GB2621353A

GB2621353A - A pump monitoring apparatus

Info

Publication number: GB2621353A
Application number: GB2211613.1A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Reginald Crundwell Peter
Original assignee: Edwards Ltd
Current assignee: Edwards Ltd
Priority date: 2022-08-09
Filing date: 2022-08-09
Publication date: 2024-02-14
Also published as: GB202211613D0

Abstract

A pump monitoring apparatus 101 for monitoring a transient operating parameter of a pump 1 includes a camera 103, for capturing an image of a pump display 9, a controller 107 and a processor(s) 109. The processor(s) has an electrical input(s) (113-n, Fig 7) for receiving image data (IMD1) from the camera and an electrical output(s) (115- n, Fig 7) for outputting a pump monitoring signal (PMS). The processor(s) processes the image data to identify an image component (IMC-1) representing the pump display with a graphical representation of the operating parameter. IMC-1 is analysed to determine the operating parameter and an output signal generated. Preferably, the PMS is output to a local display screen 105 to display the operating parameter as a graphical representation and/or a numerical value, which may overlay the image captured by the camera. The image data may comprise identifying a predefined shape within the image. A pulse width modulated signal may be decoded and / or colour and / or shade used to determine the operating parameter. Wireless communication between the pump monitoring apparatus may be established in association with an identifier code. Also claimed is a computer-implemented method and a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

Description

A PUMP MONITORING APPARATUS

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a pump monitoring apparatus. The pump monitoring apparatus is suitable for determining a transient operating parameter of a pump. Aspects of the invention relate to a pump, a computer-implemented method and a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

BACKGROUND

In production facilities and laboratories housing a plurality of pumps it can be difficult to determine the operating state of individual pumps. For example, it may be difficult to determine which of the pumps are running and which are off or not under vacuum without being in relatively close proximity to the individual pumps. An operator may have to physically touch a pump to determine if it is running or follow the wires from the pump to identify the relevant pressure sensor and gauge to then read a pressure number and interpret the pressure for that pump. The process of understanding the operating conditions of one or more pumps may be a relatively involved process.

It is an aim of the present invention to address one or more of the disadvantages associated

with the prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Aspects and embodiments of the invention provide a pump monitoring apparatus, a computer-implemented method and a non-transitory computer-readable medium as claimed in the appended claims.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a vacuum pump comprising: a motor; a pump housing; a pump display mounted to the pump housing; and a pump display controller for controlling operation of the pump display, the pump display controller having at least one processor having at least one electrical input and at least one electrical output; the at least one electrical input being configured to receive a pump operating signal indicating a transient operating parameter of the vacuum pump, and the at least one electrical output being configured to output a pump display control signal to control the pump display; the at least one processor being configured to generate the pump display control signal in dependence on the pump operating signal; wherein, in use, the pump display is configured to receive the pump display control signal from the at least one processor and to provide a graphical representation of the transient operating parameter of the vacuum pump in dependence on the pump display control signal.

The graphical representation of the transient operating parameter provides a visual representation of the transient operating parameter. The graphical representation may comprise or consist of one or more graphical elements. The one or more graphical elements may be selectively displayed to provide a visual representation of the transient operating parameter of the vacuum pump. The graphical representation may comprise or consist of a non-alphanumeric representation of the transient operating parameter. At least in certain embodiments, the output of a graphical representation of the transient operating parameter may help a user to determine an operating condition of the vacuum pump.

The transient operating parameter is a dynamic (or variable) operating parameter of the vacuum pump. The transient operating parameter may, for example, represent a dynamically variable operating condition of the vacuum pump.

The transient operating parameter may comprise or consist of a quantitative variable. The quantitative variable may be a discrete variable (having two, three or more values); or a continuous variable (having infinite values). At least in certain embodiments, the transient operating parameter is a non-binary parameter (i.e., a parameter having more than two values).

The graphical representation may comprise or consist of a quantitative representation of the transient operating parameter. For example, the graphical representation may provide a graphical representation of the transient operating parameter as a discrete value or as a continuous value.

The graphical representation may comprise or consist of a proportional representation of the transient operating parameter. For example, the graphical representation may provide a graphical representation of the transient operating parameter as a proportion of a target value. The transient operating parameter may be represented by illuminating a proportion of the pump display corresponding to the determined proportion of the target value. The proportion of the pump display may, for example, be illuminated in a first colour At least in certain embodiments, the pump display may provide a graphical representation of the transient operating parameter while the vacuum pump is operating. The graphical representation may change dynamically to represent variations or changes in the transient operating parameter while the vacuum pump is operating. In use, the graphical representation may be updated periodically, for example at predetermined time intervals; or may be updated at least substantially in real time.

At least in certain embodiments, the pump display may facilitate determination of the transient operating parameter of the vacuum pump. By way of example, the pump display may provide an indication of an operational status of the vacuum pump and/or an operating pressure status. An operator may determine the operating conditions of the vacuum pump without the need for close physical proximity. The pump display may provide a visual indication of the operational state of the vacuum pump. The pump display is mounted to the pump housing to facilitate determination that the displayed information is related to a particular pump. This may facilitate a user-assessment of the operating state of one or more vacuum pumps, for example in a production facility or a laboratory. The operating state of the vacuum pump may, for example, indicate one or more of the following: pump off, pump on, atmospheric pressure, pumping down, low pressure, idle mode, etc. The vacuum pump may comprise at least one sensor for measuring the transient operating parameter of the vacuum pump. The at least one sensor may be configured to output the pump operating signal to the electrical input of the at least one processor. The at least one sensor may be configured to make a quantitative measurement of the transient operating parameter of the vacuum pump. The pump operating signal may comprise or consist of the quantitative measurement made by at least one sensor. The quantitative measurement may be discrete (having two, three or more values) or may be continuous (having infinite values).

The at least one sensor may comprise a pressure sensor. The transient operating parameter may comprise an operating pressure of the vacuum pump. The at least one processor may be configured to generate the pump display control signal in dependence on the operating pressure of the vacuum pump.

The pump display may be configured to provide a graphical representation of the operating pressure of the vacuum pump. The pump display may display an absolute pressure or a gauge pressure. The operating pressure may comprise one or more of the following: an inlet pressure of the vacuum pump; an outlet pressure of the vacuum pump; and an intermediate stage pressure of the vacuum pump.

The vacuum pump may comprise a motor controller for controlling operation of the motor. The motor controller may be configured to output the pump operating signal to the electrical input of the at least one processor. The at least one processor may be configured to generate the pump display control signal in dependence on the pump operating signal output by the motor controller.

The pump operating signal may comprise a motor control signal. The motor control signal may, for example, comprise an operating speed of the motor. The transient operating parameter may comprise an operating speed of the motor.

The at least one processor may be configured to generate the pump display control signal to control the pump display to provide a graphical representation of one or more of the following: a discrete (absolute) value of the transient operating parameter; a continuous value of the transient operating parameter; a rate of change of the transient operating parameter; and an increase or a decrease in a magnitude of the transient operating parameter.

The pump display may comprise at least one light emitting device. The or each light emitting device may, for example, comprise a light emitting diode (LED). The pump display control signal may be configured to control the pump display to illuminate the at least one light emitting device to provide the graphical representation of the transient operating parameter of the vacuum pump. The pump display control signal may, for example, control a colour and/or an intensity (brightness) of the light emitted by the or each light emitting device to provide the graphical representation of the transient operating parameter of the vacuum pump. The pump display may comprise a plurality of the light emitting devices. The plurality of the light emitting devices may each represent a graphical element to provide the graphical representation of the transient operating parameter. The pump display control signal may cause the pump display selectively to illuminate one or more of the light emitting devices to provide the graphical representation of the transient operating parameter of the vacuum pump.

The pump display control signal may be configured to modulate a pulse width of the at least one light emitting device to encode pump information. The encoded pump information may comprise at least one of the following: the transient operating parameter of the vacuum pump; and a pump identifier for identifying the vacuum pump.

The at least one light emitting device may be a multicolour light emitting device. The pump display control signal may be configured to control the at least one multicolour light emitting device to provide the graphical representation of the transient operating parameter of the vacuum pump. The pump display control signal may, for example, adjust one or more of the following: a pump display colour, a pump display colour shade; a proportion of the pump display illuminated in a first colour; and a proportion of the pump display illuminated in a second colour.

The pump display control signal may be configured to control the at least one light emitting device to provide the graphical representation of the transient operating parameter of the vacuum pump by adjusting one or more of the following: pump display intensity, and a proportion of the pump display illuminated.

The pump display may comprise a plurality of the light emitting devices. The pump display control signal may be configured to control the light emitting devices to generate a first sequence to indicate an increase in the transient operating parameter. Alternatively, or in addition, the pump display control signal may be configured to control the light emitting devices to generate a second sequence to indicate a decrease in the transient operating parameter. The first and second display sequences may be different from each other.

The first sequence may comprise sequentially illuminating the light emitting devices in a first direction. The second sequence may comprise sequentially illuminating the light emitting devices in a second direction. The first and second directions may be opposite to each other.

The pump display control signal may be configured to control the light emitting devices to generate a third sequence. The third sequence may, for example, represent steady-state operation of the vacuum pump. The third sequence may indicate that the transient operating parameter(s) is substantially steady state, i.e., that the operating parameter(s) is unchanging or that any changes are within a predetermined range.

The pump display may comprise or consist of a closed curved. The pump display may comprise or consist of an annular pump display area. The annular pump display area may be concentric with a rotational axis of the motor. Alternatively, the pump display may comprise or consist of a part-annular pump display area.

The vacuum pump may comprise a machine-readable optical label. The machine-readable optical label may comprise a pump identifier for identifying the vacuum pump.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a vacuum pump comprising: a pump display; and a pump display controller for controlling operation of the pump display, the pump display controller having at least one processor having at least one electrical input and at least one electrical output; the at least one electrical input being configured to receive a pump operating signal indicating a transient operating parameter of the vacuum pump, and the at least one electrical output being configured to output a pump display control signal to control the pump display; the at least one processor being configured to generate the pump display control signal in dependence on the pump operating signal; wherein, in use, the pump display is configured to receive the pump display control signal from the at least one processor and to provide a graphical representation of the transient operating parameter of the vacuum pump in dependence on the pump display control signal. The pump display may be connected to the vacuum pump. The pump display may be mounted on the vacuum pump. For example, the pump display may comprise a display module which is attached to the vacuum pump. The display module may be fastened directly to the vacuum pump. Alternatively, the display module may be mounted to a carrier, such as a pole or a support arm. The carrier may be fastened to the vacuum pump.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a pump monitoring apparatus for monitoring a transient operating parameter of a pump, the pump monitoring apparatus comprising: a camera for capturing an image of at least a portion of a pump display associated with the pump; a controller comprising at least one processor, the at least one processor comprising at least one electrical input for receiving image data from the camera representing the image; and at least one electrical output for outputting a pump monitoring signal; wherein the at least one processor is configured to: process the image data to identify an image component representing the pump display and providing a graphical representation of the transient operating parameter of the pump; analyse the identified image component to determine the transient operating parameter of the pump; and output the pump monitoring signal comprising the transient operating parameter of the pump.

At least in certain embodiments, the pump display is mounted on the pump. For example, the pump display may be mounted to a housing of the pump. The pump monitoring apparatus may be portable. The pump monitoring apparatus may comprise a hand-held device. The pump monitoring apparatus could be a dedicated device, for example a proprietary pump monitoring device. Alternatively, the pump monitoring apparatus may be an application executed on a computational device, such as a cellular (mobile) telephone or a laptop computer. The pump may be a vacuum pump.

The pump monitoring apparatus may comprise a local display screen. The local display screen may, for example, comprise a light emitting diode (LED) display. The pump monitoring signal may be output to the local display screen to display the transient operating parameter of the pump. The transient operating parameter may be displayed on the local display screen as an overlay on a real-time image captured by the camera. The real-time image may be augmented to display the transient operating parameter of the pump at least substantially in real-time. A graphical representation of the pump display may be displayed on the local display screen.

Alternatively, or in addition, a numeric or alphanumeric representation of the transient operating parameter may be output to the local display screen, for example to be displayed as an overlay.

The processing of the image data to identify the image component may comprise identifying a predefined shape within the image.

The transient operating parameter of the pump may be encoded in the graphical representation of the transient operating parameter. The analysis of the identified image component may comprise processing the image data to decode the graphical representation of the transient operating parameter. The transient operating parameter may be encoded in the graphical representation using pulse width modulation. The analysis of the identified image component may comprise decoding the pulse width modulated signal generated by the pump display to determine the transient operating parameter of the pump. Other processing techniques may be employed to encode the transient operating parameter of the pump. The analysis of the identified image component may comprise a using complementary technique to decode the signal to determine the transient operating parameter.

The analysis of the identified image component may comprise determining a colour and/or a colour shade output by the pump display to indicate the transient operating parameter of the pump.

The analysis of the identified image component may comprise determining a proportion of the pump display which is illuminated, or determining a proportion of the pump display which is illuminated in a first colour. The determined proportion may indicate the transient operating parameter of the pump. For example, the proportion of the pump display which is illuminated in a first colour may represent the transient operating parameter as a percentage of a peak or target value.

The at least one processor may be configured to process the image data to determine a pump identifier. The pump identifier may provide a unique identifier of the pump. For example, the pump identifier may comprise or consist of a serial number.

The at least one processor may be configured to read a machine-readable optical label in the image data to determine the pump identifier.

The at least one processor may be configured to decode a pulse width modulated signal generated by the pump display to determine the pump identifier.

The controller may be configured to use the determined pump identifier to establish a wireless communication connection with the pump. The pump identifier may be used to identify a particular pump and to establish the wireless communication connection with the identified pump. The controller may, for example, access a communication key or a password stored in a look-up table corresponding to the identified pump. The wireless communication connection may be used to access pump information, for example in a wireless signal transmitted by the pump. A wireless protocol such as Wi-Fi (RIM), Bluetooth (RIM) or near-field communication (nfc) may be used for wireless communication between the pump and the pump monitoring apparatus.

The wireless communication connection may, for example, be a Bluetooth (RIM) connection. The pump monitoring apparatus may communicate with the pump to determine additional pump information, such as a pump type, serial number, service history, etc. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a pump monitoring apparatus for monitoring a transient operating parameter of a pump, the pump monitoring system comprising: a camera for capturing an image of at least a portion of a pump display associated with the pump; a controller comprising at least one processor, the at least one processor comprising at least one electrical input for receiving image data from the camera representing the image; and at least one electrical output for outputting a pump monitoring signal; wherein the at least one processor is configured to: process the image data to identify an optical signal generated by the pump display, wherein the transient operating parameter is encoded in the optical signal; decode the optical signal to determine the transient operating parameter of the pump; and output the pump monitoring signal comprising the transient operating parameter of the pump.

The optical signal may be embedded in a graphical representation of the transient operating parameter which is displayed by the pump display. Alternatively, or in addition, the optical signal may be independent of a graphical representation of the transient operating parameter displayed by the pump display.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a computer-implemented method of monitoring a transient operating parameter of a pump, the method comprising: receiving image data from a camera, the image data representing an image of at least a portion of a pump display associated with the pump; processing the image data and identifying an image component representing the pump display and comprising a graphical representation of the transient operating parameter of the pump; analysing the identified image component to determine the transient operating parameter of the pump; and outputting the pump monitoring signal comprising the transient operating parameter of the pump.

The transient operating parameter of the pump may be encoded in the graphical representation of the transient operating parameter. The analysis of the identified image component may comprise processing the image data to decode the graphical representation of the transient operating parameter. The transient operating parameter may be encoded in the graphical representation using pulse width modulation. The analysis of the identified image component may comprise decoding the pulse width modulated signal generated by the pump display to determine the transient operating parameter of the pump.

The method may comprise processing the image data to determine a pump identifier. The pump identifier may provide a unique identifier of the pump. For example, the pump identifier may comprise or consist of a serial number.

The method may comprise processing the image data to identify a machine-readable optical label. The method may comprise reading the machine-readable optical label to determine the pump identifier.

The method may comprise decoding a pulse width modulated signal to determine the pump identifier. The pulse width modulated signal may be embedded in the image data.

The method may comprise using the determined pump identifier to establish a wireless communication connection between the pump monitoring apparatus and the pump. The pump identifier may be used to identify a particular pump and to establish the wireless communication connection with the identified pump.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a computer-implemented method of monitoring a transient operating parameter of a pump, the method comprising: receiving image data from a camera, the image data representing an image of at least a portion of a pump display associated with the pump; processing the image data to identify an encoded optical signal generated by the pump display; decoding the optical signal to determine the transient operating parameter of the 25 pump; and outputting the pump monitoring signal comprising the transient operating parameter of the pump.

The optical signal may be embedded in a graphical representation of the transient operating parameter which is displayed by the pump display. Alternatively, or in addition, the optical signal may be independent of (i.e., separate from) a graphical representation of the transient operating parameter displayed by the pump display. The optical signal may be generated without providing a graphical representation of the transient operating parameter.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a non-transitory computer-readable medium having a set of instructions stored therein which, when executed, cause a processor to perform the method(s) described herein.

Any control unit or controller described herein may suitably comprise a computational device having one or more electronic processors. The system may comprise a single control unit or electronic controller or alternatively different functions of the controller may be embodied in, or hosted in, different control units or controllers. As used herein the term "controller" or "control unit" will be understood to include both a single control unit or controller and a plurality of control units or controllers collectively operating to provide any stated control functionality. To configure a controller or control unit, a suitable set of instructions may be provided which, when executed, cause said control unit or computational device to implement the control techniques specified herein. The set of instructions may suitably be embedded in said one or more electronic processors. Alternatively, the set of instructions may be provided as software saved on one or more memory associated with said controller to be executed on said computational device. The control unit or controller may be implemented in software run on one or more processors. One or more other control unit or controller may be implemented in software run on one or more processors, optionally the same one or more processors as the first controller. Other suitable arrangements may also be used.

Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and/or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a vacuum pump incorporating a pump display in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of a vacuum pump controller for the vacuum pump shown in Figure 1; Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of a display area of the pump display shown in Figure 1 Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of a pump display controller for the pump display shown in Figure 1; Figures 5A to 5G show different display modes for the pump display shown in Figure Figure 6 shows a schematic representation of a pump monitoring apparatus capturing a image of the pump display to monitor operation of the vacuum pump shown in Figure 1; Figure 7 shows a schematic representation of a controller for the pump monitoring apparatus shown in Figure 6; Figures 8A to 8C illustrate operation of the pump monitoring apparatus to identify and analyse an image component corresponding to a display area of the pump display; Figures 9A to 9E illustrate suitable colour patterns corresponding to different values of a measured operating pressure; and Figure 10 illustrates operation of the pump monitoring apparatus to identify and analyse a machine-readable optical label to identify the vacuum pump.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A vacuum pump 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying figures. A pump monitoring apparatus 101 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is also described herein.

As shown in Figure 1, the vacuum pump 1 comprises a motor 5; a pump housing 7; and a pump display 9. The motors is an electric motor operative to drive the vacuum pump 1. The motor 5 comprises a rotor (not shown) which is rotatable about a longitudinal axis X. The motor 5 is disposed in the pump housing 7. The pump housing 7 may be composed of a single housing member. Alternatively, the pump housing 7 may be in the form of an assembly comprising a plurality of housing members. The or each housing member may be cast or machined, for example. A motor control unit 11 is provided for controlling operation of the motor 5. The pump display 9 is configured, in use, to provide a graphical representation of the operational state of the vacuum pump 1. The pump display 9 is typically activated when the vacuum pump 1 is powered (a power on mode).

The vacuum pump 1 comprises a vacuum pump controller 11 configured to control operation of the vacuum pump 1. A schematic representation of the vacuum pump controller 11 is shown in Figure 2. The vacuum pump controller 11 is an electronic control unit comprising one or more pump controller electronic processors 13 and a pump controller memory device 15. A set of computational instructions is stored on the pump controller memory device 15. When executed, the computational instructions cause the one or more pump controller electronic processors 13 to perform the method(s) described herein. The one or more pump controller electronic processors 13 have at least one pump controller electrical input 17-n and at least one pump controller electrical output 19-n. The vacuum pump controller 11 in the present embodiment is configured to communicate with an external control device 21. The external control device 21 may be a dedicated control unit or may be a general-purpose computational device executing a software application. The communication between the vacuum pump controller 11 and the external control device 21 may be wireless communication or wired communication. The external control device 21 is configured to output a control signal CS-1 to the vacuum pump controller 11. The vacuum pump controller 11 may optionally comprise a human machine interface (not shown) to enable local control of the vacuum pump 1. The vacuum pump 1 comprises a motor control unit 23 for controlling operation of the motors. The motor control unit 23 comprises one or more motor controller electronic processors 25 and a motor controller memory device 27. The motor control unit 23 is configured to communicate with the vacuum pump controller 11. For example, the motor control unit 23 may receive a motor control signal MCS from the vacuum pump controller 11. It will be understood that the motor control unit 23 could be incorporated into the vacuum pump controller 11. In another embodiment, the motor control unit 23 may be mounted in close proximity to, or on the vacuum pump housing 7.

The pump display 9 is configured to provide a graphical representation of at least one operating parameter(s) of the vacuum pump 1. The pump display 9 in the present embodiment is configured to provide a graphical representation of at least one transient operating parameter(s). The at least one transient operating parameter is a quantitative variable in the present embodiment. The quantitative variable may be a discrete variable (having two, three or more values); or a continuous variable (having infinite values). The or each transient operating parameter may be non-binary parameter, for example comprising three or more values. The or each transient operating parameter(s) may, for example, comprise one or more of the following: (a) an operating pressure of the vacuum pump 1, for example one or more of: an inlet operating pressure, an outlet operating pressure, and an intermediate operating pressure; (b) a power on mode with the vacuum pump 1 running; (c) a rotational speed of the motor 5; (d) an operating temperature of the motor 5; (e) an operating temperature of the vacuum pump 1; (f) a time period remaining in a scheduled service interval; (g) a time period expired in a scheduled service interval; and (h) a cumulative operating time of the vacuum pump 1, for example the operating time since a counter reset or the last service.

The graphical representation provides a visual representation of the one or more transient operating parameter. As described herein, the graphical representation is formed by a plurality of graphical elements which may be selectively displayed. The graphical representation of the one or more transient operating parameters facilitates the conveyance of information to an operator. The graphical representation of the one or more transient operating parameters preferably does not include any alphabetical characters and/or numerical characters. For example, the graphical representation preferably represents the one or more transient operating parameters without requiring the display of numerical characters to indicate the one or more transient operating parameters.

Alternatively, or in addition, the pump display 9 may be configured to provide a graphical representation of at least one non-transient operating parameter(s) (i.e., fixed or static operating parameter(s)) of the vacuum pump 1. The or each non-transient operating parameter may be a binary parameter, for example having two values representing first and second states. The pump display controller 41 may communicate with the vacuum pump controller 11 to determine the one or more non-transient operating parameter(s). The or each non-transient operating parameter(s) may, for example, comprise one or more of the following: (a) a power ON mode with the pump not running; (b) an idle (sleep) mode or a power OFF mode; and (c) a warning/alarm mode, for example to indicate a fault condition.

The pump display 9 may be configurable in different display modes to represent one or more operating parameter(s). The operating parameter(s) may comprise transient (dynamic) operating parameter(s) and/or non-transient (static) operating parameter(s). The pump display 9 may be configured automatically to select one of the display modes, for example in dependence on a current (instantaneous) operating mode of the vacuum pump 1.

Alternatively, or in addition, the pump display 9 may be user-configurable, for example to enable a user to select one of the plurality of display modes. At least in certain embodiments, this may facilitate monitoring of a predetermined one of the transient operating parameter(s) or turning the display off. The pump display 9 is configured to provide a graphical representation of the at least one operating parameter(s) when the vacuum pump 1 is in a power on mode (pump running and/or pump not running). The pump display 9 may optionally also operate when the vacuum pump 1 is in a standby mode (or a sleep/idle mode).

The pump display 9 comprises a display area 31. In use, the pump display 9 is controlled such that the display area 31 generates the graphical representation of the operation of the vacuum pump 1. The display area 31 is co-located with the vacuum pump 1 to facilitate determination that the pump display 9 is associated with or linked to the vacuum pump 1. In the present embodiment, the pump display 9 is mounted to the pump housing 7. The display area 31 is preferably disposed in a prominent position to facilitate viewing. The display area 31 in the present embodiment is disposed on an end-wall 35 of the pump housing 7. The display area 31 may be located elsewhere on the vacuum pump 1. In the present embodiment, the pump display 9 is mounted to the pump housing 7. The display area 31 may be visible through an aperture or a window formed in the pump housing 7. Alternatively, the pump display 9 may be fastened to an exterior of the pump housing 7.

As shown in Figure 3, the pump display 9 comprises a plurality of light emitting devices 33-n which form the display area 31. In the present embodiment, the light emitting devices 33-n each correspond to respective graphical elements for displaying the transient operating parameter of the vacuum pump 1. The light emitting devices 33-n are configured to emit visible light. One or more light emitting devices 33-n may optionally be provided to emit non-visible light, such as infra-red or non-infrared light. The one or more light emitting devices 33-n may emit visible or non-visible light at a known frequency to facilitate identification of the display area 31. The light emitting devices 33-n are controllable to represent the operation of the vacuum pump 1. The pump display 9 is illustrated as comprising eight (8) light emitting devices 33-n, but it will be understood that the pump display 9 may comprise more than or less than eight (8) light emitting devices 33-n. The light emitting devices 33-n are arranged to form the display area 31. The light emitting devices 33-n in the present embodiment comprise light emitting diodes (LEDs), but other light sources are contemplated. Each light emitting device 33-n is controllable independently. For example, each of the light emitting devices 33-n may be selectively switched on and off (i.e., selectively energized and de-energized). The intensity (brightness) of each of the light emitting devices 33-n may optionally be controllable. The light emitting devices 33-n may be the same colour as each other; or the light emitting devices 33-n may be different colours, for example arranged into a plurality of coloured bands. In certain embodiments, the light emitting devices 33-n may be multicolour light emitting devices. The colour of each of the light emitting devices 33-n may optionally be controllable.

As shown in Figure 3, the display area 31 is in the form of an annulus (i.e., ring-shaped) and the light emitting devices 33-n are arranged in a circle. The light emitting devices 33-n have at least substantially equal spacing between each other in the circle 0.e., the angular spacing between the light emitting devices 33-n is substantially constant). The display area 31 has a geometric centre which is disposed on the rotational axis X of the motor 5. The concentric arrangement of the display area 31 and the motor 5 may help to emphasise the relationship between the pump display 9 and the vacuum pump 1. Other shapes and configurations of the display area 31 are envisaged. The display area 31 may, for example, comprise or consist of a polygon (for example comprising one of the following: a triangle, a rectangle, a square, a pentagon, etc), a stadium or an ellipse. The light emitting devices 33-n may be arranged in a line or a strip. Alternatively, the light emitting devices 33-n may be arranged in an endless (continuous) loop. Alternatively, the light emitting devices 33-n may be arranged in a two-dimensional (2D) grid or array.

The vacuum pump 1 comprises a pump display controller 41 for controlling operation of the pump display 9. A schematic representation of the pump display controller 41 is shown in Figure 4. The pump display controller 41 comprises at least one pump display electronic processor 43 and a pump display memory device 45. A set of computational instructions is stored on the memory device 45. When executed, the computational instructions cause the one or more electronic processors 43 to perform the method(s) described herein. The at least one electronic processor 43 comprises at least one pump display electrical input 47-n configured to receive a pump operating signal POS indicating a transient operating parameter(s) of the vacuum pump 1. The at least one electronic processor 43 comprises at least one pump display electrical output 49-n configured to output a pump display control signal DCS to control the pump display 9. As described herein, the at least one electronic processor 43 is configured to generate the pump display control signal DCS in dependence on the pump operating signal POS.

The vacuum pump 1 comprises at least one sensor 51-n for measuring a transient operating parameter(s). The at least one sensor 51-n is configured to output the pump operating signal POS to the electrical input of the at least one electronic processor 43 of the pump display controller 41. The at least one sensor 51-n in the present embodiment comprises a pressure sensor 51-1 for measuring an operating pressure of the vacuum pump 1. The pressure sensor 51-1 described herein is an inlet pressure sensor configured to measure an inlet pressure of the vacuum pump 1. Alternatively, the pressure sensor 51-1 may be an outlet pressure sensor configured to measure an outlet pressure of the vacuum pump 1. It will be understood that more than one pressure sensor may be provided for measuring different operating pressures.

For example, the vacuum pump 1 may comprise one or more of the following: an inlet pressure sensor, an outlet pressure sensor and one or more intermediate stage pressure sensor.

Alternatively, or in addition, the transient operating parameter(s) may be determined in dependence on a control signal generated by the vacuum pump controller 11 and/or the motor control unit 23. By way of example, the pump display controller 41 may be configured to receive the motor control signal MCS from the vacuum pump controller 11 or the motor control unit 23. The pump display controller 41 may control the pump display 9 in dependence on the motor control signal MCS to provide the graphical representation of the transient operating parameter(s) of the vacuum pump 1. In particular, the pump display controller 41 controls the illumination of each of the plurality of light emitting devices 33-n to generate the graphical representation of the transient operating parameter(s) of the vacuum pump 1. Alternatively, or in addition, the transient operating parameter(s) may comprise an operating speed of the motor 5. The operating speed may be measured by a speed sensor or provided by a frequency inverter, for example. Alternatively, or in addition, the transient operating parameter(s) may comprise a temperature of the motor Sand/or the vacuum pump 1. The temperature may be measured by a temperature sensor, for example.

The pump display controller 41 may control the pump display 9 to provide a graphical representation of a discrete (absolute) value of the transient operating parameter(s), for example to provide an indication of a measured operating parameter. By way of example, the pump display 9 may provide an indication of the measured pressure in the vacuum pump 1.

Alternatively, the pump display controller 41 may control the pump display 9 to provide a graphical representation of a rate of change of the transient operating parameter(s), for example to provide an indication of a rate of change of a measured operating parameter. Alternatively, the pump display controller 41 may control the pump display 9 to provide a graphical representation configured to indicate that a magnitude of the transient operating parameter(s) is increasing or decreasing. The pump display 9 may be configured to generate a first sequence to indicate an increase in the transient operating parameter(s); and to generate a second sequence to indicate a decrease in the transient operating parameter(s). The pump display controller 41 may optionally control the pump display 9 to provide a graphical representation configured to indicate that the transient operating parameter(s) is substantially constant, for example to indicate steady-state operation of the vacuum pump 1.

The pump display 9 in the present embodiment provides an indication of a rate of change of the measured pressure in the vacuum pump 1. The pump display 9 is configured to provide an indication that the measured pressure in the vacuum pump 1 is increasing or decreasing.

The operation of the pump display 9 in a plurality of display modes representing different operating parameter(s) of the vacuum pump 1 will now be described with reference to Figures 5A to 5G. These operating parameter(s) and the associated display modes are provided by way of example only. The operating parameter(s) include transient operating parameter(s) and non-transient operating parameter(s). It will be understood that the pump display 9 may be modified to display one or more of the transient operating parameter(s) and/or one or more of the non-transient operating parameter(s). The pump display 9 is operative to display the operating pressure measured by the pressure sensor 51-1.

In the present embodiment, the pump display controller 41 controls the pump display 9 in dependence on the measured (instantaneous) operating pressure. The pump display 9 is controlled to provide a graphical representation of the measured operating pressure as a proportion of a target operating pressure of the vacuum pump 1. The pump display 9 may, for example, provide a graphical representation of the measured operating pressure as a percentage (cY0) of the target operating pressure. In the present embodiment, the pump display controller 41 controls the pump display 9 to highlight or otherwise differentiate a proportion of the display area 31 approximately equal to the measured operating pressure as a proportion of a target operating pressure of the vacuum pump 1. The pump display controller 41 may, for example, control the pump display 9 to illuminate one or more of the light emitting devices 33n. Alternatively, or in addition, the pump display controller 41 may change the display colour of one or more of the light emitting devices 33-n to create the graphical representation of the operating pressure. Other display techniques may be used to represent the operating pressure. The pump display controller 41 controls the pump display 9 to illuminate one or more of the light emitting devices 33-n. Alternatively, or in addition, the pump display controller 41 may change the display colour of the one or more of the light emitting devices 33-n to create the graphical representation. Alternatively, or in addition, the pump display controller 41 may change the intensity (brightness) of the one or more of the light emitting devices 33-n to create the graphical representation.

The display modes of the pump display 9 are as follows: (a) The pump display 9 is configured to show that the vacuum pump 1 is in a power on state with the pump not running in a first display mode shown in Figure 5A. The pump display controller 41 controls the pump display 9 continuously to illuminate the light emitting devices 33-n in a first colour. The first colour may, for example, be orange.

(b) The pump display 9 is configured to generate a graphical representation for indicating that the vacuum pump 1 is pumping down to a target vacuum pressure in a second display mode shown in Figure 5B. In the present example, the target vacuum pressure is a lower vacuum pressure, but the target vacuum pressure may be a higher vacuum pressure. The pump display controller 41 controls the pump display 9 to illuminate one or more of the light emitting devices 33-n to form one or more moving bands 53-n in the display area 31. The pump display controller 41 illuminates the light emitting devices 33-n in a first sequence to cause the one or more illuminated bands 53-n to appear to move in a first direction. In the present embodiment, the one or more illuminated bands 53-n rotate in the second display mode. The illuminated bands may optionally rotate in the other direction as the pressure rises. Other display patterns may be employed to convey information relating to the operation of the vacuum pump 1. The one or more light emitting devices 33-n may optionally be illuminated in a second colour which is different from the first colour. The second colour may, for example, be green.

(c) The pump display 9 is configured to generate a graphical representation of the measured operating pressure of the vacuum pump 1 in a third display mode. The pump display 9 represents a first measured operating pressure in the arrangement shown in Figure 5C. The pump display controller 41 controls the pump display 9 to identify (or highlight) one or more illuminated regions 55-n of the display area 31 to provide a graphical representation of the first measured operating pressure. Each illuminated region 55-n is in the form of a static stripe in the present embodiment, but other shapes can be used to provide the graphical representation. The extent of the or each illuminated region 55-n may be varied by changing one or more of the following: an area, an angular extent, a lateral extent (width) and a vertical extent (height). The extent of the one or more illuminated regions 55-n increase as the measured operating pressure decreases below ambient operating pressure. The operating pressure in the example illustrated in Figure 50 is a first operating pressure, for example 1000 mbar.

The one or more light emitting devices 33-n is illuminated in the second colour in the present embodiment, but other colours may be used to represent the operating pressure.

(d) The pump display 9 modifies the graphical representation of the measured operating pressure in dependence on changes in the operating pressure of the vacuum pump 1 in the third display mode. The pump display 9 represents a second measured operating pressure in the arrangement shown in Figure 50. The pump display controller 41 controls the pump display 9 to identify (or highlight) one or more illuminated regions 55-n of the display area 31 to provide a graphical representation of the second measured operating pressure. The extent of the or each illuminated region 55-n may be varied by changing one or more of the following: an area, an angular extent, a lateral extent (width) and a vertical extent (height). The extent of the one or more illuminated regions 55-n increase as the measured operating pressure decreases below ambient operating pressure. The operating pressure in the example illustrated in Figure 50 is a second operating pressure, for example 100mbar. The one or more light emitting devices 33-n is illuminated in the second colour in the present embodiment, but other colours may be used to represent the operating pressure.

(e) The pump display 9 modifies the graphical representation of the measured operating pressure in dependence on changes in the operating pressure of the vacuum pump 1 in the third display mode. The pump display 9 represents a third measured operating pressure in the arrangement shown in Figure 5E. The pump display controller 41 controls the pump display 9 to identify (or highlight) one or more illuminated regions 55-n of the display area 31 to provide a graphical representation of the second measured operating pressure. The extent of the or each illuminated region 55-n may be varied by changing one or more of the following: an area, an angular extent, a lateral extent (width) and a vertical extent (height). The extent of the one or more illuminated regions 55-n increase as the measured operating pressure decreases below ambient operating pressure. The measured operating pressure in the example illustrated in Figure 5E is a third operating pressure, for example 10mbar. In the illustrated example, the third operating pressure is substantially equal to the target operating pressure and the whole display area 31 is illuminated. The one or more light emitting devices 33-n is illuminated in the second colour in the present embodiment, but other colours may be used to represent the operating pressure.

(f) The pump display 9 is configured to show that the vacuum pump 1 is in an idle mode in a fourth display mode shown in Figure 5F. The pump display controller 41 controls the pump display 9 to pulse the light emitting devices 33-n. The one or more light emitting devices 33-n is illuminated in the second colour in the present embodiment, but other colours may be used to represent the idle mode.

(g) The pump display 9 is configured to show that the vacuum pump 1 is in an alarm/warning mode in a fifth display mode shown in Figure 5G. The pump display controller 41 controls the pump display 9 to pulse the light emitting devices 33-n. The one or more light emitting devices 33-n is illuminated in a third colour in the present embodiment. The third colour may, for example, be red. It will be understood that other colours may be used to represent the alarm/warning mode.

As described herein, the pump display 9 is operative to provide a graphical representation of the transient operating parameter(s). In use, the pump display 9 provides a graphical representation of the transient operating parameter(s) while the vacuum pump 1 is operating. The graphical representation displayed on the pump display 9 can change dynamically, for example to represent variations or changes in the transient operating parameter(s) while the vacuum pump 1 is in operation. In use, the graphical representation may be updated periodically, for example at predetermined time intervals; or at least substantially in real time. By locating the display area 31 on the vacuum pump 1, the graphical representation facilitates determination of the operating status of that particular vacuum pump 1. At least in certain embodiments, this facilitates assessment of the operating state of the vacuum pump 1. This may, for example, facilitate determination of the operating state of a plurality of the vacuum pumps 1.

In the present embodiment, the at least one sensor 51-n generates the pump operating signal POS which is output to the at least one electronic processor 43 of the pump display controller 41. Alternatively, or in addition, the pump operating signal POS may be generated in dependence on the motor control signal MCS from the vacuum pump controller 11. Other control signals and/or sensor signals may be used as the pump operating signal POS. The at least one electronic processor 43 receives the pump operating signal POS indicating the transient operating parameter(s) of the vacuum pump 1. The at least one electronic processor 43 is configured to generate the pump display control signal DOS in dependence on the pump operating signal POS. The pump display 9 controls the light emitting devices 33-n in dependence on the pump display control signal DCS.

The pump display control signal DOS may optionally be configured to modulate a pulse width or a flash period of one or more of the light emitting devices 33-n to encode pump information. For example, the time taken between consecutive pulses, or the duration of pulses could correspond to a magnitude of the transient operating parameter(s), such as the measured operating pressure of the vacuum pump 1. Alternatively, or in addition, the light emitting devices 33-n may be controlled to encode pump information using one or more of the following: colour, colour shade and colour pattern. The pump display 9 may be configured to control the colour shade and the colour pattern of the light emitting devices 33-n in dependence on the measured operating pressure of the vacuum pump 1. The pump information may comprise the transient operating parameter(s) of the vacuum pump 1; and/or a pump identifier for identifying the vacuum pump 1. The pulse width modulated signal may be detected and processed by a pump monitoring apparatus 101, as shown schematically in Figure 6. The pump monitoring apparatus 101 may decode the pulse width modulated signal to identify the vacuum pump 1, for example to determine a unique pump identifier. Alternatively, or in addition, the transient operating parameter(s) of the vacuum pump 1 may be encoded in the pulse width modulated signal. The pump monitoring apparatus 101 may decode the pulse width modulated signal to determine the transient operating parameter(s).

The pump monitoring apparatus 101 may be implemented in a computational device, such as a portable computer or a tablet computer. In the present embodiment, the pump monitoring apparatus 101 is implemented on a mobile (cellular) telephone. A software application is executed on the computational device to implement the pump monitoring apparatus 101. The software application may use a built-in camera on the mobile telephone to display a live image, for example to enable a user to aim the phone at the display area 31 of the vacuum pump 1. If there are a plurality of the vacuum pumps 1 in a location, the camera can be directed at one of the vacuum pumps 1. Accurate aiming of the mobile telephone may optionally be helped by displaying a crosshair. In a variant, the pump monitoring apparatus 101 may be a dedicated device, such as a proprietary monitoring device.

The pump monitoring apparatus 101 comprises a camera 103 and a display screen 105. The camera 103 is configured to capture an image comprising at least a portion of the display area 31. In use, the camera 103 outputs image data IMD1 representing the captured image. The camera 103 in the present embodiment is an optical camera configured to capture light in the visible spectrum. Alternatively, or in addition, the camera 103 may be configured to capture light in the non-visible spectrum, such as infra-red or near infra-red light. The vacuum pump 1 may optionally comprise one or more light emitting device 33-n configured to emit light in the non-visible spectrum. The non-visible light emitted by the one or more light emitting devices 33-n may be used to identify the display area 31 of the pump display 9 in the captured image.

The pump information may be encoded in a pulse width modulated signal generated by the one or more light emitting device 33-n. The display screen 105 is configured to display information relating to the operation of the vacuum pump 1, for example to display one or more transient operating parameter(s) of the vacuum pump 1.

The pump monitoring apparatus 101 comprises a pump monitor controller 107 comprising at least one pump monitor processor 109 and a pump monitor memory (storage) device 111. As shown schematically in Figure 7, the at least one processor 109 comprises at least one pump monitor electrical input 113-n for receiving the image data IMD1 from the camera 103; at least one pump monitor electrical output 115-n for outputting a pump monitoring signal FMS. The at least one processor 109 is configured to process the image data IMD1 to identify an image component IMC1 representing the pump display 9. The image component IMC1 may, for example, represent the image area 31 of the pump display 9. The image component IMC1 may be identified, for example, using a pattern matching algorithm. The pattern matching algorithm may process the image data I MD1 to identify a pattern corresponding to a known or predefined shape of the display area 31 of the pump display 9. In the present embodiment, the pattern matching algorithm may identify an annulus or part-annulus corresponding to the display area 31. Alternatively, or in addition, the image component IMC1 may be identified by detecting a predefined change in the light emitted by one or more of the light emitting devices 33-n. The predefined change may comprise or consist of one or more pulses, for example. As described herein, the pump display 9 is configured to provide a graphical representation of the transient operating parameter(s) of the vacuum pump 1. The at least one processor 109 is configured to analyse the identified image component IMC1 to determine the transient operating parameter(s) of the vacuum pump 101.

The at least one processor 109 outputs the pump monitoring signal PMS representing the transient operating parameter(s) of the vacuum pump 1. The transient operating pump is displayed on the display screen 105 in dependence on the pump monitoring signal PMS. For example, the measured operating pressure of the vacuum pump 1 may be output to the display screen 105. A graphical, numerical or alphanumerical representation of the transient operating parameter(s) may be output to the display screen 105.

The pump monitoring apparatus 101 has been described with particular reference to decoding the pulse width modulated signal generated by the at least one light emitting device 33-n. Alternatively, or in addition, the pump monitoring apparatus 101 may analyse the image component IMC1 to determine the transient operating parameter(s). The image component IMC1 may be analysed to identify the one or more regions 55-n displayed in the display area 31. The pump monitoring apparatus 101 may analyse the image component IMC1 to determine the extent and/or the colour of the one or more regions 55-n. As illustrated in Figures 8A to 8C, the pump monitoring apparatus 101 is configured to analyse the image component IMC1 to identify a colour and/or a shade (hue) of the colour emitted by the pump display 9. In the example illustrated in Figure 8A, the pump monitoring apparatus 101 has analysed the image component IMC1 and determined that the display colour corresponds to a pump running mode and a measured operating pressure of 200 mbar. In the example illustrated in Figure 8B, the pump monitoring apparatus 101 has analysed the image component IMC1 and determined that the display colour corresponds to a pump running mode and a measured operating pressure of 100 mbar. In the example illustrated in Figure 8C, the pump monitoring apparatus 101 has analysed the image component IMC1 and determined that the display colour corresponds to a pump idle mode and a measured operating pressure of 1000 mbar.

The pump monitoring apparatus 101 may be configured to analyse the image component IMC1 to identify a colour pattern emitted by the pump display 9. In the present embodiment, the pump display 9 is configured to adjust one or more of the colour, colour shade (hue) and colour pattern in dependence on the transient operating parameter(s) of the vacuum pump 1.

The pump monitoring apparatus 101 is configured to analyse the image component IMC1 to determine the instantaneous transient operating parameter(s) of the vacuum pump 1. The pump monitoring apparatus 101 may, for example, determine the red, green and blue (RGB) components of the light displayed on the pump display 9. The pump monitoring apparatus 101 may reference a look-up table to determine a corresponding transient operating parameter(s) of the vacuum pump 1.

Different colours may represent different transient operating parameter(s). For example, a first colour may represent a first transient operating parameter(s), such as pressure; and a second colour may represent a second transient operating parameter(s), such as temperature. The pump monitoring apparatus 101 may determine the transient operating parameter(s) by determining the colour of the display area 31. The shade of the colour emitted by the light emitting devices 33-n may represent a magnitude of the transient operating parameter(s). The pump monitoring apparatus 101 may determine the magnitude of the transient operating parameter(s) by determining a shade of the colour of the display area 31. Alternatively, or in addition, different colours may represent different operating modes of the vacuum pump 1. For example, a first colour may represent a first operating mode, such as pump running; and a second colour may represent a second operating mode, such as pump idle. The pump monitoring apparatus 101 may determine the operating mode by determining the colour of the display area 31 of the pump display 9.

With reference to Figures 9A to 9E, different shades of the colour may be used to represent the magnitude of the transient operating parameter(s). The RGB values of different shades of green are represented along with a corresponding operating pressure of the vacuum pump 1.

The pump monitoring apparatus 101 may determine the measured operating pressure of the vacuum pump 1. The pump monitoring system 101 can determine and display the transient operating parameter(s) more accurately than a user could perceive from viewing the pump display 9. For example, green can be used to indicate the pump is running and the differences between shades of green could be used to indicate the pressure.

As described herein, the pulse width (or flash period) of the light emitting devices 33-n may be modulated to encode pump information. The pump information may comprise or consist of a pump identifier for identifying the vacuum pump 1. Alternatively, the vacuum pump 1 may comprise a machine-readable optical label 121, such as a quick response (OR) code. The machine-readable optical label 121 may include an identification code suitable for identifying the vacuum pump 1. The pump monitoring apparatus 101 can be configured to read the machine-readable optical label 121 to identify the vacuum pump 1. The pump monitoring apparatus 101 may identify the vacuum pump 1 with reference to a database or a look-up table. The database or look-up table may be stored locally on the pump monitoring apparatus 101 or may be accessed from a remote location.

The pump monitoring apparatus 101 may optionally comprise a radio frequency (RF) wireless communication device for communication with a wireless controller is configured to use the determined pump identifier to establish a wireless communication connection with the pump.

The pump monitoring apparatus 101 comprises a memory device 111. The application operating on the pump monitoring apparatus 101 may include a feature to record a pump operating status and/or transient operating parameter(s), such as the measured operating pressure. The stored data may be time-stamped, for example with date and time. The vacuum pump 1 can be identified by processing the image captured by the camera 103 to read the machine-readable optical label 121. The machine-readable optical label 121 may, for example, comprise a pump type and/or a serial number. The pump monitoring apparatus 101 may process the captured image to determine the type and/or the serial number of the vacuum pump 1. In use, the pump monitoring apparatus 101 processes the captured image to determine the transient operating parameter(s)(s). As described herein, the pump monitoring apparatus 101 may decode the pulse width modulated signal output by the pump display 9 or may process the image to analyse the colour or colour pattern emitted by the light emitting devices 33-n to determine the transient operating parameter(s)(s) of the vacuum pump 1. The pump monitoring apparatus 101 may be configured to provide a "save" function after determination of the transient operating parameter(s)(s). The transient operating parameter(s)(s) may be stored on the memory device 111 along with the serial number or pump identifier. By way of example, the data may be stored as follows: "Vacuum Pump Running, 100mbar, Serial no. 12345678". The data may be stored locally on the memory device 111 in the pump monitoring apparatus 101, or remotely on a remote storage device (not shown).

At least in certain embodiments, the machine-readable optical label 121 provided on the vacuum pump 1 may enable the pump monitoring apparatus 101 to establish a wireless (RE) connection with the vacuum pump 1, for example to establish a Bluetooth (RTM) connection.

This may facilitate a pairing function to connect the pump monitoring apparatus 101 and the vacuum pump 1. In certain embodiments, the pairing may be completed as a one-press operation. The use of the machine-readable optical label 121 to identify the vacuum pump 1 may reduce or avoid the problem of connecting to the wrong vacuum pump 1, for example if there are other vacuum pumps 101 in the vicinity. The pump monitoring apparatus 101 may display further pump information, beyond that transmitted by the pump display 9. For example, the pump monitoring apparatus 101 may display the measured operating pressure and/or a target operating pressure.

In other embodiments, the machine-readable optical label 121 provided on the vacuum pump 1 may enable a connection between the pump monitoring apparatus and a remote server which is also connected to the pump, transferring data between the pump, server and pump monitoring device without communication directly between the pump and monitoring device.

At least in certain embodiments, the pump monitoring apparatus 101 could use image recognition technology to identify the vacuum pump 101. For example, the pump monitoring apparatus 101 may analyse the captured image to identify the display area 31 from different angles and read the colour of the display area 31 and the machine-readable optical label 121. The transient operating parameter(s)(s) may be read without the need to aim a crosshair at the display area 31 or the machine-readable optical label 121. The pump monitoring apparatus 101 could then simultaneously display the information obtained from the machine-readable optical label 121 with the information obtained from analysis of the display area 31. An option to establish a wireless connection, such as a Bluetooth connection, could optionally be displayed at the same time, as illustrated in Figure 10.

It will be appreciated that various changes and modifications can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the present application. The present invention has been described with particular reference to a vacuum pump 1. It will be understood that the present invention could be applied to other types of pump. Alternatively, or in addition, the present invention could be used in a compressor rather than a vacuum pump.

Reference Numeral 1 Vacuum pump Motor 7 Pump housing 9 Pump display 11 Vacuum pump controller 13 Pump controller processor(s) Pump controller memory device 17-n Pump controller electrical input 19-n Pump controller electrical output 21 External control device 23 Motor control unit Motor control processor(s) 27 Motor control memory device 31 Display area 33-n Light emitting device(s) Housing end wall 41 Pump display controller 43 Pump display processor(s) Pump display memory device 47-n Pump display electrical input 49-n Pump display electrical output 51-n Sensor 53 Illuminated band Illuminated region 101 Pump monitoring apparatus 103 Camera Display screen 107 Pump monitoring controller 109 Pump monitoring processor(s) 111 Pump monitoring memory device 113-n Pump monitoring electrical input 115-n Pump monitoring electrical output 121 Machine-readable optical label MCS Motor control signal DCS Display control signal POS Pump operating signal

Claims

CLAIMS1. A pump monitoring apparatus (101) for monitoring a transient operating parameter of a pump (1), the pump monitoring apparatus (101) comprising: a camera (103) for capturing an image of at least a portion of a pump display (9) associated with the pump (1); a controller (107) comprising at least one processor (109), the at least one processor (109) comprising at least one electrical input (113-n) for receiving image data (IMD1) from the camera (103) representing the image; and at least one electrical output (115-n) for outputting a pump monitoring signal (PMS); wherein the at least one processor (109) is configured to: process the image data (IMD1) to identify an image component (IMC-1) representing the pump display (9) and comprising a graphical representation of the transient operating parameter of the pump (1); analyse the identified image component (IMC-1) to determine the transient operating parameter of the pump (1); and output the pump monitoring signal (PMS) comprising the transient operating parameter of the pump.
2. A pump monitoring apparatus (101) as claimed in claim 1 comprising a local display screen (105), the pump monitoring signal (PMS) being output to the local display screen (105) to display (9) the transient operating parameter of the pump (1); wherein the at least one processor is configured to display (9) the determined transient operating parameter on the local display screen (105) as a graphical representation and/or a numerical value.
3. A pump monitoring apparatus (101) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the at least one processor (109) is configured to display (9) the transient operating parameter on the local display screen (105) as an overlay on the image captured by the camera (103).
4. A pump monitoring apparatus (101) as claimed in any one of claims 1, 2 or 3, wherein processing the image data (IMD1) to identify the image component (IMC-1) comprises identifying a predefined shape within the image.
5. A pump monitoring apparatus (101) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the analysis of the identified image component (IMC-1) comprises processing the image data (IMD1) to decode the graphical representation of the transient operating parameter.
6. A pump monitoring apparatus (101) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein analysing the identified image component (IMC-1) comprises decoding a pulse width modulated signal generated by the pump display (9) to determine the transient operating parameter of the pump.
7. A pump monitoring apparatus (101) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein analysing the identified image component (IMC-1) comprises determining a colour and/or a colour shade output by the pump display (9) to indicate the transient operating parameter of the pump.
8. A pump monitoring apparatus (101) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein analysing the identified image component (IMC-1) comprises: determining a proportion of the pump display (9) which is illuminated or determining a proportion of the pump display (9) which is illuminated in a first colour; and the determined proportion indicating the transient operating parameter of the pump.
9. A pump monitoring apparatus (101) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one processor (109) is configured to process the image data (IMD1) to determine a pump identifier.
10. A pump monitoring apparatus (101) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the at least one processor is configured to read a machine-readable optical label (121) in the image data (IMD1) to determine the pump identifier.
11. A pump monitoring apparatus (101) as claimed in claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the at least one processor (109) is configured to decode a pulse width modulated signal generated by the pump display (9) to determine the pump identifier.
12. A pump monitoring apparatus (101) as claimed in any one of claims 9, 10 or 11, wherein the controller (107) is configured to use the determined pump identifier to establish a wireless communication connection between the pump monitoring apparatus (101) and the pump (1).
13. A pump monitoring apparatus (101) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the pump identifier is used to identify a particular pump (1) and to establish the wireless communication connection with the identified pump (1).
14. A computer-implemented method of monitoring a transient operating parameter of a pump, the method comprising: receiving image data (IMD1) from a camera (103), the image data (IMD1) representing an image of at least a portion of a pump display (9) associated with the pump; processing the image data (IMD1) and identifying an image component (IMC-1) representing the pump display (9) and comprising a graphical representation of the transient operating parameter of the pump; analysing the identified image component (IMC-1) to determine the transient operating parameter of the pump; and outputting the pump monitoring signal (PMS) comprising the transient operating parameter of the pump.
15. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having a set of instructions stored therein which, when executed, cause a processor to perform the method claimed in claim 14.