Method for controlling a suction appliance

Abstract

A method (200) for controlling a suction device (10) is proposed, wherein the suction device (10) includes at least one electric motor (80) for generating a suction function, and the method includes at least the following steps: - sensing vibration data (120) on a suction hose (36) of the suction device (10), - evaluating the vibration data (120) by comparing it with comparative data and generating a comparison result, and - controlling the electric motor (80) according to the comparison result.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for controlling a suction device, wherein the suction device includes at least one electric motor for generating a suction function. Background Technology

[0002] A method for controlling a vacuum cleaner is known from DE102010 040336A1. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention provides a method for controlling a suction device, wherein the suction device includes at least one electric motor, the electric motor being used to generate a suction function, and the method includes at least the following method steps:

[0004] -Sense vibration data on the suction hose of the suction device.

[0005] - The vibration data is evaluated by comparing it with comparative data and generating comparison results.

[0006] - Control the electric motor based on the comparison results.

[0007] This invention provides a method to improve user comfort by providing an automatic start function for a suction appliance, regardless of whether the suction appliance has a power outlet on its housing. Automatic start functions in grid-connected suction appliances with a power outlet on the housing are well known in the prior art. In grid-connected suction appliances, a grid-connected power tool can be connected to the power outlet. The automatic start function enables the grid-connected suction appliance to start automatically once a load-related current is present at the power outlet. This load-related current is present once the grid-connected power tool is running. The functional manner of the automatic start function in grid-connected suction appliances with a power outlet is well known to those skilled in the art, especially when using a grid-connected power tool, and therefore will not be discussed in detail here. Unlike the prior art, this invention provides a solution to the task of providing an automatic start function for any power tool, independent of the power supply location of the power tool. Therefore, the present invention can provide an automatic start function for machine tools (especially handheld machine tools) that are, for example, battery-powered, grid-powered, or pneumatically powered. Thus, the suction device according to the invention is universally replaceable by virtually any machine tool, especially a handheld machine tool. Within the scope of the invention, "universal" means that the suction device according to the invention provides an automatic start function independently of the machine tool manufacturer and independently of the specific power supply device of the machine tool. The suction device according to the invention is compatible with this and can be used with virtually any machine tool. The method controls the electric motor based on the comparison of vibration data and thus provides an automatic start function for the machine tool.

[0008] In particular, the method according to the invention enables automatic start-up of any suction device (whether grid-connected or battery-powered) when used with any machine tool, especially a handheld machine tool (whether grid-connected or battery-powered). Thus, automatic start-up can be provided to any suction device across manufacturers.

[0009] Within the scope of this invention, "controlling an electric motor" should be understood as turning on the electric motor, turning off the electric motor, adjusting the power of the electric motor, increasing the power of the electric motor, or decreasing the power of the electric motor.

[0010] Machine tools, especially handheld machine tools, generate vibrations and experience accelerations during their operation. These vibrations and / or accelerations can be generated, for example, by the rotation of the machine tool motor, the movement of the machine tool, at least partial rotation of the machine tool, and / or the machining of a workpiece. Examples of machine tools herein include benchtop circular saws, belt grinders, benchtop planers, and other machine tools deemed meaningful by those skilled in the art. Examples of handheld machine tools herein include screwdrivers, especially battery-powered or grid-operated screwdrivers, rotary impact screwdrivers, dry-working screwdrivers, impact drills, drill hammers, core drills, angle grinders, eccentric grinders, vibratory grinders, cleavers, hydraulic breakers, handheld circular saws, handheld planers, or other handheld machine tools well known to those skilled in the art. If the machine tool is connected to a suction device via a suction hose, the vibrations of the machine tool can be transmitted to the suction device.

[0011] Preferably, the suction device is a battery-operated suction device, which can operate using at least one battery, particularly a handheld machine tool battery pack. Thus, electrical power is supplied to the suction device's power supply unit via at least one battery. Within the scope of this invention, "handheld machine tool battery pack" should be understood as a combination of at least one battery cell and a battery pack casing. The handheld machine tool battery pack is advantageously constructed to supply power to commonly sold, battery-operated handheld machines. The at least one battery cell can, for example, be a lithium-ion battery cell with a rated voltage of 3.6V. For example, the handheld machine tool battery pack includes at least five battery cells and a total operating rated voltage of 18V to enable the suction device to operate at its appropriate power. Alternatively, the suction device can be a grid-operated suction device, which can be connected to an external power outlet via a power cable. Here, the external power outlet can provide, for example, a mains voltage of 100V, 110V, 120V, 127V, 220V, 230V, or 240V with a frequency of 50Hz or 60Hz, but it can also provide three-phase AC voltage. The possible configurations of the external power outlet and the voltages available therein are well known to those skilled in the art.

[0012] Once the electric motor is supplied with electrical energy from the power supply unit, it generates a suction function. When the electric motor is supplied with electrical energy, it generates at least one suction flow that substantially passes through the suction device housing and thereby draws in particles and / or liquids via a suction hose. The suction hose has at least one suction opening and is preferably reversibly and detachably mounted to the suction device housing. The suction opening is configured to receive accumulated particles by means of the suction flow during operation of the suction device. Furthermore, the suction hose can be connected to a machine tool, particularly a handheld machine tool, preferably reversibly and detachably. The suction hose is configured here to remove accumulated particles, particularly dirt particles, from the working surface, work area, or work zone of the machine tool through the suction opening during machine tool operation.

[0013] The vibrations and / or accelerations described at the beginning can be generated, exemplarily, by movement of the suction hose, at least partial rotation of the suction hose, connection of the suction hose to a machine tool, rotation of the electric motor of the suction device, etc. These vibrations and / or accelerations are transmitted directly to and sensed by a sensor module arranged on the suction hose. The vibrations can be represented, for example, as a vector with one, two, or three components, such that the vibrations include, for example, one, two, or three spatial directions.

[0014] To enable the sensor module to sense vibration data, it is attached to the suction hose. Preferably, the sensor module is arranged, particularly mounted, on the end region of the suction hose, away from the suction device. Particularly preferred is that the sensor module is positioned near the suction opening. The sensor module can be mounted on and mechanically connected to the suction hose. Within the scope of this invention, "mechanical connection" means a connection involving force engagement, form engagement, and / or material engagement, wherein these connections can be configured to be detachable or non-detachable.

[0015] In one method step, vibration data is sensed on the suction hose of a suction device. To sense the vibration data, the suction hose can have at least one sensor module for sensing vibration and / or acceleration. Here, the sensor module can sense the vibration and / or acceleration of the machine tool, particularly a handheld machine tool, and / or the vibration and / or acceleration of the suction hose. The sensor module can be configured as at least one accelerometer sensor that senses vibration during operation of the machine tool and / or suction device. The accelerometer sensor can be exemplarily configured as a gyroscope, compass, or magnetic field sensor. Here, the sensor module can substantially sense vibration values ​​and / or acceleration values ​​from up to three spatial directions. The sensor module can include a microcontroller or microprocessor for evaluating the vibration data. The sensor module is configured to sense the vibration and / or acceleration of the machine tool and / or suction device and convert it into vibration data. The vibration data can here be represented as a vector of three components at different time points. Therefore, the vibration data can be a time-dependent data sequence at different time points, having one, two, or three components in one, two, or three spatial directions. The sensor module is configured to convert the three-part vibration of the suction hose into three-part vibration data. Furthermore, the sensor module is configured for continuous vibration sensing, such that the vibration is continuously converted into vibration data. It is also conceivable that the sensor module senses vibration and converts it into vibration data at particularly adjustable time intervals. This vibration data can be sensed as a vibration spectrum, wherein the vibration data for each spatial direction can be evaluated in a time-dependent manner. Thus, the vibration spectrum can be understood as the temporal variation of the vibration along the time axis.

[0016] In one method step, when using a communication connection, sensed vibration data or comparison results are transmitted from the suction tubing to the suction device. Thus, for example, sensed vibration data can be transmitted from the sensor module to the suction device via the communication connection, allowing the suction device to perform an evaluation of the sensed vibration data. It is also conceivable, by way of example, that the sensor module performs an evaluation of the sensed vibration data and transmits the comparison results to the suction device via the communication connection. The communication connection can be a conduit connection, particularly by means of a communication line between the sensor module and the suction device. Here, the communication line can be, for example, a communication cable or at least one conductor rail on at least one printed circuit board. Here, the communication connection connects the sensor module to the suction device via at least one communication interface, enabling at least one unilateral communication flow, wherein at least one bilateral communication flow is also possible. Within the scope of this invention, "unilateral communication flow" means that at least one communication signal can be transmitted from the sensor module to the suction device and there is essentially no communication from the suction device to the sensor module. "Bidirectional communication flow" should be understood as bidirectional communication between the sensor module and the suction device, enabling at least one communication signal to be transmitted from the sensor module to the suction device and at least one additional communication signal to be transmitted from the suction device to the sensor module. Furthermore, it is feasible to construct the communication connection between the sensor module and the suction device wirelessly. The wireless communication connection can take the form of Bluetooth, WLAN, infrared, near-field communication (NFC) using RFID technology, or other wireless communication connections familiar to those skilled in the art. The communication protocol used can be Bluetooth Smart, GSM, UMTS, LTE, ANT, ZigBee, LoRa, SigFox, NB-IoT, BLE, IrDA, and other communication protocols familiar to those skilled in the art.

[0017] The sensor module includes a sensor module power supply device configured to supply electrical energy to the sensor module. Here, the sensor module power supply device can be connected to a suction device via a power supply line, allowing the sensor module power supply device to be supplied with electrical energy through the suction device. Alternatively, the sensor module power supply device may be supplied with electrical energy through a power supply device of a machine tool, particularly a handheld machine tool (e.g., a battery, particularly a handheld machine tool battery pack). It is also conceivable that the sensor module power supply device may be supplied with electrical energy through at least one battery (especially at least one button cell battery), through at least one rechargeable battery, or via an energy harvesting device. Configurations of sensor module power supply devices using batteries, rechargeable batteries, or energy harvesting devices are well known to those skilled in the art and therefore will not be discussed in detail here.

[0018] In one method step, vibration data is evaluated by comparing it with comparative data. A comparison result is then generated. The vibration data can be compared with the comparative data using a sensor module. Alternatively, the vibration data can be compared with the comparative data using a control unit of a suction device. For this purpose, the suction device has a control unit. This control unit is configured to at least control the suction device, particularly an electric motor. The control unit can also compare the vibration data with the comparative data. Exemplarily, the control unit can be configured as a microcontroller and / or a microprocessor. The comparative data can be user-adjustable and / or pre-given at the manufacturer's side. For example, the comparative data can be the frequency of a bandpass filter or a pre-given and / or adjustable saturation range of a saturation filter. The function of the saturation filter can be represented as a mathematical function, a saturation function:

[0019]

[0020] The comparison data can be stored inside and / or outside the device. Here, "inside the device" can be understood, for example, on the sensor module of the suction device, on the storage unit of the suction device, or in the control unit of the suction device. "Outside the device" can be understood as substantially outside the suction device, such as on a smartphone, on a PC, in the cloud, etc. When comparing vibration data with comparison data, it is possible to check whether, starting from the magnitude of the vibration data, the vibration data is higher or lower than a predefined and / or adjustable threshold value for the comparison data.

[0021] A comparison result is generated after comparing the vibration data with the comparison data. Here, for example, a sensor module and / or control unit can generate the comparison result.

[0022] In one method step, the electric motor is controlled based on the comparison result. Here, the control unit can control the electric motor based on the generated comparison result. The comparison result can include information about whether the electric motor should start, stop, or continue operating. Therefore, controlling the electric motor, as described above, includes starting, stopping, continuing operation of the electric motor, or power adaptation of the electric motor. Thus, the comparison result can include, for example, a start signal, a stop signal, or a signal for continuing operation of the electric motor. Here, the comparison result is based on a comparison of vibration data and comparison data.

[0023] The comparison result can also include information about the control timing of the electric motor. This allows the electric motor to be controlled so that it is switched on when the machine tool is put into operation. Furthermore, it is possible for the control timing to include the time point at which the electric motor stops once the machine tool stops. It is also possible for the comparison result to include the on and / or off delays for the electric motor.

[0024] In one method step, the vibration data is filtered at the frequency of at least one signal filter used to filter out the gravitational acceleration component from the vibration data. The signal filter can be configured as at least one high-pass filter, band-pass filter, band-stop filter, or low-pass filter, with a band-pass filter being preferred. In addition to the vibration and / or acceleration of the machine tool and / or suction device, the vibration data also includes a gravitational acceleration component. To remove the gravitational acceleration component from the vibration data, the vibration data is filtered using a signal filter, particularly a band-pass filter. This achieves that the vibration data is independent of the Earth's gravitational field. Furthermore, it achieves that the vibration data is independent of the orientation of the sensor module in the Earth's gravitational field.

[0025] It is conceivable that signal filters, especially bandpass filters, are configured for each component of the vibration data, or that signal filters, especially bandpass filters, are configured for each of the three components of the vibration data. Signal filters, especially bandpass filters, can have, for example, filter characteristics according to Butterworth. Furthermore, signal filters, especially bandpass filters, can include filter orders of at least one, especially two, having frequencies in the range of, for example, 100Hz to 200Hz, especially the limiting frequency. Here, the bandpass filter can have, for example, filter characteristics according to Chebyshev, Bessel, and Kaul, and other filter characteristics known to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, by way of example, the filter order can be increased from the beginning. The frequency of the bandpass filter can be user-adjustable, or, however, predefined at the manufacturer's side. It is further conceivable that the bandpass filter is a digital or analog filter.

[0026] When vibration data is filtered using a signal filter, particularly a bandpass filter, the filtered vibration data can then be output. It is conceivable that the filtered vibration data can be provided for further comparison or, in one embodiment, to present comparison results.

[0027] In one step of the process, a vector sum of vibration data is formed to obtain single-component vibration data. Typically, when using a sensor module, the vibration data is sensed as three-component vibration data. These three-component vibration data depict three spatial directions. To obtain vibration data independently of spatial directions, a vector sum of the three-component vibration data is formed. Thus, single-component vibration data is obtained, wherein the single-component vibration data is independent of the orientation of the suction hose in the working environment, the orientation of the suction hose in the working environment, the orientation of the machine tool (especially a handheld machine tool) in the working environment, the connection between the suction hose and the machine tool, the orientation of the connection between the suction hose and the machine tool, the type and function of the machine tool. The three-component vibration data are vectorically added in their spatial directions to achieve orientation-independent summation. This means that the vibration spectra in the three spatial directions are vectorically added to obtain a one-dimensional vibration spectrum. It is feasible to obtain the vector sum of the three-component vibration data when using a sensor module and / or a control unit.

[0028] The vibration data of a single component can be compared with at least one pre-defined and / or manufacturer-defined threshold. The pre-defined and / or manufacturer-defined threshold is presented here as the comparison data. If the vector sum is, for example, higher than the threshold, a start signal for the electric motor can be output as a comparison result. If the vector sum is, for example, lower than the threshold, a stop signal for the electric motor can be output.

[0029] Alternatively, it can be envisioned that in subsequent methodological steps, instead of forming a vector sum from the three-part vibration data, each spatial direction is evaluated separately using the associated vibration data.

[0030] In one method step, when comparing vibration data with comparison data, it is checked whether the vibration data exceeds the comparison data at least once within a successively adjustable interval width. The adjustable interval width for the vibration data allows for the determination, and in particular, the counting of how many times the sensed vibration data exceeds the comparison data within a successively adjustable interval width. This determined, in particular counted, number of exceedances of the vibration data can then be used to generate a comparison result. Here, the interval width of the vibration data is the adjustable width of an interval in the vibration spectrum. This means that the interval width can be a localized portion of the adjustable range of a one-dimensional vibration spectrum.

[0031] In one step of the process, vibration data, particularly single-component vibration data, is filtered using an adjustable saturation range of a saturation filter to filter vibration data following vibration peaks. The vibration data may include vibration peaks. These peaks may be generated, for example, due to at least one impact on the suction hose, the suction device, and / or the machine tool. Furthermore, the vibration peaks may exemplarily occur due to vibrations of the working surface transmitted to the suction device and / or the machine tool. Vibration peaks are filtered from the vibration data to prevent them from causing control of the electric motor. Here, vibration peaks can be understood, exemplarily, as errors in the vibration data that would tamper with it. Vibration peaks essentially do not provide explicit information about the user's use of the machine tool.

[0032] Vibration data can be compared with an adjustable saturation range using a sensor module and / or control unit to filter out vibration peaks. This saturation range can be user-adjustable and / or pre-defined at the manufacturer's side. For example, the saturation range can be in the range of 0.5g to 2g, particularly 0.7g to 0.95g.

[0033] In one method step, a sliding maximum value of at least one adjustable interval width used for vibration data is obtained to obtain a comparison result. The sliding maximum value can be obtained using a sensor module and / or a control unit. The sliding maximum value may include specifying an adjustable interval width. The sliding maximum value may also include finding a maximum value for the specified adjustable interval width. The sliding maximum value may include outputting the found maximum value within the specified adjustable interval width. The maximum value found within the specified interval width is output as a comparison result over the duration of the adjusted interval width. The interval width of the sliding maximum value here represents an adjustment parameter used to control the sensitivity of the electric motor. This means that the smaller the interval width is selected, the faster the comparison result is output and the faster the electric motor can be controlled. This allows checking whether the threshold of the comparison result is continuously reached. The sliding maximum value can be understood as the upper envelope of the vibration data.

[0034] For example, the adjustable interval width can be in the range of 0.01s to 0.05s, especially in the range of 0.015s to 0.03s. The interval width can be adjusted by the user or pre-defined on the manufacturer's side.

[0035] In one method step, the change over time of the maximum sliding value of the vibration data is calculated to check the comparison result. The change over time of the maximum sliding value can be calculated using a sensor module and / or a control unit. The change over time of the maximum sliding value is formed over at least two consecutive intervals of the maximum sliding value. This checks whether the comparison result continuously meets a threshold, thereby improving the accuracy of controlling the electric motor.

[0036] In one step of the method, the frequency of time-varying changes in the sliding maximum value of the vibration data is determined using a moving average filter to further examine the comparison result. This frequency can be determined using a sensor module and / or a control unit. Based on the determination of the frequency of time-varying changes, the number of times the sliding maximum value changes can be counted. If, within an adjustable range, there is essentially no time-varying change, the comparison result is output for controlling the electric motor. If, within an adjustable range, there is a time-varying change, the comparison result is essentially not output. This enables safe and reliable control of the electric motor.

[0037] For example, the factor of the interval width of the moving average filter relative to the interval width of the moving maximum can be in the range of 1 to 9, especially in the range of 3 to 8. The smaller the interval width of the moving average filter is chosen, the faster the suction device will start after the machine tool is started.

[0038] It is also conceivable that an internal time function is activated when the change in the first sliding maximum value over time is calculated. This internal time function predefines the time period during which the electric motor should be controlled. The internal time function can be activated when using a sensor module and / or a control unit. Here, the internal time function can be a function of the sensor module and / or the control unit.

[0039] In one method step, a sliding maximum value of the adjustable interval width for the adjustable quantity is obtained, and this value is compared with an adjustable threshold to obtain a comparison result. Here, the sensor module and / or control unit obtains the frequency of occurrence of the sliding maximum value within the adjustable interval width. Subsequently, the sensor module and / or control unit compares the obtained quantity with the adjustable threshold to determine whether the adjustable threshold has been reached. A comparison result is output based on this comparison. Here, the adjustable interval width for the adjustable quantity can be, for example, in the range of 1 to 9, particularly 3 to 8. The number of adjustable interval widths can be adjustable by the user or pre-defined on the manufacturer's side.

[0040] In one method step, the electric motor is operated for a subsequent operating period based on the comparison result. If the sensor module does not sense vibration data, the adjustable subsequent operating period enables the continued operation of the electric motor. Here, the sensor module and / or control unit can output the comparison result, causing the electric motor to continue operating. This ensures that if any remaining particles should be removed after the machine tool's work is completed, the electric motor is continued to be driven. Furthermore, the subsequent operating period of the electric motor substantially corrects for erroneously sensed vibration data by operating the electric motor during the subsequent operating period. This prevents the electric motor from being unintentionally shut off by the user. The subsequent operating period of the electric motor also prevents multiple control of the electric motor during a single user work process.

[0041] The subsequent running time can be set by the user on the suction device and / or an external electrical appliance, or it can be preset by the manufacturer. For example, the subsequent running time can be in the range of 0.1s to 5s, especially 0.5s to 3s. Here, the user can set the subsequent running time using the user interface on the suction device. It is also conceivable that the user can set the subsequent running time using an external electrical appliance (such as a smartphone, a cloud-based interface, a PC, etc.).

[0042] The present invention also proposes a sensor module for performing the method described above, wherein the sensor module is configured to sense vibration data.

[0043] The present invention also relates to a suction device for performing the method described above, comprising a suction hose and a control unit, wherein the suction hose includes at least one sensor module for sensing vibration data, and wherein the control unit is configured to perform at least one of the steps of the method described above. Here, the suction hose, sensor module, and control unit are all as described at the beginning. Attached Figure Description

[0044] The invention will now be explained with reference to preferred embodiments. The accompanying drawings illustrate:

[0045] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the suction device according to the present invention;

[0046] Figure 2 Flowchart of a method for controlling a suction device. Detailed Implementation

[0047] Figure 1A suction device 10 according to the invention is shown, comprising a suction device housing 12 and a suction hose 36. In this configuration of the invention, the suction hose 36 is detachably mounted on the suction device housing 12. Furthermore, the suction device 10 includes a sensor module 70. The sensor module 70 is arranged on the suction hose 36. The sensor module senses vibrations 110 of the machine tool 100, particularly a handheld machine tool, and of the suction device 10. The sensor module 70 is configured here as an accelerometer 71. The accelerometer 71 senses vibrations 110 in up to three spatial directions and converts the vibrations 110 into vibration data 120. Here, the vibration data 120 includes components for the corresponding spatial directions at different points in time. The sensor module 70 provides a communication connection 121 with the suction device 10 and transmits the vibration data 120 to the suction device. In this configuration, the machine tool 100 is exemplarily a handheld circular saw.

[0048] The suction device 10 includes an electric motor 80 for generating a suction function, a power supply unit 81, a dust collection device 14, and a dust collection filter element 16. Here, the suction device housing 12 surrounds the dust collection device 14. The suction device 10 additionally includes a control unit 60, which is configured to process vibration data 120 and control and / or adjust the suction device 10.

[0049] In this embodiment, the suction device 10 is configured as a battery-operated suction device, which operates by means of at least one battery 82, particularly by means of a handheld machine tool battery pack. Therefore, the required energy is provided to the suction device 10 by means of at least one battery 82 via the power supply unit 81.

[0050] The suction hose 36 includes a suction opening 35 and can be detachably mounted on the suction appliance housing 12. The suction opening 35 is configured to receive accumulated particles, particularly dirt particles, during operation of the suction appliance 10 and convey them to the dust collection device 14 via the suction hose 36. The suction hose 36 can be detachably connected to the machine tool 100, particularly a handheld machine tool. The suction hose 36 includes a sensor module 70, which is mounted on and mechanically connected to the end region 75 of the suction hose 36.

[0051] The suction device 10 is connected in a line to the sensor module 70. For this purpose, the suction hose 36 has a conduit 130 for the in-line connection between the suction device 10 and the sensor module 70. In this embodiment, the conduit 130 includes a communication conduit 131 and a power supply conduit 132. The communication conduit 131 transmits vibration data 120 between the sensor module 70 and the suction device 10. The power supply conduit 132 connects the sensor module 70 to the suction device 10, thereby supplying power to the sensor module 70.

[0052] The suction device housing 12 includes a mechanical interface 140 and a communication interface 145. The mechanical interface 140 is configured to detachably connect the suction hose 36 to the suction device housing 12. This is essentially achieved via a force-locking and / or shape-locking connection line. The communication interface 145 is configured to connect the sensor module 70 to the suction device 10. The communication interface 145 connects the sensor module 70 to the suction device 10 via a communication line 131. In this embodiment, the communication line 131 is detachably connected to the communication interface 145 via a plug connection. Additionally, the communication interface 145 is a power supply interface 146 for a power supply line 132. The power supply interface 146 connects the sensor module 70 to the power supply unit 81 via the power supply line 132.

[0053] Figure 2 A flowchart 201 illustrates a method 200 for controlling a suction device 10 according to the present invention. The suction device 10 has an electric motor 80 for generating a suction function. In a method step 202, the user activates the automatic start function of the suction device 10. This places the suction device 10 in a ready-to-operate state.

[0054] In method step 204, vibration data 120 is sensed on the suction tubing 36. Sensor module 70 senses vibration 110 and converts it into vibration data 120. Vibration data 120 includes vibration values ​​and / or acceleration values ​​substantially from up to three spatial directions, such that vibration data 120 represents a vector of three quantities at different time points. Vibration data 120 is represented as a vibration spectrum, where vibrations are plotted on a time axis in their amplitudes along the respective spatial directions.

[0055] In method step 205 of this embodiment, sensed vibration data 120 is transmitted from the suction hose 36 to the suction device 10 using the communication connection 121. In the subsequent method step 206, the vibration data 120 is evaluated by comparing it with comparison data. Furthermore, a comparison result is generated. Here, the vibration data 120 is compared with the comparison data using the control unit 60. The comparison data can, exemplarily, be the frequency of a signal filter and a predefined saturation range of a saturation filter. Here, the comparison data is stored internally in the storage unit of the control unit 60. In method step 206, the vibration data 120 is compared with the comparison data, and it is checked whether the vibration data is within or outside a predefined threshold of the comparison data. A comparison result is generated using this comparison.

[0056] Method step 206 includes method step 208. In method step 208, the vibration data 120 is filtered at the frequency of a signal filter used to filter out the gravitational acceleration component from the vibration data 120. Here, the signal filter is constructed as a bandpass filter. The gravitational acceleration component is removed from the vibration data 120, and the vibration data 120 is substantially independent of the Earth's gravitational field. Furthermore, it is achieved that the vibration data 120 is independent of the orientation of the sensor module 70 in the Earth's gravitational field. In method step 208, the bandpass filter filters three-part of the vibration data 120 according to the gravitational acceleration component. Here, the bandpass filter has a filter order of two, where the frequency includes a range from 100Hz to 200Hz. In this embodiment, the frequency of the bandpass filter is predefined on the manufacturer's side. Here, the control unit 60 includes a bandpass filter.

[0057] Method step 206 has a method step 210 following method step 208. In method step 210, a vector sum of vibration data 120 is formed. Here, the control unit 60 forms the vector sum of vibration data 120. The single-component vibration data 120 can be obtained by the vector sum of the three components of vibration data 120. This means that the vibration spectrum is vectorively added to its three spatial directions to obtain a one-dimensional vibration spectrum. The single-component vibration data 120 is independent of the orientation of the suction hose 36 in the working environment, the orientation of the suction hose in the working environment, and the main oscillation direction of the machine tool 100 connected to the suction device 10. In the case of the vector sum in method step 210, the three components of vibration data 120 are vectorively added to achieve a summation independent of orientation. In this embodiment, the vector sum is formed when the control unit 60 is used. In method step 210, the single-component vibration data 120 is also compared with a threshold defined on the manufacturer's side for the single-component vibration data 120, and the comparison result is output. The threshold defined on the manufacturer's side forms the comparison data here. If a comparison of the vector sum with a threshold indicates that the vector sum is higher than the threshold, a start signal for the electric motor 80 is output as the comparison result. If a comparison of the vector sum with the threshold indicates that the vector sum is lower than the threshold, a stop signal for the electric motor 80 is output.

[0058] Method step 206 further includes: when comparing vibration data 120 with comparison data, checking whether vibration data 120 exceeds the comparison data at least once within the width of a successive adjustable interval of adjustable quantity. The interval width of vibration data 120 is the adjustable width of an interval in a one-dimensional vibration spectrum. Therefore, here the interval width is the adjustable portion of the one-dimensional vibration spectrum.

[0059] By using the adjustable interval width for the vibration data 120, it is possible to determine, in particular to count, how many times the sensed vibration data 120 exceeds the comparison data within successive, particularly continuous, interval widths. This determined, particularly counted, number of times the vibration data 120 exceeds the comparison data is then used to generate a comparison result. Here, the interval width of the vibration data 120 is the adjustable width of an interval in the vibration spectrum. This means that the interval width is an adjustable portion of the one-dimensional vibration spectrum.

[0060] Furthermore, method step 206 includes method step 212. Method step 212 follows method step 210. In method step 212, the vibration data 120 is compared with an adjustable saturation range of a saturation filter to filter the vibration data 120 after the vibration peak. Here, when using the control unit 60, the vibration data 120 is compared with an adjustable saturation range. This saturation range is exemplarily in the range of 0.7g to 0.95g.

[0061] Method step 206 further includes method step 214. Method step 214 follows method step 212. In method step 214, a sliding maximum value is obtained for at least one of the adjustable interval widths for vibration data 120. Here, obtaining the sliding maximum value includes: specifying the adjustable interval width; finding the maximum value for the specified adjustable interval width; and outputting the maximum value found in the specified adjustable interval width. Here, the maximum value found in the specified adjustable interval width represents a comparison result. The adjustable interval width is exemplary in the range of 0.01s to 0.05s.

[0062] In method step 216, the time-varying change of the maximum sliding value of vibration data 120 is calculated. Method step 206 includes method step 216, which follows method step 214. The time-varying change is used to check the comparison results. The time-varying change is calculated when using control unit 60.

[0063] In method step 218, the frequency of the change in the sliding maximum value of vibration data 120 over time is determined. Method step 206 includes method step 218. Method step 218 follows method step 216. Here, the frequency of change over time is determined when using a moving average filter to further examine the comparison results. Furthermore, this frequency is determined when using the control unit 60. After comparing this frequency with the interval width of the adjustable quantity, the comparison result is output. Here, exemplarily, the factor of the interval width of the moving average filter relative to the interval width of the sliding maximum value is in the range of 1 to 9.

[0064] Method steps 212, 214, 216, and 218 form a first embodiment for comparing vibration data 120 with comparison data to obtain a comparison result.

[0065] In method step 226, a comparison result is generated when the control unit 60 is used, and the electric motor 80 is controlled. It is possible to delay the output of the comparison result to the electric motor 80 using an internal time function, thereby delaying the control of the electric motor 80. The internal time function is used to delay the control of the electric motor.

[0066] Method steps 220, 222, and 224 form a second embodiment for evaluating vibration data 120 by comparing it with comparative data to obtain a comparison result. Method step 206 additionally includes method steps 220, 222, and 224. Method step 226 also outputs the comparison result from method steps 220, 222, and 224.

[0067] In method step 220, the maximum sliding value within the adjustable interval width for vibration data 120 is obtained to obtain a comparison result. The maximum sliding value in method step 220 is obtained in method step 222 for the adjustable interval width of the adjustable quantity. Here, the adjustable quantity is obtained when using control unit 60. In method step 224, the obtained adjustable quantity is compared with an adjustable threshold, and a comparison result is obtained. When using control unit 60, the comparison between the obtained adjustable quantity and the adjustable threshold is performed. Once the comparison result is obtained, it is generated and output in method step 226.

[0068] In method step 228, the electric motor 80 is controlled using the control unit 60 based on the comparison result. Method step 228 includes method steps 230, 232, and 234. In method step 230, the electric motor 80 is started based on the comparison result. The electric motor 80 is run for an extended period until the comparison result includes different information. In method step 232, the electric motor 80 is stopped based on the comparison result using the control unit 60. Additionally, in method step 234, the electric motor 80 can be run for a subsequent operating period based on the comparison result. This subsequent operating period can be set by the user on the suction device 10. The subsequent operating period can be in the range of 0.1 seconds to 5 seconds.

Claims

1. A method (200) for controlling a suction device (10), wherein, The suction device (10) includes at least one electric motor (80), which is used to generate a suction function, and the method includes at least the following method steps: - Vibration data (120) sensed on the suction hose (36) of the suction device (10). - The vibration data (120) is evaluated by comparing it with comparative data and generating comparison results. - Based on the comparison result, the electric motor (80) is controlled, and in a method step (208), the vibration data (120) is filtered at the frequency of at least one signal filter used to filter out the gravitational acceleration component in the vibration data (120).

2. The method (200) according to claim 1, characterized in that, In one method step (210), a vector sum of the vibration data (120) is formed to obtain the vibration data (120) of a single component.

3. The method (200) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, When comparing the vibration data (120) with the comparison data, check whether the vibration data (120) exceeds the comparison data at least once within the width of the adjustable interval of each successive adjustable number of adjustable data.

4. The method (200) according to claim 3, characterized in that, In one method step (212), the vibration data (120) is compared with the saturation range that can be tuned by a saturation filter to filter the vibration data (120) after the vibration peak.

5. The method (200) according to claim 3, characterized in that, In one method step (214, 220), the sliding maximum value of at least one of the adjustable interval widths for the vibration data (120) is obtained to obtain the comparison result.

6. The method (200) according to claim 5, characterized in that, In one method step (216), the change of the maximum sliding value of the vibration data (120) over time is determined to examine the comparison results.

7. The method (200) according to claim 6, characterized in that, In one method step (218), the frequency of the change in the sliding maximum value of the vibration data (120) over time is determined using a sliding mean filter to further examine the comparison results.

8. The method (200) according to claim 5, characterized in that, In one method step (222, 224), the maximum sliding value of the adjustable interval width for the adjustable quantity is obtained, and the maximum sliding value is compared with the adjustable threshold to obtain the comparison result.

9. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, In one method step (205), with the use of a communication connection (121), the sensed vibration data (120) or the comparison result is transmitted from the suction hose (36) to the suction device (10).

10. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Based on the comparison results, the electric motor (80) is operated during the subsequent operating period.

11. A sensor module (70) for performing the method (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The sensor module (70) is configured to sense vibration data (120).

12. A suction device (10) for performing the method (200) according to at least one of claims 1 to 10, the suction device having a suction hose (36) and a control unit (60), wherein, The suction hose (36) includes at least one sensor module (70) for sensing vibration data (120), wherein the control unit (60) is configured to perform at least one of the steps of the method according to at least one of claims 1 to 10.

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