Switchgear

Abstract

The switch device comprises: a first computing unit and a second computing unit; an OR gate; a first position feedback device and a first switch, wherein the first position feedback device is assigned to the first switch and is communicatively connected to the first computing unit and to the second computing unit; wherein at least one of the computing units is configured to send a digital AN signal to the OR gate, and the OR gate is configured to operate the first switch upon receiving the digital AN signal; wherein the computing units are communicatively connected to each other and each of the computing units is configured to: read a position signal from the first position feedback device, transmit the read position signal to the corresponding other computing unit, compare the read position signal with the transmitted position signal; and output an error message when the read position signal and the transmitted position signal lack consistency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The disclosure relates to protection against internal errors in automatic burners. Automatic burners ensure that combustion in gas burners and / or oil burners takes place as completely and controlled as possible. The disclosure relates in particular to protection against internal errors caused by faulty relays. Background Art

[0002] In the case of circuits for automatic burners, the safety of the circuits is of crucial importance. Safety-oriented controllers are also known from the fields of automation technology, medical technology and vehicle technology.

[0003] It is known in the prior art to take measures for protection against malfunctions in systems for safety-critical tasks. This includes, for example, monitoring functional blocks of safety devices by means of test signals. It is also known to implement a safety architecture with result comparison in a multi-channel manner.

[0004] This measure is intended to detect randomly occurring (and optionally also systematically occurring) errors. A safe state of a (combustion) installation or process is intended to be achieved with the aid of the monitoring unit.

[0005] Patent application EP2295863A2 was filed on August 6, 2010. The application was published on March 16, 2011. EP2295863A2 discusses a combustion system and a gas automatic burner. EP2295863A2 also discusses a method and device for blocking fuel delivery. EP2295863A2 claims priority on August 6, 2009.

[0006] EP2295863A2 teaches a device 1 for a gas automatic burner, which has three shutoff paths 2, 3 and 5. The first shutoff path 2 acts on a switch 11. The second shutoff path 3 acts on two parallel switches 16. The third shutoff path 5 acts on a further switch 19. The switch 11 and these parallel switches 16 and the further switch 19 are connected in series.

[0007] The first shutdown path 2 is based on a microcontroller 17 . A further microcontroller 6 is provided for the third shutdown path 5 . The second shutdown path 3 has a logic module 10 . The first shutdown path 2 and the second shutdown path 3 also have a current interruption protection device 7 .

[0008] Another patent US10209681B2 was granted on February 19, 2019. US10209681B2 claims priority on March 23, 2015. The corresponding application US2016 / 0282818A1 was filed on March 21, 2016. The application US2016 / 0282818A1 was published on September 29, 2016. US10209681B2 discusses a safety architecture for a fail-safe system.

[0009] The safety device in US Pat. No. 10,209,681 B2 comprises a monitoring unit 30 and a test block 34. The test block 34 is connected to an output stage 38 and monitors an output signal of the monitoring unit 30. The test block 34 generates an enable signal from the output signal of the monitoring unit 30.

[0010] In the output stage 38, the contact element 41 links the output signal of the monitoring unit 30 with the enable signal of the verification block 34. According to the result of this linking, the output stage 38 provides a shutdown function through the contact element 41. US10209681B2 also teaches a feedback signal 39 from the output stage 38 to the monitoring unit 30.

[0011] The present disclosure teaches a circuit for an automatic burner, which circuit can identify a faulty microprocessor and / or a faulty microcontroller. Advantageously, the combustion automatic controller can also identify a faulty control circuit for a relay. The circuit according to the present disclosure also provides advantages in terms of faulty relays. Summary of the invention

[0012] The disclosure teaches a switching device with a switch, in particular a relay. The switch is connected in series with an electrical load, such as a valve. The switching device has the task of dealing with switch failures, for example due to welding of relay contacts, while avoiding a total automatic burner failure. For this purpose, the basic functions of the switch and / or the involved computing units are tested before commissioning.

[0013] Therefore, in the first step, the contacts are designed to open The switch is opened. Subsequently, the signals are read out by the two computing units via the position feedback device. If the two computing units read out different signals from the position feedback device, an error message is output. In this case, the computing units are communicatively coupled to one another in order to enable a comparison of the results between the computing units.

[0014] A related object of the present disclosure is to test other relays. Preferably, in this case, the relay designed as a closing contact is closed only when the two computing units output corresponding signals as independently as possible from one another.

[0015] A further object of the disclosure is to provide a current interruption protection which is advantageously provided by an adjustable supply device in such a way that the aforementioned closing contact cannot be actuated if the current interruption protection is not effective.

[0016] The object of the present disclosure is to optimally utilize mechanisms for current interruption protection, wherein the mechanisms are contained in a computing unit, and in particular, these mechanisms can be switched on and off by programming.

[0017] Furthermore, the object of the present disclosure is to utilize the existing inputs of the computing unit as efficiently as possible. To this end, the signals of a plurality of position feedback devices are directed to one and the same input as far as possible.

[0018] Furthermore, it is an object of the present disclosure to derive protection against internal errors from as many independent signals as possible. In particular, protection against internal errors can be based on a plurality of independent signals from a position feedback device.

[0019] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a switch-off function that is as reliable as possible. To this end, a plurality of switches should be coupled, in particular mechanically coupled, so that when one switch fails, another coupled switch takes over the switch-off function.

[0020] Another object of the present disclosure is to integrate a circuit for detecting a faulty relay into a switching device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Different details can be obtained by those skilled in the art according to the following detailed description. Here, each embodiment is not restrictive. The drawings attached to the specification are described as follows:

[0022] Figure 1 The circuit for the automatic burner is illustrated.

[0023] Figure 2 like Figure 1 Thus, a circuit for an automatic burner is shown, wherein an adjustable current and / or voltage supply is additionally incorporated into the circuit.

[0024] Figure 3 A circuit for an automatic burner with a mechanically coupled relay is shown.

[0025] Figure 4 A circuit for verifying the integrity of a relay is shown.

[0026] Figure 5 Other circuits for verifying the integrity of the relay are shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Figure 1 The circuit for the automatic burner is illustrated. Figure 1 The circuit in comprises at least two computing units 1a, 1b. The computing unit 1a preferably comprises a microcontroller and / or a microprocessor. The computing unit 1b preferably also comprises a microcontroller and / or a microprocessor. In one embodiment, the two computing units 1a, 1b each comprise a microcontroller. In another embodiment, the two computing units 1a, 1b each comprise a microprocessor.

[0028] Furthermore, it is provided that the computing unit 1a comprises a so-called brownout detection device. The brownout detection device is preferably activatable, in particular programmable. The brownout detection device is designed to monitor the voltage supply of the computing unit 1a during operation of the computing unit 1a. In the event of an undervoltage supply, the brownout detection device is designed to set a corresponding register value of the computing unit 1a. Preferably, the brownout detection device of the computing unit 1a and the microprocessor and / or microcontroller of the computing unit 1a are arranged on the same system on chip.

[0029] It is further provided that the computing unit 1b comprises a so-called undervoltage detection device. The undervoltage detection device is preferably activatable, in particular activatable by programming. The undervoltage detection device is activated when the supply voltage is too low. The undervoltage detection device is configured to monitor the voltage supply of the computing unit 1b during operation of the computing unit 1b. When the voltage supply is too low, the undervoltage detection device is configured to set corresponding register values ​​of the computing unit 1b. Preferably, the undervoltage detection device of the computing unit 1b and the microprocessor and / or microcontroller of the computing unit 1b are arranged on the same system on chip.

[0030] In one specific embodiment, the two computing units 1 a , 1 b each include an undervoltage detection device.

[0031] A communication bus 2, such as a bidirectional communication bus, couples these computing units 1a, 1b. The bidirectional communication bus 2 enables communication not only from computing unit 1a to computing unit 1b but also in the reverse direction. The communication bus 2 is preferably a digital communication bus. The computing units 1a, 1b advantageously utilize a predetermined communication bus protocol, such as a digital communication bus protocol. It is provided that the communication bus 2 includes a wired connection between the computing units 1a, 1b.

[0032] The circuit current and / or voltage main supply device (Strom-und / oder Spannungshauptversorgung) 3 supplies electrical energy to these computing units 1a, 1b. The circuit current and / or voltage main supply device 3 preferably provides a voltage of 1.2 volts and / or 2 volts and / or 3 volts and / or 3.3 volts and / or 5 volts and / or 6 volts for supplying the computing units 1a, 1b. Advantageously, the same voltage, in particular the same DC voltage, is supplied to the two computing units 1a, 1b.

[0033] In a special embodiment, the main current and / or voltage supply device 3 of the circuit includes separate output terminals for each of these calculation units 1a, 1b. The first output terminal is electrically connected to the calculation unit 1a. The first output terminal can especially include a safety device with respect to a short circuit. In other words, when a short circuit occurs in the calculation unit 1a or in the electrical connection with the calculation unit 1a, the other output terminals remain as stable as possible. The second output terminal is electrically connected to the calculation unit 1b. The second output terminal can especially include a safety device with respect to a short circuit. In other words, when a short circuit occurs in the calculation unit 1b or in the electrical connection with the calculation unit 1b, the other output terminals remain as stable as possible.

[0034] Figure 1 The circuit in the control and / or regulation valve 4, such as a safety valve. The valve 4 can be in particular a valve 4 of a gas burner and / or an oil burner. In order to control and / or regulate the valve 4, a plurality of switches 5a-5c are connected in series with the valve 4. These switches 5a-5c preferably comprise relays. In particular, Figure 1 All switches 5a-5c of the circuit in can include relays. In another embodiment, at least one switch 5a-5c includes a transistor and / or a field effect transistor and / or a bipolar transistor with an insulating gate electrode. In particular, each of these switches 5a-5c can include a transistor and / or a field effect transistor and / or a bipolar transistor. It is further provided that at least one switch 5a-5c includes a tube amplifier and / or a vacuum switch. The tube amplifier can be used, for example, in circuits such as the following, in which robustness is crucial.

[0035] An OR gate 7 is connected upstream of the switch 5a. The OR gate 7 is connected to the output of the calculation units 1a, 1b, respectively. The OR gate 7 can in particular be electrically connected to the output of the calculation units 1a, 1b, respectively.

[0036] The switch 5a preferably comprises a disconnecting contact. In other words, as soon as the switch 5a is actuated, the switch 5a interrupts the current supply to the valve 4. As soon as at least one of the calculation units 1a, 1b sends a corresponding signal to the OR gate 7, the OR gate 7 and the switch 5a thus interrupt the supply to the valve 4.

[0037] An AND gate 8a is connected upstream of the switch 5b. The AND gate 8a is connected to the output terminals of the calculation units 1a, 1b, respectively. The AND gate 8a can be electrically connected in particular to the output terminals of the calculation units 1a, 1b, respectively.

[0038] The switch 5b preferably comprises a closed contact. In other words, once the switch 5b is actuated, the switch 5b enables a current to pass through. When the two calculation units 1a, 1b send corresponding signals to the AND gate 8a, the AND gate 8a and the switch 5b thus set one of the switches to conduct in the direction of the valve 4. Otherwise, the switch 5b does not conduct current.

[0039] Likewise, an AND gate 8b is connected upstream of the switch 5c. The AND gate 8b is connected to the output terminals of the calculation units 1a, 1b, respectively. The AND gate 8b can in particular be electrically connected to the output terminals of the calculation units 1a, 1b, respectively.

[0040] The switch 5c preferably comprises a closed contact. In other words, once the switch 5c is actuated, the switch 5c enables a current to pass. When the two calculation units 1a, 1b send corresponding signals to the AND gate 8b, the AND gate 8b and the switch 5c thus set one of the switches to conduct in the direction of the valve 4. Otherwise, the switch 5c does not conduct current.

[0041] The switch 5a is coupled to the position feedback device 6a. Ideally, the position feedback device 6a is part of the switch 5a. The position feedback device 6a is connected to the input of the calculation unit 1a. The calculation unit 1a preferably includes a digital input, which is connected to the position feedback device 6a. In another embodiment, the calculation unit 1a includes an analog input, which is connected to the position feedback device 6a. In a special embodiment, the calculation unit 1a includes an incremental summation circuit (Delta-Sigma Kreis) for processing one or more signals of the position feedback device 6a. The position feedback device 6a is also connected to the input of the calculation unit 1b. The calculation unit 1b preferably includes a digital input, which is connected to the position feedback device 6a. In another embodiment, the calculation unit 1b includes an analog input, which is connected to the position feedback device 6a. In a special embodiment, the calculation unit 1b includes an incremental summation circuit for processing one or more signals of the position feedback device 6a.

[0042] The switch 5b is coupled to the position feedback device 6b. Ideally, the position feedback device 6b is part of the switch 5b. The position feedback device 6b is connected to the input of the calculation unit 1a. The calculation unit 1a preferably includes a digital input, which is connected to the position feedback device 6b. In another embodiment, the calculation unit 1a includes an analog input, which is connected to the position feedback device 6b. In a special embodiment, the calculation unit 1a includes an incremental summation circuit for processing one or more signals of the position feedback device 6b. The position feedback device 6b is also connected to the input of the calculation unit 1b. The calculation unit 1b preferably includes a digital input, which is connected to the position feedback device 6b. In another embodiment, the calculation unit 1b includes an analog input, which is connected to the position feedback device 6b. In a special embodiment, the calculation unit 1b includes an incremental summation circuit for processing one or more signals of the position feedback device 6b.

[0043] In addition, the switch 5c is coupled to a position feedback device 6c. Ideally, the position feedback device 6c is part of the switch 5c. The position feedback device 6c is connected to an input of the computing unit 1a. The computing unit 1a preferably includes a digital input, which is connected to the position feedback device 6c. In another embodiment, the computing unit 1a includes an analog input, which is connected to the position feedback device 6c. In a special embodiment, the computing unit 1a includes an incremental summation circuit for processing one or more signals of the position feedback device 6c. The position feedback device 6c is also connected to an input of the computing unit 1b. The computing unit 1b preferably includes a digital input, which is connected to the position feedback device 6c. In another embodiment, the computing unit 1b includes an analog input, which is connected to the position feedback device 6c. In a special embodiment, the computing unit 1b includes an incremental summation circuit for processing one or more signals of the position feedback device 6c.

[0044] Figure 2 The circuit in the embodiment additionally comprises an adjustable current and / or voltage supply 9. The adjustable current and / or voltage supply 9 has an input. The input is connected to one of the computing units 1a. In particular, the input of the adjustable current and / or voltage supply 9 can be electrically connected to one of the computing units 1a.

[0045] The adjustable current and / or voltage supply device 9 receives a signal, such as an oscillating signal, from the calculation unit 1a. It is provided that the signal oscillates at at least 20 Hz and / or 1 kHz and / or at least 5 kHz and / or at least 20 kHz. In a first embodiment, the current and / or voltage supply device 9 provides a current and / or voltage signal only when a signal is received from the calculation unit 1a. In a second embodiment, that current and / or voltage signal is a function of the frequency of the signal from the calculation unit 1a. In particular, the current and / or voltage signal can be proportional to the frequency of the signal from the calculation unit 1a.

[0046] The adjustable current and / or voltage supply 9 is connected to the input of the AND gate 8a. When the adjustable current and / or voltage supply 9 additionally sends a corresponding signal, the AND gate 8a switches one of the switches 5b to conduct in the direction of the valve 4. Without a corresponding signal from the current and / or voltage supply 9, the switch 5b does not conduct current. Similarly, the switch 5b does not conduct current without a corresponding signal from each of the two computing units 1a, 1b.

[0047] The adjustable current and / or voltage supply 9 is also connected to the input of the AND gate 8b. When the adjustable current and / or voltage supply 9 additionally sends a corresponding signal, the AND gate 8b thus switches one of the switches 5c to conduct in the direction of the valve 4. Without a corresponding signal from the current and / or voltage supply 9, the switch 5c does not conduct current. Similarly, the switch 5c does not conduct current without a corresponding signal from each of the two computing units 1a, 1b.

[0048] In a special embodiment, the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device 9 includes separate outputs for each of these AND gates 8a, 8b. The first output terminal is electrically connected to the AND gate 8a. The first output terminal can especially include a safety device relative to a short circuit. In other words, when a short circuit occurs in the AND gate 8a or in the electrical connection to the AND gate 8a, the other output terminals of the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device 9 remain stable as much as possible. The second output terminal is electrically connected to the AND gate 8b. The second output terminal can especially include a safety device relative to a short circuit. In other words, when a short circuit occurs in the AND gate 8b or in the electrical connection to the AND gate 8b, the other output terminals of the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device 9 remain stable as much as possible.

[0049] according to Figure 3 The circuit comprises another switch 5d. The other switch 5d preferably comprises a relay. In another embodiment, the switch 5d comprises a transistor and / or a field effect transistor and / or a bipolar transistor with an insulating gate electrode. It is further provided that the other switch 5d comprises a tube amplifier and / or a vacuum switch. The tube amplifier can be used, for example, in circuits such as the following, in which robustness is crucial.

[0050] The further switch 5d is preferably like Figure 1 The other switch 5d includes a disconnect contact like the switch 5a in FIG. Figure 1 The switches 5a shown in FIG. 5 are mechanically coupled. In other words, the switches 5a and 5d are switched synchronously.

[0051] The switches 5a-5c are arranged on a first side of the valve 4 in terms of circuit technology. Preferably, the switches 5a-5c are arranged between the valve 4 and a current and / or voltage supply 10 for the valve. In particular, the disconnecting contact 5a is arranged between the valve 4 and a current and / or voltage supply 10 for the valve. The switch 5d is arranged on a second side of the valve 4 in terms of circuit technology. The second side of the valve 4 in terms of circuit technology is different from the first side of the valve 4 in terms of circuit technology. The disconnecting contact 5d is preferably arranged between the valve 4 and a ground connection and / or a ground connection 11.

[0052] The switch 5d is coupled to the position feedback device 6d. Ideally, the position feedback device 6d is part of the switch 5d. The position feedback device 6d is connected to the input of the calculation unit 1a. The calculation unit 1a preferably includes a digital input, which is connected to the position feedback device 6d. In another embodiment, the calculation unit 1a includes an analog input, which is connected to the position feedback device 6d. In a special embodiment, the calculation unit 1a includes an incremental summation circuit for processing one or more signals of the position feedback device 6d. The position feedback device 6d is also connected to the input of the calculation unit 1b. The calculation unit 1b preferably includes a digital input, which is connected to the position feedback device 6d. In another embodiment, the calculation unit 1b includes an analog input, which is connected to the position feedback device 6d. In a special embodiment, the calculation unit 1b includes an incremental summation circuit for processing one or more signals of the position feedback device 6d.

[0053] Preferably, these position feedback devices 6c and 6d are connected to the same input terminal of the calculation unit 1a. In particular, these position feedback devices 6c and 6d are electrically connected to the same input terminal of the calculation unit 1a. Preferably, these position feedback devices 6c and 6d are also connected to the same input terminal of the calculation unit 1b. In particular, these position feedback devices 6c and 6d are electrically connected to the same input terminal of the calculation unit 1b.

[0054] Advantageously, these position feedback devices 6c and 6d are further connected to the current and / or voltage supply 10 of the valve via one or more resistors 12. In one embodiment, the current and / or voltage supply 10 of the valve is electrically coupled to the current and / or voltage main supply 3 of the circuit. In another embodiment, the current and / or voltage supply 10 of the valve is located at the line voltage. Here, the line voltage is related to the voltage and frequency commonly used worldwide. The line voltage is especially related to an alternating current of 50 Hz in the case of 220 volts to 240 volts or an alternating current of 60 Hz in the case of about 110 volts.

[0055] Furthermore, it is provided that the relay is tested with regard to its integrity. Contacts on the relay may become welded, for example due to a switching operation. As a result, the relay, which is designed as a disconnecting contact, no longer opens. The relay is then inoperative.

[0056] Figure 4 A corresponding circuit for checking the disconnection contact 5e is shown. The disconnection contact 5e can be, for example, Figure 3 The relay 5d in the embodiment. A resistor 13, such as 10 megohm, is connected in parallel with the relay 5e. An electrical appliance 14, such as Figure 1 The valve in is connected in series with the relay 5e. The load 14 is at a first supply voltage 15a. In one embodiment, the first supply voltage 15a is a line voltage of 220 to 240 volts at 50 Hz or a line voltage of approximately 110 volts at 60 Hz.

[0057] The second supply voltage 16a, 16b is Figure 4 The circuit in the circuit is supplied with a DC voltage of typically 1.2 volts and / or 2 volts and / or 3 volts and / or 3.3 volts and / or 5 volts and / or 6 volts. A resistor 17 of, for example, 6.8 kilo-ohms is led from a first supply point 16a to a node 18a of the circuit. A diode 19 and a resistor 20 limit the current between the point with the first supply voltage 15a and the point with the second supply voltage 16a. In one embodiment, the diode 19 is a diode of the IN4007 type and the resistor 20 is 150 kilo-ohms.

[0058] A further resistor of, for example, 47 kilo-ohms is led from the node 18a in the direction of the input of the calculation unit 1c. The calculation unit 1c may be, for example, Figure 1 One of the computing units 1a or 1b in the embodiment of the present invention is supplied with a supply voltage 16b. The supply voltage 16b of the computing unit 1c is typically of the same magnitude as the supply voltage 16a.

[0059] If the relay 5a now receives a command to disconnect and does not disconnect here due to the welded contacts, the node 22 reaches ground potential and / or earth potential. As a result, the signal at the input of the computing unit 1c is no longer influenced by the AC voltage according to the supply voltage 15a. Instead, the input of the computing unit 1c substantially has the second supply voltage 16a. The computing unit 1c infers a fault in the relay 5e from the high signal at its input.

[0060] In the example described with a resistor 13 of 10 megohms, a contact resistance of less than 10 megohms on the relay 5e leads to an error detection. Assuming that the resistor 13 has a value of 25 kiloohms, a contact resistance of less than 25 kiloohms on the relay 5e leads to an error detection. Other limits for error detection can be adjusted by changes at the input of the calculation unit 1c and / or by changes in the resistors 17, 20 and / or 21.

[0061] The AC voltage component at the input of the calculation unit 1c can be increased by an additional branch between the further supply voltage 15b and the further node 18b. In addition, the dependency of the load 14 is reduced by the additional branch between the further supply voltage 15b and the further node 18b.

[0062] Figure 5 The corresponding circuit is shown. The further supply voltage 15b is ideally equal to the supply voltage 15a. The resistor 23 is typically 200 kilo-ohms.

[0063] In other words, the present disclosure teaches a switch device comprising:

[0064] A first computing unit and a second computing unit 1a, 1b, wherein the first computing unit and the second computing unit each comprise a first input terminal,

[0065] An OR gate 7, a first position feedback device 6a and a first switch 5a, wherein the OR gate 7 has an output terminal and is communicatively connected with the first switch 5a via the output terminal of the OR gate 7;

[0066] The OR gate 7 has a first input terminal and a second input terminal, and the first calculation unit 1a is communicatively connected to the OR gate 7 via the first input terminal of the OR gate 7, and the second calculation unit 1b is communicatively connected to the OR gate 7 via the second input terminal of the OR gate 7;

[0067] wherein at least one of the computing units 1a, 1b is configured to send a digital enable signal to an OR gate 7, and the OR gate 7 is configured to actuate the first switch 5a upon receipt of the digital enable signal;

[0068] The first position feedback device 6a is assigned to the first switch 5a and is communicatively connected to the first input end of the first computing unit 1a and is communicatively connected to the first input end of the second computing unit 1b;

[0069] The computing units 1a, 1b are communicatively connected to one another and each of the computing units 1a, 1b is configured to: read a first position signal from a first position feedback device 6a,

[0070] The read first position signal is sent to the corresponding other computing units 1b, 1a, so that the corresponding other computing units 1a, 1b receive the sent first position signal,

[0071] comparing the read first position signal with the received first position signal; and

[0072] In the event of a lack of consistency between the read first position signal and the received first position signal, an error message is output.

[0073] Preferably, each of these computing units 1a, 1b is communicatively connected to an adjustable current and / or voltage supply device 9 and is configured to send a deactivation signal to the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device 9 if the read first position signal and the received first position signal lack consistency.

[0074] Advantageously, the first computing unit 1 a is connected to the first AND gate 8 and is designed to send a deactivation signal to the first AND gate 8 a in the event of a lack of consistency between the read-out first position signal and the received first position signal.

[0075] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the second computing unit 1 b is connected to a second AND gate 8 b and is designed to send a deactivation signal to the second AND gate 8 b in the event of a lack of consistency between the read-out first position signal and the received first position signal.

[0076] The first calculation unit 1a comprises a first input terminal. The second calculation unit 1b comprises a first input terminal.

[0077] The switch device of the present disclosure is advantageously a switch device for an automatic burner. In a special embodiment, the switch device is a switch device for an automatic burner. According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, the switch device is a circuit device.

[0078] The OR gate 7 and / or the output end of the OR gate 7 are preferably communicatively connected to the first switch 5a and are unidirectionally connected. The OR gate 7 sends a signal to the first switch 5a via the output end of the OR gate 7. The first switch 5a receives a signal from the output end of the OR gate 7. The first switch 5a does not send a signal to the OR gate 7. The first switch 5a does not send a signal to the output end of the OR gate 7. The OR gate 7 and / or the output end of the OR gate 7 do not receive a signal from the first switch 5a. The unidirectional connection reduces the complexity of the switch device.

[0079] The first computing unit 1a is preferably communicatively connected to the first input of the OR gate 7 and is unidirectionally connected. The first computing unit 1a sends a signal to the first input of the OR gate 7. The first input of the OR gate 7 receives a signal from the first computing unit 1a. The OR gate 7 and / or the first input of the OR gate 7 do not send a signal to the first computing unit 1a. The first computing unit 1a does not receive a signal from the OR gate 7 and / or from the first input of the OR gate 7.

[0080] The second computing unit 1b is preferably communicatively connected to the second input end of the OR gate 7 and is unidirectionally connected. The second computing unit 1b sends a signal to the second output end of the OR gate 7. The second input end of the OR gate 7 receives a signal from the second computing unit 1b. The OR gate 7 and / or the second input end of the OR gate 7 do not send a signal to the second computing unit 1b. The second computing unit 1b does not receive a signal from the OR gate 7 and / or from the second input end of the OR gate 7.

[0081] The digital enable signal is preferably a signal having a voltage between 2.4 volts and 6 volts. In one embodiment, the digital enable signal is a signal having a voltage between 4.5 volts and 5.5 volts. In a special embodiment, the digital enable signal is a signal having a voltage of 5 volts.

[0082] In one embodiment, the OR gate 7 is configured to generate a switching signal upon receiving a digital enable signal from at least one of the computing units 1a, 1b and send the switching signal to the first switch 5a. The first switch 5a performs the switching operation upon receiving the switching signal. Switch operation. In a special embodiment, the first switch 5a is a disconnect contact. Therefore, the first switch 5a is configured to be disconnected when receiving the switch signal. It is stipulated that the switch signal is a signal with a voltage between 5 volts and 30 volts. In one embodiment, the switch signal is a signal with a voltage between 4.5 volts and 5.5 volts. In a special embodiment, the switch signal is a signal with a voltage of 5 volts. In another special embodiment, the switch signal is a signal with a voltage of 6 volts and / or 12 volts and / or 24 volts.

[0083] The first position feedback device 6a is preferably communicatively connected and unidirectionally connected with the first input end of the first computing unit 1a and with the first input end of the second computing unit 1b. The first position feedback device 6a sends the first position signal to the first computing unit 1a via the first input end of the first computing unit 1a and to the second computing unit 1b via the first input end of the second computing unit 1b. The first computing unit 1a does not send a signal via the first input end of the first computing unit 1a and does not send the first position signal to the first position feedback device 6a. The second computing unit 1b does not send a signal via the first input end of the second computing unit 1b and does not send the first position signal to the first position feedback device 6a.

[0084] The first and second computing units 1a, 1b are preferably connected to each other in a communication manner and bidirectionally. Ideally, the switching device comprises a bidirectional bus 2. The first computing unit 1a is connected to the bidirectional bus 2, in particular in a communication manner. The second computing unit 1b is also connected to the bidirectional bus 2, in particular in a communication manner.

[0085] It is provided that each of the computing units 1a, 1b is designed to output an error message in the event of a lack of consistency between the read first position signal and the received first position signal by outputting an optical signal and / or an acoustic signal. It is further provided that each of the computing units 1a, 1b includes an error register and is designed to output an error message in the event of a lack of consistency between the read first position signal and the received first position signal by setting a value in the corresponding error register. It is further provided that each of the computing units 1a, 1b includes an interface to a superior monitoring device and is designed to output an error message in the event of a lack of consistency between the read first position signal and the received first position signal by sending an error signal to the superior monitoring device via the corresponding interface.

[0086] In one embodiment, the switch device comprises a valve 4. A first switch 5a) and the valve 4 are connected in series.

[0087] The present disclosure also teaches one of the aforementioned switch devices,

[0088] Each of these computing units 1a, 1b is designed to send a digital enable signal to an OR gate 7;

[0089] The OR gate 7 is configured to actuate the first switch 5a upon receiving at least one digital enable signal;

[0090] Each of these computing units 1a, 1b is designed to:

[0091] After sending the digital enable signal, the first position signal is read from the first position feedback device 6a.

[0092] The read first position signal is sent to the corresponding other computing units 1b, 1a, so that the corresponding other computing units 1b, 1a receive the sent first position signal,

[0093] comparing the read first position signal with the received first position signal; and

[0094] In the event of a lack of consistency between the read first position signal and the received first position signal, an error message is output.

[0095] Advantageously, each of these computing units 1a, 1b is designed to read the first position signal from the first position feedback device 6a at most 5 seconds after the digital enable signal is sent. In a special embodiment, each of these computing units 1a, 1b is designed to read the first position signal from the first position feedback device 6a at most 3 seconds after the digital enable signal is sent. In another embodiment, each of these computing units 1a, 1b is designed to read the first position signal from the first position feedback device 6a at most 1 second after the digital enable signal is sent. Rapid reading of the first position signal has the effect that a faulty switch 5a-5d and / or a faulty computing unit 1a, 1b is immediately known.

[0096] The present disclosure also teaches one of the aforementioned switch devices,

[0097] The computer units 1a, 1b are communicatively connected to one another and the first computer unit 1a is designed to:

[0098] Send the digital enable signal to OR gate 7 and

[0099] Sending a prompt signal to the second computing unit 1b due to sending the digital enable signal to the OR gate 7;

[0100] Each of the computing units 1a, 1b is designed to read a first position signal from the first position feedback device 6a after sending a digital enable signal.

[0101] The read first position signal is sent to the corresponding other computing units 1b, 1a, so that the corresponding other computing units 1b, 1a receive the sent first position signal,

[0102] comparing the read first position signal with the received first position signal; and

[0103] In the event of a lack of consistency between the read first position signal and the received first position signal, an error message is output.

[0104] Advantageously, the first computing unit 1a is configured to send the prompt signal to the second computing unit 1b at most 10 microseconds after the digital enable signal is sent. In a special embodiment, the first computing unit 1a is configured to send the prompt signal to the second computing unit 1b at most 5 seconds after the digital enable signal is sent. In another embodiment, the first computing unit 1a is configured to send the prompt signal to the second computing unit 1b at most 3 seconds after the digital enable signal is sent. In a special embodiment, the first computing unit 1a is configured to send the prompt signal to the second computing unit 1b at most 1 second after the digital enable signal is sent. Rapid transmission of the prompt signal reduces: synchronization problems and / or coordination problems between the computing units 1a, 1b.

[0105] The present disclosure furthermore teaches one of the aforementioned switchgears, wherein the switchgear additionally comprises a current and / or voltage main supply 3;

[0106] Wherein the first computing unit 1a has an error register and a supply input;

[0107] wherein the current and / or voltage main supply device 3 is electrically connected to the supply input terminal of the first calculation unit 1a;

[0108] wherein the first computer unit 1a has a unit for temporally monitoring a supply signal at a supply input of the first computer unit 1a; and

[0109] Therein, the unit for temporal monitoring of the supply signal is designed to set a value in the error register if the supply signal falls below a predefined value.

[0110] It is provided that the error register is an error register of a unit for temporal monitoring of a supply signal. It is also provided that the unit for temporal monitoring of a supply signal comprises a unit for undervoltage detection and / or a unit for voltage drop detection. It is also provided that the unit for temporal monitoring of a supply signal is a unit for undervoltage detection and / or a unit for voltage drop detection.

[0111] The present disclosure also teaches one of the aforementioned switch devices,

[0112] The switch device further comprises a current and / or voltage main supply device 3;

[0113] Each of these computing units 1a, 1b has an error register and a supply input;

[0114] wherein the current and / or voltage main supply device 3 is electrically connected to each of the supply input terminals of the computing units 1a, 1b;

[0115] Therein, the first computing unit 1a has a first unit for temporally monitoring a supply signal at a supply input of the first computing unit 1a;

[0116] wherein the first unit for temporal monitoring of the supply signal is designed to set a value in an error register of the first computer unit 1 a when the supply signal at the supply input of the first computer unit 1 a falls below a predefined value;

[0117] wherein the second computing unit 1 b has a second unit for temporally monitoring a supply signal at a supply input of the second computing unit 1 b; and

[0118] The second unit for temporal monitoring of the supply signal is designed to set a value in an error register of the second computer unit 1 b if the supply signal at the supply input of the second computer unit 1 b falls below a predefined value.

[0119] The present disclosure furthermore teaches one of the aforementioned switching devices, wherein the first calculation unit 1a additionally comprises a second input and the second calculation unit 1b additionally comprises a second input;

[0120] The switch device additionally comprises:

[0121] A first AND gate 8a, a second position feedback device 6b and a second switch 5b, wherein the first AND gate 8a has an output terminal and is communicatively connected to the second switch 5b via the output terminal of the first AND gate 8a;

[0122] The first AND gate 8a has a first and a second input terminal, the first computing unit 1a is communicatively connected to the first AND gate 8a via the first input terminal of the first AND gate 8a, and the second computing unit 1b is communicatively connected to the first AND gate 8a via the second input terminal of the first AND gate 8a;

[0123] Each of these computing units 1a, 1b is configured to send a digital enable signal to a first AND gate 8a, and the first AND gate 8a) is configured to actuate the second switch 5b only when the two digital enable signals are received;

[0124] The second position feedback device 6b is assigned to the second switch 5b and is communicatively connected to the second input end of the first computing unit 1a and to the second input end of the second computing unit 1b;

[0125] The computing units 1a, 1b are communicatively connected to one another and each of the computing units 1a, 1b is configured to: read out a second position signal from a second position feedback device 6b, respectively;

[0126] The read second position signal is sent to the corresponding other computing units 1b, 1a, so that the corresponding other computing units 1b, 1a receive the sent second position signal,

[0127] comparing the read second position signal with the received second position signal, and

[0128] In the event of a lack of consistency between the read second position signal and the received second position signal, an error message is output.

[0129] The first switch 5a is different from the second switch 5b. The first position feedback device 6a is different from the second position feedback device 6b)

[0130] The first AND gate 8a and / or the output end of the first AND gate 8a are preferably connected in communication with the second switch 5b and are unidirectionally connected. The first AND gate 8a sends a signal to the second switch 5b via the output end of the first AND gate 8a. The second switch 5b receives a signal from the output end of the first AND gate 8a. The second switch 5b does not send a signal to the first AND gate 8a. The second switch 5b does not send a signal to the output end of the first AND gate 8a. The output end of the first AND gate 8a and / or the first AND gate 8a does not receive a 5b signal from the second switch.

[0131] The first computing unit 1a is preferably connected in communication with the second input of the first AND gate 8a and is unidirectionally connected. The first computing unit 1a sends a signal to the first input of the first AND gate 8a. The first input of the first AND gate 8a receives a signal from the first computing unit 1a. The first AND gate 8a and / or the first input of the first AND gate 8a do not send a signal to the first computing unit 1a. The first computing unit 1) does not receive a signal from the first AND gate 8a and / or receives a signal from the first input of the first AND gate 8a.

[0132] The second computing unit 1b is preferably connected in communication with the second input end of the first AND gate 8a and is unidirectionally connected. The second computing unit 1b sends a signal to the second input end of the first AND gate 8a. The second input end of the first AND gate 8a receives a signal from the second computing unit 1b. The first AND gate 8a and / or the second input end of the first AND gate 8a do not send a signal to the second computing unit 1b. The second computing unit 1b does not receive a signal from the first AND gate 8a and / or receives a signal from the second input end of the first AND gate 8a.

[0133] In one embodiment, the first AND gate 8a is configured to generate a switch signal and send it to the second switch 5b only when receiving the digital enable signal of the two computing units 1a and 1b. When the switch signal is received, the second switch 5b performs a switch operation. In a special embodiment, the second switch 5b is a closed contact. Therefore, the second switch 5b is configured to close when the switch signal is received. It is stipulated that the switch signal is a signal with a voltage between 5 volts and 30 volts. In one embodiment, the switch signal is a signal with a voltage between 4.5 volts and 5.5 volts. In a special embodiment, the switch signal is a signal with a voltage of 5 volts. In another special embodiment, the switch signal is a signal with a voltage of 6 volts and / or 12 volts and / or 24 volts.

[0134] The second position feedback device 6b is preferably communicatively connected and unidirectionally connected with the second input end of the first computing unit 1a and with the second input end of the second computing unit 1b. The second position feedback device 6b sends the second position signal to the first computing unit 1a via the second input end of the first computing unit 1a and to the second computing unit 1b via the second input end of the second computing unit 1b. The first computing unit 1a does not send a signal via the second input end of the first computing unit 1a and does not send the second position signal to the second position feedback device 6b. The second computing unit 1b does not send a signal via the second input end of the second computing unit 1b and does not send the second position signal to the second position feedback device 6b.

[0135] It is provided that each of these computing units 1a, 1b is configured to output an error message when the read second position signal and the received second position signal lack consistency, by outputting an optical signal and / or an acoustic signal. It is also provided that each of these computing units 1a, 1b includes an error register and is configured to output an error message when the read second position signal and the received second position signal lack consistency, by setting a value in the corresponding error register. It is also provided that each of these computing units 1a, 1b includes an interface to a superior monitoring device and is configured to output an error message when the read second position signal and the received second position signal lack consistency, by sending an error signal to the superior monitoring device via the corresponding interface.

[0136] In one embodiment, the switch device comprises a valve 4. The second switch 5b is connected in series with the valve 4. Advantageously, the first switch 5a, the second switch 5b and the valve 4 are connected in series.

[0137] The present disclosure also teaches one of the aforementioned switch devices, wherein the switch device comprises:

[0138] adjustable current and / or voltage supply 9,

[0139] wherein the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device 9 comprises an output and an enable input and the first computing unit 1a comprises an enable output;

[0140] wherein the first computing unit 1a) is communicatively connected to the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device 9 via an enable output of the first computing unit 1a and via an enable input of the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device 9;

[0141] The first computing unit 1a is designed to send an enable signal to the adjustable current and / or voltage supply 9, and the adjustable current and / or voltage supply 9 is designed to provide a digital enable signal at its output as a response to receiving the enable signal.

[0142] The present disclosure also teaches one of the aforementioned switch devices, wherein the switch device comprises:

[0143] Adjustable current and / or voltage supply device 9;

[0144] The adjustable current and / or voltage supply device 9 comprises an output terminal and an enable input terminal, and the second calculation unit 1b comprises an enable output terminal;

[0145] The second computing unit 1b is communicatively connected to the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device 9 via an enable output of the second computing unit 1b and via the enable input of the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device 9, wherein the second computing unit 1b is constructed to send an enable signal to the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device 9; and wherein the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device 9 is constructed to provide a digital enable signal at its own output as a response to receiving the enable signal.

[0146] It is provided that the enable signal is an oscillating signal, in particular an oscillating square-wave signal, which has a frequency of at least 20 Hz and / or 1 kHz and / or 5 kHz, preferably at least 10 kHz, particularly preferably at least 20 kHz.

[0147] The present disclosure also teaches one of the aforementioned switching devices, which has an AND gate 8a and an adjustable current and / or voltage supply device 9,

[0148] Wherein the first AND gate 8a comprises a third input terminal;

[0149] The output terminal of the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device 9 is electrically connected to the third input terminal of the first AND gate 8a;

[0150] The first AND gate 8a is designed to actuate the second switch 5b only when:

[0151] Applying a digital enable signal to a first input terminal of the first AND gate 8a; and

[0152] Applying a digital enable signal to a second input terminal of the first AND gate 8a; and

[0153] A digital enable signal is present at a third input of the first AND gate 8 a .

[0154] If one of the following conditions is not met: applying a digital enable signal to the first input of the first AND gate 8a; applying a digital enable signal to the second input of the first AND gate 8a; and applying a digital enable signal to the third input of the first AND gate 8a, the second switch 5b is not operated.

[0155] The present disclosure also teaches one of the aforementioned switch devices, wherein the first calculation unit 1a additionally includes a third input terminal, and the second calculation unit 1b additionally includes a third input terminal;

[0156] The switch device additionally comprises:

[0157] A second AND gate 8b, a third position feedback device 6c and a third switch 5c, wherein the second AND gate 8b has an output terminal and is communicatively connected to the third switch 5c via the output terminal of the second AND gate 8b;

[0158] The second AND gate 8b has a first input and a second input, and the first computing unit 1a is communicatively connected to the second AND gate 8b via the first input of the second AND gate 8b, and the second computing unit 1b is communicatively connected to the second AND gate 8b via the second input of the second AND gate 8b;

[0159] Each of the computing units 1a, 1b is configured to send a digital enable signal to a second AND gate 8b; and the second AND gate 8b is configured to actuate the third switch 5c only when the two digital enable signals are received;

[0160] wherein the third position feedback device 6c is assigned to the third switch 5c and is communicatively connected to the third input terminal of the first computing unit 1a and to the third input terminal of the second computing unit 1b;

[0161] The computing units 1a, 1b are communicatively connected to one another, and each of the computing units 1a, 1b is configured to: read out a third position signal from a third position feedback device 6c, respectively;

[0162] The read third position signal is sent to the corresponding other computing units 1b, 1a, so that the corresponding other computing units 1b, 1a receive the sent third position signal,

[0163] comparing the read third position signal with the received third position signal; and

[0164] In the event of a lack of consistency between the read third position signal and the received third position signal, an error message is output.

[0165] The first switch 5a is different from the third switch 5c. The second switch 5b is different from the third switch 5c. The first position feedback device 6a is different from the third position feedback device 6c. The second position feedback device 6b is different from the third position feedback device 6c.

[0166] The second AND gate 8b and / or the output end of the second AND gate 8b are preferably connected in communication and unidirectionally with the third switch 5c. The second AND gate 8b sends a signal to the third switch 5c via the output end of the second AND gate 8b. The third switch 5c receives a signal from the output end of the second AND gate 8b. The third switch 5c does not send a signal to the second AND gate 8b. The third switch 5c does not send a signal to the output end of the second AND gate 8b. The output end of the second AND gate 8b and / or the second AND gate 8b does not receive a signal from the third switch 5c.

[0167] The first computing unit 1a is preferably connected in communication with the second input end of the second AND gate 8b and is unidirectionally connected. The first computing unit 1a sends a signal to the first input end of the second AND gate 8b. The first input end of the second AND gate 8b receives a signal from the first computing unit 1a. The second AND gate 8b and / or the first input end of the second AND gate 8b do not send a signal to the first computing unit 1a. The first computing unit 1a does not receive a signal from the second AND gate 8b and / or from the first input end of the second AND gate 8b.

[0168] The second computing unit 1b is preferably connected to the second input of the second AND gate 8b in a unidirectional manner. The second computing unit 1b sends a signal to the second input of the second AND gate 8b. The second input of the second AND gate 8b receives a signal from the second computing unit 1b. The second AND gate 8b and / or the second input of the second AND gate 8b do not send a signal to the second computing unit 1b. The second computing unit 1b does not receive a signal from the second AND gate 8b and / or from the second input of the second AND gate 8b.

[0169] In one embodiment, the second AND gate 8b is configured to generate a switch signal and send it to the third switch 5c only when receiving the digital enable signal of the two computing units 1a, 1b. When the switch signal is received, the third switch 5c performs a switch operation. In a special embodiment, the third switch 5c is a closed contact. Therefore, the third switch 5c is configured to close when the switch signal is received. It is stipulated that the switch signal is a signal with a voltage between 2.4 volts and 6 volts. In one embodiment, the switch signal is a signal with a voltage between 4.5 volts and 5.5 volts. In a special embodiment, the switch signal is a signal with a voltage of 5 volts.

[0170] The third position feedback device 6c is preferably connected in communication and unidirectionally with the third input terminal of the first computing unit 1a and the third input terminal of the second computing unit 1b. The third position feedback device 6c sends the third position signal to the first computing unit 1a via the third input terminal of the first computing unit 1a and to the second computing unit 1b via the third input terminal of the second computing unit 1b. The first computing unit 1a does not send a signal via the third input terminal of the first computing unit 1a and does not send the third position signal to the third position feedback device 6c. The second computing unit 1b does not send a signal via the third input terminal of the second computing unit and does not send the third position signal to the third position feedback device 6c.

[0171] It is provided that each of these computing units 1a, 1b is configured to output an error message when the read third position signal and the received third position signal lack consistency, by outputting an optical signal and / or an acoustic signal. It is also provided that each of these computing units 1a, 1b includes an error register and is configured to output an error message when the read third position signal and the received third position signal lack consistency, by setting a value in the corresponding error register. It is also provided that each of these computing units 1a, 1b includes an interface to a superior monitoring device and is configured to output an error message when the read third position signal and the received third position signal lack consistency, by sending an error signal to the superior monitoring device via the corresponding interface.

[0172] In one embodiment, the switch device comprises a valve 4. The third switch 5c is connected in series with the valve 4. Advantageously, the first switch 5a, the second switch 5b, the third switch 5c and the valve 4 are connected in series. Particularly advantageously, the first switch 5a, the second switch 5b, the third switch 5c and the valve 4 are connected in series in this order.

[0173] The disclosure further teaches one of the aforementioned switching devices, which has a second AND gate 8b and an adjustable current and / or voltage supply 9,

[0174] The second AND gate 8b includes a third input terminal;

[0175] The output terminal of the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device 9 is electrically connected to the third input terminal of the second AND gate 8b;

[0176] The second AND gate 8b is designed to actuate the third switch 5c only in the following cases:

[0177] Applying a digital enable signal to a first input terminal of the second AND gate 8b; and

[0178] Applying a digital enable signal to a second input terminal of the second AND gate 8b; and

[0179] A digital enable signal is applied to the third input of the second AND gate 8 b.

[0180] If one of the following conditions is not met: applying a digital enable signal to the first input of the second AND gate 8b; applying a digital enable signal to the second input of the second AND gate 8b; and applying a digital enable signal to the third input of the second AND gate 8b, the third switch 5c is not operated.

[0181] The present disclosure also teaches one of the aforementioned switch devices, wherein the switch device additionally comprises:

[0182] A fourth position feedback device 6d and a fourth switch 5d;

[0183] wherein the fourth switch 5d is mechanically coupled to the first switch 5a, so that the fourth switch 5d is in the open position only when the first switch 5a is in the open position, and the fourth switch 5d is in the closed position only when the first switch 5a is in the closed position;

[0184] The fourth position feedback device 6d is assigned to the fourth switch 5d and is communicatively connected to the third input terminal of the first computing unit 1a and to the third input terminal of the second computing unit 1b;

[0185] The computing units 1a, 1b are communicatively connected to one another, and each of the computing units 1a, 1b is configured to: read out a fourth position signal from a fourth position feedback device 6d, respectively;

[0186] The read fourth position signal is sent to the corresponding other computing units 1b, 1a, so that the corresponding other computing units 1b, 1a receive the sent fourth position signal,

[0187] comparing the read fourth position signal with the received fourth position signal; and

[0188] In the event of a lack of consistency between the read fourth position signal and the received fourth position signal, an error message is output.

[0189] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the first switch 5a includes an open position and a closed position. Similarly, the fourth switch 5d includes an open position and a closed position.

[0190] In one embodiment, the fourth switch is directly mechanically coupled to the first switch 5a, so that the fourth switch 5d is in the open position only when the first switch 5a is in the open position, and the fourth switch 5d is in the closed position only when the first switch 5a is in the closed position.

[0191] The first switch 5a is different from the fourth switch 5d. The second switch 5b is different from the fourth switch 5d. The third switch 5c is different from the fourth switch 5d. The first position feedback device 6a is different from the fourth position feedback device 6d. The second position feedback device 6b is different from the fourth position feedback device 6d. The third position feedback device 6c is different from the fourth position feedback device 6d.

[0192] The fourth position feedback device 6d is preferably communicatively connected and unidirectionally connected with the third input terminal of the first computing unit 1a and the third input terminal of the second computing unit 1b. The fourth position feedback device 6d sends the fourth position signal to the first computing unit 1a via the third input terminal of the first computing unit 1a and to the second computing unit 1b via the third input terminal of the second computing unit 1b. The first computing unit 1a does not send a signal via the third input terminal of the first computing unit 1a and does not send the fourth position signal to the fourth position feedback device 6d. The second computing unit 1b does not send a signal via the third input terminal of the second computing unit 1b and does not send the fourth position signal to the fourth position feedback device 6d.

[0193] It is provided that each of the computing units 1a, 1b is configured to output an error message when the read fourth position signal and the received fourth position signal lack consistency by outputting an optical signal and / or an acoustic signal. It is further provided that each of the computing units 1a, 1b includes an error register and is configured to output an error message when the read fourth position signal and the received fourth position signal lack consistency by setting a value in the corresponding error register. It is further provided that each of the computing units 1a, 1b includes an interface to a superior monitoring device and is configured to output an error message when the read fourth position signal and the received fourth position signal lack consistency by sending an error signal to the superior monitoring device via the corresponding interface.

[0194] In one embodiment, the switch device comprises a valve 4. The fourth switch 5d is connected in series with the valve 4. Advantageously, the first switch 5a, the second switch 5b, the third switch 5c, the valve 4 and the fourth switch 5d are connected in series. Particularly advantageously, the first switch 5a, the second switch 5b, the third switch 5c, the valve 4 and the fourth switch 5d are connected in series in this order.

[0195] The present disclosure also teaches one of the aforementioned switch devices, which has a fourth position feedback device 6d,

[0196] Each of these computing units 1a, 1b is designed to:

[0197] comparing the read first position signal with the received fourth position signal, and

[0198] In the event of a lack of consistency between the read first position signal and the received fourth position signal, an error message is output.

[0199] It is provided that each of the computing units 1a, 1b is configured to output an error message when the read first position signal and the received fourth position signal lack consistency by outputting an optical signal and / or an acoustic signal. It is further provided that each of the computing units 1a, 1b includes an error register and is configured to output an error message when the read first position signal and the received fourth position signal lack consistency by setting a value in the corresponding error register. It is further provided that each of the computing units 1a, 1b includes an interface to a superior monitoring device and is configured to output an error message when the read first position signal and the received fourth position signal lack consistency by sending an error signal to the superior monitoring device via the corresponding interface.

[0200] The present disclosure also teaches one of the aforementioned switching devices, wherein the switching device has a fourth position feedback device 6d, wherein each of the calculation units 1a, 1b is configured to:

[0201] comparing the read fourth position signal with the received first position signal, and

[0202] In the event of a lack of consistency between the read fourth position signal and the received first position signal, an error message is output.

[0203] It is provided that each of the computing units 1a, 1b is configured to output an error message when the fourth position signal read out and the first position signal received do not match, by outputting an optical signal and / or an acoustic signal. It is further provided that each of the computing units 1a, 1b includes an error register and is configured to output an error message when the fourth position signal read out and the first position signal received do not match, by setting a value in the corresponding error register. It is further provided that each of the computing units 1a, 1b includes an interface to a superior monitoring device and is configured to output an error message when the fourth position signal read out and the first position signal received do not match, by sending an error signal to the superior monitoring device via the corresponding interface.

[0204] The present disclosure also teaches one of the aforementioned switch devices, which has a fourth switch 5d,

[0205] The switch device further comprises a valve 4;

[0206] The first switch 5a, the valve 4 and the fourth switch 5d are connected in series, and

[0207] The valve 4 is arranged between the first switch 5a and the fourth switch 5d.

[0208] Preferably, the valve 4 is arranged in circuit technology between the first switch 5a and the fourth switch 5d. Advantageously, the valve 4 is connected in series between the first switch 5a and the fourth switch 5d.

[0209] Preferably, the valve 4 is arranged between the second switch 5b and the fourth switch 5d in terms of circuit technology. Advantageously, the valve 4 is connected in series between the second switch 5b and the fourth switch 5d.

[0210] The present disclosure also teaches a switch device, which includes a fourth switch 5d,

[0211] The switch device further comprises a valve 4;

[0212] The third switch 5c, the valve 4 and the fourth switch 5d are connected in series; and

[0213] The valve 4 is arranged between the third switch 5c and the fourth switch 5d.

[0214] Preferably, the valve 4 is arranged between the third switch 5c and the fourth switch 5d in terms of circuit technology. Advantageously, the valve 4 is connected in series between the third switch 5c and the fourth switch 5d.

[0215] The present disclosure also teaches one of the aforementioned switch devices, wherein the switch device has a fourth position feedback device 6d, wherein the switch device includes at least one feedback resistor 12; and

[0216] The fourth position feedback device 6 d is electrically connected to the at least one feedback resistor 12 .

[0217] Advantageously, the first switch 5a comprises contacts. The at least one feedback resistor 12 is electrically connected to the contacts of the first switch. Preferably, the switch device comprises a current and / or voltage supply 10 for the valve. Here, both the contacts of the first switch 5a and the at least one feedback resistor 12 are electrically connected to the current and / or voltage supply 10 for the valve.

[0218] The present disclosure also teaches one of the aforementioned switch devices, which has a fourth position feedback device 6d,

[0219] The switch device includes at least one parallel resistor 13 and at least one diode 19;

[0220] wherein the at least one parallel resistor 13 is connected in parallel with the fourth switches 5d and 5e;

[0221] wherein the at least one parallel resistor 13 comprises a first contact and the fourth switches 5d, 5e comprise a first contact;

[0222] The first contact of the at least one parallel resistor 13 is electrically connected to the first contact of the fourth switch 5d, 5e; and the first contact is connected to the third input of the first calculation unit 1a via the at least one diode 19.

[0223] Advantageously, the at least one shunt resistor 13 comprises a second contact and the fourth switch 5d, 5e comprises a second contact. Here, the second contact of the at least one shunt resistor 13 is electrically connected to the second contact of the fourth switch 5d, 5e. In one embodiment, the switch device comprises a grounding device and / or a ground connection terminal 11. The second contact of the at least one shunt resistor 13 is electrically connected to the grounding device and / or the ground connection terminal 11.

[0224] The content relates to various embodiments of the present disclosure. These embodiments can be modified in various ways without deviating from the basic idea and without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The subject matter of the present disclosure is defined by its claims. Various changes can be made without departing from the scope of protection of the following claims.

[0225] Reference numerals list

[0226] 1a-1c Computational Unit

[0227] 2 Communication bus

[0228] 3. Current and / or voltage main supply device

[0229] 4 valves

[0230] 5a-5e Switch

[0231] 6a-6d Position feedback device

[0232] 7 OR Gate

[0233] 8a, 8b AND gate

[0234] 9 Adjustable current and / or voltage supply device

[0235] 10 Current and / or voltage supply to the valve

[0236] 11 Ground connection and / or earth connection

[0237] 12 Feedback resistor

[0238] 13 Parallel resistance

[0239] 14 Electrical appliances

[0240] 15a, 15b Supply voltage

[0241] 16a, 16b Supply voltage

[0242] 17 Resistors

[0243] 18a, 18b nodes

[0244] 19 Diode

[0245] 20, 21 Resistors

[0246] 22 nodes

[0247] 23 resistors.

Claims

1. A switch device, comprising: A first computing unit and a second computing unit (1a, 1b), wherein the first computing unit and the second computing unit (1a, 1b) respectively comprise a first input terminal, An OR gate (7), a first position feedback device (6a) and a first switch (5a), wherein the OR gate (7) has an output end and is communicatively connected to the first switch (5a) via the output end of the OR gate (7); The OR gate (7) has a first input terminal and a second input terminal, and the first computing unit (1a) is communicatively connected to the OR gate (7) via the first input terminal of the OR gate (7), and the second computing unit (1b) is communicatively connected to the OR gate (7) via the second input terminal of the OR gate (7); wherein at least one of the computing units (1a, 1b) is configured to send a digital enable signal to the OR gate (7), and the OR gate (7) is configured to actuate the first switch (5a) upon receiving the digital enable signal; wherein the first position feedback device (6a) is assigned to the first switch (5a) and is communicatively connected to a first input end of the first computing unit (1a) and is communicatively connected to a first input end of the second computing unit (1b); The computing units (1a, 1b) are communicatively connected to one another and each of the computing units (1a, 1b) is designed to: reading a first position signal from the first position feedback device (6a), The read first position signal is sent to the corresponding other computing units (1b, 1a), so that the corresponding other computing units (1b, 1a) receive the sent first position signal, comparing the read first position signal with the received first position signal; and In the event of a lack of consistency between the read first position signal and the received first position signal, an error message is output.

2. The switch device according to claim 1, Each of the computing units (1a, 1b) is configured to send a digital enable signal to the OR gate (7); wherein the OR gate (7) is configured to actuate the first switch (5a) upon receiving at least one digital enable signal; in, Each of the computing units (1a, 1b) is configured to: reading a first position signal from the first position feedback device (6a) after sending the digital enable signal, The read first position signal is sent to corresponding other computing units (1b, 1a), so that the corresponding other computing units (1b, 1a) receive the sent first position signal, comparing the read first position signal with the received first position signal; and In the event of a lack of consistency between the read first position signal and the received first position signal, an error message is output.

3. The switch device according to claim 1, The computing units (1a, 1b) are communicatively connected to one another and the first computing unit (1a) is designed to: Sending a digital enable signal to the OR gate (7), and Sending a prompt signal to the second calculation unit (1b) due to sending the digital enable signal to the OR gate (7); Each of the computing units (1a, 1b) is designed to: reading a first position signal from the first position feedback device (6a) after sending the digital enable signal, The read first position signal is sent to corresponding other computing units (1b, 1a), so that the corresponding other computing units (1b, 1a) receive the sent first position signal, comparing the read first position signal with the received first position signal; and In the event of a lack of consistency between the read first position signal and the received first position signal, an error message is output.

4. A switchgear according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the switchgear additionally comprises a current and / or voltage main supply device (3), wherein the first computing unit (1a) has an error register and a supply input terminal; wherein the current and / or voltage main supply device (3) is electrically connected to the supply input terminal of the first calculation unit (1a); in, The first computing unit (1a) has a unit for temporally monitoring a supply signal at a supply input of the first computing unit (1a); and Therein, the unit for temporal monitoring of the supply signal is designed to set a value in the error register when the supply signal falls below a predefined value.

5. The switching device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first calculation unit (1a) additionally comprises a second input terminal and the second calculation unit (1b) additionally comprises a second input terminal; The switch device additionally comprises: A first AND gate (8a), a second position feedback device (6b) and a second switch (5b), wherein the first AND gate (8a) has an output terminal and is communicatively connected to the second switch (5b) via the output terminal of the first AND gate (8a); wherein the first AND gate (8a) has a first and a second input terminal, and the first computing unit (1a) is communicatively connected to the first AND gate (8a) via the first input terminal of the first AND gate (8a), and the second computing unit (1b) is communicatively connected to the first AND gate (8a) via the second input terminal of the first AND gate (8a); wherein each of the computing units (1a, 1b) is configured to send a digital enable signal to the first AND gate (8a), and the first AND gate (8a) is configured to actuate the second switch (5b) only when the two digital enable signals are received; wherein the second position feedback device (6b) is assigned to the second switch (5b) and is communicatively connected to the second input end of the first computing unit (1a) and to the second input end of the second computing unit (1b); The computing units (1a, 1b) are communicatively connected to one another and each of the computing units (1a, 1b) is designed to: respectively reading second position signals from the second position feedback device (6b), The read second position signal is sent to the corresponding other computing units (1b, 1a), so that the corresponding other computing units (1b, 1a) receive the sent second position signal, comparing the read second position signal with the received second position signal, and In the event of a lack of consistency between the read second position signal and the received second position signal, an error message is output.

6. The switch device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the switch device additionally comprises: an adjustable current and / or voltage supply (9), wherein the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device (9) comprises an output and an enable input and the first calculation unit (1a) comprises an enable output; wherein the first computing unit (1a) is communicatively connected to the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device via an enable output of the first computing unit (1a) and via the enable input of the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device (9); wherein the first computing unit (1a) is configured to send an enable signal to the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device (9); and The adjustable current and / or voltage supply (9) is designed to provide a digital enable signal at its output as a response to receiving the enable signal.

7. The switch device according to claim 6, wherein the first calculation unit (1a) additionally comprises a second input terminal and the second calculation unit (1b) additionally comprises a second input terminal; The switch device additionally comprises: A first AND gate (8a), a second position feedback device (6b) and a second switch (5b), wherein the first AND gate (8a) has an output terminal and is communicatively connected to the second switch (5b) via the output terminal of the first AND gate (8a); wherein the first AND gate (8a) has a first and a second input terminal, and the first computing unit (1a) is communicatively connected to the first AND gate (8a) via the first input terminal of the first AND gate (8a), and the second computing unit (1b) is communicatively connected to the first AND gate (8a) via the second input terminal of the first AND gate (8a); wherein each of the computing units (1a, 1b) is configured to send a digital enable signal to the first AND gate (8a), and the first AND gate (8a) is configured to actuate the second switch (5b) only when the two digital enable signals are received; wherein the second position feedback device (6b) is assigned to the second switch (5b) and is communicatively connected to the second input end of the first computing unit (1a) and to the second input end of the second computing unit (1b); The computing units (1a, 1b) are communicatively connected to one another and each of the computing units (1a, 1b) is designed to: respectively reading second position signals from the second position feedback device (6b), The read second position signal is sent to the corresponding other computing units (1b, 1a), so that the corresponding other computing units (1b, 1a) receive the sent second position signal, comparing the read second position signal with the received second position signal, and In the event of a lack of consistency between the read second position signal and the received second position signal, outputting an error message, wherein the first AND gate (8a) comprises a third input terminal; wherein the output end of the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device (9) is electrically connected to the third input end of the first AND gate (8a); The first AND gate (8a) is designed to actuate the second switch (5b) only in the following cases: Applying a digital enable signal to a first input terminal of the first AND gate (8a); and Applying a digital enable signal to a second input terminal of the first AND gate (8a); as well as A digital enable signal is applied to the third input of the first AND gate (8a).

8. The switch device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first calculation unit (1a) additionally comprises a third input terminal, and the second calculation unit (1b) additionally comprises a third input terminal; The switch device additionally comprises: A second AND gate (8b), a third position feedback device (6c) and a third switch (5c), wherein the second AND gate (8b) has an output terminal and is communicatively connected to the third switch (5c) via the output terminal of the second AND gate (8b); The second AND gate (8b) has a first input terminal and a second input terminal, and the first computing unit (1a) is communicatively connected to the second AND gate (8b) via the first input terminal of the second AND gate (8b), and the second computing unit (1b) is communicatively connected to the second AND gate (8b) via the second input terminal of the second AND gate (8b); wherein each of the computing units (1a, 1b) is configured to send a digital enable signal to the second AND gate (8b); and the second AND gate (8b) is configured to actuate the third switch (5c) only when the two digital enable signals are received; wherein the third position feedback device (6c) is assigned to the third switch (5c) and is communicatively connected to the third input terminal of the first computing unit (1a) and is communicatively connected to the third input terminal of the second computing unit (1b); The computing units (1a, 1b) are communicatively connected to one another and each of the computing units (1a, 1b) is designed to: respectively reading third position signals from the third position feedback device (6c), The read third position signal is sent to the corresponding other computing units (1b, 1a), so that the corresponding other computing units (1b, 1a) receive the sent third position signal, comparing the read third position signal with the received third position signal; and In the event of a lack of consistency between the read third position signal and the received third position signal, an error message is output.

9. The switch device according to claim 8, The switch device additionally comprises: an adjustable current and / or voltage supply (9), wherein the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device (9) comprises an output and an enable input and the first calculation unit (1a) comprises an enable output; wherein the first computing unit (1a) is communicatively connected to the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device via an enable output of the first computing unit (1a) and via the enable input of the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device (9); wherein the first computing unit (1a) is configured to send an enable signal to the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device (9); and wherein the adjustable current and / or voltage supply (9) is designed to provide a digital enable signal at its output as a response to receiving the enable signal, wherein the second AND gate (8b) comprises a third input terminal; wherein the output terminal of the adjustable current and / or voltage supply device (9) is electrically connected to the third input terminal of the second AND gate (8b); The second AND gate (8b) is designed to actuate the third switch (5c) only in the following cases: Applying a digital enable signal to a first input terminal of the second AND gate (8b); and Applying a digital enable signal to a second input terminal of the second AND gate (8b); as well as A digital enable signal is applied to the third input of the second AND gate (8b).

10. The switch device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the switch device additionally comprises: A fourth position feedback device (6d) and a fourth switch (5d); wherein the fourth switch (5d) is mechanically coupled to the first switch (5a), so that the fourth switch (5d) is in the open position only when the first switch (5a) is in the open position, and the fourth switch (5d) is in the closed position only when the first switch (5a) is in the closed position; wherein the fourth position feedback device (6d) is assigned to the fourth switch (5d) and is communicatively connected to the third input terminal of the first computing unit (1a) and is communicatively connected to the third input terminal of the second computing unit (1b); The computing units (1a, 1b) are communicatively connected to one another and each of the computing units (1a, 1b) is designed to: respectively reading fourth position signals from the fourth position feedback device (6d), The read fourth position signal is sent to the corresponding other computing units (1b, 1a), so that the corresponding other computing units (1b, 1a) receive the sent fourth position signal, comparing the read fourth position signal with the received fourth position signal; and In the event of a lack of consistency between the read fourth position signal and the received fourth position signal, an error message is output.

11. The switch device according to claim 10, Each of the computing units (1a, 1b) is designed to: comparing the read first position signal with the received fourth position signal, and In the event of a lack of consistency between the read first position signal and the received fourth position signal, an error message is output.

12. The switch device according to claim 10, Each of the computing units (1a, 1b) is designed to: comparing the read fourth position signal with the received first position signal, and In the event of a lack of consistency between the read fourth position signal and the received first position signal, an error message is output.

13. The switch device according to claim 10, The switching device additionally comprises a valve (4), wherein the first switch (5a), the valve (4) and the fourth switch (5d) are connected in series, and The valve (4) is arranged between the first switch (5a) and the fourth switch (5d).

14. The switch device according to claim 10, wherein the switching device comprises at least one feedback resistor (12), The fourth position feedback device (6d) is electrically connected to the at least one feedback resistor (12).

15. The switch device according to claim 10, The switch device comprises at least one parallel resistor (13) and at least one diode (19); wherein the at least one parallel resistor (13) is connected in parallel with the fourth switch (5d, 5e); wherein the at least one parallel resistor (13) comprises a first contact and the fourth switch (5d, 5e) comprises a first contact; wherein the first contact of the at least one parallel resistor (13) is electrically connected to the first contact of the fourth switch (5d, 5e); and The first contact is connected to the third input of the first computing unit (1a) via the at least one diode (19).

Images