Regulating system for test benches

Abstract

In order to adjust the working medium in the specimen circuit (PK) of the specimen (P) on the test stand as quickly as possible to the desired temperature, a mixing unit (3) is provided according to the application, wherein a mixing region (28) is provided in the mixing unit (3), in which the working medium of the specimen circuit (PK) can be mixed with the pre-conditioned working medium from the tempering circuit (KK) in order to adjust the working medium in the specimen circuit (PK) to the predefined setpoint temperature (T_SOLL), wherein in order to fluidically integrate the mixing unit (3) into the specimen circuit (PK), at least one specimen circuit input connection (26a) and at least one specimen circuit output connection (26b) are provided on the mixing unit (3), which are fluidically connected to one another via the mixing region (28) in order to form part of the specimen circuit (PK), wherein in order to connect the mixing unit (3) to the regulating unit (2) of the regulating system (1), at least one regulating unit input connection (27a) and at least one regulating unit return connection (27b) are provided on the mixing unit (3), which are fluidically connected to one another by means of the mixing region (28) in order to form part of the tempering circuit (KK) for the working medium.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a hybrid unit for a conditioning system of a test bench, the conditioning system being used to adjust the working medium of the test specimen circuit of a specimen mounted on the test bench to a predetermined rated temperature; and to a conditioning unit for the conditioning system of a test bench, the conditioning system being used to adjust the working medium of the test specimen circuit of a specimen mounted on the test bench to a predetermined rated temperature. Furthermore, this invention relates to a conditioning system for a test bench for adjusting the working medium of the test specimen circuit of a specimen mounted on the test bench to a predetermined rated temperature, and to a test bench comprising a specimen and a conditioning system for adjusting the working medium of the test specimen circuit to a predetermined rated temperature. Additionally, this invention relates to a method for adjusting the working medium of the test specimen circuit of a specimen on a test bench to a predetermined rated temperature. Background Technology

[0002] On a test bench, a conditioning system is used to regulate the specific liquid or gaseous working medium of the mounted test specimen to a desired temperature for a known specific test. For example, a whole vehicle, a vehicle subsystem, or a single component of a vehicle may be used as a test specimen. A vehicle subsystem is, for example, a powertrain, which may include one or more components such as a drive unit, transmission, etc. A component may be, for example, a drive unit, such as an internal combustion engine, an electric motor, or a combination of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor (a so-called hybrid drive system). However, a component may also be a fuel cell, a battery, a transmission, etc. Typically, each test specimen has at least one test specimen circuit for the working medium (e.g., coolant, fuel, lubricant, etc.). During the test specimen's operation on the test bench, the working medium circulates in the test specimen circuit, where heat is typically input. Here, it is often necessary to regulate the temperature change profile of the working medium in the test specimen circuit to a specific time period as accurately and quickly as possible on the test bench. For example, it may be desirable to simulate on the test bench the temperature change profile of the test specimen's working medium previously recorded under real conditions (e.g., in a real vehicle traveling on a specific road section). It may also be desirable to keep the temperature as constant as possible. However, to date, it has been difficult for the control system to adequately achieve, especially, rapid temperature changes, in the working medium on the test bench, mainly due to the high thermal inertia of the working medium used.

[0003] For example, the regulating system is known from WO2019 / 183658A1, WO2019 / 149792 A1 or EP3293504 A1. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and method that makes it possible to adjust the working medium in the test specimen circuit of a specimen on a test bench to the desired temperature as quickly as possible.

[0005] According to the present invention, this objective is achieved by a mixing unit comprising a mixing region in which the working medium of the test specimen circuit can be mixed with a pre-temperature-controlled working medium from a temperature-regulating circuit to adjust the working medium in the test specimen circuit to the predetermined rated temperature. To fluidly integrate the mixing unit into the test specimen circuit, the mixing unit is provided with at least one test specimen circuit input interface and at least one test specimen circuit output interface, which are fluidly connected to each other through the mixing region to form part of the test specimen circuit. Furthermore, to connect the mixing unit to the regulating unit of a regulating system, the mixing unit is provided with at least one regulating unit input interface and at least one regulating unit return interface, which are fluidly connected to each other through the mixing region to form part of a temperature-regulating circuit for the working medium. This results in a highly homogeneous mixture and minimizes pressure loss in the test specimen circuit.

[0006] Furthermore, the objective is achieved using a regulating unit for a conditioning system of a test bench, which regulates the working medium of the test specimen circuit mounted on the test bench to a predetermined rated temperature. To connect this regulating unit to a mixing unit fluidly integrated into the test specimen circuit, the regulating unit is provided with at least one mixing unit input interface and at least one mixing unit output interface, wherein the at least one mixing unit input interface and the at least one mixing unit output interface are fluidly connected within the regulating unit to form part of a temperature-regulating circuit for the working medium. The main flow path of the temperature-regulating circuit connected to the at least one mixing unit input interface is divided into at least two branch lines within the regulating unit, each branch line being connected to the at least one mixing unit output interface. The working medium in the branch lines can be regulated to a predetermined conditioning temperature, and the at least one additional branch line can be traversed by an unconditioned working medium having a neutral temperature higher or lower than the conditioning temperature. The flow rate of the working medium in the at least two branch lines can be adjusted according to the predetermined rated temperature in the test specimen circuit. By adjusting the flow rate, a specific mixing ratio of the working medium from the at least two branch lines can be generated according to a pre-defined rated temperature, thereby enabling the rated temperature to be reached as quickly as possible.

[0007] Furthermore, it is preferred that the main flow path is divided into at least three branch paths, wherein each branch path is connected to the output interface of the at least one mixing unit, wherein the working medium can be regulated to a first regulated temperature in the first branch path, can be regulated to a second temperature in the second branch path, and the third branch path can be traversed by an unregulated working medium having a neutral temperature between the first and second regulated temperatures.

[0008] Furthermore, it is preferred that the regulating unit includes at least one temperature regulating unit in at least one branch line to regulate the working medium to the corresponding regulating temperature.

[0009] Furthermore, it is preferably specified that the regulating unit is provided with at least one heat source supply interface and at least one heat source return interface to connect to a heat source. The heat source supply interface and the heat source return interface are fluidly connected to a heat exchanger arranged in a branch line for adjusting the working medium to a regulating temperature higher than the neutral temperature, so as to form part of a heat source supply loop. And / or the regulating unit is provided with at least one radiator supply interface and at least one radiator return interface to connect to a radiator. The radiator supply interface and the radiator return interface are fluidly connected to a heat exchanger arranged in a branch line for adjusting the working medium to a regulating temperature lower than the neutral temperature, so as to form part of a radiator supply loop.

[0010] Furthermore, it is preferred that the regulating unit is provided with at least one regulating unit control unit to control the flow rate of the working medium in at least the at least two branch lines, and / or the regulating unit can be connected to the test bench control unit through the test bench interface to control the flow rate of the working medium in at least the at least two branch lines.

[0011] Furthermore, it is preferred that a pressure regulating unit is provided in at least one branch line where the working medium can be adjusted to a corresponding regulating temperature, and a check valve is provided in at least one other branch line where the unregulated working medium can flow through, wherein the at least one pressure regulating unit can be controlled by at least one control unit to regulate the flow rate in the at least two branch lines.

[0012] Furthermore, it is preferred that a first measuring orifice or a flow measurement unit is provided in the main flow pipeline, the first measuring orifice having a differential pressure sensor for measuring the pressure difference across the first measuring orifice, and a second measuring orifice or a flow measurement unit is provided in the at least one additional branch pipeline through which the unconditioned working medium can flow, the second measuring orifice having a differential pressure sensor for measuring the pressure difference across the second measuring orifice.

[0013] Furthermore, it is preferred that a pump for delivering the working medium in the temperature control circuit be provided in the main flow pipeline.

[0014] Furthermore, it is preferably specified that the regulating unit is provided with a controllable valve unit for diverting the working medium from the main flow pipeline to the at least two diversion pipelines in the future, wherein the main flow pipeline is connected to the at least two diversion pipelines through the valve unit, and / or the regulating unit is provided with a controllable valve unit for mixing the working medium from the at least two diversion pipelines and delivering it to the regulating unit manifold, wherein the at least two diversion pipelines are connected to the regulating unit manifold through the valve unit, and the regulating unit manifold is connected to the output interface of the at least one mixing unit.

[0015] Furthermore, it is preferred that the valve unit has at least one main fluid flow interface for the main fluid flow and at least one branch fluid flow interface for each branch fluid flow, the main fluid flow interface and the branch fluid flow interface being fluidly connected through a mixing chamber, wherein the mixing chamber is provided with a movable mixing element for controlling the distribution ratio or mixing ratio of the branch fluid flows, the mixing element being drivable by a drive unit.

[0016] Furthermore, it is preferred that the hybrid element is configured as a rotatable rotor, and the drive unit for rotating the rotor is configured as an electrically operable actuator.

[0017] Furthermore, it is preferred that the temperature control unit be constructed as a heat exchanger.

[0018] Furthermore, it is preferably specified that a first measuring orifice or a flow measurement unit is provided in the main flow pipeline, the first measuring orifice having a differential pressure sensor for measuring the pressure difference across the first measuring orifice, and a second measuring orifice or a flow measurement unit is provided in at least one additional branch pipeline through which the unconditioned working medium can flow, the second measuring orifice having a differential pressure sensor for measuring the pressure difference across the second measuring orifice, and the control unit is configured to perform a calculation according to a predetermined rated temperature and a relational formula. Calculate the rated differential pressure in the third branch line, where Tx = T1 or T2, and calculate the adjustment amount for the at least one pressure control unit from the actual differential pressure measured using a differential pressure sensor and the rated differential pressure.

[0019] Furthermore, it is preferred that the pump be controlled by a single control unit.

[0020] Furthermore, it is preferred that the temperature control circuit includes a bypass line for the working medium to pass through the pump, wherein a controllable valve is provided in the bypass line.

[0021] Furthermore, it is preferred that the controllable valve be controlled by a control unit.

[0022] Furthermore, it is preferred that the mixing element is configured to continuously control the distribution ratio or mixing ratio of the fluid flow.

[0023] Furthermore, it is preferred that the rotor has a hollow cylinder, wherein a control port is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the hollow cylinder, the control port connecting the outer circumferential surface of the hollow cylinder to the inner circumferential surface, wherein the rotor is rotatable such that the control port is at least partially aligned with at least one corresponding inlet of the flow distribution interface leading into the mixing chamber.

[0024] Furthermore, it is preferably specified that the rotor is capable of stepless rotation.

[0025] Furthermore, it is preferred that at least one vortex flow port is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the hollow cylinder, the vortex flow port connecting the outer circumferential surface and the inner circumferential surface of the hollow cylinder, wherein the vortex flow port is axially disposed in a section of the hollow cylinder, the section being located in the region of the inlet where the main fluid flow interface enters the mixing chamber.

[0026] In addition, it is preferred that the vortex flow outlet be constructed as an elongated hole.

[0027] Furthermore, the objective is achieved using a method for adjusting the working medium flowing in the test specimen circuit of a specimen mounted on a test bench to a predetermined rated temperature. This method involves fluidly integrating a mixing unit into the test specimen circuit to form part of the circuit. The working medium to be adjusted in the test specimen circuit is supplied to the mixing unit through at least one test specimen circuit input interface, and the working medium adjusted to the predetermined rated temperature is discharged from the mixing unit through at least one test specimen circuit output interface. At least one adjusting unit input interface supplies a working medium having a predetermined adjusting temperature and a working medium having a neutral temperature higher or lower than the adjusting temperature to the mixing unit. These working media are mixed with the working medium supplied from the test specimen circuit in a mixing zone located within the mixing unit and discharged from the mixing unit through at least one adjusting unit return interface. The flow rates of the working medium having the adjusting temperature and the working medium having the neutral temperature are adjusted according to the predetermined rated temperature.

[0028] Furthermore, it is preferred that at least one actual temperature of the working medium in the test piece circuit or the temperature control circuit is determined and transmitted to a control unit, wherein the control unit controls the flow rate of the working medium with temperature regulation and the flow rate of the working medium with neutral temperature based on the determined actual temperature and the predetermined rated temperature.

[0029] Furthermore, it is preferred that the actual temperature be calculated based on the Richter-Mann mixing rule.

[0030] Furthermore, it is preferably specified that the working medium supplied to the mixing unit through the input interface of the at least one regulating unit flows in the opposite direction of the flow of the specimen circuit to the return interface of the at least one regulating unit.

[0031] Furthermore, it is preferred that the actual pressure loss in the test specimen circuit of the mixing unit be detected, and the flow rate of the working medium with adjustable temperature and the flow rate of the working medium with neutral temperature be set in the following manner and / or the flow cross-section of the throttling point set in the mixing region be set in the following manner, that is, the pressure loss in the test specimen circuit of the mixing unit be adjusted to the predetermined rated pressure loss.

[0032] In addition, preferred provisions, according to The actual temperature is calculated using the mass flow rate of the working medium with temperature regulation and the mass flow rate of the working medium with neutral temperature.

[0033] In addition, it is preferred that the pressure loss in the test circuit of the mixing unit be compensated to the pre-specified rated pressure loss. Attached Figure Description

[0034] The following is a reference to the appendix. Figures 1a to 7 The invention is described in detail below, and the accompanying drawings exemplify, schematically, and non-limitingly illustrate advantageous structural designs of the invention. The drawings show:

[0035] Figure 1a This is an advantageous structural design of the regulating system of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 1b This is an alternative structural design for the regulating system of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 2 This is an advantageous structural design of the hybrid unit of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 3 It refers to the flow process within the mixing chamber of the mixing unit;

[0039] Figure 4 This is an alternative structural design of the hybrid unit of the present invention, and

[0040] Figure 5 This is an advantageous structural design of the valve unit of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 6 This is a sectional view of the valve body of the valve unit, and

[0042] Figure 7 It is a hybrid component of the valve unit. Detailed Implementation

[0043] Figure 1a A schematic diagram of an advantageous embodiment of the adjustment system 1 of the present invention on a test bench is shown. The adjustment system 1 has an adjustment unit 2 and a mixing unit 3, which are fluidly connected to each other to form a temperature-regulating circuit KK for a fluid working medium. Here, the fluid working medium refers to a suitable gaseous or liquid medium. For example, cooling media, fuel, oil, air, etc., can be used as the working medium. "Fluid connection" within the scope of the present invention refers to a hydrodynamic connection, such as through suitable pipes, conduits, etc. The mixing unit 3 can be fluidly integrated into the test circuit PK of the test specimen P mounted on the test bench, in which the same working medium circulates. Here, the type of working medium used in the temperature-regulating circuit KK depends on the working medium used in the test circuit PK of the test specimen P. As mentioned at the beginning, the test specimen P can be, for example, a transmission such as a manual transmission, an automatic transmission, or a wheel-axle transmission; a drive device such as an internal combustion engine, an electric motor, or a hybrid drive device; an energy accumulator such as a battery; or an energy converter such as a fuel cell, etc. However, for the purposes of this invention, the type of test specimen P used is not important. In principle, any specimen P can be used with a specimen circuit PK having a working medium. In cases where the specimen has multiple working media, multiple such adjustment systems 1 of the present invention can, of course, be installed on the test bench. To control the specimen P on the test bench according to the test experiment, a test bench control unit 21 is typically installed in a known manner.

[0044] In the specimen loop PK, a pump (not shown) for conveying the working medium can also be provided. This pump can be part of the test bench or part of the specimen P. Other components, such as heat exchangers, valves, sensors, throttles, etc., can also be provided in the specimen loop PK, but they are not essential to this invention. As shown in Figure 1, the mixing unit 3 can be integrated into the specimen loop PK downstream of the specimen P along the flow direction of the working medium. However, the mixing unit 3 can also be located upstream of the specimen P along the flow direction of the working medium, as simplified by the dashed line drawn in Figure 1.

[0045] The temperature characteristics of the working medium should be simulated on a test bench using a regulating system 1. Specifically, the regulating system 1 according to the invention aims to simulate the heat input from the specimen P to the specimen circuit PK, generated by the operation of the specimen P. For this purpose, the specimen P can be actually operated on the test bench as specified, causing it to perform work, thereby heating the working medium in the specimen circuit PK. Here, the regulating system 1 can be used, for example, to simulate higher or lower heat inputs from the specimen P. However, the specimen P can also be used only to reflect, as realistically as possible, the pressure loss caused by the specimen P in the specimen circuit PK. In this case, the specimen P itself does not operate and therefore does not cause heat input to the working medium in the specimen circuit PK; instead, its heat input is simulated by the regulating system 1 of the invention.

[0046] Therefore, in the mixing unit 3, the pre-temperature-controlled working medium from the temperature-regulating circuit KK is mixed with the working medium of the specimen circuit PK, so that the specimen circuit PK downstream of the mixing unit 3 is adjusted to the pre-defined rated temperature T_SOLL of the working medium. As will be explained in detail below, the pre-temperature regulation of the working medium in the temperature-regulating circuit KK is performed by the regulating unit 2. See also... Figure 2 + Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 The advantageous structural design of hybrid unit 3 is described in detail.

[0047] Generally, at least one mixing unit input interface 4 and at least one mixing unit output interface 5 are provided on the adjustment unit 2 for connecting the adjustment unit 2 to the mixing unit 3. Figure 1a In the example shown, there are, for example, three mixing unit output ports 5a to 5c. The mixing unit input port 4 is fluidly connected to the three mixing unit output ports 5a to 5c within the regulating unit 2 to form part of a temperature control loop KK for the working medium. Generally, a main flow line 6 of the temperature control loop KK connected to the mixing unit input port 4 is split into at least two branch lines 7a+7c (or 7b+7c) within the regulating unit 2 (e.g., at a branch node 8).

[0048] Generally, the working medium in one of the at least two branch lines 7a, 7b can be adjusted to a predetermined regulated temperature T1, T2, and the at least one other branch line 7c can be traversed by an unregulated working medium having a neutral temperature T3 that is higher or lower than the regulated temperature T1, T2. If it is only desired to heat the working medium in the test piece circuit PK, an implementation with a regulated temperature T1 that is higher than the neutral temperature T3 can be used. If it is desired to cool the working medium in the test piece circuit PK, an implementation with a regulated temperature T2 that is lower than the neutral temperature T3 can be used. To adjust to a regulated temperature T1, T2 that is higher or lower than the neutral temperature T3, as will be explained in detail below, a suitable temperature regulating unit 9a, 9b can be provided in the corresponding branch lines 7a, 7b.

[0049] exist Figure 1a In the example shown, the main flow line 6 is divided into three branch lines 7a, 7b, and 7c within the regulating unit 2. Therefore, the working medium can be heated in the first branch line 7a and cooled in the second branch line 7b. A preferably controllable or adjustable pump 15 for delivering the working medium in the temperature control loop KK can be installed in the main flow line 6; however, one pump (not shown) can also be installed in each of the branch lines 7a to 7c. Additionally, a bypass line 16 for the working medium can be provided, connecting the main flow line 6 upstream of pump 15 to the main flow line 6 downstream of pump 15, thus bypassing pump 15. A controllable valve 17 can be installed in the bypass line 16 to reduce, preferably fully compensate, for the pressure loss Δp caused by the mixing unit 3 in the specimen loop PK, as will be referred to below. Figures 2 to 4 As explained in detail in the mixing unit 3 shown below, as an alternative or supplementary option to the bypass line 16 including valve 17, the mixing unit 3 may also include a throttling point 29 with an adjustable orifice, through which pressure loss can be compensated, as will also be referred to Figures 2 to 4 As explained in detail.

[0050] According to Figure 1aIn the example, each branch line 7a to 7c is connected within the regulating unit 2 to one of the mixing unit output ports 5a to 5c. The mixing unit output ports 5a to 5c can, for example, be connected to the mixing unit 3 via input lines ZLa to ZLc to deliver a pre-temperature-controlled working medium to the mixing unit 3. The working medium can be regulated to a first regulating temperature T1 in the first branch line 7a and to a second regulating temperature T2 in the second branch line 7b. The third branch line 7c can be traversed by a working medium having a neutral temperature T3 between the first and second temperatures and is preferably not individually temperature-controlled. The temperature ranges T1 and T2 are substantially dependent on pre-defined boundary conditions or requirements of the regulating system 1, such as the minimum or maximum required rated working medium temperature T_SOLL and / or the working medium used. The neutral temperature T3 between the regulating temperatures T1 and T2 is substantially dependent on the temperature of the working medium returning from the mixing unit 3.

[0051] Preferably, in the regulating unit 2, at least one first temperature regulating unit 9a is provided in the first branch line 7a for regulating the working medium to a first (high) regulating temperature T1. Similarly, preferably, at least one second temperature regulating unit 9b is provided in the second branch line 7b for regulating the working medium to a second (low) regulating temperature T2. In principle, any device suitable for regulating the working medium in the first and second branch lines 7a, 7b to the corresponding specified regulating temperatures T1, T2 can be used as the temperature regulating units 9a, 9b, such as heat exchangers, (e.g., electric) heating devices, cooling devices, heat pumps, Peltier elements, etc. For example, for this purpose, at least one heat source supply interface 10a and at least one heat source return interface 10b can be provided on the regulating unit 2 for connecting a heat source. The heat source supply interface 10a and the heat source return interface 10b can be fluidly connected to the first temperature regulating unit 9a configured as a heat exchanger to form part of the heat source supply loop VK1.

[0052] Similarly, the regulating unit 2 may also be provided with at least one radiator supply port 11a and at least one radiator return port 11b for connecting to the radiator. These are fluidly connected to the second temperature regulating unit 9b, which is configured as a heat exchanger, to form part of the radiator supply loop VK2. Essentially any suitable device can be used as a heat source to maintain the supply medium of the heat source supply loop VK1 at a relatively high supply temperature, for example, within 10K above the required maximum rated temperature. Similarly, essentially any suitable device can be used as a radiator to maintain the supply medium of the radiator supply loop VK2 at a relatively low supply temperature, for example, within 10K below the minimum required rated temperature. For example, a working medium or other suitable medium can be used as the supply medium.

[0053] Heating via a heat source and radiator can, for example, be provided in a separate supply module 12, which constitutes a self-sufficient unit to which the regulating unit 2 can be connected. Alternatively, the supply module 12 can also contain additional (not shown) hydraulic components for supplying circuits VK1 and VK2, such as pumps, pressure regulators, valves, tanks, etc. The supply module 12 can be controlled, for example, by a regulating unit control unit 20, which may be located in the regulating unit 2. However, control of the supply module 12 can also be performed, for example, by a test bench control unit 21 on a test bench, where the regulating system 1 is used (as simplified by the dashed connecting lines in Figure 1).

[0054] However, to provide pre-temperature regulated supply media on a test bench, a central media supply system is often installed, for example, as part of the test bench architecture. This central media supply system can supply one or more pre-temperature regulated supply media to, for example, multiple test benches, even those of different types. In this case, as in... Figure 1a As illustrated in the simplified diagram, the pre-temperature-controlled supply medium can be supplied to the supply loops VK1 and VK2 of the first and second temperature-controlled units 9a and 9b (particularly the heat exchangers) via supply lines L1 and L2 of the central medium supply system, for example. In this case, a separate supply module 12 can be omitted.

[0055] The regulating unit 2 is configured to control, and in particular regulate, the flow rate, such as volumetric flow rate or mass flow rate, of the working medium in the three branch lines 7a to 7c (or generally at least two branch lines 7a+7c or 7b+7c) according to the pre-defined rated temperature T_SOLL of the working medium in the test specimen circuit PK, thereby enabling it to be adjusted to the rated temperature T_SOLL in the test specimen circuit PK as quickly as possible. For this purpose, the pre-temperature-adjusted working medium from the branch lines 7a to 7c of the regulating unit 2 is mixed with the working medium in the test specimen circuit PK according to the pre-defined rated temperature T_SOLL of the test specimen circuit PK, wherein, as will be further referred to below... Figures 2 to 4 As explained in detail, mixing takes place in mixing unit 3, particularly in mixing region 28 of mixing unit 3. The regulating unit 2 can be connected to mixing unit 3, for example, via one or more suitable input lines ZLa to ZLc and one or more suitable return lines RL, to form a temperature control loop KK.

[0056] Therefore, the mixing unit 3 is provided with at least one regulating unit input interface 27a and one regulating unit return interface 27b. The regulating unit return interface 27b can be connected to the mixing unit input interface 4 of the regulating unit 2 via a return pipe RL. Figure 1a In the example shown, each mixing unit output interface 5a to 5c of the regulating unit 2 is connected to an input conduit ZLa to ZLc. If a single regulating unit input interface 27a is provided on the mixing unit 3, the input conduits ZLa to ZLc can preferably converge into a common manifold SL immediately before the mixing unit 3, as shown in... Figure 1a As simplified in the diagram. The common manifold SL can then be connected to the regulating unit input interface 27a. However, multiple (not shown) regulating unit input interfaces 27a can also be provided on the mixing unit 3, for example, three regulating unit input interfaces 27a (or one regulating unit input interface 27a for each input line ZLa to ZLc). In this case, each mixing unit output interface 5a to 5c can be connected to a regulating unit input interface through an input line ZLa to ZLc. The multiple regulating unit input interfaces 27a can then be converged into a manifold SL in the mixing unit 3, which then flows into the mixing region 28 of the mixing unit 3. In order to rapidly reach the desired rated temperature T_SOLL in the specimen circuit PK, it is advantageous that the pre-temperature conditioned working medium is converged into the working medium flow in the manifold SL as close as possible to the mixing unit 3, preferably directly in the mixing unit 3.

[0057] The flow rates in the three branch lines 7a to 7c (or generally at least two branch lines 7a+7c or 7b+7c) of the regulating unit 2 can be determined according to the desired rated temperature T_SOLL, such that a pre-temperature-controlled mixture is formed in the temperature-controlled loop KK by the working medium at the first regulated temperature T1 or the second regulated temperature T2 and the intermediate neutral temperature T3 working medium at a specific mixing ratio. This allows the predetermined rated temperature T_SOLL to be established as quickly as possible in the test piece loop PK when the pre-temperature-controlled mixture from the working medium of the temperature-controlled loop KK is mixed with the working medium of the test piece loop PK. Here, the regulated temperatures T1 and T2 and the neutral temperature T3 of the working medium in the branch lines 7a and 7c are essentially constant, and the rated temperature T_SOLL is achieved primarily by controlling or adjusting the flow rates in the branch lines 7a to 7c of the regulating unit 2, thereby achieving the specific mixing ratio. If only two branch lines are provided (hot + neutral or cold + neutral), then these two branches are mixed at a specific mixing ratio to adjust the specimen circuit PK to the rated temperature T_SOLL. Here, the flow rate in the temperature control circuit KK is preferably greater than the flow rate in the specimen circuit PK, so that the working medium in the specimen circuit PK is preferably almost completely replaced by the pre-temperature-controlled working medium from the temperature control circuit KK.

[0058] To control the flow rate, for example, a known pressure regulating unit 13a, 13b can be installed in the first branch pipe 7a and the second branch pipe 7b of the temperature control loop KK of the regulating unit 2, respectively, and a check valve 14 can be installed in the third branch pipe 7c. In the main flow pipe 6, for example upstream of the branch node 8, a first measuring orifice 18 can be installed, which has a differential pressure sensor 18a for measuring the pressure difference Δp1 at the first measuring orifice 18. In the third branch pipe 7c, for example downstream of the branch node 8, a second measuring orifice 19 can be installed, which has a differential pressure sensor 19a for measuring the pressure difference Δp2 at the second measuring orifice 19. Since the pressure differences Δp1 and Δp2 are proportional to the square of the corresponding flow rates (volume flow rate, mass flow rate), the percentage flow rate (=partial volume flow rate, partial mass flow rate) in the branch pipes 7a to 7c can be calculated from the difference between the measured pressure differences Δp1 and Δp2. In the case where the difference Δp1 - Δp2 = 0, for example, 100% of the working medium flows through the third branch pipe 7c; in the case where the difference Δp1 - Δp2 = 0.5 × Δp1, for example, 75% of the working medium flows through the third branch pipe 7c and 25% flows through the first or second branch pipes 7a, 7b (or generally through at least one of the branch pipes 7a or 7b), etc. However, as an alternative, instead of the measuring orifice 18 with differential pressure sensor 18a and the measuring orifice 19 with differential pressure sensor 19a, a suitable flow measurement unit (not shown) can be provided, which can directly measure the flow rate (volume flow rate, mass flow rate), for example, a known MID sensor (magnetic induction flow meter) or a Coriolis mass flow meter.

[0059] Control of the adjustment system 1 can be achieved, for example, through a suitable control unit, which can be hardware (microprocessor-based hardware, integrated circuits such as ASICs, FPGAs, programmable logic controllers, analog circuits, or a combination of these) and / or software. For instance, control can be implemented directly through a higher-level control unit, such as the test bench control unit 21, which is typically present on every test bench. Typically, the test bench control unit 21 controls or adjusts the specimen P and other possible devices on the test bench, such as a loader (not shown) and / or supply module 12 for driving or loading the specimen P. Alternatively or as a supplement, an adjustment unit control unit 20 can also be provided in the adjustment unit 2. The test bench control unit 21 can then communicate with the adjustment unit control unit 20 in an appropriate manner to exchange control information. For example, the test bench control unit 21 can be connected to the adjustment unit 2 through a suitable test bench interface S, through which control data can be transmitted or exchanged.

[0060] One or more suitable controllers, such as PID controllers, can be installed in the test bench control unit 21 and / or the regulation unit control unit 20 to regulate the specimen loop PK to a pre-defined theoretical value X_IST, particularly the rated temperature T_SOLL. Alternatively, regulation can be performed via the mixing unit 3 to the rated pressure loss Δp_SOLL, particularly to compensate for the design-related pressure loss of the mixing unit 3 or to simulate different pressure losses. Known feed-forward control can also be advantageously implemented during regulation, so that the controller only needs to compensate for small errors. The regulated rated value X_SOLL can be specified, for example, by the test bench control unit 21. For example, a simulation unit 22 can be installed in the test bench control unit 21, in which a simulation model is implemented. The simulation model 22 can, for example, generate a specific time-varying curve of the rated value X_SOLL, particularly the time-varying curve of the rated temperature T_SOLL. However, for example, the measured temperature change curve over time can also be used as the rated temperature T_SOLL, said temperature change curve being derived, for example, from actual measured driving of the vehicle, for example from a vehicle equipped with the test specimen P to be tested, or from a test bench test already carried out using the test specimen P, etc.

[0061] In the simplest case, constant rated values ​​X_SOLL, such as a constant rated temperature T_SOLL and / or a constant pressure loss Δp_SOLL, can also be specified, for example, by manual input using a suitable input unit such as a computer. The rated value X_SOLL can, for example, be transmitted by the test bench control unit 21 to the regulating unit control unit 20 via the test bench interface S and processed by it. From one or more of the predetermined rated values ​​X_SOLL and from the measured actual value X_IST, the regulating unit control unit 20 (e.g., a controller operating therein) determines the necessary adjustment amount X_STELL required for regulation by the actuator, such as pressure regulating units 13a, 13b ( Figure 1a ) and / or the controllable valve 17 in the pump 15 and / or the bypass line 16 and / or the valve unit 34, which will be explained in detail below. Figure 1b The actuator A of the adjustable throttling orifice of throttling point 29 and / or throttling point 29 Figure 1b ).

[0062] The actual value X_IST regulated can be measured during operation of the regulating system 1 by appropriate sensors (e.g., at regulating unit 2 and mixing unit 3) and transmitted to the regulating unit control unit 20. In regulating unit 2 and mixing unit 3, for example, one or more temperature sensors 23, pressure sensors 24, and differential pressure sensors 24a, 18a, 19a can be provided to measure the actual temperature T_IST, actual pressure p_IST, or actual differential pressure Δp_IST of the working medium (or the supply medium of the temperature regulating units 9a, 9b designed as heat exchangers). In mixing unit 3, for example, differential pressure sensor 24a can be provided to detect the pressure loss Δp_IST caused by mixing unit 3. It is known that differential pressure sensor 24a can also refer to two separate pressure sensors 24, each producing a measurement value. The pressure loss Δp_IST can then be calculated from the difference between the measurements of the pressure sensors 24. The same applies to differential pressure sensors 18a, 19a.

[0063] The pressure regulating units 13a and 13b of the first and second shunt lines 7a and 7b can, for example, be configured as actuators for regulating the temperature of the working medium in the test specimen circuit PK. Through the pressure regulating units 13a and 13b, the flow rate in the at least two shunt lines 7a+7c or 7b+7c can be adjusted according to the rated temperature T_SOLL. The control units 21 and 22 can, for example, be based on the general Richman mixing law according to the relation... Calculate the rated differential pressure Δp2_SOLL in the third branch line 7c. Here, Δp1 is the differential pressure measured through the measuring orifice 18 upstream of node 8 in the main flow line 6, T_SOLL is the desired rated temperature of the working medium, T3 is the neutral temperature of the working medium in the third branch line 7c, and Tx represents the regulated temperature T1 or T2 of the working medium in the first or second branch lines 7a, 7b. Control units 20, 21 can determine an adjustment amount X_STELL from the rated differential pressure Δp2_SOLL and the actual differential pressure Δp2_IST measured through the measuring orifice 19 using a suitable controller, such as a PI or PID controller. This adjustment amount is then used to control the pressure control units 13a, 13b. If the measuring orifices 18, 19 with differential pressure sensors 18a, 19a are used instead, for example, a suitable flow measurement device is used to measure the mass flow rate or volumetric flow rate, the Richter-Mann mixing rule can be used in a similar manner to calculate the rated mass flow rate or rated volumetric flow rate.

[0064] However, the above relationship can also be used, for example, to determine the actual temperature T_IST of the mixed working medium, i.e., in the region of the manifold SL in mixing unit 3. Figure 1aTemperature sensor 23 is shown on the manifold. This can be particularly advantageous in the dynamic operation of the regulating system 1, in which, for example, the temperature change curve of the rated temperature T_SOLL in the specimen circuit PK versus time should be regulated, because the temperature sensor 23 may not be fast enough to detect rapid temperature changes in some cases. The actual temperature T_IST of the mixture can be determined, for example, using the general Richman mixing law according to... The calculation is as follows: Where mx represents the mass flow rate m1 or m2 of the working medium in the first or second branch pipes 7a and 7b, Tx represents the regulating temperature T1 or T2 in the first or second branch pipes 7a and 7b, m3 represents the mass flow rate in the third branch pipe 7c, and T3 represents the neutral temperature in the third branch pipe 7c. This is based on the premise that the mass flow rates mx and m3 are known. For this purpose, for example, a suitable flow measurement device can be used instead of measuring the orifices 18 and 19 to measure the mass flow rates mx and m3. If a suitable flow measurement device for measuring volumetric flow rate is provided instead of measuring the orifices 18 and 19, the volumetric flow rate can also be used for calculation.

[0065] In order to pass Figure 1a (and below) Figure 1b The flow measurement of the orifices 18 and 19 with differential pressure sensors 18a and 19a shown in the figure yields the following relationship: .

[0066] For example, the controllable valve 17 in the bypass line 16 of pump 15 can be used as an actuator to regulate or compensate for pressure loss in mixing unit 3. As an alternative or supplementary solution to regulation via valve 17, pressure loss compensation can also be implemented by changing the delivery power of pump 15 (e.g., by changing the pump speed). Additionally, an adjustable orifice can be provided in mixing unit 3 to regulate pressure loss. Figure 1b The control unit 20 can calculate the corresponding adjustment amount X_STELL based on the pre-defined rated value X_SOLL, and adjust it through the actuator.

[0067] exist Figure 1b The diagram shows an alternative structural design for the regulating system 1. The structure and function of this regulating system 1 are essentially the same as... Figure 1a The adjustment system shown corresponds to system 1; therefore, only the main differences will be explained below. Figure 1aThe difference lies in that the regulating unit 2 has only one mixing unit output interface 5. Therefore, the branch lines 7a to 7c (or generally, at least two branch lines 7a+7c or 7b+7c) have been recombined within the regulating unit 2 into a single regulating unit manifold KSL connected to the mixing unit output interface 5. Consequently, only a single input line ZL is needed to connect the mixing unit 3 to the regulating unit 2. This reduces the number of lines required, allowing for a simpler connection.

[0068] In regulating unit 2, a valve unit 34 can be provided for mixing the working medium from the three branch lines 7a to 7c (or generally at least two branch lines 7a+7c; 7b+7c) and supplying it to the regulating unit manifold KSL. Here, branch lines 7a to 7c are connected to the regulating unit manifold KSL via valve unit 34, and the regulating unit manifold KSL is in turn connected to the mixing unit output interface 5. As an alternative or supplementary option, a valve unit 34 (not shown) can also be provided at node 8 for diverting the working medium of the main flow line 6 to branch lines 7a to 7c in the future, wherein the main flow line 6 is connected to the branch lines 7a to 7c via valve unit 34. Figure 1b As can be seen, due to the use of controllable valve unit 34, the pressure regulating units 13a and 13b in the branch lines 7a and 7b and the check valve 14 in the third branch line 7c can be omitted. See below for further details. Figure 5 A more detailed explanation of an advantageous construction design for valve unit 34 follows.

[0069] exist Figure 1b In the hybrid unit 3 shown, with Figure 1a Unlike other methods, an adjustable throttling orifice is provided at throttling point 29. This orifice can be adjusted by an electrically controlled actuator A (e.g., a suitable actuator or motor) to change the flow cross-section at throttling point 29. Therefore, [the following can be omitted] Figure 1a The bypass line 16 and controllable valve 27 are included, and pressure loss compensation can be achieved by adjusting the orifice via actuator A. For this purpose, a differential pressure sensor 24a for measuring the pressure difference Δp as the actual value X_IST can be again installed in the mixing unit 3. The actual value X_IST can be transmitted, for example, to the test bench control unit 21 and / or the regulating unit control unit 20, as shown in... Figure 1b As simplified in the diagram, the control unit of the regulating unit determines an adjustment amount X_STELL that is transmitted to the actuator A. In a simple embodiment, if pressure loss compensation is performed solely through a throttle orifice, a controllable pump 15 can be omitted, and a pump 15 with constant delivery power can be used in the regulating unit 2 instead.

[0070] The following reference Figures 2 to 4 Hybrid unit 3 will be explained in detail with the help of two advantageous structural designs. Here, Figure 2 A perspective view of the hybrid unit 3 of the first embodiment is shown, and Figure 3 The working medium is shown in Figure 2 A top view of the flow process within the mixing unit 3 shown. Figure 4 A perspective view of a mixing unit 3 according to an alternative embodiment is shown. Generally, the mixing unit 3 may have a housing 25 made of a suitable material, such as steel alloy, aluminum alloy, or plastic, with suitable flow channels within the housing for guiding the working medium. The mixing unit 3 has at least one specimen circuit input interface 26a and at least one specimen circuit output interface 26b for fluidly integrating the mixing unit 3 into the specimen circuit PK of the specimen P. Thus, the mixing unit 3 can be easily integrated into the existing specimen circuit PK of the specimen P on the test bench without changing the structure of the test bench.

[0071] Of course, connecting and sealing elements (not shown) can also be provided on the mixing unit 3 to allow for the simplest and leak-free connection, as to the test circuit input port 26a and test circuit output port 26b, of which, for example, the pipes or hoses of the test circuit PK, can be connected to the mixing unit 3. The test circuit input port 26a and test circuit output port 26b are fluidly connected within the mixing unit 3 via the mixing region 28 to form part of the test circuit PK. Therefore, the working medium can flow from the test circuit input port 26a through the mixing region 28 to the test circuit output port 26b within the mixing unit 3, as in... Figures 2 to 4 The image is simplified using two arrows and the same applies in the image. Figure 3 As can be seen from the flow reference. Within the scope of this invention, mixing region 28 refers to the entire area within mixing unit 3 where the working medium from temperature control circuit KK and the working medium from specimen circuit PK come into contact with each other.

[0072] As already explained, the mixing unit 3 is provided with at least one regulating unit input interface 27a and at least one regulating unit return interface 27b for connecting the mixing unit 3 of the regulating system 1 to the regulating unit 2. As previously mentioned, the connection can be achieved, for example, through a return pipe RL and one or more input pipes ZL, ZLa-ZLc, for example, one input pipe ZLi for each branch pipe (…). Figure 1a ) or a common input pipeline ZL ( Figure 1bIn the case of multiple input lines ZLa to ZLc, these input lines can be converged into a common manifold SL upstream of the mixing unit 3, or multiple regulating unit input interfaces 27a can be provided, each of which can be connected to one of the input lines ZLa to ZLc. In this case, the pre-temperature regulated working medium from each branch can be converged into a single flow through a manifold SL in the mixing unit 3.

[0073] The at least one regulating unit input interface 27a and the at least one regulating unit return interface 27b are also fluidly connected within the mixing unit 3 via the mixing region 28 to form a temperature control loop KK for the working medium (see [link]). Figure 1a , 1b Part of ). Therefore, as in Figure 2 As simplified by two arrows, the pre-temperature-controlled working medium supplied from the regulating unit 2 to the mixing unit 3 flows from the regulating unit input port 27a through the mixing zone 28 to the regulating unit return port 27b within the mixing unit 3. Therefore, the flow direction of the working medium in the temperature-controlled circuit KK is opposite to that in the test piece circuit PK, thus achieving good mixing. Furthermore, this allows for compensation of pressure loss in the test piece circuit PK through the throttling point 29. Of course, connecting and sealing elements (not shown) can be again provided on the mixing unit 3 to ensure, for example, that the pipes or hoses of the temperature-controlled circuit KK are connected to the regulating unit input port 27a and regulating unit output port 27b of the mixing unit 3 with minimal leakage.

[0074] As previously described, the mixing unit 3 includes a mixing zone 28 in which the working medium of the test specimen circuit PK can be mixed with the temperature-controlled working medium from the temperature-controlled circuit KK to adjust the working medium in the test specimen circuit PK to a predetermined rated temperature. To generate a homogeneous mixture from the working medium of the temperature-controlled circuit KK and the working medium of the test specimen circuit PK as quickly as possible, the mixing zone 28 preferably has at least one substantially annular mixing chamber 28a, such as one that can be used in conjunction with the temperature-controlled circuit KK. Figure 3 As can be seen from the image. Generally speaking, "ring-shaped" within the scope of this invention essentially refers to any ring shape, such as a cylindrical ring, a toroidal body, etc. Here, the adjustment unit return port 27b is preferably arranged on the mixing unit 3 in such a way that it passes into the mixing region 28 between the specimen circuit input port 26a and the adjustment unit input port 27a.

[0075] According to Figure 2 + Figure 3In the example, the regulating unit return port 27b, for instance, flows into the mixing region 28 between the specimen loop input port 26a and the annular mixing chamber 28a. Furthermore, a throttling point 29 can be provided between the regulating unit input port 27a and the regulating unit return port 27b. This throttling point 29, according to... Figure 2 + Figure 3 In the example, the throttling point 29 is arranged between the annular mixing chamber 28a and the regulating unit return port 27b, and is configured as a fixed narrow section with a constant flow cross-section. Through this throttling point 29, a pressure difference can be generated in the working medium flow between the regulating unit input port 27a and the regulating unit return port 27b, which cancels out the pressure difference in the working medium flow in the test circuit PK. Therefore, by adjusting the working medium flow rate (volume flow rate or mass flow rate) in the temperature control circuit KK (e.g., via a preferably controllable pump 15 and / or a bypass line 16 with valve 17) to a higher value than the flow rate (volume flow rate or mass flow rate) in the test circuit PK, the pressure loss caused by the mixing unit 3 in the test circuit PK can thus be reduced or preferably completely compensated, or adjusted to a specific value. Generally, the flow rate (volume flow rate or mass flow rate) in the temperature control circuit KK is preferably higher than the flow rate (volume flow rate or mass flow rate) in the test circuit PK, for example, by 5% to 20%, particularly by about 10%. Thus, the working medium of the specimen circuit PK in mixing unit 3 can be advantageously and substantially completely replaced, and replaced by a temperature-controlled working medium from the temperature-controlled circuit KK. In the region of the at least one regulating unit input interface 27a (e.g., in the manifold SL - Figure 1a Or input into pipeline ZL - Figure 1b The working medium temperature therefore preferably corresponds substantially to the working medium temperature in the region of the test piece circuit output interface 26b. Therefore, within the scope of the invention, for example, the temperature in the region of the at least one regulating unit input interface 27a can also be used as the rated temperature T_SOLL and the actual temperature T_IST.

[0076] However, to control pressure loss compensation, according to an advantageous implementation, the flow cross-section at the throttling point 29 can also be variable (as an alternative or supplementary solution for controlling the flow rate within the temperature control loop KK in the regulating unit 2). As mentioned above, for this purpose, for example, an adjustable orifice can be provided, through which the flow cross-section at the throttling point 29 can be changed. In the simplest case, the adjustable orifice can be manually adjustable; however, it is preferable to provide an electrically controlled actuator A for adjusting the orifice (see...). Figure 1bThe actuator can be operated, for example, by the regulating unit control unit 20 and / or the test bench control unit 21. As described above, the flow rate of the working medium in the temperature control loop KK can be controlled or regulated by a control unit (e.g., the test bench control unit 21 or the regulating unit control unit 20). For this purpose, a suitable controller (e.g., a PID controller) can be implemented in the regulating unit control unit 20. This controller can calculate an adjustment amount X_STELL for the controllable valve 17 in the bypass line 16 of the pump 15 of the regulating unit 2 from the actual pressure difference Δp_IST measured by the differential pressure sensor 24a (FIG. 1) in the mixing unit 3 in the test piece loop PK and a pre-defined rated pressure difference Δp_SOLL (e.g., Δp_SOLL=0), and accordingly control the valve. As described above, known feedforward control of the adjustment amount X_STELL can also be implemented in the regulation. However, flow control can also be performed, for example, by a pump 15 with a variable delivery rate, such as a pump 15 with an adjustable pump speed. The control of the adjustable orifice used to adjust the flow cross-section can also be controlled by a separate control unit, and / or by the test bench control unit 21 or the regulating unit control unit 20. When the adjustable orifice at the throttling point 29 is closed, the pump 15 of the regulating unit 2 can also be used, for example, to deliver the working medium in the specimen circuit PK. In this case, the separate pump in the specimen circuit PK can be omitted.

[0077] If the inlet 30 of the specimen circuit input interface 26a, which flows radially outward into the annular mixing chamber 28a, and the outlet 31 of the specimen circuit output interface 26b, which also flows radially outward into the annular mixing chamber 28a, are spaced apart by a circumferential distance of at least 90°, preferably 180° ± 30°, within the mixing chamber 28a, it is advantageous to reduce the pressure loss Δp in the specimen circuit PK. Furthermore, it is advantageous for the at least one adjustment unit input interface 27a to extend into the central region 32 of the mixing unit 3 and (preferably in the region of the inlet 30 of the specimen circuit input interface 26a) flow radially inward into the annular mixing chamber 28a. As already described with reference to FIG1, at least one temperature sensor 23 for measuring the actual temperature T_IST of the working medium can be provided on the mixing unit 3. Figure 3 As simplified in the diagram, a temperature sensor 23 is preferably located in the region of the adjustment unit input interface 27a, in the region of the specimen circuit input interface 26a, and in the region of the specimen circuit output interface 26b. For example, the measured actual temperature T_IST can be transmitted to a control unit (e.g., test bench control unit 21 or adjustment unit control unit 20) to adjust to the rated temperature T_SOLL in the specimen circuit PK.

[0078] exist Figure 4 An alternative embodiment of the mixing unit 3 is shown. This mixing unit 3 is again provided with at least one specimen loop input interface 26a, at least one specimen loop output interface 26b, at least one adjustment unit input interface 27a, and at least one adjustment unit return interface 27a. (This is in contrast to the previous embodiment.) Figure 3 Unlike the variant, this design includes two substantially annular mixing chambers 28a and 28b in the mixing region 28, which are preferably radially connected to each other. A throttling point 29 is preferably provided in the flow connection between the two annular chambers 28a and 28b. (Referring to the reference...) Figure 3 Similarly, the throttling point 29 can again have a constant flow cross-section, or it can be provided with an adjustable throttling orifice (not shown) with an actuator A for adjusting the flow cross-section, as in... Figure 1b As simplified in the diagram. The regulating unit input port 27a preferably flows axially, substantially centrally, into the first mixing chamber 28a, and the specimen circuit output port 26b preferably flows radially into the first mixing chamber 28a. Similarly, the regulating unit return port 27b preferably flows axially, substantially centrally, into the second mixing chamber 28b, and the specimen circuit input port 26a preferably flows radially into the second mixing chamber 28b. To minimize pressure loss, it is also advantageous that the inlet 30 of the specimen circuit input port 26a, flowing radially outward into the second annular mixing chamber 28b, and the outlet 31 of the specimen circuit output port 26b, flowing radially outward into the first annular mixing chamber 28a, are spaced apart by an angle of at least 90°, preferably 180° ± 30°, wherein the inlet 30 and outlet 31 are advantageously aligned, as shown.

[0079] Furthermore, if at least one sieve element 33 is provided in the mixing zone 28, it is beneficial to achieve the best possible mixing of the pre-temperature-controlled working medium from the temperature control circuit KK with the working medium of the test piece circuit PK. This can generate turbulence in the flow, improving the mixing effect. In addition, the at least one sieve element 33, when appropriately arranged in the flow path, can also serve as a contaminant filter, preventing, for example, sediment or contaminant particles from the test piece circuit PK from reaching the temperature control circuit KK. For this purpose, for example, at least one sieve element 33 with a sufficiently small mesh size can be provided at least in the region of the regulating unit return interface 27b. Generally, different structural designs can be used as the sieve element 33, such as perforated plates, wire mesh, metal mesh, etc.

[0080] As in Figure 4As shown, it is particularly advantageous to have a screen element 33, preferably annular in configuration, in each of the annular mixing chambers 28a and 28b. In the example shown, the screen element 33 is constructed as a substantially cylindrical sleeve with a plurality of openings on its outer circumferential surface connecting the outer circumferential surface to the inner circumferential surface. The number, size, and distribution of the openings on the circumferential surface can affect the mixing characteristics and / or filtration characteristics. Figure 4 In a variant, for example, a preferably cylindrical recess can be provided for each mixing chamber 28a, 28b, which is machined into the housing 25, for example, by drilling or milling. Then, the annular screen element 33 can be embedded in a suitable manner. This forms the annular mixing chambers 28a, 28b between the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical opening and the outer circumferential surface of the annular screen element 33, respectively.

[0081] Thus, the pre-temperature-controlled working medium from the temperature-controlled circuit KK can flow substantially axially into the cylindrical inner cavity of the annular sieve element 33 via the regulating unit input interface 27a, and radially into the annular mixing chamber 28a through the opening of the annular sieve element 33. The working medium can continue from the annular mixing chamber 28a into the second annular mixing chamber 28b, flowing against the flow direction of the specimen circuit PK through the throttling point 29. The working medium can then flow substantially radially from the second annular mixing chamber 28b into the interior of the sieve element 33 through the opening, in the opposite direction to that in the first mixing chamber 28a, and then axially back to the regulating unit return interface 27b, as if through… Figure 4 As indicated by the arrows in the diagram. Meanwhile, during the flow of the working medium in the temperature control circuit KK, the working medium in the test circuit PK can flow through the mixing region 28 in essentially opposite directions, as indicated by the corresponding arrows.

[0082] Finally, Figure 5 An advantageous construction design for a valve unit 34 used in a regulating unit 2 is shown. Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the valve housing 34a of the valve unit 34 shown. Figure 7 It shows Figure 5 The mixing element 37 of the valve unit 34 is shown. As already described, the valve unit 34 can be used to split a main fluid flow HS of a (liquid or gaseous) working medium into at least two split fluid flows TS and / or to mix at least two split fluid flows of one working medium or multiple different working media into a single main fluid flow HS. Therefore, the valve unit 34 can be advantageously used, for example, in... Figure 1bIn the illustrated regulating unit 2, three branch lines 7a to 7c are combined into a single temperature-controlled manifold KSL. However, as a supplementary or alternative, the valve unit 34 can also be used in the regulating unit 2 at node 8 to branch the main flow line 6 into three branch lines 7a to 7c. However, the valve unit 34 can also be configured independently of the regulating unit 2 for other purposes, such as generating a mixture of various gases in the main flow HS, which is supplied to the valve unit 34 via the branch flow TS. For example, a synthesis gas can be generated from oxygen (O2), nitrogen (N2), and carbon dioxide (CO2).

[0083] Valve unit 34 or valve housing 34a has at least one main fluid flow interface 36 for the main fluid flow HS and at least one branch fluid flow interface 35a to 35c for each branch fluid flow TS, the main fluid flow interface and the branch fluid flow interface being fluidly connected through a mixing chamber M disposed in valve unit 34. If the valve unit is based on... Figure 1b For mixing the flow TS of the split-flow lines 7a to 7c, the first split-flow line 7a can be connected to the first split-flow interface 35a, the second split-flow line 7b to the second split-flow interface 35b, and the third split-flow line 7c to the third split-flow interface 35c. The regulating unit manifold KSL can be connected to the main flow interface 36. A movable mixing element 37 for controlling the flow rate is provided in the mixing chamber M, which can be driven by the drive unit 38. A specific mixing ratio of the split-flow can be adjusted according to the position of the mixing element 37.

[0084] In the example shown, the hybrid element 37 is configured, for example, as a rotatable rotor, while the drive unit 38 is configured as an electrically operable actuator, such as... Figure 5 As can be seen from the diagram. The drive unit 38 can, for example, be controlled by a suitable control unit to mix the split flow TS at a specific mixing ratio (or to split it at a specific ratio). According to... Figure 1b In the example, the valve unit 34 may be controlled by the regulating unit control unit 20 with a specific adjustment amount X_STELL to adjust the mixing ratio of the working medium from the branch lines 7a to 7c, thereby achieving the desired rated temperature T_SOLL in the test piece circuit PK.

[0085] If available Figure 6 and Figure 7 As can be seen, the mixing chamber M can be constructed, for example, as at least partially cylindrical, and the mixing element 37 or rotor can, for example, have a hollow cylinder that can rotate within the mixing chamber M (see [reference]). Figure 5A control port 40 is preferably provided on the outer circumferential surface of the hollow cylinder, connecting the outer circumferential surface of the hollow cylinder to the inner circumferential surface. The control port 40 can be, for example, a cylindrical hole, but can also have other shapes. In the example shown, the control port 40 is constructed, for example, as a cutout. The control port 40 extends circumferentially within a predetermined region, which is substantially dependent on the structural design of the valve unit 34, particularly on the relative arrangement of the flow inlets 41a to 41c from the flow distribution interfaces 35a to 35c to the flow inlets 41a to 41c in the mixing chamber M, wherein... Figure 6 Only inlet 41a and 41c are visible. For example, the control port 40 can extend 90 to 180° circumferentially. Axially, the length of the control port 40 preferably corresponds to the length of the inlet of the flow distribution interfaces 35a to 35c. By rotating the rotor or hollow cylinder through the drive unit 38, the control port 40 can be at least partially aligned with at least one of the corresponding inlets 41a to 41c of the flow distribution interfaces 35a to 35c that lead into the mixing chamber M. Thus, the valve unit 34 is used as a mixing valve (as in...). Figure 1b In the case of ( ), the specific mixing ratio of the working medium (or multiple different working media) in the secondary fluid flow TS in the main fluid flow HS can be adjusted.

[0086] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, the rotor can preferably rotate steplessly between a first position where the control port 40 communicates only with the inlet 41a of the first flow divider interface 35a, a second position where the control port 40 communicates only with the inlet 41b of the second flow divider interface 35b, and a third position (vertically downward) where the control port 40 communicates only with the inlet 41c of the third flow divider interface 35c. In the first position, the inlets 41b and 41c of the second and third flow dividers 35b and 35c are closed, allowing 100% of the flow to pass through the first flow divider interface 35a. In the second position, the inlets 41a and 41c of the first and third flow dividers 35a and 35c are closed, allowing 100% of the flow to pass through the second flow divider interface 35b. And in the third position, the inlets 41a and 41b of the first and second flow dividers 35a and 35b are closed, allowing 100% of the flow to pass through the third flow divider interface 35c. When the control port 40 is in a position between the first and third positions, the first and third flow splitters are mixed in a specific ratio. When the control port 40 is in a position between the second and third positions, the second and third flow splitters are mixed in a specific ratio. Here, the corresponding mixing ratio depends substantially on the size and geometry of the control port 40, and on the size and geometry of the inlets 41a to 41c of the flow splitters 35a to 35c.

[0087] Preferably, at least one vortex opening 39 can be provided on the outer circumferential surface of the hollow cylinder, which connects the outer circumferential surface of the hollow cylinder to the inner circumferential surface. For example, in... Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, a plurality of vortex inlets 39 are preferably provided circumferentially on the hollow cylinder. These vortex inlets 39 are axially arranged in a section of the hollow cylinder, located in the region of the inlet 42 into the mixing chamber M from the main fluid flow interface 36. This generates vortices in the flow, thereby enabling better mixing of the split fluid flow TS. When the split fluid flows TS at different temperatures are mixed, this can, for example, facilitate achieving the most accurate possible temperature of the mixture in the main fluid flow HS directly at the valve unit 34, for example, by using Figure 5 Temperature sensor 23 is shown in a simplified diagram. As shown in the simplified diagram, additional temperature sensors 23 can also be provided at valve unit 34, for example, one temperature sensor 23 for each fluid distribution port 35a to 35c. To further improve the mixing of the fluid distribution flow TS, the port 39 can be constructed as an elongated orifice, for example, with its main axis extending parallel to the axis of the hollow cylinder.

[0088] However, the valve unit 34 shown is of course only illustrative, and other structural designs are certainly possible. The mixing chamber M and the mixing element 37 are not necessarily cylindrical, for example, but may have other shapes. Depending on the structural design of the valve unit 34, particularly the mixing element 37, the mixing chamber M, and the position, size, and geometry of the control port 40, the mixing characteristics of the valve unit 34 can be adapted to specific boundary conditions.

Claims

1. An adjustment unit (2) for an adjustment system (1) of a test bench, the adjustment system being used to adjust the working medium of the test specimen circuit (PK) of a test specimen (P) mounted on the test bench to a predetermined rated temperature (T_SOLL), characterized in that: In order to connect the regulating unit (2) to the mixing unit (3) that is fluidly integrated into the test piece circuit (PK), the regulating unit (2) is provided with at least one mixing unit input interface (4) and at least one mixing unit output interface (5, 5a-5c), wherein the at least one mixing unit input interface (4) and the at least one mixing unit output interface (5, 5a-5c) are fluidly connected within the regulating unit (2) to form part of a temperature control circuit (KK) for the working medium, wherein the main flow line (6) of the temperature control circuit (KK) connected to the at least one mixing unit input interface (4) is divided into at least two branch lines (7a-7c) within the regulating unit (2), wherein each branch line... Pipelines (7a-7c) are connected to the output interface (5, 5a-5c) of the at least two mixing units, wherein the working medium in the branch pipes (7a, 7b) of the at least two branch pipes (7a-7c) can be regulated to a predetermined regulated temperature (T1, T2), and the at least one additional branch pipe (7c) of the at least two branch pipes (7a-7c) can be circulated with an unregulated working medium having a neutral temperature (T3) higher or lower than the regulated temperature (T1, T2), wherein the flow rate of the working medium in the at least two branch pipes (7a-7c) can be adjusted according to the predetermined rated temperature (T_SOLL) in the test piece circuit (PK).

2. The adjustment unit (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The main flow path (6) is divided into at least three branch paths (7a-7c), wherein each branch path (7a-7c) is connected to the output interface (5, 5a-5c) of the at least one mixing unit, wherein the working medium can be regulated to a first regulated temperature (T1) in the first branch path (7a), can be regulated to a second temperature (T2) in the second branch path (7b), and the third branch path (7c) can be traversed by an unregulated working medium having a neutral temperature (T3) between the first and second regulated temperatures (T1, T2).

3. The adjustment unit (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that: In the regulating unit (2), at least one temperature regulating unit (9a, 9b) is provided in at least one branch pipe (7a, 7b) to regulate the working medium to the corresponding regulating temperature (T1, T2).

4. The adjustment unit (2) according to claim 3, characterized in that: The regulating unit (2) is provided with at least one heat source supply interface (10a) and at least one heat source return interface (10b) to connect to a heat source. The heat source supply interface and the heat source return interface are fluidly connected to a heat exchanger (9a) arranged in a branch pipe (7a) for adjusting the working medium to a regulating temperature (T1) higher than the neutral temperature (T3) to form part of a heat source supply loop (VK1). And / or the regulating unit (2) is provided with at least one radiator supply interface (11a) and at least one radiator return interface (11b) to connect to a radiator. The radiator supply interface and the radiator return interface are fluidly connected to a heat exchanger (9b) arranged in a branch pipe (7b) for adjusting the working medium to a regulating temperature (T2) lower than the neutral temperature (T3) to form part of a radiator supply loop (VK2).

5. The adjustment unit (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The regulating unit (2) is provided with at least one regulating unit control unit (20) to control the flow rate of the working medium in at least two branch lines (7a-7c), and / or the regulating unit (2) can be connected to the test bench control unit (21) through the test bench interface (S) to control the flow rate of the working medium in at least two branch lines (7a-7c).

6. The adjusting unit (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: A pressure regulating unit (13a, 13b) is provided in at least one branch line (7a, 7b) where the working medium can be regulated to a corresponding regulated temperature (T1, T2), and a check valve (14) is provided in at least one other branch line (7c) where the unregulated working medium can flow through, wherein the at least one pressure regulating unit (13a, 13b) can be controlled by at least one control unit to regulate the flow rate in the at least two branch lines (7a-7c).

7. The adjusting unit (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: A first measuring orifice (18) or a flow measurement unit is provided in the main flow pipeline (6), the first measuring orifice having a differential pressure sensor (18a) for measuring the pressure difference (Δp1) on the first measuring orifice (18), and a second measuring orifice (19) or a flow measurement unit is provided in the at least one additional branch pipeline (7c) through which the unconditioned working medium can flow, the second measuring orifice having a differential pressure sensor (19a) for measuring the pressure difference (Δp2) on the second measuring orifice (19).

8. The adjusting unit (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: A pump (15) for conveying the working medium in the temperature control circuit (KK) is provided in the main flow pipeline (6).

9. The adjustment unit (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The regulating unit (2) is provided with a controllable valve unit (34) for diverting the working medium from the main flow pipeline (6) to the at least two branch pipelines (7a-7c), wherein the main flow pipeline (6) is connected to the at least two branch pipelines (7a-7c) through the valve unit (34), and / or the regulating unit (2) is provided with a controllable valve unit (34) for mixing the working medium from the at least two branch pipelines (7a-7c) and delivering it to the regulating unit manifold (KSL), wherein the at least two branch pipelines (7a-7c) are connected to the regulating unit manifold (KSL) through the valve unit (34), and the regulating unit manifold (KSL) is connected to the at least one mixing unit output interface (5).

10. The adjustment unit (2) according to claim 9, characterized in that: The valve unit (34) has at least one main fluid flow interface (36) for the main fluid flow (HS) and at least one split fluid flow interface (35a-35c) for each split fluid flow (TS), the main fluid flow interface and the split fluid flow interface being fluidly connected through a mixing chamber (M), wherein the mixing chamber (M) is provided with a movable mixing element (37) for controlling the distribution ratio or mixing ratio of the split fluid flow (TS), the mixing element being driveable by a drive unit (38).

11. The adjustment unit (2) according to claim 10, characterized in that: The hybrid element (37) is configured as a rotatable rotor, and the drive unit (38) for rotating the rotor is configured as an electrically operable actuator.

12. The adjustment unit (2) according to claim 3, characterized in that: The temperature control units (9a, 9b) are constructed as heat exchangers.

13. The adjustment unit (2) according to claim 7, characterized in that: A first measuring orifice (18) or a flow measurement unit is provided in the main flow line (6), the first measuring orifice having a differential pressure sensor (18a) for measuring the pressure difference (Δp1) across the first measuring orifice (18). A second measuring orifice (19) or a flow measurement unit is provided in at least one additional branch line (7c) through which the unconditioned working medium can flow, the second measuring orifice having a differential pressure sensor (19a) for measuring the pressure difference (Δp2) across the second measuring orifice (19). The control unit is configured to operate according to a predetermined rated temperature (T_SOLL) according to the following formula... Calculate the rated differential pressure (Δp2_SOLL) in the third branch line (7c), where Tx = T1 or T2, and calculate the adjustment amount (X_STELL) for the at least one pressure control unit (13a, 13b) from the actual differential pressure (Δp2_IST) measured using the differential pressure sensor (19a) and the rated differential pressure (Δp2_SOLL).

14. The adjustment unit (2) according to claim 8, characterized in that: The pump can be controlled by a single control unit.

15. The adjustment unit (2) according to claim 8, characterized in that: The temperature control circuit (KK) is provided with a bypass line (16) for the working medium to pass through the pump (15), wherein a controllable valve (17) is provided in the bypass line (16).

16. The adjustment unit (2) according to claim 15, characterized in that: This controllable valve can be controlled by a single control unit.

17. The adjustment unit (2) according to claim 10, characterized in that: The mixing element (37) is set to continuously control the distribution ratio or mixing ratio of the split flow (TS).

18. The adjustment unit (2) according to claim 11, characterized in that: The rotor has a hollow cylinder, wherein a control port (40) is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the hollow cylinder, the control port connecting the outer circumferential surface of the hollow cylinder to the inner circumferential surface, wherein the rotor is rotatable such that the control port (40) is at least partially aligned with at least one corresponding inlet of the flow distribution interface (35a-35c) leading into the mixing chamber (M).

19. The adjustment unit (2) according to claim 11, characterized in that: The rotor is capable of stepless rotation.

20. The adjustment unit (2) according to claim 18, characterized in that: At least one vortex flow port (39) is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the hollow cylinder, which connects the outer circumferential surface of the hollow cylinder to the inner circumferential surface. The vortex flow port (39) is arranged axially in a section of the hollow cylinder, which is located in the region of the inlet of the main fluid flow interface (36) into the mixing chamber (M).

21. The adjustment unit (2) according to claim 20, characterized in that: The vortex flow opening (39) is constructed as an elongated hole.

22. A method for adjusting the working medium flowing in the specimen circuit (PK) of a specimen (P) mounted on a test bench to a predetermined rated temperature (T_SOLL), characterized in that: The mixing unit (3) is fluidly integrated into the test piece circuit (PK) to form part of the test piece circuit (PK), wherein the working medium to be regulated in the test piece circuit (PK) is supplied to the mixing unit (3) through at least one test piece circuit input interface (26a), and the working medium regulated to the predetermined rated temperature (T_SOLL) is discharged from the mixing unit (3) through at least one test piece circuit output interface (26b), wherein at least the working medium having a predetermined regulated temperature (T1, T2) and the working medium having a neutral temperature (T3) higher or lower than the regulated temperature are supplied to the mixing unit (3) through at least one regulating unit input interface (27a), mixed with the working medium supplied by the test piece circuit (PK) in the mixing area (28) provided in the mixing unit (3), and discharged from the mixing unit (3) through at least one regulating unit return interface (27b), wherein the flow rate of the working medium having the regulated temperature (T1, T2) and the flow rate of the working medium having the neutral temperature (T3) are regulated according to the predetermined rated temperature (T_SOLL).

23. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that: Determine at least one actual temperature (T_IST) of the working medium in the test piece circuit (PK) or the temperature control circuit (KK) and transmit it to a control unit, wherein the control unit controls the flow rate of the working medium having a regulating temperature (T1, T2) and the flow rate of the working medium having a neutral temperature (T3) based on the determined actual temperature (T_IST) and the predetermined rated temperature (T_SOLL).

24. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that: The actual temperature (T_IST) was calculated based on the Richter mixture rule.

25. The method according to claim 22 or 23, characterized in that: The working medium supplied to the mixing unit (3) through the input interface (27a) of the at least one regulating unit flows against the flow direction of the test piece circuit (PK) to the return interface (27b) of the at least one regulating unit.

26. The method according to any one of claims 22 to 24, characterized in that: In the mixing unit (3), the actual pressure loss (Δp_IST) is detected in the test circuit (PK), and the flow rate of the working medium with the regulating temperature (T1, T2) and the flow rate of the working medium with the neutral temperature (T3) are set as follows and / or the flow cross section of the throttling point (29) set in the mixing area (28) is set as follows, that is, the pressure loss (Δp) in the test circuit (PK) of the mixing unit (3) is adjusted to the predetermined rated pressure loss (Δp_SOLL).

27. The method according to claim 24, characterized in that: according to The actual temperature is calculated using the mass flow rate (mx) of the working medium with regulated temperatures (T1, T2) and the mass flow rate (m3) of the working medium with neutral temperature (T3).

28. The method according to claim 26, characterized in that: The pressure loss (Δp) in the test circuit (PK) of the mixing unit (3) is compensated to the pre-specified rated pressure loss (Δp_SOLL).

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