Valve arrangement and method

Abstract

Valve arrangement (10, 20), comprising at least one connection section (8) for connecting a valve unit (9) having an electric valve (5) with an electric valve actuator designed as a solenoid coil, wherein the electric valve (5) is a solenoid valve, wherein the valve arrangement (10, 20) is configured to recognize the type of the valve unit (9) connected to the connection section (8) based on an electrical quantity detectable by controlling the valve actuator, further comprising a control electronics arrangement (1) for providing an electrical control signal for the valve unit (9), wherein the control electronics arrangement (1) is configured to generate the electrical control signal depending on the detected type of the valve unit (9), further comprising a communication interface (12) for receiving a communication signal, wherein the valve arrangement is configuredto use the communication signal as a power supply for the operation of the control electronics arrangement (1).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a valve arrangement comprising at least one connection section for connecting a valve unit, which has an electric valve with an electric valve actuator, for example a solenoid coil. The valve arrangement is designed to indicate the type of valve unit connected to the connection section.

[0002] DE 10 2005 041 510 A1 describes a valve identification device for a valve receptacle with a valve receptacle on which a valve can be mounted. The valve identification device has a transponder assigned to the valve, which includes a valve-identifying identifier that can be detected by a reader in order to read the valve's identifier from the transponder.

[0003] DE 10 2011 005 868 A1 describes a valve control device for a vehicle, in particular an agricultural vehicle, which includes a control unit for actuating an electromagnetically actuated valve. When a self-calibration mode is activated, the control unit queries an identification feature associated with the electromagnetically actuated valve, determines a valve type corresponding to the queried identification feature, and selects a control algorithm associated with the determined valve type for actuating the electromagnetically actuated valve. The identification feature is a characteristic position of an actuating unit provided for the electromagnetic actuation of the valve.

[0004] DE 10 2007 058 777 A1 describes a method for commissioning hydraulically operated actuators controlled by a position controller. To determine the actuator type, the actuator is subjected to a constant hydraulic flow during commissioning, and an actuator-specific characteristic curve of the reported position is recorded over time. The determined characteristic curve is then compared with a predefined reference curve. The degree of deviation or similarity between the actuator-specific characteristic curve and the reference curve is used to determine the actuator type.

[0005] One object of the invention is to provide a valve arrangement with which the type of a connected valve unit can be efficiently detected.

[0006] The problem is solved by a valve arrangement according to claim 1.

[0007] The electrical quantity in question is, in particular, an electrical quantity related to the electric valve actuator, especially to a solenoid coil of the electric valve actuator, for example, a coil current, a voltage, and / or an inductance. The solenoid coil is, in particular, a valve coil.

[0008] For example, different types of valve units have different electrical valve actuators, in particular different solenoid coils. The different types of valve units can therefore be distinguished from one another based on their electrical valve actuators, especially their solenoid coils, for example, based on the inductances of the solenoid coils.

[0009] The electrical quantity can be conveniently measured using a control electronics arrangement that also serves to control the valve unit normally—that is, to energize the valve unit to achieve a specific position of the valve element—and is therefore already present. For example, the electric valve, particularly the solenoid coil, is supplied with a control signal, such as a voltage, and the resulting electrical signal, such as the coil current, is measured as the electrical quantity. Based on this electrical quantity, for example, the time course of the coil current, the valve arrangement then determines the type of valve unit.

[0010] Consequently, the valve unit type can be identified based on the electrical parameter detectable by controlling the electric valve actuator. The transponder known from the prior art is therefore not required for identifying the valve unit type. Thus, the valve unit type can be identified efficiently – namely, without providing a transponder and / or an identifier.

[0011] The invention further relates to a valve arrangement according to claim 2.

[0012] Advantageous further training is the subject of the sub-claims.

[0013] According to a preferred embodiment, the valve arrangement comprises a control electronics arrangement for providing an electrical control signal for the valve unit. The control electronics arrangement is advantageously configured to generate the electrical control signal depending on the detected type of valve unit. In a preferred embodiment, the control electronics arrangement is configured to provide electrical control signals for different types of valve units. In particular, the control electronics arrangement is configured to provide different electrical control signals at one and the same connection section for different types of valve units (which can be alternatively connected to this connection section).The valve arrangement detects which type of valve unit is currently connected to this connection section, and the control electronics arrangement provides a control signal specifically adapted for this type of valve unit based on this detection.

[0014] In contrast, conventional valve arrangements typically use different connection sections with different control electronics units for different types of valve units. With these conventional valve arrangements, only one specific type of valve unit can be connected to each connection section, as the associated control electronics unit can only provide a control signal suitable for that type. Consequently, the valve arrangement must be designed during manufacturing to determine for which types of valve units the connection sections, and especially the control electronics units, are intended.

[0015] The present embodiment offers greater flexibility compared to this conventional valve arrangement. The connection section of the present embodiment is compatible with various types of valve units, allowing the valve unit to be selected from a wider range of valve units and thus enabling the valve arrangement to be adapted more flexibly to a specific application. In particular, the valve arrangement according to the present embodiment comprises a connection arrangement with multiple connection sections, and each connection section is compatible with different types of valve units.

[0016] The invention further relates to a method according to claim 16.

[0017] Exemplary embodiments are explained below with reference to the figures. These show: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a valve arrangement according to a first embodiment, Fig. 2 a schematic representation of a valve arrangement according to a second embodiment, Fig. 3 a diagram showing signal waveforms of a control signal and several detected electrical signals.

[0018] The following explanation refers to the points in the Fig. 1 and Fig. The two spatial directions shown, "x-direction" and "z-direction," are referenced. The x-direction can also be called the longitudinal direction, and the z-direction the vertical direction. The x-direction and the z-direction are orthogonal to each other. Furthermore, reference is made below to the y-direction, which is not shown in the figures and is orthogonal to both the x-direction and the z-direction.

[0019] The Fig. Figure 1 shows a valve arrangement 10 according to the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 2 shows a valve arrangement 20 according to the second embodiment. The following primarily explains features that are present in both the first and second embodiments. In this context, reference is made to a valve arrangement 10, 20 to indicate that these explanations expediently apply to both embodiments.

[0020] The valve arrangement 10, 20 comprises at least one connection section 8 for connecting a valve unit 9. The valve unit 9 has an electric valve 5 with an electric valve actuator. The electric valve 5 is, for example, a solenoid valve, and the electric valve actuator is, for example, a solenoid coil of the solenoid valve.

[0021] The valve arrangement 10, 20 is designed to identify the type of the valve unit 9 connected to the connection section 8 based on an electrical quantity detectable by controlling the electric valve actuator. Control involves, for example, applying an electrical control signal, such as a voltage, to the electric valve actuator to energize the solenoid coil.

[0022] Further exemplary details will be explained below.

[0023] First, let's look at the basic structure of the valve arrangement 10, 20: The valve arrangement 10, 20 is preferably used in the field of industrial automation, in particular in the field of factory automation.

[0024] The valve arrangement 10, 20 is exemplified as a series arrangement, in particular as a valve manifold. Advantageously, the valve arrangement 10, 20 comprises a plurality of valve units 9 arranged in a row in one direction – here in the x-direction. The valve units 9 are arranged side by side in the row direction.

[0025] The valve arrangement 10, 20 has a connection arrangement 7, which is exemplified as a connection plate. The connection arrangement 7 is expediently oriented with its longitudinal axis in the x-direction. The largest surface area of ​​the connection arrangement 7 is exemplified as being perpendicular to the z-direction. Electrical lines expediently run within the connection arrangement 7. Preferably, fluidic lines also run within the connection arrangement 7.

[0026] The connection arrangement 7 comprises a plurality of connection sections 8. By way of example, the connection arrangement 7 comprises connection sections 8A, 8B, 8C, and 8D. The connection sections 8 are arranged side by side in the x-direction. Advantageously, each connection section 8 has a mechanical and / or electrical interface. The interface is advantageously designed as a slot and serves for the mechanical attachment and / or electrical connection of a respective valve unit 9. Preferably, each connection section 8 comprises exactly one slot. Thus, several slots are advantageously arranged side by side in the x-direction. The slots are arranged, in particular, on a surface of the connection arrangement 7 that is oriented upwards, perpendicular to the z-direction. By way of example, exactly one valve unit 9 is connected to, or exactly one valve unit 9 can be connected to, each connection section 8.For example, a first valve unit 9A is connected to a first connection section 8A, a second valve unit 9B to a second connection section 8B, a third valve unit 9C to a third connection section 8C and a fourth valve unit 9D to a fourth connection section 8D.

[0027] By way of example, the connection arrangement comprises 7 connection sections 8 with different x-extentities in order to accommodate valve units 9 of different x-extent.

[0028] The connection arrangement 7 expediently further comprises a plurality of fluidic connections (not shown in the figures). External fluidic devices can preferably be connected to the fluidic connections, expediently via hoses. The fluidic connections are expediently fluidically connected to fluidic channels of the valve arrangement 10, 20. The fluidic channels can expediently be blocked or opened by the valve units 9.

[0029] The valve arrangement 10, 20 includes, by way of example, the valve units 9 connected to the connection sections 8. The valve units 9 are, in particular, designed as valve modules. The valve units 9 are inserted into the aforementioned slots of the connection sections 8 and are expediently mounted so that they can be removed from the connection arrangement 7. The valve units 9 are expediently each designed in a disc shape and, in particular, have an outer housing with a cuboid base. Preferably, the valve units 9 are aligned with their longitudinal axis parallel to the y-direction and / or with their largest surface area perpendicular to the x-direction. Expediently, each valve unit 9 has at least one electric valve 5, for example, a solenoid valve. By way of example, each valve unit 9 also has a main valve 6, which is expediently a fluidically actuated valve.The electric valve 5 is expediently used to control the supply of a fluid that actuates the valve element of the main valve 6. The electric valve 5 can in particular be referred to as a pilot valve.

[0030] Advantageously, various types of valve units 9 are connected to and / or connectable to the connection arrangement 7. The different types of valve units differ from one another, in particular, in their electrical valve actuator, preferably in their solenoid valve, and especially in their solenoid coil. By way of example, the different types of valve units differ in the size, number of turns, and / or inductance of the respective solenoid coil.

[0031] The valve arrangement 10, 20 expediently includes a control unit 3. The control unit 3 serves to communicate with an external control unit 2 and / or to communicate with the valve units 9 and / or to control the valve units 9. The control unit 3 expediently comprises a microcontroller, an ASIC and / or an FPGA. The control unit 3 includes, by way of example, a communication interface 12 for communication with the control unit 2.

[0032] The control unit 2 is, for example, a higher-level controller, in particular a programmable logic controller (PLC). The control unit 2 is configured to provide a control command to the valve arrangement 10, 20. The control command is expediently transmitted from the control unit 2 to the valve arrangement 10, 20 as a communication signal. The control command relates in particular to the actuation of one or more valve units 9, for example, actuation to move a valve element of a valve unit 9 into a position specified by the control command, actuation to move a valve unit into a holding mode, in particular an energy-saving mode, and / or actuation to detect the type of a valve unit 9.

[0033] The valve arrangement 10, 20 is configured to receive the control command from the control unit 2 and to control one or more valve units 9 according to the control command with one or more corresponding control signals.

[0034] The control unit 3 comprises a control electronics arrangement 1. The control electronics arrangement 1 is specifically configured to generate an electrical control signal for a valve unit 9. Advantageously, the control electronics arrangement 1 is configured to generate electrical control signals for several or all valve units 9. The control electronics arrangement 1 is particularly configured to provide the electrical control signals for the several or all valve units 9 independently of one another – i.e., in a multi-channel manner. The following explanation regarding the generation of an electrical control signal advantageously applies to several or all electrical control signals generated by the control electronics arrangement 1.

[0035] The control electronics arrangement 1 comprises, in particular, a driver circuit for generating the electrical control signal. Advantageously, the control electronics arrangement 1 includes a digital-to-analog converter and / or a pulse-width modulator (PWM) for generating the electrical control signal. Preferably, several digital-to-analog converters and / or several PWM modulators are provided to generate several control signals independently of one another in parallel. The electrical control signal is, in particular, an analog control signal, especially an analog voltage signal and / or an analog current signal. The electrical control signal is supplied to the electrical valve actuator of the electric valve 5, in particular to a solenoid coil of the electric valve 5.The electrical control signal is expediently used to energize the electric valve 5, in particular the solenoid coil of the electric valve 5, in order to change and / or maintain the position of the valve element of the electric valve 5, in particular by electromagnetic actuation.

[0036] The control electronics arrangement 1 is advantageously configured to provide the electrical control signal as a position signal, hold signal, and / or detection signal. As a position signal, the control signal serves to move the valve element of the electric valve 5 to a specific position and / or to hold it in a specific position. As a hold signal, the control signal serves to hold the valve element of the electric valve 5 in a specific position, advantageously with reduced energy consumption. As a detection signal, the control signal serves to identify the type of valve element.

[0037] The control electronics arrangement 1 is expediently designed as a central control electronics arrangement 11 and / or comprises a plurality of local control electronics units 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D.

[0038] During the Fig. In the first embodiment shown in Figure 1, the control electronics arrangement 1 is configured as a central control electronics arrangement 11. The central control electronics arrangement 11 is located, by way of example, outside the connection sections 8, 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D. By way of example, the central control electronics arrangement 11 is located in a different x-coordinate region than the connection sections 8 and / or the valve units 9. Preferably, the central control electronics arrangement 11 is arranged in a control section 17 of the connection arrangement 7. By way of example, the control section is arranged in an end region of the connection arrangement 7 in the x-direction. Preferably, the central control electronics arrangement 11 is implemented entirely on a single printed circuit board and / or on a single chip.

[0039] The central control electronics arrangement 11 is expediently designed to be multi-channel; that is, the central control electronics arrangement 11 is expediently configured to provide several independent control signals in parallel, and in particular simultaneously, to control several valve units 9. By way of example, the central control electronics arrangement 11 comprises four channels – one channel for each of the valve units 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D. Preferably, the central control electronics arrangement 11 has a plurality of outputs and / or driver circuits for providing the plurality of control signals in parallel.

[0040] The central control electronics assembly 11 is connected to the valve units 9 via control lines 15. The control lines 15 provide, in particular, galvanic connections between the central control electronics assembly 11 and the valve units 9. Each valve unit 9 has its own control line 15. Each control line 15 runs from the central control electronics assembly to a respective connection section 8, where an electrical contact is made to the respective valve unit 9. Starting from the central control electronics assembly 11, a first control line 15A runs to the first valve unit 9A, a second control line 15B to the second valve unit 9B, a third control line 15C to the third valve unit 9C, and a fourth control line 15D to the fourth valve unit 9D.For each valve unit 9, a separate point-to-point connection to a respective output of the central control electronics assembly 11 is expediently provided via the control lines 15.

[0041] During the Fig. In the second embodiment shown in Figure 2, the control electronics arrangement 1 comprises a plurality of local control electronics units 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D. Each local control electronics unit 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D is arranged in a respective connection section 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D. Each local control electronics unit 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D is configured to generate a control signal for the respective valve unit 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D connected to the respective connection section 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D. The local control electronics units 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D are communicatively connected to the control device 3, in particular to a communication unit 14 of the control device 3, via a communication line 16, in particular a common communication line such as a bus. Advantageously, each local control electronics unit 1 includes its own driver circuit for generating the respective control signal.

[0042] The following section will discuss in more detail the identification of the type of a valve unit 9.

[0043] Advantageously, at least one connection section 8 is compatible with various valve unit types. The specific valve unit type connected to this connection section 8 is advantageously not specified. Rather, it is possible to select one from a plurality of different valve unit types and connect a valve unit corresponding to this type to the connection section 8. Advantageously, the valve arrangement 10, 20 does not know, at commissioning, which valve unit type is connected to the connection section 8. Advantageously, this applies to several or all connection sections 8.

[0044] The valve arrangement 10, 20 is designed to identify the type of a connected valve unit 9 based on an electrical quantity detectable by controlling the electric valve actuator. This electrical quantity is, for example, a coil current, a voltage, and / or an inductance.

[0045] Advantageously, a plurality of valve unit characteristics are predefined in the valve arrangement 10, 20, with each valve unit characteristic being assigned to a valve unit type. The valve arrangement 10, 20 is configured to detect the electrical quantity and compare it with the valve unit characteristics in order to determine the type of the connected valve unit 9.

[0046] Advantageously, the valve arrangement 10, 20 is designed to perform a corresponding detection for a plurality of connected valve units 9.

[0047] The Fig. Figure 3 shows exemplary signal waveforms of a control signal U1 and electrical signals I1, I2, I3. The control signal U1 is a voltage signal provided by the valve arrangement 10, 20, in particular the control unit 3, preferably the control electronics arrangement 1, and supplied to the electric valve actuator of a connected valve unit 9. The control signal U1 is specifically supplied to a solenoid coil of an electric valve actuator of the valve unit 9. For example, the control signal is a step signal.

[0048] In response to the control signal U1, an electrical signal I1, I2, or I3 is generated. This electrical signal is primarily a current signal, for example, the coil current of the solenoid. The waveform of the electrical signal depends particularly on the type of controlled valve unit 9. The electrical signals I1, I2, and I3 shown are generated by different valve unit types. For example, the first electrical signal is I1 for the first type of valve unit, the second electrical signal is I2 for the second type, and the third electrical signal is I3 for the third type. The electrical signals I1, I2, and I3 differ, in particular, in their slope. This is due, for example, to the fact that the three valve unit types differ in the inductance of their solenoid coils.

[0049] Since the valve unit types can be distinguished based on the electrical signal, the electrical signal, and in particular the coil current, can be used as the electrical quantity on the basis of which the valve unit type is identified. The valve arrangement 10, 20 is designed as an example to determine the type of a valve unit 9 based on the slope of the electrical quantity.

[0050] Advantageously, the valve arrangement 10, 20 is configured to detect the electrical signal, in particular the coil current, that results in response to the control signal U1. Specifically, the valve arrangement 10, 20 detects the time course of the electrical signal. The valve arrangement 10, 20 uses this detected electrical signal as the electrical quantity and, for example, performs a comparison with the stored valve unit characteristics to determine the type of the connected valve unit 9.

[0051] Advantageously, the valve arrangement 10, 20 is designed to determine an inductance value based on the detected electrical signal and to use the inductance value as the electrical quantity on the basis of which the type of the connected valve unit 9 is recognized.

[0052] The following section will explain in more detail how the valve arrangement 10, 20 provides the control signal for the valve unit 9 based on the detected valve unit type.

[0053] The control electronics arrangement 1 is designed to generate the electrical control signal depending on the detected type of valve unit 9.

[0054] As mentioned above, the valve arrangement 10, 20 comprises a plurality of connection sections 8, each connection section 8 serving to connect a respective valve unit 9. The valve arrangement 10, 20 is advantageously configured to recognize the type of each of the connected valve units 9. The control electronics arrangement 1 is specifically configured to generate a respective electrical control signal for each valve unit 9 based on the recognized type of the respective valve unit 9.

[0055] For example, the valve arrangement 10, 20 recognizes that the first valve unit 9A corresponds to a first valve unit type and the second valve unit 9B corresponds to a second valve unit type. Based on the recognition of the respective type, the valve arrangement 10, 20 provides a first control signal for the first valve unit 9A and a second control signal for the second valve unit 9B. Preferably, the first valve unit type differs from the second valve unit type and / or the first control signal differs from the second control signal.

[0056] Advantageously, various control profiles are stored in the valve arrangement 10, 20, in particular in the control electronics arrangement 1. Advantageously, each control profile is assigned to a respective valve unit type and specifies one or more control signals for this valve unit type, in particular a position signal, a hold signal and / or a detection signal.

[0057] The control electronics arrangement 1 is expediently designed to select a corresponding control profile based on the detected valve unit type of a connected valve unit 9 and to control the valve unit 9 with a control signal specified by the control profile.

[0058] In conventional valve arrangements, it is common to provide a separate analog circuit and / or PWM modulator circuit in connection section 8 for each valve unit type, so that each connection section is only compatible with exactly one valve unit type or can only provide control signals for one valve unit type.

[0059] In the present embodiment, the control electronics arrangement 1 can switch to different control profiles, for example via software, and can thus adapt to a connected valve unit 9 in order to provide a suitable control signal for this valve unit 9.

[0060] A control profile for a valve unit type defines (specifically for that valve unit type) one or more parameters for a control signal, in particular a position signal and / or a hold signal. For example, a control profile defines a voltage level, a current, an effective current, a frequency, a duty cycle, and / or a timing – that is, from which point in time (after a position signal has been provided) a hold signal is provided. Advantageously, a control profile also defines (specifically for a valve unit type) the magnitude of a disturbance, for example, the magnitude of a voltage dip, required for the control electronics arrangement 1 to switch from a hold mode, in which an (energy-saving) hold signal is provided, to a position signal. Different control profiles advantageously differ in one or more of the aforementioned parameters.

[0061] According to a preferred embodiment, the valve arrangement 10, 20 is designed to perform the adjustment of the control signal, for example by switching to a corresponding control signal, immediately after the valve unit type has been detected.

[0062] The valve arrangement 10, 20 is expediently designed to provide a control signal for the valve unit 9, to detect the type of the valve unit based on the electrical quantity during the provision of the control signal, and then to adapt the provided control signal based on the detected type.

[0063] For example, the valve arrangement 10, 20 is configured to provide a control signal, such as a step signal, for the detection of the valve unit type, and to perform the detection of the valve unit type immediately after the step signal. In the example of the Fig.3. The identification of the valve unit type would be based on the signal profile in the initial range AB of the electrical signals I1, I2, I3, in particular before a signal characteristic SC, for example a signal dip, occurs, which conveniently occurs when the position of the valve element changes.

[0064] Advantageously, the valve arrangement 10, 20 is designed to adjust the control signal U1 according to the detected valve unit type immediately after the initial phase AB, i.e., advantageously in a state where the electrical signals I1, I2, I3, in particular the coil current, continue to increase. The adjusted control signal is then used, for example, to change the position of the valve element and / or to hold the valve element in a specific position. The adjustment of the control signal U1 involves, in particular, a change in the amplitude and / or frequency of the control signal.

[0065] The valve arrangement 10, 20 is therefore designed in particular to perform, with a control signal, in particular a step signal, both a recognition of the valve unit type and a change in position and / or a holding of a position of the valve element.

[0066] The valve arrangement 10, 20 is advantageously further configured to provide type information based on the detected type. The type information advantageously displays the detected type. The valve arrangement 10, 20 is advantageously configured to transmit the type information to an external control unit 2.

[0067] According to a preferred embodiment, the valve assembly 10, 20 is configured to use a communication signal received via the communication interface 12, in particular a communication signal from the control unit 2, as a power supply for operating the control electronics arrangement 1. The control electronics arrangement 1 is preferably powered by the communication signal.

[0068] The valve arrangement 10, 20 is preferably configured to detect the position of a valve element of the valve unit 9 based on its electrical value. Advantageously, the detected electrical value is used not only to identify the valve type but also to detect the position of a valve element. Depending on the position of the valve element of the electric valve 5, the solenoid coil of the electric valve 5 has a different inductance. This can be detected by controlling the solenoid coil, for example, in the manner mentioned above – namely, by applying a control signal and detecting the resulting coil current.

[0069] According to a preferred embodiment, the valve arrangement 10, 20 includes a sensor and is configured to detect a load acting on the valve unit 9, in particular a pressure, and to take the detected load into account when identifying the type of valve unit. In this way, for example, a load-dependent electrical behavior of the solenoid coil can be compensated for, if present.

[0070] Advantageously, an arrangement comprising a valve assembly 10, 20 and at least two valve units 9 is provided. The valve units 9 differ in their valve unit type – in particular, they have different electrical valve actuators, especially different valve coils. The valve assembly 10, 20 has at least one, preferably several, connection sections 8. One or more of the connection sections 8 are compatible with both of the aforementioned valve units 9; that is, either the first valve unit 9 or the second valve unit 9 can be selectively connected to this connection section 8 and supplied with suitable control signals to effect a predetermined change in the position of a valve element.

[0071] Further exemplary aspects will be explained below.

[0072] The valve units 9 are expediently controlled individually via the control electronics assembly 1. The control electronics assembly 1 is expediently located in the connection assembly 7, which is shown here as a connection plate. Various types of valve units 9 can expediently be controlled by means of the control electronics assembly 1.

[0073] The control electronics arrangement 1 is expediently individually adapted to one, several, or each valve unit 9 that is controlled by the control electronics arrangement 1. The adaptation is based on the detected type of the respective valve unit 9. The control electronics arrangement is adapted to one or more valve units 9, in particular with regard to performance data and / or a control method.

[0074] If a valve unit is replaced by a valve unit of a different type, the control electronics assembly 1 expediently adapts to the type of the new valve unit 9 based on the detection of the valve unit 9 type. Therefore, a change of the control electronics assembly 1 is not necessary when changing the type of valve unit 9.

[0075] The valve arrangement 10, 20 is advantageously configured to recognize different valve units 9, in particular valve units 9 that differ in their solenoid coil, and subsequently to control them with a customized control signal, in particular an individual activation current and / or an individual holding current, based on this recognition. Advantageously, the valve arrangement 10, 20 is configured to perform the recognition of the valve unit 9 type during activation, i.e., when energizing the solenoid coil of the valve unit 9. After recognizing the valve unit type, the valve arrangement 10, 20 is advantageously configured to change the control signal to an individual control signal.

[0076] Conventional valve arrangements typically employ individual holding current reduction controls in the valve unit and / or the connection plate. In contrast, the present valve arrangement 10 advantageously uses a driver module integrated into the pneumatic interface of the valve arrangement 10 (as part of the control electronics arrangement 1) for different valve units 9, in particular valve units with different solenoid coils. The control electronics arrangement advantageously provides individual holding signals as holding current reduction controls.

[0077] For example, the valve arrangement comprises 10 or 20 valve units of 9 different types. The different control mechanisms for various solenoid coils allow for the combination of several solenoid valve types on a common valve platform.

[0078] Advantageously, the controls are implemented via electrical multipole and / or bus communication. Advantageously, the valve arrangement 10, 20 valve units 9 with different properties, e.g., different performance data such as flow rates, switching times, service life, explosion protection, temperature ranges, are operated, advantageously on the same connection section 8.

[0079] Advantageously, the control electronics arrangement 1 is implemented as a single circuit. The detection and control of valve units 9 is integrated into the circuit, particularly via multiple channels.

[0080] Advantageously, the valve arrangement 10, 20 is designed to perform an assignment to an existing characteristic when recognizing a type of valve unit 9; i.e., the valve arrangement 10, 20 selects from stored characteristics the one that matches the currently recognized valve unit 9 and then controls the valve unit 9 accordingly.

[0081] The valve arrangement 10, 20 is particularly designed to identify the solenoid coil type by evaluating a current-voltage-time profile and / or a quantity derived therefrom. Preferably, the valve arrangement 10, 20 is designed to perform the identification at the beginning of the energization based on the current rise and / or current profile.

[0082] The valve arrangement 10, 20 is designed in particular to control the solenoid coil with a corresponding current and / or voltage after detection and assignment to a known characteristic, in particular by digital clocking or continuous analog technology.

[0083] Advantageously, in the control electronics arrangement 1, several channels of the valve control are integrated into a common electronics unit, e.g. on a common circuit board or in an integrated circuit.

[0084] Advantageously, the control electronics arrangement 1 includes a driver circuit that can be operated with or without an external power supply. In the case without an external power supply, the power is supplied by at least one of the applied signal voltages.

[0085] Advantageously, the control electronics arrangement 1 is designed to transmit information about the detected coil type to a higher-level communication system (e.g. for product identification and / or target / actual comparison of components).

[0086] Advantageously, the valve arrangement 10, 20 is designed to detect a movement and / or position of a valve element by evaluating a control signal present as a PWM signal.

[0087] Advantageously, at least one valve unit comprises a proportional valve. The valve arrangement 10, 20 is advantageously configured to perform specific control of the proportional valve, advantageously based on the detected valve unit type. The proportional valve preferably has an analog input.

[0088] Advantageously, the valve arrangement 10, 20 has a changeable control and / or regulation characteristic for controlling a valve unit 9, in particular a proportional valve.

Claims

[1] Valve arrangement (10, 20) comprising at least one connection section (8) for connecting a valve unit (9) having an electric valve (5) with an electric valve actuator designed as a solenoid coil, wherein the electric valve (5) is a solenoid valve, wherein the valve arrangement (10, 20) is configured to recognize the type of the valve unit (9) connected to the connection section (8) based on an electrical quantity detectable by controlling the valve actuator, further comprising a control electronics arrangement (1) for providing an electrical control signal for the valve unit (9), wherein the control electronics arrangement (1) is configured to generate the electrical control signal depending on the detected type of the valve unit (9), further comprising a communication interface (12) for receiving a communication signal, wherein the valve arrangement is configuredto use the communication signal as a power supply for the operation of the control electronics arrangement (1). [2] Valve arrangement (10, 20) comprising at least one connection section (8) for connecting a valve unit (9) having an electric valve (5) with an electric valve actuator designed as a solenoid coil, wherein the electric valve (5) is a solenoid valve, wherein the valve arrangement (10, 20) is configured to recognize the type of the valve unit (9) connected to the connection section (8) based on an electrical quantity detectable by controlling the valve actuator, wherein the valve arrangement (10, 20) further comprises a plurality of connection sections (8, 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D), wherein each connection section (8, 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) serves to connect a respective valve unit (9, 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D), and wherein the valve arrangement (10, 20) is configured to recognize the type of each of the connected valve units (9, 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D) to identify the valve arrangement (10,20) further comprising a control electronics arrangement (1) for providing an electrical control signal for the valve unit (9), wherein the control electronics arrangement (1) is configured to generate the electrical control signal depending on the detected type of the valve unit (9), wherein the valve arrangement (10, 20) is configured to detect the type of the valve unit (9) based on the electrical quantity during the provision of the control signal, and then to adapt the provided control signal based on the detected type, wherein the valve arrangement (10, 20) is configured to provide a step signal as a control signal for the detection of the type of the valve unit (9) and to perform the detection of the type of the valve unit (9) immediately after the step of the step signal and before a signal dip occurs as a signal characteristic (SC) of the signal waveform,where the signal drop occurs when the position of the valve element changes. [3] Valve arrangement (10, 20) according to claim 2, wherein the control electronics arrangement (1) is configured to generate a respective electrical control signal for each valve unit (9, 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D) based on the respective detected type of the respective valve unit (9, 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D). [4] Valve arrangement (10) according to claim 3, wherein the control electronics arrangement (1) is designed as a central control electronics arrangement (11). [5] Valve arrangement (10) according to claim 4, wherein the central control electronics arrangement (11) is arranged outside the connection sections (8, 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D). [6] Valve arrangement (10) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the control electronics arrangement (1) is implemented on a single printed circuit board and / or in a single chip. [7] Valve arrangement (20) according to claim 3, wherein the control electronics arrangement (1) comprises a plurality of local control electronics units (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D), wherein each local control electronics unit (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D) is arranged in a respective connection section (8, 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D) and is configured to generate the respective control signal for the respective valve unit (9, 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D) connected to the respective connection section (8, 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D). [8] Valve arrangement (10, 20) according to one of the preceding claims 2 and 3 to 5, further comprising a communication interface (12) for receiving a communication signal, wherein the valve arrangement is configured to use the communication signal as a power supply for operating the control electronics arrangement (1). [9] Valve arrangement (10, 20) according to a preceding claim, wherein the electrical quantity is a coil current, a voltage and / or an inductance. [10] Valve arrangement (10, 20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the valve arrangement (10, 20) is configured to provide type information based on the detected type. [11] Valve arrangement (10, 20) according to claim 10, wherein the valve arrangement (10, 20) is configured to transmit the type information to an external control unit (2). [12] Valve arrangement (10, 20) according to a preceding claim, characterized by , that the valve arrangement (10, 20) is designed to detect the position of a valve element of the valve unit (9) on the basis of the electrical quantity. [13] Valve arrangement (10, 20) according to a preceding claim, characterized by, that the valve arrangement (10, 20) is configured to provide a control signal for the valve unit (9), to detect the type of the valve unit based on the electrical quantity during the provision of the control signal, and then to adapt the provided control signal based on the detected type. [14] Valve arrangement (10, 20) according to a preceding claim, characterized by , that the valve arrangement (10, 20) includes a sensor and is designed to detect a load acting on the valve unit (9), in particular a pressure, and to take the detected load into account when identifying the type of valve unit. [15] Valve arrangement (10, 20) according to a preceding claim, wherein the electric valve actuator is a solenoid coil. [16] Method for operating a valve arrangement (10, 20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises the step of: recognizing the type of the valve unit (9) connected to the connection section (8) on the basis of the electrical quantity detectable by controlling the electrical valve actuator.

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