is connected to an evaporator of the HVAC system, in which the expanded coolant evaporates at low pressure and is ideally superheated.

Although electronic valves have long been known on the market and are suitable for precise, dynamic control of the expansion process, purely mechanical expansion valves are used in many HVAC systems for cost reasons and in favor of high reliability. These have been widely used in various designs for many decades. These include so-called thermostatic expansion valves. These mechanical expansion valves have in common that they have a preload device by means of which a static preload force can be set on a movable actuating element, e.g. a valve tappet, of the expansion valve. As a rule, these preload devices comprise a mechanical spring which directly or indirectly exerts a force on the actuating element, e.g. the valve tappet, which counteracts the opening of the valve. These preload devices are usually adjusted using an adjusting element, which can be designed, for example, in the form of a grub screw, which directly or indirectly influences the preload of the spring. The The adjustment element is accessible via an adjustment connection, which is often provided with a removable protective cap.

The expansion valve has a decisive influence on the efficiency of the HVAC system, as it has a significant influence on the superheat that occurs in the low-pressure range. The superheat can be determined by measuring the pressure at the outlet of an evaporator in the HVAC system using a pressure sensor and at the same time measuring the temperature at the outlet of the evaporator using a temperature sensor. The measured pressure is also referred to as the saturation vapor pressure or suction pressure and, if the refrigerant used is known, can be converted into a so-called saturation vapor temperature. The measured temperature is also referred to as the evaporator outlet temperature. The difference between the saturation vapor temperature determined by the pressure measurement and the actually measured evaporator outlet temperature corresponds to the superheat. Depending on the type and application of the HVAC system, and in particular depending on the target temperature of the application, a precise setting of the superheat can significantly increase the efficiency of the HVAC system. However, manual adjustment by an HVAC technician is time-consuming. If an unsatisfactory level of superheat is detected, the adjustment element must be adjusted manually, for example using a screwdriver or key. Precise adjustment is often difficult because the expansion valve is often installed in a way that is difficult to access. In addition, the HVAC technician may have to carry out extensive calculations to estimate how the expansion valve setting can be optimized.

TASK OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide an adjustment device which facilitates the adjustment of the pre-tensioning device of a thermostatic expansion valve. Furthermore, the object of the invention is to provide a maintenance system which also facilitates the adjustment of the pre-tensioning device of a thermostatic expansion valve. Furthermore, the object of the invention is to show methods of how an adjustment device and/or a maintenance system for adjusting the pre-tensioning device of a thermostatic expansion valve can be used. Furthermore, it is the object of the invention to provide a measuring system that is improved compared to the prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This object is achieved by an adjustment device according to claim 1, by maintenance systems according to claims 17 and 27, by methods according to claims 20 and 25, and by a measuring system according to claim 31.

Advantageous embodiments and further developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

According to a first aspect of the invention, an adjustment device for adjusting a preloading device of an expansion valve on an HVAC system comprises a drive, an actuator, a coupling device and a control device.

The actuator can be rotated about an axis by the drive, i.e. the drive drives the actuator or a component of the actuator - at least one tool tip of the actuator facing the pretensioning device - to a rotational movement and transmits a torque to it.

The coupling device is designed to be detachably coupled to an adjustment connection of the expansion valve. In the coupled state, the adjustment device is fixed to the adjustment connection in such a way that the tool tip of the actuator comes into operative connection with an adjustment element of the pre-tensioning device. "Come into operative connection" here means (and also generally in the context of all aspects of the invention, when it is said that a tool tip comes into operative connection with an adjustment element) that the tool tip and adjustment element engage with matching screw drive profiles (also simply called drive profiles or profiles) so that a torque generated by the drive or a rotary movement triggered by the drive can be transmitted to the adjustment element via the actuator. The drive is held accordingly rigidly relative to the adjustment connection so that it cannot move relative to the adjustment connection, in particular cannot rotate around it. For example, the The adjustment element has a hexagon socket and the tool tip has a matching hexagon socket. The actuator is positioned so that the axis around which it can rotate corresponds to a screw axis of the adjustment element. The detachable coupling to the adjustment connection prevents the adjustment device, in particular the drive it includes, from moving or rotating relative to the adjustment connection, so that a precise, defined adjustment of the adjustment element is possible.

The control device is designed to actuate the drive in such a way that the actuator rotates by a defined angle of rotation. For this purpose, the control device can be connected, for example, electronically and/or by data technology to an angle measuring device, which will be explained in more detail in a following section, and can access the determined absolute angle positions or relative angle position changes of the actuator provided by this as control parameters. For example, the drive itself can also be designed to carry out defined, discrete rotation steps, such as a stepper motor. In this context (and also generally in the context of all aspects of the invention, when it is said that a drive is actuated by a control device), "actuating" means to actuate or control the drive, in particular to control or regulate a power supply of the drive. The control device is designed in particular in the form of an electronic assembly, so it can, for example, comprise at least one circuit board and electronic components and microcontrollers arranged thereon and interconnected with one another.

The setting device enables precise, automated adjustment of the pre-tensioning device or the adjustment element. Inaccurate manual adjustment is not necessary, as the setting device can achieve reliable, precise adjustment of the adjustment element due to the precise actuation of the drive by the control unit in conjunction with the rigid coupling to the adjustment connection.

In an exemplary embodiment, the setting device comprises a

Interface device which is designed to provide at least one measurement information and one input information and/or one angle information. If the Interface device does not provide angle information, but instead the measurement information and the input information, the setting device further comprises an internal determination device which is set up to determine and provide the angle information on the basis of the measurement information and the input information by means of a defined determination rule.

The defined determination rule can be in the form of a calculation formula, in the form of a value query from stored value tables or in the form of an evaluation of the measurement information and input information by an application with so-called artificial intelligence. The determination of the angle information can be carried out entirely within the setting device, i.e. by components of the setting device, such as microcontrollers. Alternatively, the internal determination device can also establish a connection to an external unit, such as an external determination device or a cloud application, which transmits the measurement information and input information to this external unit and receives back angle information determined by the external unit. The exchange of measurement information, input information and angle information with the external unit can take place in particular via a communication device of the setting device, which will be examined in more detail in a subsequent exemplary embodiment.

The purpose of determining the angle information is to achieve an optimal setting of the thermostatic expansion valve. A relevant key figure can be the superheat or the degree of superheat that occurs in an evaporator of the HVAC system. Using the measurement information in conjunction with the input information, it can be assessed whether the HVAC system is already running optimally efficiently or whether an increase in efficiency could be achieved by increasing or decreasing the superheat.

If the determination by the internal determination device shows that the thermostatic expansion valve is not optimally adjusted, the determined angle information includes in particular information about the direction in which the actuator must rotate and the angle by which it must rotate in order to optimally adjust the pre-tensioning device by means of the adjustment element. This angle and the direction of rotation can be determined directly or in the form of equivalent quantities. Such equivalent quantities can, for example, be a current direction to be supplied to the drive or a number of revolutions of the drive which, taking into account a gear ratio of the drive, corresponds to the required angular amount.

However, if the determination by the internal determination device shows that the thermostatic expansion valve is already optimally or almost optimally adjusted, the angle information can also contain information that no adjustment is necessary. This can be done, for example, by determining an angle value (or a value equivalent to the angle value) equal to zero.

In this context, “providing” means (and also generally in the context of all aspects of the invention, when it is said that information - such as measurement information, input information, an action command, angle information, a first torque limit value, a first or second angle position, a change in angle position, or a displacement - is provided by an element of an adjustment device - such as an interface device, a communication device, an operating device, an internal determination device, a position measuring device, an angle measuring device, a control device or a torque device) that information - here specifically the measurement information, input information and/or angle information - is made available to other components of the adjustment device electronically and/or by data technology, for example as an analog or digital electronic signal or as a stored data set in a volatile or non-volatile memory, or can be retrieved by such components. For example, the angle information can be transmitted to, provided to, or queried or recorded by the control device and/or the measurement information and input information can be transmitted to, provided to, or queried or recorded by the internal determination device.

The control device is designed to actuate the drive in such a way that the actuator rotates through a defined angle of rotation, the direction and amount of which is determined by the angle information. "Actuation" has the meaning already explained above. The fact that the terms measurement information, input information and angle information are used in the singular should not be understood to mean that each of these pieces of information contains only a single piece of information or a single value. Instead, each piece of information can contain multiple pieces of information, values or data. The angle information contains, for example, at least information about the angle amount to be adjusted and about the direction of rotation (for example clockwise or counterclockwise). The measurement information is characterized by the fact that it contains measurement data or measured values that relate to the thermostatic expansion valve and/or the HVAC system in which the thermostatic expansion valve is installed and/or the environment or application of the HVAC system. These can be, for example, pressure measurements and/or temperature measurements. The measurement information can, for example, include a saturation vapor pressure or a saturation vapor temperature within an evaporator of the HVAC system, as well as an evaporator outlet temperature. From these measured values, for example, an existing superheat can be calculated. The input information, on the other hand, is characterized by the fact that it contains information that cannot be described as measurement data. This can be, for example, a type of refrigerant used in the HVAC system, a manufacturer and type designation of the thermostatic expansion valve and/or a target parameter of the application of the HVAC system, such as a target temperature. In conjunction with this data, it can be determined, for example, whether the superheat determined from the measurement information is in an optimal range or whether the superheat needs to be optimized by adjusting the setting element of the pre-tensioning device.

This design allows the adjustment of the preload device of thermostatic expansion valves to be further automated and simplified using the adjustment device: The adjustment device is either able to automatically process a given angle information and convert it into a defined rotation - and thus a change in the setting of the adjustment element - or to initially determine the angle information automatically from the measurement information and input information. This means that manual control or monitoring of the adjustment device is not required during the adjustment of the adjustment element. In a further exemplary embodiment, the interface device comprises a communication device. This is set up for wired or wireless communication with at least one external unit. A wide variety of devices can be used as external units, such as mobile phones, tablets, PCs, but also sensor systems, in particular so-called assembly aids. Wireless communication can take place, for example, using a Bluetooth interface, which can ensure reliable communication in the short range and high compatibility with various external units.

The communication device is designed to receive at least the measurement information from the external unit or from several external units, in particular from a sensor system comprising pressure and temperature sensors. Alternatively or additionally, it can also send or transmit the measurement information to an external unit, in particular to an external determination device. This is an option if no angle information is initially provided to the setting device via the interface device, but the setting device cannot independently determine the angle information directly from the measurement information and the input information using the internal determination device.

Furthermore, the communication device can be set up to receive at least the input information from an external unit, in particular from an external operating device. Alternatively or additionally, it can also send or transmit the input information to an external unit, in particular to an external determination device. This is an option if no angle information is initially provided to the setting device via the interface device, but the setting device cannot independently determine the angle information directly from the measurement information and the input information using the internal determination device.

Furthermore, the communication device can be configured to receive at least the angle information from the external unit, in particular from the external determination device. The terms "send", "transmit" and "receive" as used herein are to be understood in this context (and also generally in the context of all aspects of the invention, when it is said that information - such as measurement information, input information, an action command, angle information, a first torque limit value, a first or second angle position, an angle position change, or a displacement - is sent, transmitted or received by an element of a setting device - such as an interface device, a communication device, an operating device, an internal determination device, a position measuring device, an angle measuring device, a control device or a torque device - or by an element of a maintenance system - such as a sensor system, a determination device, an operating device or a display device) only insofar as they indicate a direction of the information transmission or flow. This means that a sending or transmitting unit does not necessarily have to take on an active or controlling role. A receiving unit does not have to take on a passive role either. Information can be requested, queried or retrieved by other units. A sending unit does not necessarily have to specifically address or know the recipient, but can, for example, also distribute the information openly to the recipient or store it as a data set in a volatile or non-volatile memory and one or more intended recipients record the distributed information, expect it or retrieve it from the memory. Receiving and sending units can communicate with each other according to any protocol and exchange information bidirectionally.

This exemplary design allows further automation and simplification of the setting of the preload device of thermostatic expansion valves. The setting device can automatically exchange information with various external units in a versatile and flexible manner, in particular with the external sensor system, the external operating device and/or the external detection device. The exchange of information via the communication device can take place in particular while the setting device is continuously coupled to the setting connection of a thermostatic expansion valve. In particular, measurement information, input information and/or angle information can be exchanged multiple times, so that iterative optimization The expansion valve can be adjusted automatically in several adjustment steps with waiting periods in between.

In an exemplary further development of this embodiment, in which the communication device is set up for wired communication with the external unit, the setting device is simultaneously supplied with energy via this wired connection. This means that the setting device can be operated reliably without having to expect failures due to exhausted energy storage.

In a further exemplary development of this embodiment, in which the communication device is set up for wireless communication with the external unit, the setting device is either simultaneously supplied with energy via this wireless connection, operating as so-called "energy harvesting" in the electromagnetic field of the wireless communication, or the setting device comprises an energy supply device through which the setting device is supplied with energy. Rechargeable accumulators or replaceable batteries are suitable as energy supply devices. This embodiment allows the setting device to be used flexibly and mobile and handling is made even easier because a cable connection is no longer required.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the interface device comprises an operating device which is configured to receive and provide at least the measurement information and/or the input information and/or the angle information and/or an action command from an operator.

The “receipt” of information or commands can be done by manually operating control elements of the control device, such as buttons, keys, levers or touch-sensitive surfaces.

In this context, “providing” means, in accordance with the definition introduced above, that the measurement information, input information, angle information and the action command are made available to other components of the setting device electronically and/or by data technology, for example as an analog or digital electronic signal, or can be accessed by such components. In particular, the angle information and the action command are transmitted to, provided for, queried or recorded by the control device and/or the measurement information and input information are transmitted to, provided for, queried or recorded by the internal detection device.

In this context, an action command can be understood as an operator input which is intended to trigger an activation or deactivation of the setting device or to provide confirmation of the completion of the coupling of the setting device to the setting connection.

Although this design does not allow any further automation to be achieved compared to the previous design, the setting device can be used more flexibly because the operating device can record the measurement information, input information and/or angle information and make it available to other components of the setting device if it is not possible to automatically receive this information from external devices using a communication device. The setting device therefore remains practically usable even if external units with corresponding communication capabilities are not available.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the drive comprises an actuator and a gear. The actuator is designed, for example, as a stepper motor or servo motor, so that precise control of the actuator is possible. The gear can in particular have a transmission ratio through which a rotational speed is reduced and a torque is increased accordingly. For example, a so-called planetary gear can be used. This enables a precise and at the same time effective adjustment of the adjustment element, which is mediated by means of the actuator rotated by the drive. Furthermore, the actuator in this embodiment comprises a bearing and a shaft, which is mounted so that it can rotate about the axis by the bearing. Both the drive and the coupling device are mounted rigidly, directly or indirectly, relative to the bearing.

In this context, a direct rigid bearing means that the gear - for example a gear frame - and/or the coupling device is or are rigidly connected directly to the bearing. An indirect rigid bearing means on the other hand, that the mentioned parts are held in a rigid position relative to each other by other components or elements.

This design makes it possible to effectively transmit torque from the drive first to the actuator and then to the adjustment element without the drive rotating or moving relative to the adjustment connection.

In an exemplary development of this embodiment, an indirect rigid mounting of the drive and the coupling device relative to the bearing is achieved by the setting device having a housing which accommodates or holds the aforementioned parts in a rigid position relative to one another. This allows the advantageous effect of this embodiment to be achieved and at the same time the design of the setting device to be adapted to a wide range of requirements. Furthermore, the components of the setting device can be effectively protected from environmental influences by the housing.

In a further exemplary development of this embodiment, the setting device has a housing which comprises a tool housing part and a drive housing part. At least the actuator is housed in sections in the tool housing part, while at least the drive is housed in sections in the drive housing part.

In this context, "section-wise" means that the parts or components mentioned are at least partially enclosed by the respective housing part or at least partially arranged therein. This is not contradicted by the fact that, for example, an output of the drive extends into the tool housing part in order to drive the actuator to rotate.

In this development, it is provided that the drive housing part is arranged in relation to the tool housing part in such a way that an imaginary connecting line, which runs through a center or center of gravity of the drive housing part and a center or center of gravity of the tool housing part, forms an angle of between 45 ° and 90 ° with the axis around which the actuator can rotate. This results in the drive housing part being arranged essentially laterally on the tool housing part. is arranged, or at least not axially substantially behind the tool housing part. This allows an overall length of the housing to be effectively reduced and the setting device can consequently also be coupled and used in tight installation situations on difficult-to-access setting connections. In this embodiment, it can be advantageous for the gear to comprise a bevel gear.

Furthermore, this further development can be advantageously combined with the previously mentioned further development: Due to the rigidly connected housing parts, the drive, bearing and coupling device can be rigidly mounted or positioned relative to one another.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the coupling device is designed to be able to be coupled to different types of adjustment connections. “Different types” refers in particular to different external diameters or geometries to which the coupling device can couple by enclosing, enclosing, clamping, gripping, clamping or clamping. Furthermore, however, it can also refer in particular to different nominal widths of external threads, which can be provided on the adjustment connection and to which the coupling device can couple by enclosing, enclosing, clamping, gripping, clamping, clamping or screwing. This design makes the adjustment device versatile and can be used to adjust the preload device of various thermostatic expansion valves from different manufacturers.

In an exemplary development of this embodiment, the coupling device has a chuck, the basic design of which is known from drill chucks of various tools, such as drill drivers. The chuck can, for example, have a three-jaw chuck, or it comprises a rubber ring which can be axially compressed by a union nut so that an inner diameter of the rubber ring is reduced and the adjustment connection is clamped in it. The chuck is advantageously suitable for adapting to adjustment connections of different widths within a certain range and can be tightened or loosened in particular without tools, for example by manually turning a union nut. In a further exemplary development of this embodiment, the coupling device has a clamping pliers which is rigidly held or carried by an arm in a position on the tool tip. The clamping pliers are positioned in such a way that they can grip adjustment connections of different widths and different shapes. Preferably, they are provided with a fixing screw, by means of which opposing clamping pliers halves can be evenly varied in a radial distance from the rotation axis of the actuator, and in particular can be tightened. This development can also be attached to the adjustment connection and released again without the need for a tool.

In a further exemplary development of this embodiment, the coupling device comprises an attachment coupling which can be coupled to an exchangeable coupling attachment. This allows the coupling device to be flexibly adapted and coupled to different types of adjustment connections. Preferably, the coupling attachment can be changed without tools, which facilitates the handling of the adjustment device and in particular the adaptation of the adjustment device to a specific adjustment connection.

For example, the attachment coupling can have a flange-like collar with a contact surface on the front side - that is, facing the adjustment connection. The coupling attachment can be designed as a union nut which has a lateral slot so that the coupling attachment can be pushed onto the attachment coupling from the side and pulled off again. The lateral slot has at least one step so that the union nut can be supported against the side of the collar facing away from the contact surface after being pushed onto the attachment coupling and when the union nut is screwed onto an external thread on the adjustment connection. By tightening the union nut on the adjustment connection, the contact surface can then be pressed against a front surface or an edge of the adjustment connection, thereby creating a rigid coupling of the adjustment device to the adjustment connection. The lateral slot preferably comprises a guide groove into which the collar engages. As a result, the union nut is arranged at a defined point on the attachment coupling and handling of the adjustment device during coupling to the adjustment connection is made easier. made easier. In this design, the union nut can be replaced easily and without tools, so that a suitable union nut can be kept ready and used for any external thread that could be provided on the adjustment connection.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the actuator has a bit holder and the tool tip is formed by a bit which is interchangeably held in the bit holder. This allows the tool tip to be adapted to the drive profile of the adjustment element and a large number of different thermostatic expansion valves from different manufacturers can be adjusted using the adjustment device. The bit can preferably be exchanged without tools, which further simplifies handling of the adjustment device. A magnet holder can also be integrated into the bit holder, which magnetically holds the bit in the holder so that the bit cannot accidentally fall out of the bit holder.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the tool tip has a so-called universal socket wrench, which can adapt to a variety of different screw driving profiles of the adjustment element.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the tool tip is mounted so as to be directly or indirectly displaceable and the actuator has a preloading element which directly or indirectly preloads the tool tip into a distal end position.

In this context, a "direct" displaceable mounting and/or preloading means (and also generally in the context of all aspects of the invention, when it is said that a tool tip is mounted in a directly displaceable manner) that the tool tip - for example a bit held in a bit holder, as explained in the previous embodiment - is itself mounted in a directly displaceable manner, while, for example, a shaft of the actuator is not mounted in a bearing or the bit holder is not mounted in a displaceable manner. For example, the bit can be mounted in a displaceable manner directly within the bit holder and preloaded by a preloading device. In this context, an "indirect" displaceable mounting and/or preloading means (and also generally in the context of all aspects of the invention, when it is said that a tool tip is mounted in an indirectly displaceable manner) that the tool tip - for example a bit held in a bit holder, as explained in the previous embodiment - is not itself mounted in a displaceable and/or preloaded manner relative to a part of the actuator adjoining the tool tip, but can be moved together with it. For example, the bit holder can be mounted in a displaceable manner, while the bit has a fixed position in the bit holder.

The pre-tensioning element is designed as a mechanical spiral spring, for example. The spring element exerts a pre-tensioning force directly or indirectly on the tool tip, so that it moves into a distal end position and remains there - without external resistance. The distal end position refers to the position of the tool tip that protrudes furthest forward from the setting device. If the setting device is coupled to an adjustment connection, the tool tip hits an end surface of the setting element and is thereby pushed out of the distal end position, i.e. into a retracted position. The pre-tensioning device presses the tool tip continuously against the setting element and can maintain the operative connection to the setting element even if it is screwed deeper into the pre-tensioning device. If, on the other hand, the setting element is screwed further out of the pre-tensioning device, the tool tip can also follow this movement due to the movable bearing and move further back, away from the adjustment connection.

In an exemplary development of this embodiment, the setting device comprises a position measuring device which is designed to directly or indirectly measure and provide an axial position and/or an axial displacement dL of the tool tip.

In this context, “providing” means, in accordance with the definition introduced above, that the measured axial position and/or axial displacement dL is made available to other components of the setting device electronically and/or by data technology, for example as an analogue or digital electronic signal, for made available or can be retrieved by them. In particular, the axial position and/or axial displacement dL can be transmitted to the control device or the internal determination device, made available, queried or recorded by them. A "direct" measurement in this context means that the axial position and/or axial displacement dL is measured directly on the tool tip or the specific component that forms the tool tip. An "indirect" measurement, on the other hand, means that a position, displacement or similar measured variable is determined on another part and the axial position and/or axial displacement is deduced from this measurement. Furthermore, "axial position" in this context is understood to mean an absolute position of the tool tip, while "axial displacement dL" is understood to mean a relative change in position between two states. The above explanations of the terms "indirect" or "direct" measurement, "axial position" and "axial displacement dL" are also to be applied generally in the context of all aspects of the invention in which a position measuring device is used accordingly.

Adjustment devices according to this development can always automatically detect a change in the axial position and thereby carry out further steps automatically, as will be explained in more detail in the following sections. For example, the position measuring device can be used to automatically detect when the tool tip sits or snaps into a drive profile of the adjustment element, i.e. correctly interacts with it. In addition, during the execution of a defined rotation of the actuator - for the purpose of defined adjustment of the adjustment element - it can be monitored which axial stroke is highlighted as a result. If this does not match an expected value, it follows that the thread via which the adjustment element is adjustable must have a different pitch than expected. It can therefore be concluded that, for example, a valve type was not selected correctly or that table values on the basis of which the angle information was previously determined are incorrect. The actually measured axial stroke can then be used to correct or adjust determined angle information before further adjustment steps on the same valve or valve type. In exemplary variants of this further development, in which the “axial position” is absolutely measurable, the setting device can also be set up to automatically determine whether the tool tip is close to the distal End position or close to a proximal end position. The proximal end position is an axial position of the tool tip from which it cannot move back any further than it has reached a rear stop and cannot be pushed further into the setting device. In the area of both end positions, the pre-tensioning device can only be adjusted to a limited extent, as the tool tip may no longer be able to fully follow the setting element during adjustment and the effective connection is therefore broken. The existence of this risk can be reliably detected if the position measuring device can measure the axial position and a warning message can then be issued - for example as a visual or acoustic signal.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the adjustment device comprises a torque measuring device which is designed to directly or indirectly measure and provide a torque transmitted to the actuator.

In this context, "providing" means, in accordance with the definition introduced above, that the measured torque is made available to other components of the setting device electronically and/or by data technology, for example as an analog or digital electronic signal, or can be retrieved by them. In particular, the measured torque can be transmitted to the control device, made available, queried or recorded by it. A "direct" measurement of the torque should mean that a torque sensor is integrated into the actuator and a torque acting in the actuator - in particular between a shaft and the tool tip - is recorded. An "indirect" measurement, on the other hand, should mean that a torque or a variable associated with it is measured at another location. For example, the power consumption of an actuator of the drive can be monitored or a mechanical tension between parts of a gear or between parts of the gear and parts of a bearing of the actuator can be measured. The above explanations of the terms “indirect” or “direct” measurement are also to be applied generally in the context of all aspects of the invention in which a torque measuring device is used accordingly. With the help of the torque measuring device, the setting device in this embodiment can carry out even more automated steps: For example, it can be set up to monitor that a first torque limit is not exceeded during rotation of the actuator. For example, if an angular position of the tool tip at stops of a driving profile of the setting element is to be determined in a clockwise as well as counterclockwise direction, but the setting element is not to be adjusted in the process. The first torque limit can then be selected to be so low that unintentional adjustment of the setting element can be ruled out. Furthermore, the setting device can be set up to detect when the setting element is blocked. For example, a second torque limit D2 can be selected to be so high that it is only triggered when the setting element is blocked, but not when the setting element is adjusted normally. This design means that the setting device can be operated more safely and reliably.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the setting device comprises an angle measuring device which is designed to measure and provide at least one absolute angle position or a relative angle position change of the actuator directly or indirectly. The measurement is referred to as "indirect" if it is not determined directly on the rotating part of the actuator or the tool tip. For example, a motor included in the drive can comprise a protractor, in which case an angle change of an output of the motor must be converted to an angle change of the actuator, taking into account a transmission ratio of a thread possibly arranged between the motor and the actuator. Otherwise, the measurement is referred to as "direct". This explanation of the terms "indirect" or "direct" measurement is also to be applied generally in the context of all aspects of the invention in which a torque measuring device is used accordingly.

In this context, “providing” means, in accordance with the definition introduced above, that the determined absolute angular position or the relative angular position change is made available to other components of the setting device electronically and/or by data technology, for example as an analogue or digital electronic signal or as a stored data set in a volatile or non-volatile memory, or can be retrieved from such. For example, the determined absolute angle position or relative angle position change can be transmitted to the control device, made available or queried or recorded by it. With the help of the angle measuring device, the actuator can be rotated even more precisely by the control device by a defined angle of rotation and even more extensive automated processes can be implemented with and uses of the setting device.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the setting device is designed to be part of a maintenance system according to the second aspect of the invention below, wherein all exemplary embodiments and further developments of the setting device mentioned above can also be used in the context of the maintenance system.

In further exemplary embodiments, the electronic elements and units which were named in the context of the previous sections with regard to the setting device and its embodiments and further developments - such as the control device, the torque measuring device, the position measuring device, the angle measuring device, the internal determination device, the interface device, the communication device, the operating device and the energy supply device - can all be implemented as individual, stand-alone units. For example, each of these devices or units can comprise its own circuit board, its own microcontroller and other components. It is also possible in exemplary embodiments that several or even all of the devices or units mentioned are combined in a common electronic assembly. It is also possible that the respective functions of individual devices or units mentioned are combined. For example, the function of the control device and the internal determination device can be carried out by a single electronic assembly or even a single microcontroller or process. This can increase added value, the manufacturing costs of the setting device can be set and the number of components can be reduced. In a further exemplary embodiment, the setting device is designed to carry out one or more of the methods according to the third aspect of the invention below, wherein the setting device then has at least all of the features or components which are necessary for carrying out the respective method.

The above-mentioned embodiments and further developments of the setting device can in particular be combined with one another in any way, provided that they do not logically exclude one another.

According to a second aspect of the invention, a maintenance system for adjusting a pre-tensioning device of an expansion valve on an HVAC system comprises a sensor system, an operating device and an adjustment device according to the first aspect of the invention or one of the exemplary embodiments and developments of the first aspect of the invention mentioned above. Accordingly, all examples, definitions and explanations explained in previous sections with regard to the first aspect of the invention are also applicable to corresponding elements, terms and features from the following sections with regard to the second aspect of the invention.

The operating device comprises, for example, a display and several operating elements (e.g. keys or buttons) or a touch-sensitive surface (e.g. a touch screen). It can, for example, be designed on a mobile device such as a cell phone, a tablet, or on a so-called assembly aid.

The adjustment device comprises at least one drive, an actuator which can be rotated about an axis by the drive, a coupling device, a control device and an interface device with a communication device. The coupling device is designed to be detachably coupled to an adjustment connection of the expansion valve so that a tool tip of the actuator comes into operative connection with an adjustment element of the pretensioning device and a torque generated by the drive or a rotary movement triggered by the drive can be transmitted to the adjustment element via the actuator. The sensor system comprises at least one pressure sensor for measuring a pressure at an outlet of an evaporator of the HVAC system and a temperature sensor for measuring a temperature at the outlet of the evaporator. The maintenance system is designed to use the sensor system to measure at least the pressure and the temperature at the outlet of the evaporator and to provide this as measurement information. Furthermore, the maintenance system is designed to use the operating device to receive and provide at least one input information from an operator.

Furthermore, either the maintenance system comprises a detection device or the setting device comprises an internal detection device.

If the maintenance system has the determination device, it is set up to determine and provide angle information based on the measurement information and the input information. In this case, the setting device is then set up to receive the angle information from the determination device by means of the communication device and in turn to provide it within the setting device.

If the setting device comprises the internal determination device, it is set up to first receive the measurement information from the sensor system and the input information from the operating device using the communication device and to provide it within the setting device. Furthermore, it is set up to then determine the angle information based on the measurement information and the input information using the internal determination device and to provide it within the setting device.

"Providing" here means at the level of the components or elements of the maintenance system (and also generally in the context of all aspects of the invention, when information is provided at the level of components or elements of a maintenance system - i.e., e.g., sensor system, operating device, setting device and determination device), that information - here specifically the measurement information, input information and/or angle information - is made available to the other components of the maintenance system electronically and/or by data technology, i.e. for For example, as an analog or digital electronic signal or as a stored data set in a volatile or non-volatile memory, made available or can be retrieved by such. In particular, the angle information can be transmitted to the setting device or to its communication device, made available or queried or recorded by it and/or the measurement information and input information can be transmitted to the determination device, made available or queried or recorded by it.

In the context and at the level of the components of the setting device (i.e., e.g. interface device, communication device, operating device, control device and internal determination device) and in consistency with the definition given in the sections relating to the first aspect of the invention, "provide", in particular "provide within the setting device", means that information - here specifically the measurement information, input information and/or angle information - is made available to the other components of the setting device electronically and/or by data technology, for example as an analog or digital electronic signal or as a stored data set in a volatile or non-volatile memory, or can be retrieved by them.

For the sake of clarity, we have refrained from assigning a separate communication device to each individual component of the maintenance system; however, this does not mean that no component of the maintenance system other than the setting device has a communication device. In fact, such additional communication devices may even be necessary and provided accordingly in order to enable the intended information flows. In the case of the setting device, the communication device is highlighted and explicitly named in particular for the purpose of being able to more clearly separate possible processes and methods that take place within the setting device from processes and methods that take place at a higher level of the maintenance system in the interaction of the first aspect and the second aspect of the invention.

In any case - regardless of whether the angle information is provided by the

detection device of the maintenance system or by the internal

The setting device is used to determine the setting of the is designed to operate the drive by means of the control device in such a way that the actuator rotates around a defined angle of rotation, which is determined in direction and amount by the angle information. For this purpose, the setting device can, for example, comprise an angle measuring device which is designed to measure at least one absolute angle position or a relative

To measure the angular position change of the actuator directly or indirectly and to provide it to the control device, for example electronically and/or by data technology, so that the control device can use this angular position or relative angular position change as a control parameter. For example, the drive itself can also be designed to carry out defined, discrete rotation steps, such as a stepper motor.

The actuation of the drive is presumed that the determination of the angle information using the defined determination rule actually shows that an adjustment of the setting element of the pretensioning device is to be carried out. In this case, what was explained in the sections with regard to the first aspect of the invention applies accordingly to the defined determination rule, regardless of whether the determination rule is used by the determination device at the level of the maintenance system or by the internal determination device at the level of the setting device.

With the help of the maintenance system, the adjustment or optimization of the preload device of the expansion valve can be carried out conveniently, reliably and largely automatically.

In an exemplary embodiment, the maintenance system comprises a display device which is set up to display a visualization of the angle information. The visualization comprises at least a display of an angle value and a direction of rotation, which are based on the angle information. The angle value can be displayed, for example, in degrees (e.g. "90 °") or as a multiple or fraction of full revolutions (e.g. "one and a half revolutions"). The direction of rotation can be displayed in words (e.g. "clockwise", "CW" for "clock wise") or by pictograms. Furthermore, the visualization can include an animation. In this case, at least one exemplary pre-tensioning device and a tool that comes into operative connection with an adjustment element of the pre-tensioning device can be displayed or represented. Furthermore, in particular a rotary movement of the tool can be animated, which is coordinated with the angle amount and the direction of rotation that are determined by the angle information.

The display device can be designed in particular as a screen on a mobile device, such as a mobile phone, a tablet, or on a so-called assembly aid. Furthermore, the display device can be designed in particular as a touch screen and can be designed together with the operating device as a device or part.

With the help of the visualization by the display device, a planned setting of the pre-tensioning device can be presented in a way that is understandable to an operator. In particular, this enables the operator to manually adjust the setting or adjustment of the setting element of the pre-tensioning device if he does not want to use the setting device or if it is not available or not working. The visualization can therefore be used in this context as an animated work instruction.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the sensor system of the maintenance system comprises a so-called installation aid. The pressure sensor of the sensor system is designed as an integrated pressure sensor of the installation aid. Furthermore, the installation aid can be connected to the temperature sensor of the sensor system by wire or wirelessly in order to record the temperature at the outlet of the evaporator. The installation aid can thus collect all measured values as a central point and provide them in summary form as measurement information. Furthermore, the detection device and/or the operating device and/or the display device can be integrated into the installation aid. In particular, the detection device and the operating device and the display device can all be integrated into the installation aid. This integration in the assembly aid results in a high level of operating comfort, simple handling and high functionality. The assembly aid is designed in particular as a so-called digital assembly aid.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the maintenance system is designed to carry out one or more of the methods according to the fourth aspect of the invention below, wherein the maintenance system then has at least all of the features or components which are necessary for carrying out the respective method.

The above-mentioned embodiments and further developments of the maintenance system can in particular be combined with one another in any way, provided that they do not logically exclude one another.

According to a third aspect of the invention, a method for adjusting a pre-tensioning device of an expansion valve on an HVAC system, which is carried out with the aid of an adjustment device according to the first aspect of the invention, comprises the following steps:

Step A) Coupling a coupling device of the adjustment device to an adjustment connection of the expansion valve so that a tool tip of an actuator of the adjustment device comes into operative connection with an adjustment element of the pre-tensioning device, and

Step B) providing measurement information and input information and/or angle information through an interface device of the setting device, wherein step B is carried out after, simultaneously with or before step A, and

Step B‘) If no angle information is provided in step B, determining the angle information on the basis of the measurement information and the input information by an internal determination device of the setting device using a defined determination rule, and

Step C) If the angle information contains an angle value not equal to zero, actuating a drive of the setting device by a control device of the setting device so that the actuator rotates by a defined angle of rotation which is determined in direction and magnitude by the angle information, wherein step C is executed after steps A, B and B' are completed.

As mentioned at the beginning, in this method, as well as in the following exemplary embodiments thereof, an adjustment device according to the first aspect of the invention, or one of the exemplary embodiments or further developments thereof is used (insofar as this or these have all the parts or components required in the respective method). Accordingly, all examples, definitions, terms, features, elements and explanations explained in previous sections relating to the first aspect of the invention can also be transferred to corresponding examples, definitions, terms, features, elements and explanations from the sections relating to the second aspect of the invention and its exemplary embodiments. Accordingly, for example, with regard to the terms “come into operative connection”, “provide”, “actuate” etc., reference is made to the previous explanations of corresponding terms, parts and features of the first aspect of the invention, its embodiments and further developments.

The determination of the angle information by the internal determination device in step B' can be carried out entirely within the setting device, i.e. by components of the setting device, such as microcontrollers. Alternatively, the internal determination device in step B' can also establish a connection to an external unit, such as an external determination device or a cloud application, which transmits measurement information and input information to this external unit, and receives back angle information determined by the external unit and then makes it available. The exchange of measurement information, input information and angle information with the external unit can take place in particular via a communication device of the interface device, which will be discussed in more detail in a subsequent exemplary embodiment of the method.

The procedure makes the adjustment of a thermostatic expansion valve much easier and automated, so that it can be done reliably and quickly. Furthermore, the advantages and improvements attributed to the adjustment device in previous sections can be achieved by using the adjustment device in this procedure can also be transferred to the procedure or implemented by it.

In an exemplary embodiment, in step B, at least one of the following sub-steps Bl or B2 is carried out for the purpose of providing the measurement information, input information and/or angle information:

Step Bl) receiving and providing the angle information and/or the measurement information and/or the input information from an external unit through a communication device of the interface device, and/or

Step B2) Receiving and providing the angle information and/or the measurement information and/or the input information from an operator by an operating device of the interface device.

In particular, in step B1, it can be provided that the measurement information is received by a sensor system and that the input information is received by an operating device. The sensor system, the operating device and the setting device can in particular be part of a maintenance system.

In an exemplary embodiment of the method, the setting device comprises a torque measuring device which is designed to directly or indirectly measure and provide a torque transmitted to the actuator, and an angle measuring device which is designed to directly or indirectly measure and provide at least one absolute angle position or a relative angle position change of the actuator. In step A, after the coupling device is coupled to the adjustment connection and the tool tip has come into operative connection with the adjustment element, the following additional sub-steps are carried out:

Step Al) Actuating the drive so that the actuator performs a rotational movement in a first rotational direction until a first torque limit is exceeded, and

Detecting and providing a first angular position Wl, which the actuator assumes at this moment, as an absolute angular position and/or as a Zero position for a detection of a relative angular position change in step A2, and then

Step A2) Operating the drive so that the actuator performs a rotational movement opposite to the first direction of rotation until the first torque limit is exceeded, and

Detecting and providing a second angular position W2, which the actuator (1020) assumes at this moment, as an absolute angular position, and/or

Detecting and providing the relative angular position change between the zero position and the second angular position W2 as angular position change dW.

The respective actuation of the drive in the steps mentioned is carried out by the control device, which is set up for this purpose according to the explanations of the first aspect of the invention.

The aim of this embodiment is to determine a position of the tool tip within a driving profile of the adjustment element so that any play that may exist between the driving profile of the adjustment element and the profile of the tool tip can be recognized and taken into account. However, during the execution of this embodiment of the method, the adjustment element should not yet be rotated, i.e. adjusted. Therefore, a torque transmitted to the actuator is measured using the torque measuring device, in particular continuously monitored. This means that the applied or effective torque is measured continuously or continuously periodically and at least provided to the control device. The first torque limit value is set so that it is immediately exceeded if edges, tips, surfaces or corners of the tool tip collide with corners, edges, tips or surfaces of the driving profile of the adjustment element in one direction during rotation. The rotation of the actuator is then immediately stopped and unintentional adjustment of the adjustment element can be effectively prevented.

In steps A1 and A2, “at this moment” means the point in time at which the first torque limit is exceeded and the rotational movement is stopped. If the angle measuring device is set up to measure absolute angle positions (for example, specific angle positions such as 45.3 ° or 271.5 °), the first angle position W1 and the second angle position W2 are each measured absolutely and provided, in particular saved, as absolute angle positions. At the same time, a relative angle position change between the two angle positions W1 and W2 can also be determined, even if this is not necessary for the following steps.

However, if the angle measuring device is only designed to measure relative

To measure the angular position change of the actuator, the first angular position W1 from step A1 is used as the zero position and in step A2 a relative angular position change between this zero position (i.e. between the first angular position W1) and the second angular position W2 is measured and provided, in particular stored.

If the first torque limit value is exceeded in both steps A1 and A2, the first angular position Wl and the second angular position W2 are then either known by absolute angular position and can be set again at any time, or at least a relative angular position change dW between the two angular positions is known in terms of amount and direction and the actuator can therefore be moved back from the second angular position W2 to the first angular position Wl and vice versa at any time, as long as the actuator does not carry out any further rotational movements for which the achieved angular position changes are not known. In a final step, before the rotation determined by the angular information is carried out in step C, one of the following steps can be carried out:

Step A3) If the angle information specifies a rotation in the first rotation direction, actuating the drive (1010) so that the actuator (1020) assumes the first angle position Wl, and

Step A4) If the angle information specifies a rotation opposite to the first direction, actuate the drive (1010) so that the actuator (1020) assumes the second angular position W2. However, if in one of steps A1 or A2 a rotation through an angular amount of 360° is carried out without the first torque limit value being exceeded, the process is intended to be aborted. This is because it is then likely that the core part of step A was not completed at all, i.e. the tool tip did not come into operative connection with the adjustment element. This can happen, for example, if a rotation axis of the actuator was inadvertently not aligned concentrically with the adjustment element, so that the tool tip does not engage the drive profile of the adjustment element. In this case, the process is aborted completely and an operator of the adjustment device can be informed of the error, for example via an acoustic or optical signal.

This exemplary embodiment makes it possible to ensure that in step C of the method the rotation determined by the angle information in direction and angle amount is carried out completely without the angle amount being distorted by a possible play between the driving profile of the adjustment element and the profile of the tool tip. In this way, a particularly precise adjustment of the adjustment element can be achieved.

In a further exemplary embodiment of the method, the tool tip is mounted so that it can be moved directly or indirectly, and the actuator has a pre-tensioning element which pre-tensions the tool tip directly or indirectly into a distal end position. The adjustment device also comprises a torque measuring device which is designed to directly or indirectly measure a torque transmitted to the actuator and to provide it to the control device, and a position measuring device which is designed to directly or indirectly measure an axial position and/or a displacement of the tool tip and to provide it to the control device. In each case in step A, after the coupling device is coupled to the adjustment connection and the tool tip has come into operative connection with the adjustment element, and before the steps A1 to A4 from the previous exemplary embodiment, which may also be provided, are carried out, the following additional sub-steps:

Step A01) Actuating the drive so that the actuator performs a rotational movement in a first rotational direction until the first torque limit is exceeded or the position measuring device detects a displacement of the tool tip or a rotation by a defined angular amount is carried out, and then step A02) If no displacement of the tool tip is detected in step A01 and the first torque limit value is not exceeded, actuating the drive so that the actuator executes a rotational movement counter to the first direction of rotation until the first torque limit value is exceeded or the position measuring device detects a displacement of the tool tip or a rotation by the defined angular amount is carried out.

The respective actuation of the drive in the steps mentioned is carried out by the control device, which is set up for this purpose according to the explanations of the first aspect of the invention.

The aim of this embodiment is to check whether the tool tip has correctly entered into an operative connection with the adjustment element in step A, i.e. whether a profile of the tool tip engages in a drive profile of the adjustment element, and/or to bring about the occurrence of the operative connection. During the execution of this embodiment of the method, however, the adjustment element should not yet be rotated, i.e. adjusted. Therefore, a torque transmitted to the actuator is measured using the torque measuring device, in particular continuously monitored. This means that the applied or effective torque is measured continuously or continuously periodically and at least provided to the control device. The first torque limit value is set in such a way that it is immediately exceeded if edges, tips, surfaces or corners of the tool tip collide with corners, edges, tips or surfaces of the drive profile of the adjustment element during rotation in one direction. The rotation of the actuator is then immediately aborted and unintentional adjustment of the adjustment element can be effectively prevented. The torque measuring device can in particular be the same one that was used in the previous embodiment.

Furthermore, during the execution of this embodiment of the method, an axial

Position and/or displacement of the tool tip by means of the

Position measuring device measured and in particular continuously monitored (e.g. This makes it possible to detect if the tool tip snaps into or enters the drive profile of the adjustment element during the rotational movement. The rotation of the actuator is then immediately stopped and unintentional adjustment of the adjustment element can be effectively prevented.

Furthermore, steps A01 and A02 are each aborted if, during rotation by an angular amount in the respective direction of rotation, neither the first torque limit value is exceeded nor a displacement of the tool tip is measured. In this case, it cannot be determined that the tool tip is already in operative connection with the setting element and the operative connection cannot be established by rotation. In this case, the process is aborted completely and an operator of the setting device can be informed of the error, for example via an acoustic or optical signal.

To monitor or record the angle covered by a respective rotation, the setting device can, for example, comprise an angle measuring device, as explained in the previous embodiment. Alternatively, the drive itself can also be designed to carry out defined, discrete rotation steps, such as a stepper motor. The defined angle is preferably set to 360°, so that a full rotation is carried out in both directions of rotation and thus non-rotationally symmetrical drive profiles should lie on top of each other at least once and can come into operative connection. However, if the existing drive profile of the setting element has a rotational symmetry about a given angle, the defined angle can also be set to this given angle. This embodiment of the method can therefore be carried out quickly.

This exemplary design allows the correct completion of step A, i.e. the establishment of an effective connection between the tool tip and the setting element, to be checked and, if necessary, brought about before further process steps are carried out. This makes the process more reliable overall and automation can be increased. In a further exemplary embodiment of the procedure, the following steps are carried out after completion of step C:

Step D) Wait for a period of time, and

Step E) Repeat the procedure from step B after completion of step D.

By waiting for a period of time in step D, the HVAC system is given an opportunity to reach a new equilibrium state after the change in the setting of the pre-tensioning device made in step C. The period of time can correspond to a predefined, constant value, such as seven to 15 minutes, or the length of the period of time can be calculated and set using a calculation formula based on the angle information or the measurement information and input information from step B and/or B'. The period of time can thus be set very easily and quickly.

However, in step D, the following sub-steps can also be carried out and a dynamically adjusted time period can be used instead of a statically defined one:

Step Dl) Providing initial measurement information, and

Step D2) Wait for a first period of time ZI, and

Step D3) Providing a second measurement information, and

Step D4) If the second measurement information substantially agrees with the first measurement information, proceed to step E, otherwise repeat the steps from step D2.

The time span is thus the product of the first time span ZI and the number of runs in which step D4 was reached. The time span ZI can be one minute, for example. By comparing the first measurement information and the second measurement information in each run, it is examined whether the HVAC system is back in a state of equilibrium. If the first and second measurement information "essentially agree", this means that the measurement information only differs to an extent that experience has shown to correspond to fluctuations expected in a state of equilibrium. The first and second measurement information can in particular comprise the same measurement variables or parameters that are also contained in the measurement information that is used in step B' to determine the angle information. However, it can also be other measurement variables or parameters that are suitable for making it possible to determine whether the HVAC system has reached an equilibrium state by means of sufficient value stability.

By running through the process again from step B as provided for in step E, a new setting loop is started. Regardless of whether new, additional angle information is then provided to the setting device directly by the interface device in the restarted step B or not, the renewed loop run means that new, additional measurement information must be determined in order to determine the new equilibrium state of the HVAC system, which is influenced by the new setting of the setting element made during the previous run through step C. For example, a new superheat can be calculated using the new, additional measurement information and a new assessment can be made of whether the pre-tensioning device is optimally set. If this is not the case - which is then reflected in new, additional angle information, which is either provided directly in step B or determined in step B' by the internal determination device - the setting of the setting element is changed again and the setting of the pre-tensioning device can be further optimized.

This design basically allows any number of optimization loops to be carried out automatically, thus achieving very precise optimization of the setting of the thermostatic expansion valve with little effort for an operator of the setting device.

The respective method steps of the method and its exemplary embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention (for adjusting a preloading device of an expansion valve on an HVAC system with the aid of an adjustment device) can alternatively also be considered as usage steps of uses of an adjustment device according to the first aspect of the invention. According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a method for adjusting a preload device of an expansion valve on an HVAC system, which is carried out with the aid of a maintenance system according to the second aspect of the invention, comprises the following steps:

Step A) Coupling a coupling device of an adjustment device of the maintenance system to an adjustment connection of the expansion valve so that a tool tip of an actuator of the adjustment device comes into operative connection with an adjustment element of the pretensioning device,

Step B) Receiving and providing input information from an operator by an operating device of the maintenance system, wherein the input information comprises at least one valve type of the expansion valve, a refrigerant type and a target temperature, and wherein step B takes place after, simultaneously with or before step A, and

Step C) Connecting at least one pressure sensor of a sensor system of the maintenance system and a temperature sensor of the sensor system to an output of an evaporator of the HVAC system, wherein step C takes place after, simultaneously with or before step A and step B, and

Step D) Measuring at least one saturation vapor pressure with the pressure sensor and an evaporator outlet temperature with the temperature sensor and providing at least these measured values as measurement information by the sensor system, wherein step D occurs after step C.

If the setting device used in this procedure has an internal detection device, the following steps El to E3 are carried out in sequence after steps A to D:

Step El) receiving and providing the measurement information and the input information by means of a communication device of an interface device of the setting device, and

Step E2) Determining angle information based on the measurement information and input information by the internal determination device using a defined determination rule, and

Step E3) Providing the angle information. If the maintenance system used in this method has a detection device, after steps A to D, the following steps E4 to E6 are alternatively carried out in sequence:

Step E4) Determining angle information based on the measurement information and input information by the determination device using a defined determination rule, and

Step E5) Providing the angle information, and

Step E6) Receiving and providing the angle information by means of a communication device of an interface device of the setting device.

Then, after steps A to D and steps El to E3 or E4 to E6 have been completed, the following step is carried out:

Step F) If the angle information contains an angle amount not equal to zero, actuate the drive by means of a control device of the setting device so that the actuator rotates through a defined angle of rotation, the direction and amount of which is determined by the angle information.

As mentioned at the beginning, in this method, as well as in the following exemplary embodiments thereof, a maintenance system according to the second aspect of the invention, or one of the exemplary embodiments or further developments thereof is used (insofar as this or these have all the parts or components required in the respective method). The maintenance system in turn comprises an adjustment device according to the first aspect of the invention or one of the exemplary embodiments or further developments thereof. Accordingly, all examples, definitions, terms, features, elements and explanations explained in previous sections with regard to the first or second aspect of the invention can also be transferred to corresponding examples, definitions, terms, features, elements and explanations from the sections relating to the fourth aspect of the invention and its exemplary embodiments. Accordingly, for example, with regard to the terms “come into operative connection”, “provide”, “actuate” etc., reference is made to the previous explanations of corresponding terms, parts and Features of the first or second aspect of the invention, their embodiments and further developments.

The method will largely automate optimization of the setting of a pre-tensioning device of a thermostatic expansion valve and will be carried out reliably and precisely. By combining elements from the first three aspects of the invention, these can interact advantageously in this aspect.

In an exemplary embodiment of the procedure, the following steps are carried out after completion of step F:

Step G) Wait for a period of time, and

Step H) Repeat the procedure from step D.

This embodiment serves the purpose of initiating a new optimization loop after the HVAC system has had a chance to reach a new equilibrium state. The setting of the pre-tensioning device can thus be improved even further. This embodiment is therefore equivalent to the corresponding exemplary embodiment of the method according to the third aspect of the invention. Explanations made with regard to the corresponding embodiment of the third aspect are also to be transferred to this embodiment accordingly.

Here, too, the time period can correspond to a predefined, constant value, such as seven to 15 minutes, or the length of the time period can be calculated and set using a calculation formula based on the angle information from one of the steps E3 or E6, or based on the measurement information from step D and the input information from step B. The time period can thus be set very easily and quickly.

Alternatively, a dynamically adjusted time period can also be used here by carrying out the following sub-steps in particular in step G:

Step Gl) Providing initial measurement information by the sensor system, and Step G2) Wait for a first period of time ZI, and

Step G3) Providing a second measurement information by the sensor system, and step G4) If the second measurement information substantially corresponds to the first measurement information, continue with step H, otherwise repeat the steps from step G2).

This design allows any number of optimization loops to be carried out automatically, thus enabling a very precise optimization of the setting of the thermostatic expansion valve to be achieved with little effort for an operator of the maintenance system.

The respective method steps of the method and its exemplary embodiments according to the fourth aspect of the invention (for adjusting a preloading device of an expansion valve on an HVAC system with the aid of a maintenance system) can alternatively also be regarded as usage steps of uses of a maintenance system according to the second aspect of the invention.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, a maintenance system for adjusting a preload device of an expansion valve on an HVAC system comprises at least one sensor system, a detection device, an operating device, and a display device.

The maintenance system is designed to record and provide at least one measurement information using the sensor system, and to receive and provide at least one input information from an operator using the operating device. Furthermore, the maintenance system is designed to determine angle information using the determination device on the basis of the measurement information and the input information, and to display a visualization of the angle information using the display device.

In an exemplary embodiment of the maintenance system, the visualization includes at least a display of an angle value and a direction of rotation, which are based on the angle information. The angle value can be displayed, for example, in degrees (e.g. "90 °") or as a multiple or fraction of full revolutions (e.g. “one and a half revolutions”). The direction of rotation can be displayed in words

(e.g. “clockwise”, “CW” for “clock wise”) or by pictograms.

Furthermore, the visualization in this embodiment can include an animation. In this case, at least one exemplary pre-tensioning device and a tool that comes into operative connection with an adjustment element of the pre-tensioning device can be displayed or represented. Furthermore, in particular a rotary movement of the tool can be animated, which is coordinated with the angle amount and the direction of rotation that are determined by the angle information.

The display device can be designed in particular as a screen on a mobile device, such as a mobile phone, a tablet, or on a so-called assembly aid. Furthermore, the display device can be designed in particular as a touch screen and can be designed together with the operating device as a device or part.

With the help of the visualization by the display device, a planned setting of the pre-tensioning device can be presented in a way that is understandable to an operator. In particular, this enables the operator to manually adjust the setting or adjustment of the setting element of the pre-tensioning device. The visualization can therefore be used in this context as an animated work instruction.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the sensor system comprises at least one pressure sensor for measuring a pressure at an outlet of an evaporator of the HVAC system and a temperature sensor for measuring a temperature at the outlet of the evaporator. This allows a saturation vapor pressure to be measured with the pressure sensor and an evaporator outlet temperature to be measured with the temperature sensor, so that the overheating of the HVAC system can be determined. As already explained in previous sections, the superheat can be used to evaluate whether a thermostatic expansion valve is optimally adjusted. Thus, in this embodiment, the superheat can be used to reliably determine the angle information. In a further exemplary embodiment, the sensor system of the maintenance system comprises a so-called installation aid. The installation aid has at least one integrated pressure sensor, which can be used, for example, in conjunction with the exemplary embodiment mentioned above as a pressure sensor for measuring the pressure at the outlet of the evaporator of the HVAC system. Furthermore, the installation aid can be connected to a temperature sensor of the sensor system, in particular for the purpose of recording the temperature at the outlet of the evaporator, in a wired or wireless manner. The installation aid can therefore collect all measured values as a central location and provide them in summary form as measurement information. Furthermore, the determination device and/or the operating device and/or the display device can be integrated into the installation aid. In particular, the determination device and the operating device and the display device can all be integrated into the installation aid.

This integration in the assembly aid results in a high level of operating comfort, simple handling and high functionality. The assembly aid is designed in particular as a so-called digital assembly aid.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the maintenance system is designed to carry out one or more of the methods according to the fourth aspect of the invention below, wherein the maintenance system then has at least all of the features or components which are necessary for carrying out the respective method.

The above-mentioned embodiments and further developments of the maintenance system can in particular be combined with one another in any way, provided that they do not logically exclude one another.

The maintenance system according to this aspect of the invention essentially corresponds to an exemplary embodiment of the maintenance system according to the second aspect of the invention, with the difference that according to this aspect it does not have an adjustment device. An adjustment of the preload device of the thermostatic expansion valve must therefore be carried out manually, for example with a screwdriver. or another suitable tool by an operator of the maintenance system. Nevertheless, all examples, definitions, terms, features, elements and explanations explained in previous sections relating to the second aspect of the invention can also be transferred to corresponding examples, definitions, terms, features, elements and explanations from the sections relating to the fifth aspect of the invention and its exemplary embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Exemplary embodiments and further developments of the various aspects of the invention are explained below with reference to figures.

Figure 1 shows schematically an exemplary thermostatic expansion valve in a cross-section,

Figure 2 shows a schematic of an exemplary maintenance system,

Figure 3 shows schematically an exemplary setting device in a cross section,

Figure 4 shows schematically an exemplary setting device in a cross section,

Figure 5 shows schematically an exemplary actuator in a cross section,

Figure 6 schematically shows an exemplary coupling device in a

cross section,

Figure 7 schematically shows an exemplary coupling device in a cross section,

Figure 8 shows schematically an exemplary coupling attachment in a side view,

Figure 9 shows schematically the coupling attachment from Figure 8 in a cross-section through the plane IX indicated in Figure 8,

Figure 10 schematically shows the coupling attachment from Figure 8 in a cross-section through the plane X indicated in Figure 8,

Figure 11 schematically shows the coupling attachment from Figure 8 in a cross section through the plane XI indicated in Figure 8,

Figure 12 schematically shows an exemplary coupling device in a cross section,

Figure 13 schematically shows an exemplary setting device in a perspective view, Figure 14 shows schematically the setting device from Figure 13 in a side view, Figure 15 shows schematically an exemplary setting device in a side view,

Figure 16 schematically shows an exemplary adjustment element and an exemplary

Tool tip in different angle positions to each other,

Figure 17 schematically shows an exemplary adjustment element and an exemplary tool tip in different positions relative to each other,

Figure 18 schematically shows an exemplary actuator and an exemplary drive,

Figure 19 schematically shows an exemplary maintenance system,

Figure 20 shows a schematic of an exemplary measuring system,

Figure 21 schematically shows an exemplary maintenance system, Figure 22 schematically shows an exemplary visualization, Figure 23 schematically shows an exemplary visualization, Figure 24 schematically shows an exemplary visualization and Figure 25 schematically shows an exemplary visualization.

Corresponding parts are provided with the same reference numerals in all figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-section of a thermostatic expansion valve 2000. It has an inlet connection 2022, via which it can be connected to a condenser 8030 and can be supplied with a coolant. An outlet connection 2023 can in turn be connected to an evaporator 8010, to which the coolant can be delivered. A valve orifice 2025 is arranged between the connections 2022 and 2023, and a valve tappet 2024 can be moved within the thermostatic expansion valve 2000 in such a way that a flow of coolant through the valve orifice 2025 is either released or blocked by a sealing engagement of the valve tappet 2024 in the valve orifice 2025. The movement of the valve tappet 2024 is controlled on the one hand by a membrane 2026, the underside of which is subjected to the refrigerant pressure present at the outlet connection 2023, and the upper side of which is subjected to a pressure transmission fluid which is connected to a temperature sensor 2027 via a capillary line 2028. The Temperature sensor 2027 is in thermal contact with the evaporator 8010. If the temperature at the evaporator 8010 rises, the pressure transfer fluid in the temperature sensor 2027 heats up, expands as a result of the heating and exerts a higher pressure on the top of the membrane 2026. From a certain temperature of the evaporator 8010, the membrane is thereby pressed downwards - against the refrigerant pressure that is present on its underside - and the valve tappet 2024 releases the flow of refrigerant through the valve orifice 2025. This in turn can lead to a reduction in the temperature in the evaporator 8010, so that the pressure on the top of the membrane decreases again. The ratio of refrigerant pressure and evaporator temperature at which the flow of refrigerant is released can also be manipulated via a pretensioning device 2020, which exerts a pressure force on the membrane via a spiral spring. The preload force of the preload device 2020 is adjusted via an adjusting element 2021, the position of which can be changed by screwing in or out via an adjusting connection 2010 using a tool.

With the aid of an adjustment device 1000 according to the first aspect of the invention and/or its exemplary embodiments and further developments described in the preceding summary of the invention, the adjustment of the adjustment element 2021 can be automated and facilitated, and in addition, an adjustment can be made very precisely and reliably.

Figures 3 to 18 each show exemplary embodiments of the setting device 1000 or exemplary embodiments of parts or components of the setting device 1000.

The adjustment device 1000 comprises a drive 1010, an actuator 1020, a coupling device 1030 and a control device 1040. The actuator 1020 can be rotated about an axis 1021 by the drive 1010. The coupling device 1030 is designed to be detachably coupled to the adjustment connection 2010 of the expansion valve 2000 so that a tool tip 1022 of the actuator 1020 comes into operative connection with the adjustment element 2021 of the pretensioning device 2020 and a torque generated by the drive 1010 or a rotary movement triggered by the drive 1010 can be transmitted to the adjustment element 2021 via the actuator 1020. As shown schematically in Figures 3, 4 and 18 using various exemplary embodiments of the setting device 1000, the drive 1010 can comprise an actuator 1011, such as an electric motor, a stepper motor or a servo motor, and a gear 1012. By means of the gear, a torque or a rotary movement can be transmitted from the actuator 1011 to the actuator 1020. The gear 1012 can, for example, have a planetary gear, as shown schematically in Figure 18. The actuator 1020 comprises a shaft 129, which is mounted in one or more bearings 128. In order for the torque or the rotary movement to be effectively and completely transmitted from the actuator 1011 by means of the gear 1012 to the actuator 1020 and from the actuator 1020 by means of an operative connection through the tool tip 1022 finally to the adjustment element 2021, at least the drive 1010, in particular specifically the gear 1012 or a frame thereof, as well as the coupling device 1030 must both be held and/or fastened rigidly relative to the bearing(s) 128.

For this purpose, the setting device 1000 can have a housing 1070 which protects its components and parts from environmental influences and damage and at the same time fixes the drive 1010, bearing 1028 and coupling device 1030 in the necessary rigid position relative to one another. As shown by way of example in Figures 3 and 4, a tool housing part 1071 which accommodates the actuator 1020 at least in sections and a drive housing part 1072 which accommodates the drive 1010 at least in sections can be provided.

If the tool housing part 1071 and the drive housing part 1072 are fastened to one another and aligned in such a way that an imaginary connecting line 1073 between the centers of gravity of the two housing parts, as shown schematically in Figure 15, intersects with the axis 1021 at an angle between 45° and 90°, a particularly compact, handy design can be achieved. As shown by way of example in Figures 4 and 18, the gear 1012 can comprise a bevel gear 1012', so that even in such a design a torque generated by the actuator 1011 or a rotary movement generated by the actuator 1011 can be transmitted to the actuator 1020. In order to be able to interact with different screw driving profiles that can be provided on the adjusting element 2021, the actuator 1020 can have a bit holder 1023 and an interchangeably arranged bit 1024 that forms the tool tip 1022. In Figure 3, the bit 1024 is held in a fixed position within the bit holder 1023 and the bit holder 1023 is mounted so that it can be moved axially relative to the shaft 1029. A preloading element 1025 exerts a force on an element rigidly connected to the bit holder 1023, so that the bit holder 1023 - and the bit 1024 held in it - are preloaded in a distal end position 1026 in the absence of a counterforce. Due to the axial displaceability, the tool tip 1022, for example the bit 1024, can follow the adjustment element 2021 in its axial displacement during the adjustment of the latter; the preloading element 1025 can ensure that the tool tip 1022 is always pressed against the adjustment element 2021 and the operative connection is therefore not broken.

Figure 5 schematically shows an exemplary embodiment of the actuator 1020, which differs from that of Figure 4 in particular in that the bit holder 1023 is integrated directly into the shaft 1029 and cannot be moved relative to it. Only the bit 1024 is mounted axially displaceably within the bit holder 1023.

The exemplary design of the actuator 1020, which is shown in Figure 18, is similar to that of Figure 5. This shows two different bits 1024, which can be interchangeably inserted into the bit holder 1023. The bit holder 1023 also has a side window with a millimeter scale. This allows the axial position of the bit 1024 to be read directly.

In exemplary embodiments, the coupling device 1030 is designed to be able to be coupled to different types of adjustment connections. Figures 6 to 14 show various exemplary embodiments of the coupling device 1030 which can fulfill this feature.

Figure 6 shows schematically an exemplary coupling device 1030, which has a chuck 1038. In the half of the image above the axis 1021, the Chuck 1038 is not tightened and a clamping ring 1038' provided therein is relaxed. In the half of the image below the axis 1021, however, the chuck 1038 is tightened, whereby the clamping ring 1038' is axially compressed. The axial compression reduces an inner diameter of the clamping ring 1038'. This allows an adjustment connection 2010, which was inserted into the chuck 1038 when it was not tightened, to be gripped and a coupling to be established between the setting device 1000 and the adjustment connection 2010.

In exemplary embodiments, the coupling device 1030 can have an attachment coupling 1031 to which a coupling attachment 1032 can be exchangeably connected. Figure 7 shows a schematic of such an exemplary embodiment, wherein the coupling attachment 1032 is designed here as a union nut which can be screwed onto a thread provided on the adjustment connection 2010 with an internal thread 1037. The attachment coupling 1031 comprises a collar 1033 and a front-side contact surface 1034 - that is, facing the adjustment connection 2010. The latter is designed to be pressed against the adjustment connection 2010 when the union nut is tightened, so that a rigid coupling of the adjustment device 1000 to the adjustment connection 2010 is enabled. Furthermore, the coupling attachment 1032, which is designed as a union nut, comprises a lateral slot 1035, thanks to which it can be pulled off the side of the attachment coupling 1031, in particular without the need for a tool. The slot 1035 also has a guide groove 1036, which is designed to grip around the collar 1033. This prevents the union nut from slipping on the attachment coupling.

Figures 8 to 11 show an exemplary design of the coupling attachment 1032 from Figure 7 designed as a union nut in different views: in Figure 8 in a side view looking perpendicularly at the lateral slot 1035, in Figure 9 in a cross section through the cutting plane IX shown in Figure 8, in Figure 10 in a cross section through the cutting plane X shown in Figure 8 and in Figure 11 in a cross section through the cutting plane XI shown in Figure 8. A correspondingly designed coupling attachment 1032 can be manufactured easily and inexpensively for many different thread types and sizes and can be flexibly connected to the setting device 1000. In exemplary embodiments, the coupling device 1030 can also comprise a clamping pliers 1039', by which the adjustment connection 2010 can be gripped and held rigidly relative to the adjustment device. For example, the clamping pliers 1039' is connected to the housing 1070 of the adjustment device 1000 by an arm 1039. Figures 12 to 14 schematically show a corresponding embodiment. The clamping pliers 1039' comprises two clamping jaws, which can be moved against each other via a screw. As shown in the figures, the screw can have external threads with different directions of rotation along an upper and a lower screw section, so that the clamping jaws can be adjusted evenly towards and away from each other. The arm 1039 can hold and arrange the clamping pliers 1039' in such a way that an adjustment connection 2010 gripped by it is always aligned concentrically with the axis 1021 of the actuator 1020.

According to the invention, the control device 1040 of the adjustment device 1000 is designed to actuate the drive 1010 in such a way, that is to say, for example, to control, monitor, activate or regulate it, so that the actuator 1020 executes a rotation by a defined angle of rotation.

In addition, the setting device 1000 can have further mainly electronic elements, such as a torque measuring device 1013, a position measuring device 1027, an angle measuring device 1027', an interface device 1050, which can include a communication device 1051 and/or an operating device 1052, an internal determination device 1041 and a power supply device. With regard to the respective purpose and the respective function of these elements, reference is made at this point to corresponding explanations in the previous summary of the invention. In Figure 4, the elements are shown schematically simplified as two functional blocks with dashed frame lines. In particular, they can be used advantageously in the context of various methods, which were explained in the context of the third and fourth aspects of the invention in the summary of the invention, in order to facilitate, automate and make more reliable the adjustment of a thermostatic expansion valve 2000 with the aid of the setting device 1000. In an exemplary embodiment of the method according to the third aspect of the invention, for which an adjustment device 1000 with a torque measuring device 1013 and an angle measuring device 1027' is required, a position of the

Tool tip 1022 is determined within a driving profile of the adjustment element 2021, so that any play between the driving profile of the adjustment element 2021 and the profile of the tool tip 1022 can be recognized and taken into account in the following rotation steps. Figure 16 illustrates the steps A1 and A2 included in this method using a schematic example:

Here, the driving profile is designed as a slot and the tool tip 1022 has a profile of a matching slotted screwdriver head. In the left part of the figure, the tool tip 1022 engages in the driving profile of the adjustment element 2021, but it can be seen that there is a certain amount of play between the edges of the driving profile and the side surfaces of the tool tip 1022. During step A1, the actuator is rotated in a first direction, here clockwise. In the middle part of the figure it can be seen that corners of the tool tip 1022 abut the edges of the driving profile of the adjustment element 2021. In the process, a first torque limit value is exceeded, which is measured with the torque measuring device 1013. The rotary movement of the actuator 1020 is stopped and the current angular position can be recorded as the first angular position W1. In step A2, the actuator 1020 is then rotated in the opposite direction until corners of the tool tip 1022 collide again with edges of the adjustment element 2021. In this case, the second angle position W2 is detected, or at least a

Angular position change dW between the two angular positions, as indicated in the right part of the figure.

In a further exemplary embodiment of the method according to the third aspect of the invention, for which a setting device 1000 with a torque measuring device 1013, a position measuring device 1027 and an axially displaceably mounted tool tip 1022, which is preloaded by a preload element 1025 in a distal end position 1026, is required, it is checked whether the tool tip 1022 has correctly entered into operative connection with the setting element 2021, i.e. a profile of the tool tip 1022 has matched a driving profile of the Adjustment element 2021 intervenes and/or attempts are made to prevent the occurrence of the

Figure 17 illustrates a schematic example of one of the steps A01 or A02 included in this method:

Here, the driving profile is again designed as a slot and the tool tip 1022 again has the profile of a matching slotted screwdriver head. In the left part of the figure, the tool tip 1022 does not engage in the driving profile of the adjustment element 2021, so that there is no operative connection between the two parts. In a step A01 or A02, the actuator 1020 is rotated so that the profiles lie on top of each other and the tool tip 1022 can snap into the driving profile of the adjustment element 2021. An axial displacement dL of the tool head that occurs can be detected by means of the position measuring device.

With the aid of a maintenance system 7000 according to the second aspect of the invention and/or its exemplary embodiments and further developments described in the preceding summary of the invention, the adjustment of the adjustment element 2021 can be automated and facilitated, and in addition, an adjustment can be made very precisely and reliably.

Figures 2 and 19 each show exemplary embodiments of the maintenance system 7000.

The maintenance system 7000 comprises an adjustment device 1000 according to the first aspect of the invention, a sensor system 7010, a detection device 7020, an operating device 7030 and a display device 7040.

In Figure 2, an exemplary embodiment of the maintenance system 7000 is shown schematically when used to optimize the setting of a thermostatic expansion valve 2000. The thermostatic expansion valve 2000 is part of an HVAC system 8000, which also has an evaporator 8010, a compressor 8020 and a condenser 8030. The setting device 1000 is connected to the setting connection 2010 of the thermostatic expansion valve 2000 and the tool tip 1022 is in operative connection with the setting element 2021. With With the help of the communication device 1051, the setting device 1000 is in wireless connection with the sensor system 7010, which is pictographically represented by simplified wave rings. The sensor system 7010 comprises a temperature sensor 7012 designed as a temperature clamp, which is attached in the area of the outlet of the evaporator 8010 in order to measure an evaporator outlet temperature there. The sensor system 7010 also comprises an assembly aid 7013, which has an internal pressure sensor 7011'. This is connected to the outlet of the evaporator 8010 via a refrigerant hose in order to measure the saturation vapor pressure or suction pressure. The operating device 7030 is integrated in the form of operating elements in the assembly aid 7013, as is the display device 7040 in the form of a display. The measurement data from sensors 7012 and 7011' can be used in conjunction with other data, such as the type of coolant used, which can be received by an operator using the operating device 7030, to calculate overheating of the HVAC system. In conjunction with other information, which together form input information, the determination device 7020, which is also integrated in the assembly aid 7013, can determine whether the pre-tensioning device 2020 of the thermostatic expansion valve 2000 is already optimally adjusted or whether the setting should be changed. The result of this determination is then provided wirelessly to the setting device 1000, in particular as angle information, so that the setting device 1000 can automatically make any adjustment to the setting element 2021 that may need to be made.

Figure 19 shows a further exemplary embodiment of the maintenance system 7000. A further exemplary embodiment of a mounting aid 7013 is provided, in which the sensor system 7010, the detection device 7020, the operating device 7030 and the display device 7040 are integrated. Furthermore, an external unit 6000, shown here in the form of a mobile phone, is provided, which can also comprise a detection device 7020, operating device 7030 and display device 7040. The external unit 6000, the mounting aid 7013 and the setting device 1000 are in wireless contact with one another via radio connections and can exchange various data with one another, such as angle information, measurement data protocol or input information. The external unit 6000 can also transmit a Establish a connection to a cloud application, represented here pictographically by a cloud.

Figure 20 schematically shows an exemplary embodiment of a measuring system 7000 which monitors process parameters, for example. In addition to pressure, temperature and flow, this can also be a chemical measurement variable. In particular, the measuring system 7000 can also be linked to valve actuators or dosing systems.

When monitoring the measurement information via sensors 7010, instructions can also be given in at least two or more iterative steps to establish target values. In particular, this can be the particularly effective operation of a process along a pipeline in addition to HVAC systems 8000. For this purpose, a user is guided through the necessary steps using the display device 7040 via a visualization. Actual values can be displayed interactively embedded in graphics. Depending on the specific system, component-oriented videos can also be loaded and displayed with the visualizations. The user is thus safely guided through the individual steps because he sees the respective components on the display 7040 as they exist in reality.

Special security is achieved when measurement information is recorded and displayed during a visualization of the necessary steps and confirmation of individual steps is requested. On this basis, the 7000 measuring system can determine the next steps using stored logic, software and on the basis of historical old data. For this purpose, measurement data is stored, compared or retrieved in a storage cloud.

In addition to the display of analyses based on evaluations of measurement information, which are displayed dynamically or animated, the remaining optimization potential can also be displayed. Time for remaining steps or for a measurement as the remaining time required can also be displayed graphically and dynamically, e.g. as a shrinking bar.

The step-by-step approach allows even users without much experience to be introduced to the optimization of a complex or almost unknown system component In particular, the query between or during a respective visualization of measurement information or instructions is effective when confirmation of individual steps is requested.

Figure 21 shows an exemplary embodiment of a maintenance system 7000 according to the fifth aspect of the invention. It therefore does not comprise an adjustment device 1000. With the help of temperature sensors 7012 and one or more integrated pressure sensors 7011', it is able to measure, for example, overheating of an HVAC system 8000 and to determine angle information for the purpose of optimizing the setting of a thermostatic expansion valve 2000. The angle information can be visualized via the display device 7040, as illustrated in Figures 22 and 23. However, other processes or work steps can also be visualized, as illustrated in Figures 24 and 25. For example, Figure 25 shows a visualization of a filling or evacuation process. During the filling or evacuation process, coolant is removed from or filled into a coolant container 9010. A current weight of the refrigerant tank 9010 is monitored with a scale 7050 and a current filling level of the refrigerant tank 9010 derived from the weight is visualized.

The invention is not limited to the preceding detailed embodiments. It can be modified within the scope of the following claims. Likewise, individual aspects from the subclaims can be combined with one another.

LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

1000 setting device

1010 Drive

1011 Actuator

1012 Gearbox

1012‘ Bevel gear

1013 Torque measuring device

1020 Actuator

1021 Axis

1022 tool tip

1023 bit holder

1024 bits

1025 Preload element

1026 Distal end position

1027 Position measuring device

1027‘ Angle measuring device

1028 warehouse

1029 Wave

1030 Coupling device

1031 Attachment coupling

1032 Coupling attachment

1033 Collar

1034 Contact surface

1035 Slot

1036 Guide groove

1037 Internal thread

1038 Chuck

1038‘ clamping ring

1039 Poor

1039‘ Clamp pliers

1040 Control device

1041 Internal Investigation Facility

1050 interface setup

1051 Communication device 1052 Operating device

1060 Energy supply facility

1070 Case

1071 Tool housing part

1072 Drive housing part

1073 connecting line

2000 Expansion valve

2010 Adjustment connection

2020 Pre-tensioning device

2021 Adjustment element

2022 Input connection

2023 Output connection

2024 Valve Tappet

2025 Valve cover

2026 Membran

2027 T emperature sensor

2028 Capillary line

6000 External Unit

7000 Maintenance system / measuring system

7010 Sensor system

701 E Integrated pressure sensor

7012 Temperature sensor

7020 Investigation facility

7030 Operating device

7040 Display device

7050 Scale

8000 HVAC system

8010 Evaporator

8020 Compressor

8030 Condenser

9010 Refrigerant tank

W1 First angle position

W2 Second angle position dW Angular position change dL Shift

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1. Adjustment device (1000) for adjusting a pre-tensioning device (2020) of an expansion valve (2000) on a HVAC system (8000), comprising - a drive (1010), - an actuator (1020) which is rotatable about an axis (1021) by the drive (1010), - a coupling device (1030) and - a control device (1040), wherein - the coupling device (1030) is adapted to be connected to a Adjustment connection (2010) of the expansion valve (2000) to be detachably coupled so that a tool tip (1022) of the actuator (1020) comes into operative connection with an adjustment element (2021) of the pretensioning device (2020) and a torque generated by the drive (1010) or a rotary movement triggered by the drive (1010) can be transmitted via the actuator (1020) to the adjustment element (2021), and - the control device (1040) is adapted to actuate the drive (1010) such that the actuator (1020) executes a rotation through a defined angle of rotation. 2. Adjustment device (1000) according to claim 1, comprising an interface device (1050) which is designed to at least - measurement information and input information, and/or - to provide angle information, wherein the control device (1040) is configured to actuate the drive (1010) such that the actuator (1020) executes a rotation by a defined angle of rotation, the direction and amount of which is determined by the angle information, and wherein, if the interface device (1050) does not provide angle information, the setting device further comprises an internal determination device (1041) which is configured to determine and provide the angle information on the basis of the measurement information and the input information by means of a defined determination rule. 3. Adjustment device (1000) according to claim 2, wherein the interface device (1050) comprises a communication device (1051) which is set up for wired or wireless communication with at least one external unit (6000) in order to at least - to receive the measurement information from the external unit (6000), in particular from a sensor system (7010), or to send it to the external unit (6000), in particular to a detection device (7020), and/or - to receive the input information from the external unit (6000), in particular from an operating device (7030), or to send it to the external unit (6000), in particular to an ascertaining device (7020), and/or to at least - to receive the angle information from the external unit (6000), in particular from the detection device (7020). 4. Adjustment device (1000) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the interface device (1050) comprises an operating device (1052) which is configured to receive and provide at least the measurement information and/or the input information and/or the angle information and/or an action command from an operator. 5. Adjustment device (1000) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the drive (1010) - an actuator (1011) and - comprises a gear (1012), and wherein the actuator (1020) - a warehouse (1028) and - a shaft (1029) which is rotatably supported by the bearing (1028) about the axis (1021), and wherein - the drive (1010) is directly or indirectly rigidly mounted relative to the bearing (1028), and - the coupling device (1030) is directly or indirectly rigidly mounted relative to the bearing (1028). 6. Adjustment device (1000) according to claim 5, comprising a housing (1070) which is adapted to rigidly mount the drive (1010), the bearing (1028) and the coupling device (1030) relative to one another. 7. Adjustment device (1000) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the housing (1070) comprises a tool housing part (1071) and a drive housing part (1072), wherein the drive housing part (1072) is arranged in relation to the tool housing part (1071) such that an imaginary connecting line (1073) which runs through a center or center of gravity of the drive housing part (1072) and a center or center of gravity of the tool housing part (1071) forms an angle of between 45° and 90° with the axis (1021). 8. Adjustment device (1000) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the coupling device (1030) is adapted to be coupled to different types of adjustment connections (2010, 2010', 2010"). 9. Setting device (1000) according to claim 8, wherein the coupling device (1030) comprises a chuck (1038), or wherein the coupling device (1030) comprises an arm (1039) and a clamping jaw (1039') which is carried by the arm (1039). 10. Adjustment device (1000) according to claim 8, wherein the coupling device (1030) has an attachment coupling (1031) which can be coupled to an exchangeable coupling attachment (1032, 1032', 1032"), wherein the coupling attachment (1032, 1032', 1032") can be exchanged in particular without tools, and wherein the attachment coupling (1031) in particular has a collar (1033) and a front contact surface (1034), and the exchangeable coupling attachment (1032, 1032', 1032") is in particular designed as a union nut and has a lateral slot (1035), so that the coupling attachment (1032, 1032', 1032") can be pulled off and pushed onto the attachment coupling (1031) from the side. is. 11. Adjustment device (1000) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuator (1020) has a bit holder (1023) and the tool tip (1022) is formed by a bit (1024) which is exchangeably received in the bit holder (1023). 12. Adjustment device (1000) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the tool tip (1022) is mounted so as to be directly or indirectly displaceable and the actuator (1020) has a prestressing element (1025) which prestresses the tool tip (1022) directly or indirectly into a distal end position (1026). 13. Setting device (1000) according to claim 12, comprising a position measuring device (1027) which is configured to directly or indirectly measure and provide an axial position and/or an axial displacement dL of the tool tip (1022). 14. Adjustment device (1000) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a torque measuring device (1013) which is designed to directly or indirectly measure and provide a torque transmitted to the actuator (1020). 15. Adjustment device (1000) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising an angle measuring device (1027') which is configured to measure and provide at least one absolute angular position or a relative angular position change of the actuator (1020) directly or indirectly. 16. Setting device (1000) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the input information comprises at least - a valve type of expansion valve (2000), - a refrigerant type, and - comprises a target temperature, and/or wherein the measurement information is at least - a saturation vapour temperature or pressure within or at an outlet of an evaporator (8010), and - an evaporator outlet temperature. 17. Maintenance system (7000) for adjusting a pre-tensioning device (2020) of an expansion valve (2000) on a HVAC system (8000), comprising - a sensor system (7010) comprising at least one pressure sensor for measuring a pressure at an outlet of an evaporator (8010) of the HVAC system (8000) and a temperature sensor (7012) for measuring a temperature at the outlet of the evaporator (8010), - an operating device (7030), and - an adjustment device (1000) according to one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the adjustment device (1000) - a drive (1010), - an actuator (1020) which is rotatable about an axis (1021) by the drive (1010), - an angle measuring device (1027') which is designed to measure and provide at least one absolute angle position or a relative angle position change of the actuator (1020) directly or indirectly, - a coupling device (1030) which is designed to detachably couple to an adjustment connection (2010) of the expansion valve (2000) so that a tool tip (1022) of the actuator (1020) comes into operative connection with an adjustment element (2021) of the pretensioning device (2020) and a torque generated by the drive (1010) or a rotary movement triggered by the drive (1010) can be transmitted via the actuator (1020) to the adjustment element (2021), - a control device (1040), and - an interface device (1050) with a communication device (1051), and wherein the maintenance system (7000) is configured to - to record and provide at least the pressure and the temperature at the outlet of the evaporator (8010) as measurement information with the sensor system (7010), - to receive and provide at least one input information from an operator with the operating device (7030), and wherein either - the maintenance system has a detection device (7020) and is designed to - with the determination device (7020) on the basis of the measurement information and the input information by means of a defined determination rule, a to determine angle information, and - wherein the setting device (1000) is configured to receive and provide the angle information from the determination device (7020) by means of the communication device (1051), or - the setting device comprises an internal detection device (1041) and is designed to - to receive the measurement information from the sensor system (7010) by means of the communication device (1051) and to receive and provide the input information from the operating device (7030), and - to determine and provide the angle information on the basis of the measurement information and the input information by means of a defined determination rule by means of the internal determination device (1041), wherein the setting device (1000) is in any case set up to actuate the drive (1010) by means of the control device (1040) and the angle measuring device (1027') such that the actuator (1020) executes a rotation by a defined angle of rotation, the direction and amount of which is determined by the angle information. 18. Maintenance system (7000) according to claim 17, comprising a display device (7040) which is arranged to display a visualization of the angle information, wherein the visualization - comprises an indication of an angle amount and a direction of rotation which are determined by the angle information, and/or - an animation comprising a display of an exemplary pretensioning device (2020) and a tool engaging therein, wherein - the animation continues to show a movement of the tool which is coordinated with the angle and direction of rotation which are determined by the angle information. 19. Maintenance system (7000) according to claim 17 or 18, wherein - the sensor system (7010) comprises a mounting aid (7013), wherein the pressure sensor is designed as an integrated pressure sensor (7011') of the mounting aid (7013), and - the manifold (7013) with the temperature sensor (7012) for recording the Temperature at the outlet of the evaporator (8010) is connected wired or wirelessly, and - the detection device (7020) and/or the operating device (7030) and/or the display device (7040) are integrated into the assembly aid (7013). 20. Method for adjusting a pre-tensioning device (2020) of an expansion valve (2000) on a HVAC system (8000), using an adjusting device (1000) according to one of claims 1 to 16, comprising the steps: A) coupling a coupling device (1030) of the adjustment device (1000) to an adjustment connection (2010) of the expansion valve (2000) so that a Tool tip (1022) of an actuator (1020) of the setting device (1000) comes into operative connection with an adjustment element (2021) of the pretensioning device (2020), and B) providing measurement information and input information and/or angle information by an interface device (1050) of the setting device (1000), wherein step B is carried out after, simultaneously with or before step A, and B') if no angle information is provided in step B, determining the angle information on the basis of the measurement information and the input information by an internal determination device (1040) of the setting device (1000) by means of a defined determination rule, and C) If the angle information contains an angle amount not equal to zero, actuating a drive (1010) of the setting device (1000) by a control device (1040) of the setting device (1000) so that the actuator (1020) executes a rotation by a defined angle of rotation, the direction and amount of which is determined by the angle information, wherein step C is carried out after steps A, B and B' have been completed. 21. The method according to claim 20, wherein in step B at least one of the following sub-steps Bl or B2 is carried out for the purpose of providing the measurement information, input information and/or angle information: Bl) receiving and providing the angle information and/or the measurement information and/or the input information from an external unit (6000) by a communication device (1051) of the interface device (1050), and/or B2) receiving and providing the angle information and/or the Measurement information and/or input information from an operator through an operating device (1052) of the interface device (1050). 22. Method according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the setting device (1000) - a torque measuring device (1013) which is designed to directly or indirectly measure and provide a torque transmitted to the actuator (1020), and - an angle measuring device (1027') which is designed to measure at least an absolute angle position or a relative angle position change of the actuator (1020) directly or indirectly, and wherein in each case in step A, after the coupling device (1030) is coupled to the adjustment connection (2010) and the tool tip (1022) has come into operative connection with the adjustment element (2021), the following additional sub-steps are carried out: Al) actuating the drive (1010) so that the actuator (1020) performs a rotational movement in a first rotational direction until a first torque limit is exceeded, and Detecting and providing a first angular position Wl, which the actuator (1020) assumes at this moment, as an absolute angular position and/or as a zero position for a subsequent detection of a relative Angle position change, and then A2) actuating the drive (1010) so that the actuator (1020) performs a rotational movement opposite to the first direction of rotation until the first torque limit is exceeded, and Detecting and providing a second angular position W2, which the actuator (1020) assumes at this moment, as an absolute angular position, and/or Detecting and providing the relative angular position change between the zero position and the second angular position W2 as angular position change dW, wherein the method is aborted if in one of the steps Al or A2 a rotation by an angular amount of 360 ° is carried out without the first torque limit being reached, and wherein, if the first torque limit is reached in both steps Al and A2, in each case before the rotation determined by the angle information in step C is executed, the following steps must be performed: A3) If the angle information specifies a rotation in the first rotation direction, actuating the drive (1010) so that the actuator (1020) assumes the first angle position W1, and A4) If the angle information specifies a rotation opposite to the first direction, actuating the drive (1010) so that the actuator (1020) moves the second Angle position W2. 23. Method according to one of claims 20 to 22, wherein - the tool tip (1022) is mounted so as to be directly or indirectly displaceable, and - the actuator (1020) has a pre-tensioning element (1025) which pre-tensions the tool tip (1022) directly or indirectly into a distal end position (1026), and the setting device (1000) - a torque measuring device (1013) which is designed to directly or indirectly measure a torque transmitted to the actuator (1020) and to provide it to the control device (1040), and - a position measuring device (1027) which is designed to measure an axial position and/or a displacement of the tool tip (1022) directly or indirectly and to provide it to the control device (1040), and wherein in each case in step A, after the coupling device (1030) is coupled to the adjustment connection (2010) and the tool tip (1022) has come into operative connection with the adjustment element (2021), and before steps A1 and A2 are carried out, the following additional sub-steps are carried out: A01) Actuating the drive (1010) so that the actuator (1020) executes a rotational movement in a first rotational direction until the first torque limit value is exceeded or the position measuring device (1027) detects a displacement of the tool tip (1022) or a rotation by a defined angular amount is executed, and then A02) If no displacement of the tool tip (1022) is detected in step A01 and the first torque limit is not exceeded, actuate the Drive (1010) so that the actuator (1020) performs a rotational movement opposite to the first direction of rotation until the first torque limit is exceeded or the position measuring device (1027) detects a displacement of the tool tip (1022) or a rotation by the defined angular amount is carried out. 24. A method according to any one of claims 20 to 23, wherein the following steps are carried out after step C is completed: D) Wait for a period of time, and E) repeating the process steps from step B after completion of step D, whereby in step D the following sub-steps are carried out in particular: Dl) providing a first measurement information, and D2) waiting for a first time period ZI, and D3) Providing a second measurement information, and D4) If the second measurement information substantially corresponds to the first measurement information, proceed to step E), otherwise repeat the steps from step D2). 25. Method for adjusting a pre-tensioning device (2020) of an expansion valve (2000) on an HVAC system (8000), using a maintenance system (7000) according to one of claims 17 to 19, comprising the steps: A) coupling a coupling device (1030) of an adjustment device (1000) of the maintenance system (7000) to an adjustment connection (2010) of the expansion valve (2000) so that a tool tip (1022) of an actuator (1020) of the adjustment device (1000) comes into operative connection with an adjustment element (2021) of the pretensioning device (2020), B) receiving and providing input information from an operator by an operating device (7030) of the maintenance system (7000), wherein the input information comprises at least one valve type of the expansion valve (2000), a refrigerant type, and a target temperature, and wherein step B takes place after, simultaneously with or before step A, and C) connecting at least one pressure sensor of a sensor system (7000) of the maintenance system (7000) and a temperature sensor (7012) of the sensor system (7000) to an output of an evaporator (8010) of the HVAC system (8000), wherein step C takes place after, simultaneously with or before step A and step B, and D) measuring at least one saturation vapor pressure with the pressure sensor and an evaporator outlet temperature with the temperature sensor (7012) and providing at least these measured values as measurement information by the sensor system (7010), wherein step D takes place after step C, and wherein either the setting device (1000) has an internal detection device (1041) and after steps A to D the following steps El to E3 are carried out one after the other: El) receiving and providing the measurement information and the input information by means of a communication device (1051) of an interface device (1050) of the setting device (1000), and E2) determining angle information based on the measurement information and input information by the internal determination device (1040) using a defined determination rule, and E3) providing the angle information, or wherein the maintenance system (7000) has a detection device (7020) and after steps A to D the following steps E4 to E6 are carried out one after the other: E4) determining angle information based on the measurement information and input information by the determination device (7020) using a defined determination rule, and E5) Providing the angle information, and E6) Receiving and providing the angle information by means of a communication device (1051) of an interface device (1050) of the setting device (1000), and, after completion of steps A to D and steps E1 to E3 or E4 to E6, carrying out the following step: F) If the angle information contains an angle amount not equal to zero, actuating the drive (1010) by means of a control device (1040) of the setting device (1000) so that the actuator (1020) executes a rotation by a defined angle of rotation, the direction and amount of which is determined by the angle information. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the following steps are performed after step F is completed: G) Waiting for a period of time, and H) Repeating the process steps from step D, whereby in step G the following sub-steps are carried out in particular: Gl) providing a first measurement information by the sensor system (7010), and G2) Waiting for a first period of time ZI, and G3) providing a second measurement information by the sensor system (7010), and G4) if the second measurement information substantially corresponds to the first measurement information, continue with step H), otherwise repeat the steps from step G2). 27. Maintenance system (7000) for adjusting a pre-tensioning device (2020) of an expansion valve (2000) on a HVAC system (8000), comprising - a sensor system (7010), - an investigative facility (7020), - an operating device (7030), and - a display device (7040), wherein the maintenance system (7000) is adapted to - to record and provide at least one measurement information with the sensor system (7010), - to receive and provide at least one input information from an operator using the operating device (7030), - to determine angle information with the determination device (7020) on the basis of the measurement information and the input information, and - to display a visualization of the angle information using the display device (7050). 28. Maintenance system (7000) according to claim 27, wherein the visualization - includes the display of an angle amount and a direction of rotation which are determined by the angle information, and/or - includes an animation showing the display of an exemplary biasing device (2020) and a tool engaging therein, wherein the animation further comprises a movement of the tool which is based on the The angle and direction of rotation are determined by the angle information. 29. Maintenance system (7000) according to claim 27 or 28, wherein the Sensor system (7010) comprises at least one pressure sensor for measuring a pressure at an outlet of an evaporator (8010) of the HVAC system (8000) and a temperature sensor (7012) for measuring a temperature at the outlet of the evaporator (8010). 30. Maintenance system (7000) according to claim 29, wherein - the sensor system (7010) comprises a mounting aid (7013), wherein the pressure sensor is designed as an integrated pressure sensor (7011') of the mounting aid (7013), and - the manifold (7013) is connected to the temperature sensor (7012) by wire or wirelessly to record the temperature at the outlet of the evaporator (8010), and - the detection device (7020), the operating device (7030) and the display device (7040) are integrated into the assembly aid (7013). 31. Measuring system (7000) for adjusting a pre-tensioning device (2020) of an expansion valve (2000) on an HVAC system (8000) or for adjusting or diagnosing a process parameter of a process system, comprising - a sensor system (7010), - an investigative facility (7020), - an operating device (7030), and - a display device (7040), wherein the measuring system (7000) is adapted to - to record and provide at least one measurement information with the sensor system (7010), - to receive and provide at least one input information from an operator using the operating device (7030), - to determine instructions for action in at least two or more iterative steps using the determination device (7020) on the basis of the measurement information and the input information, wherein for this purpose a visualization of the necessary steps is carried out using the display device (7050). 32. Measuring system (7000) according to claim 31, wherein the measuring system (7000) is configured to record measurement information or to request confirmations of individual steps between or during a respective visualization of the necessary steps. 33. Measuring system (7000) according to claim 31 to 32, wherein the measuring system (7000) is designed to record measurement information between or during a respective visualization or to request confirmations of individual steps, or to base analyses on evaluations of To dynamically display measurement information and thereby indicate any remaining optimization potential or to display the remaining time required for remaining steps or for a measurement. 34. Measuring system (7000) according to one of claims 31 to 33, wherein the measuring system (7000) is configured to record measurement information or to query confirmations of individual steps between or during a respective visualization.